Jackson Police recover stolen handgun in DWI crash on East Veterans Highway
On Saturday December 24, 2011 at approximately 12:30 am, Jackson Police Officer Jeff Henba was on patrol when he came upon a one car motor vehicle crash on East Veteran’s Highway near Dunhill Road. A 2006 Nissan had been driven off the roadway and struck a utility pole, causing extensive damage to the car and the pole. The driver, who was the only occupant of the car, was located walking in the area. Due to the location of the vehicle and extensive damage to the pole, officers had to close a portion of East Veteran’s Highway.
Officer Michael Goelz arrived on scene to assist and while speaking with the driver of the Nissan, it appeared that he was under the influence of alcohol. As the investigation continued, the driver was acting suspiciously and when checked, a .22 caliber revolver was recovered from his waistband. The driver was then placed under arrest and transported to headquarters.
During the investigation it was discovered that the handgun had been reported stolen out of Florida.
Arrested:
Michael Stone, age 21 of Kissimmee Florida.
Mr. Stone was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Receiving Stolen Property. Bail was set at $50,000 by Judge Damian Murray.
Additionally, Mr. Stone was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving and Failure to Maintain Lane. He was treated at Community Medical Center for injuries from the crash and afterwards was lodged in Ocean County Jail.
Detective Sergeant Frank Mendez also assisted with the investigation.
Portions of East Veteran’s Highway were closed until later in the day as JCPL had to replace the utility pole and do repairs.