WILDWOOD, NJ — A man has been arrested after police say he stole a large amount of metal from a beach area near Adventure Pier.
William Morelli, 67, of Wildwood Crest, was charged with theft of movable property following an investigation by the Wildwood Police Department Detective Division.
Police began investigating on February 4, 2026, at approximately 3:26 p.m. after receiving a report of a theft from the Adventure Pier area near the boardwalk.
The theft occurred over several days, according to police.
The reporting party provided police with a suspect and vehicle description after reviewing surveillance video.
Police say Morelli removed the metal from the beach area near Adventure Pier before selling it to a scrap yard business.
Morelli was arrested, processed and later released on a summons complaint in accordance with New Jersey Attorney General Guidelines promulgated in connection with Criminal Justice Bail Reform Policies and Directives.
