ABSECON, NJ — The Absecon Police Department has concluded a months-long investigation into widespread wire thefts and infrastructure damage along U.S. Route 30 between Absecon and Atlantic City.
For several months, streetlights along the Route 30 corridor have been inoperable, creating safety concerns for both law enforcement and the motoring public.
In early February, an officer conducting proactive patrols in the area observed a suspicious male within the marsh area adjacent to Route 30.
A roadside investigation led to the arrest of Robert Hafner, 58, of Little Egg Harbor Township.
Hafner was found in possession of a large spool of wire and various tools commonly used to facilitate wire theft.
He was subsequently charged with multiple counts of criminal mischief, theft, hindering apprehension and possession of burglar tools.
Hafner was remanded to the Atlantic County Justice Facility pending court proceedings.
Following the arrest, the Absecon Police Department Criminal Investigations Division continued an extensive investigation into the thefts and resulting infrastructure damage.
Detectives conducted warranted searches of electronic devices, recovered physical evidence and obtained surveillance footage from multiple locations.
Through these investigative efforts, detectives identified a co-conspirator as Jordan Berman, 27, of Atlantic City.
Berman is currently wanted by the Absecon Police Department in connection with this investigation.
Atlantic City Electric has been actively assisting investigators throughout the case.
The thefts caused substantial damage to critical infrastructure, resulting in costly repairs.
The Absecon Police Department urges anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at (609) 641-0667 ext. 214.
Anonymous tips may also be submitted by calling (609) 652-1234 or by texting “TIPCOP” followed by your message to 274637.
