Image by MGN.

ERMA- Lower Township police arrested Leroy Lashley, 27, of North Wildwood and Melissa Walker, 24, of Erma, following an investigation into numerous residential burglaries in Erma and Villas.

The burglaries took place over a time period of approximately two weeks where Lashley made forcible entry into homes and removed various items such as jewelry, weapons and change.

Lashley has been charged in seven residential burglaries and thefts, as well as possessing burglary tools.

Walker was charged with seven counts of conspiracy to commit burglary. Municipal Court Judge, Thomas Hillegass, set bail for Lashley at $600,000 cash and he was lodged in the county jail.

Investigating this incident were Detective Michael Majane and Detective Donald Vanaman of the Lower Township Police Department, Detective Division.

Residents are reminded to lock their properties upon leaving their residences. To report anything suspicious or unusual call the Lower Township Police Department at 886-2711 or the tip line at 886-1619 ext. 156.

Anyone else, who may have been a victim and have not reported it, is advised to contact the Lower Township Police Department at 609-886-2711