June 27, 2023
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ Police say that on June 24, 2023, the Stafford Township Police Department received a report of theft, of the ‘Iconic Jersey Devil Statue’ from Lucille’s Luncheonette – Country Cooking located in Warren Grove, NJ. After a thorough investigation by the Stafford Township Detective Bureau, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of Thomas L. Bintz, 52 years old of Chandlersville, OH for fourth-degree Criminal Mischief and third-degree Theft.
Bintz has not been apprehended at this time. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Conner at [email protected] or 609-597-1000 ext. 8461. (UPDATE: Police report that they have all the information needed at this time)
As a reminder, the Stafford Township Police Department does not release photos of arrested subjects, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The Lucille’s Luncheonette posted on Facebook:
While we are thrilled that Stafford Township Police Department identified the person who stole our Jersey Devil Carving… and we personally felt very violated by this random act of destructive behavior as did our friends, customers, neighbors… we also know that Lucille would be reminding us right now… to be kind.
Mom was a Jersey Girl… and that means being resilient, being smart, and being tough – but compassionate. She always reminded us that people make mistakes – and the true test of character is how we respond to them. We are Jersey… we represent a rich heritage and we need to uphold that going forward with this case. She would want the suspect held accountable… through the justice system. Please keep her in your thoughts as you respond to the news and let’s just be Jersey Strong.
