“BEING SAFE IN SEA BRIGHT”

           On Saturday, September 22, 2007 Patrolman Erich Bennett and Special Officer Thomas Holmstedt of the Sea Bright Police department, arrived at the Matter Hatter restaurant in response to the report of a man wearing guns in his waistband.
           As soon as they arrived, they quietly approached the individual, later identified as Johnny Flores, 24, and quickly escorted him out of the restaurant, while disarming him without incident. A loaded .380 semi-automatic pistol and a 45 caliber handgun were taken from him. Both weapons were found to be stolen from out of state. A further search of his person resulted in the seizure of three ounces of cocaine.
           Flores was charged with possession of a firearm without a permit, unlawful possession of a firearm; possession of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute, possession of weapon while committing a crime (the drug possession) and possession of two stolen handguns.
           The NJNEOA congratulates Patrolman Erich Bennett and Special Officer Thomas Holmstedt on their quick thinking and actions that that resulted in the safety of the citizens of Sea Bright.