Suspect apprehended in liquor store theft

ABERDEEN — Police arrested a Keyport man after he allegedly stole cash and checks from a local liquor store.

James M. Hughes, 34, of Beers Street, Keyport, was arrested by police in connection with the alleged theft of money from Gallo’s Wine Cellar on Route 34.

According to police, Hughes, who was an occasional customer, entered the store on July 9 at approximately 6:45 p.m., engaged the owner in conversation, and allegedly grabbed almost $5,000 in cash and checks from the office area and fled the store.

The owner called police and gave the initial responding officer, Patrolman Christopher DeSarno, a description of Hughes and his vehicle.

The description was broadcast, and Sgt. Frank Sigismondi stopped the vehicle a short time later on Northland Lane and took Hughes into custody, police said. The money was recovered and was later returned to the storeowner.

According to police, Hughes was charged with theft and was committed to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, Freehold Township, in default of $5,000 bail, with no 10 percent payment option.