Man Burglarized Tinton Falls Dunkin Donuts During Sandy, Police Say

By Christopher Sheldon

A man who allegedly burglarized the Dunkin Donuts in Tinton Falls during Superstorm Sandy was arrested last week and is facing several charges.

Markies Wells, 28, of Ocean Township allegedly smashed out the drive thru window of the restaurant, located at 596 Shrewsbury Ave., on Oct. 31, 2012 and stole $1,397 and Dunkin Donuts merchandise, according to court documents. The power was out in the restaurant and it was closed because of the state of emergency issued at the time of the hurricane.

Police say Wells also was carrying a paintball gun when the burglary occurred. 

The complaint states that Wells conspired to commit the crime with two other people, Darryl Lainge, 26, of Eatontown, Juan Escalante, 26, of Red Bank.

Police also say that Wells attempted to burglarize the Lukoil located at 590 Shrewsbury Avenue while it was closed during Hurricane Sandy.

Wells was arrested on Oct. 1 in Eatontown during a motor vehicle stop and attempted to flee from officers before he was caught. The complaint states that there was an active warrant for his arrest.

He was charged with criminal mischief, possession of a weapon, possession of an imitation firearm, conspiracy, burglary, theft, resisting arrest and was taken to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution in lieu of $240,000 bail.