Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced the arrest of Ralph Maffie, 76, of Toms River, Saturday morning on charges of Luring or Enticing a Child by Various Means pursuant to N.J.S.A. 2C:13-6.
Police say a fourteen-year-old girl reported to South Toms River Police that Thursday, October 25, Maffie approached her in his vehicle while she was walking in the Wawa parking lot.
According to police, the girl indicated that Maffie opened his car window and asked her if she needed a ride.
After receiving “no” for an answer, the girl said Maffie followed her in his car, stopped next to her, opened his car door and asked if she wanted money to which she answered, “no.”
According to the girl, Maffie drove away then made a U-turn and returned in her direction.
Police say the girl reported that she was frightened and then ran away from the vehicle.
Ocean County Detective Alex Dasti and South Toms River Detective Timothy Meier conducted the investigation with assistance from OCPO High Tech Unit and the
Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. Ralph Maffie was issued a Complaint-Warrant and detained in the Ocean County Jail consistent with Bail Reform.
The charges are merely accusations and that defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.