Pair charged in Long Beach for thefts in three Ocean County communities

A probe of the theft of building siding and railings, worth upwards of $30,000, in three southern Ocean County town leads Long Beach Township police to file charges against a pair of suspects from Ocean and Burlington Counties.

Daniel L. Smith, 42, of Manahawkin, and Joseph F. Cogliano, 39, of the Browns Mills portion of Pemberton, face charges of burglary, theft of moveable property, theft by deception, possession of stolen property, fencing and conspiracy.

Long Beach authorities, on Facebook, said the investigation began December 26 with the reported theft of siding valued at $20,000 in the township.

The siding, along with more siding estimated at $9,000 in value, reported stolen in Beach Haven, and railings reported taken in Stafford Township, were discovered in a Long Beach home, police said.

Police seek more information as the investigation continues. Detective Patrick Mazzella can be reached at 609-361-2073.

Charges are accusations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless,and until, found guilty in a court of law.