Five charged with robbery after pistol-whipping

Long Branch – Just after midnight on January 19, a shot rang out in the cold early morning. Detective Captain Jason Roebuck stated that a 33-year old Hispanic male was the target of that shot.

That man was walking on North Fifth Avenue when he was confronted by a group of younger males. “An altercation ensued, and the victim was assaulted and robbed,” said Roebuck. According to police reports a handgun was used in the assault, as the attackers “pistol-whipped” the victim.

It was reported that the victim was able to break away from the attackers who then fired at the fleeing victim, who immediately called police. “The actors then fled the scene and entered a house on North Fifth Avenue. Patrol Officers Kennedy, Yoo, Bell, Hueston, Vasquez and Grant responded, tracked the accused to the residence,” said Roebuck.

Police were able to located five males that were involved in the incident. “Some were hiding in the closets,” added Roebuck. Detectives Leavy, House, Decker and Garrett also responded and after an investigation charged the five accused with various offenses. “A small silver handgun was also recovered from the house.”

Police reports show that Justin Jones, 19, of Long Branch, was charged with robbery, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose. His bail was set at $950,000 by Judge McGann.

Terrence Bowles, 18, of Long Branch, was also charged with robbery, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose. His bail was set at $950,000 by Judge McGann.

William Bowles, 22, of Long Branch, was also charged with robbery, aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose. His bail was set at $950,000 by Judge McGann.

Roebuck also stated that two juveniles were also arrested and transported to the Monmouth County Youth Detention Center. They faced the same charges as the three adults.