New Jersey: Prosecutor: Driver on drugs when W. Long Branch cop hit
A driver whose car hit and seriously injured a West Long Branch police officer has been criminally charged after authorities determined he was under the influence of heroin and marijuana.
Michael C. Reyes, 21, of Center Street in Oceanport, was charged with second-degree assault by auto in a school zone, several motor vehicle violations including driving while under the influence of narcotics, reckless driving, and failure to comply with the direction of an officer, according to a release from the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office. Reyes turned himself into police custody Tuesday and was processed and released after posting $25,000 bail, as set by Judge Joseph W. Oxley.
West Long Branch Police Sgt. Brian Kramer was directing traffic on Parker Road, on Nov. 6, 2015, after a football game at Shore Regional High School, the release said.
Kramer was hit by a car heading east on Parker Road driven by Reyes, the release said. Kramer suffered extensive injuries to his head, face, left shoulder and left knee as a result of the crash. He was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune Township.
Kramer was hospitalized for several days before he was transferred to a rehabilitation facility. He was released from the rehabilitation facility, but continues to undergo therapy and remains on medical leave from the department.
Investigating authorities included Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Serious Collision Analysis Response Team, and the West Long Branch Police Department. They determined Reyes on drugs at the time of the crash, according to the release.
The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Decker.
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