WALL TOWNSHIP: On May 5, 2023, Wall Police responded to the residence of an 81-year-old resident who fell victim to a computer scam.

The victim received an electronic correspondence (e-mail) from a male subject, later identified as Shiva Penmetsa a 31-year-old male from Jersey City, thanking her for a $400 payment for a subscription. The victim did not pay the $400 for the subscription and called the phone number listed in the e-mail. The victim allowed Penmetsa to gain electronic access to her computer and manipulated the computer screen to show the victim was refunded $40,000 by accident. Penmetsa then instructed the victim to write two cashier checks, one for $39,600 and one for $60,000. The victim then deposited the checks into Bank of America on May 8, 2023.

Through an extensive investigation Detective Zach Honecker was able to positively identify the accused as Shiva Penmetsa. Through Detective Honecker’s excellent police work Penmetsa was arrested on December 19, 2023, and charged with 2nd degree Theft by Deception. Penmetsa was processed and lodged into Monmouth County Correction Institute.

Wall Police urges the public, if you have any concerns whether an e-mail, phone call or any other form of communication is legitimate to give us a call and allow a police officer to determine the authenticity.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all the trial rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and New Jersey State Law.

For any additional information please contact the Wall Police Public Information Officer:

Captain Chad Clark #143
cclark@wallpolice.org
(732) 449-4500 ext 1143