Neptune ATM theft suspects accused in Ocean Township burglaries

Two Neptune men, accused of taking entire ATM machines from three businesses in Asbury Park, now face theft, burglary and other counts in the adjoining Township of Ocean.

Aaron Hearon and Daren Covington, both 51, face charges connected business lootings dating back to May.

Hearon was arrested October 1 in Asbury Park in connection with burglaries at the Middlebrook Bar and Save Rite Liquors. He was charged with two counts each of burglary, theft, criminal mischief and possession of burglary tools.

Six days later, Hearon was charged with attempted burglary and possession of burglary tools, in connection with a September 29 heist at the Speedway gas station.

Officers at that time also charged Hearon with possession of heroin, hypodermic syringes and drug paraphernalia. His bail in municipal court was set at $70,000, with no option for release on payment of 10 percent.

Covington was charged with burglary and theft in connection to the Save Rite looting, which police said occurred the same day as the Speedway burglary.

He was also charged with possession of heroin, hypodermic syringes and drug paraphernalia. His bail in municipal court was set at $37,500, with no option for release on payment of 10 percent.

Continuing investigaiton led to Charges against Covington for a May 2 burglary at the Shell station on Route 66. He was given separate charges of burglary, theft and criminal mischief, with bail set at a full $25,000.

Both men were charged in the first week of October with the ATM thefts in Asbury Park. At the time, Hearon was apprehended and a search had begun for Covington.

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