Sussex County suspects charged with Lakewood murder

The trail of information in the probe of a Lakewood death leads investigators all the way to Sussex County.

Jesus Roman, 24, and Carlos Edward Lagunes, 23, are charged with the murder of Miguel Rivera, 45, whose lifeless body was found in his dwelling Christmas Eve. They also face one count each of burglary and hindering. Bail for each is set at $1,00,000, cash only.

Both were arrested Monday, according to the office of Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato, Lagunes in a Sussex pizzeria and Roman at his dwelling in the town.

Roman's mother, Evelyn Rodriguez, 46, was apprehended on a hindering charge December 29 at the NJ State Police Sussex Barracks in Augusta. Her bail was set at $250,000, with an option for release on payment of 10 percent.

Prosecutor's spokesman Al Della Fave dismissed earlier concerns of a random killing, explaining that Roman and Rivera had been acquainted, and that Rivera.apparently had engaged in a relationship with Rodriguez.

Rivera's body was found by Lakewood police conducting a well-being check at the request of his family members who said that they hadn't heard from him in several days.

Authorities said he was found face-down in a hallway, and appeared to have sustained head trauma.