Berkeley Heights Police Blotter: Man Arrested After Fight Breaks out

Here is the latest police news from Berkeley Heights:

On Wednesday, October 19, 2011, Ptl. Ed Gaffney investigated a report of a theft which occurred at Lifetime Fitness on Connell Drive.  The victim reported that property valued at approximately $2,000.00 was taken from the woman’s locker room sometime around 5:45 pm. 

Among the stolen items were an iPod and jewelry.  The victim reported that two females were seen in the area that she described as a thin white female, approximately 40–50 years of age and a light skinned Hispanic woman who was approximately 45–50 years of age.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division.

On Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 12:50 pm, Sgt. Bradley Countryman arrested John T. McGrath, 47, of Berkeley Heights.  Officers responded to an Industrial Drive location after receiving a report of a fight in progress. 

The investigation revealed that two co-workers became involved in a dispute which led to a physical altercation.  During the dispute, McGrath produced a “Black Jack”, a short flexible metal wand, and struck the victim several times in the head, causing injury to him. 

McGrath was taken to police headquarters, processed and charged with possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and aggravated assault.  Bail was set at $10,000.00 and McGrath was released with a court date to appear in Union County Superior Court after posting bail.