Fair Haven Police and Fire Files — Rumson-Fair Haven Retrospect

A young Fair Haven man has been arrested on marijuana possession, dealing and associated charges in connection with a traffic stop incident on Sunday night.

At 10:42 p.m., Jonmichael Puryear, 23, was stopped on Harding Road for a traffic violation, Fair Haven Police Chief Joseph McGovern reported.

After the stop by Patrolman Brooks Robinson, as an investigation ensued, Puyear attempted to flee the scene on foot, he said in a released statement.

Patrolmen Robinson and Michael Volker chased and apprehended Puryear, who was arrested and charged with: eluding, aggravated assault, possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, failure to observe a traffic signal and possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) in a motor vehicle, according to the report.

Puryear is being held at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, Freehold, on $20,000 bail.

Further investigation after the arrest led to an additional charge of distribution within a school zone. An additional $35,000 bail was set.

Puryear remains held on bail at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution.

In a meeting room packed beyond capacity with officials, family, friends and colleagues from near and far, Joseph McGovern was sworn in as Fair Haven’s new police chief at Monday night’s Borough Council meeting.

The swearing-in, at what Mayor Ben Lucarelli called the shortest meeting in history, came nearly seven months after the retirement of former chief, Darryl Breckenridge, who was also in attendance.

McGovern, a near 30-year veteran of the force in Fair Haven, thanked everyone for their support, especially the officers with whom he has served for decades, and said he looked forward to keeping the department top-notch.

Take a look at the photos below for a glimpse into the swearing-in — before, during and after. Click on each to enlarge.

Congratulations Chief McGovern!