Prosecutor: Truck Driver Charged in $27K Red Bull Heist

A local truck driver has been charged with the theft of wholesale quantities of Red Bull valued at more than $27,000, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced on Tuesday.

Christopher L. Hammond, 36, of the Oakhurst section of Ocean Township, has been charged with third-degree theft by unlawful taking, fourth-degree forgery, and fourth-degree false uttering in connection with the incident.

If convicted, Hammond could face up to five years in state prison.

“We at the Prosecutor’s Office remain committed to vigorously investigating and prosecuting significant instances of theft — regardless of the type of item stolen. And we thank the tireless efforts of our partners with the Wall Township Police Department for their assistance in this case.”
Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey

An investigation involving members of the Prosecutor’s Office and the Wall Township Police Department revealed that the theft allegedly took place at a Wall-based beverage distribution center in June and July of 2021.

As part of his work duties, the investigation determined, Hammond was supposed to have delivered the energy drinks to local businesses for sale, but neither of two large shipments he picked up ever made it to their intended destinations.

Evidence shows that Hammond also forged two bogus invoices for the Red Bull in an attempt to cover his tracks. The final destination of the stolen energy drinks remains unknown.

Hammond was served the charges against him via summons on Monday, pending an upcoming first appearance in Monmouth County Superior Court.

— Edited press release from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office