Wildwood Crest Man Arrested After $175K in Giant Wheel Parts Stolen

A Cape May County man has been arrested after a huge theft of Ferris Wheel parts in Wildwood.

Theft Reported at Morey’s Piers

The Wildwood Police Department says on the afternoon of February 4th, its officers began investigating a reported theft from the area of Adventure Pier near the Boardwalk.

They said that during the course of that theft, which occurred over several days, a large amount of metal was taken.

That metal was a part of the Giant Wheel, which is in the middle of a massive refurbishment project. Morey's Piers, owners of the wheel, estimated the stolen materials to be worth over $175,000.

Suspect Identified

Using surveillance video, detectives say they were able to identify a suspect as 67-year-old William Morelli of Wildwood Crest.

Morelli is alleged to have removed a large amount of metal from the beach area near Adventure Pier before selling it to a scrap yard, per authorities.

He has been arrested and charged with theft of movable property. He was later released on a summons under the state's bail reform guidelines.

Plans Remain On-track

Geoff Rogers, Chief Operating Officer at Morey's Piers, told the Cape May County Herald that the loss of the parts and pieces should not delay the attraction from reopening in time for this summer, saying, "While this theft has presented a challenge, it does not change our commitment to completing this project on schedule."

The public is reminded that charges are accusations and all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Chris Coleman, a South Jersey native, is the brand manager for WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM and afternoon on-air personality on WPUR Cat Country 107.3 in Atlantic City, NJ. He joined the station in February 1998 and covers news, events, and stories of interest across Southern New Jersey for Townsquare Media. Story tips: chris.coleman@townsquaremedia.com