Judge: Teen arrested in Jones Road wildfire arson case to remain in jail
Joseph Kling, of Waretown, is accused of lighting wood pallets on fire, leading to the wildfire.
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The 19-year-old accused of setting the Jones Road wildfire in Ocean County will remain jailed until at least Friday, a judge ruled Tuesday.
Joseph Kling, of Waretown, is accused of lighting wood pallets on fire, leading to the wildfire. Kling appeared in court virtually on Tuesday morning.
The assistant prosecutor requested a three-day adjournment for additional time to prepare, leading to Kling to remain in custody until then.
RELATED: Fire officials: Jones Road wildfire in Ocean County 75% contained
RELATED: Residents on high alert as Jones Road Wildfire continues to smolder
The wildfire consumed more than 15,300 acres of land and is still not fully contained.
Lacey Township Mayor Peter Curatolo says he is concerned about animals that may have been lost after much of the wildlife refuge was scorched.
“It's a wildlife preserve, it's a pristine part of our township and I don't know how many animals were lost and I feel like they need advocacy, too,” Curatolo said.
The refuge is located just behind Liberty Door and Awning, the one business that was lost in the fire.
