It turns out the driver of the truck that fell into the icy Toms River Sunday morning has a very checkered past.

photo: NJ State Police
photo: NJ State Police
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Andrew Mayer, 27, of Toms River turned himself into police after the incident. My first thought after the whole ordeal was the two in the truck were stupid. Most who live in the area know the kind of conditions that make it possible to drive on the frozen Toms River. Initially I thought the punishment applicable to the crime was appropriate. That is until Mayer's criminal history was revealed.

According to the APP:

  • To date, Mayer has 9 active points on his driver's license, though his record indicates he has accumulated more in previous years.
  • His driving history includes 14 violations, going back as far as 2002. Many of the violations are for reckless driving or operating with a suspended license.
  • His license was suspended 12 times, including once in 2013 for reaching the 12-point limit and entering the Probationary Driver Program.
  • His latest suspension came in April for being a persistent violator. It was restored in July.

This guy isn't a kid. He also clearly is not learning his lesson.

Mayer has been charged with third-degree criminal mischief charge, as well as reckless driving and pollution. But, is that enough?

Rolo, 2 year old Boxer mix that died in the Toms River. (photo: Deanna Leidy)
Rolo, 2 year old Boxer mix that died in the Toms River. (photo: Deanna Leidy)
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There has been much debate over whether animal cruelty charges should be added due to the fact that a boxer died in the water while submerged in the car.

My opinion, yes, he should be charged with animal cruelty. Why? Even if he attempted to save the dog while escaping the car, he failed. It was irresponsible to be on the water and even more irresponsible to have a dog in the vehicle.

There's currently a petition on change.org urging prosecutors to add animal cruelty to Mayer's charges. As of this writing it was just shy of 1,000 signatures.

The SPCA says possible charges are pending.

What do you think?

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