Villas Man Faces Attempted Murder, Other Charges In Alleged Drug Deal

DENNISVILLE – Troopers from New Jersey State Police (NJSP) Woodbine Station were detailed to the 1300 block Route 47 in Dennisville Sept. 27 at approximately 12:51 a.m. in reference to a shooting incident.  
Troopers were met by the 30-year-old male victim. The investigation revealed that he was shot once in the abdomen by an individual during a robbery which occurred inside of the detached garage on his property. The scene was then secured by Woodbine troopers. The victim was transported to Atlanticare Regional Medical Center City Campus where he was listed in stable condition. A statement was later given by him in this investigation.
New Jersey State Police Crime Scene Investigations South Unit, Troop A Criminal Investigation Office, and Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office responded to the scene and assisted with the investigation. 
Continued investigation revealed that the incident stemmed from a possible drug deal gone awry. The victim, who was admittedly waiting the delivery of drugs to his residence, was instead robbed of cash by two individuals. A physical altercation ensued between himself and one suspect which resulted in him being shot one time in the abdomen by a rifle. 
A suspect was identified as James Matthews, 24, from Villas, and later Sept. 27, the U.S. Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force initiated a fugitive investigation for Matthews. After a brief period of time, Matthews surrendered himself into the Woodbine Station. He was then taken into custody by Woodbine Station personnel and processed.
Matthews was charged with attempted murder, first degree; armed robbery, first degree; possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second degree; unlawful possession of weapon, second degree. Bail was set at $750,000/full cash and Matthews was later lodged in the Cape May County Correctional Center.
This investigation is ongoing pending the arrest of a second, yet unnamed suspect, and recovery of the weapon used. 
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. This report is based on information received from law enforcement.