Ocean County authorities announced that on February 7, Dylan Panatero, 42, of Toms River, was sentenced to four years in New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) for Terroristic Threats related to an August 8, 2022, incident in Toms River.
Additionally, Judge Kenneth T. Palmer sentenced Panatero to seven years for Robbery in connection with a November 2, 2023, incident in Beachwood and ten years for Aggravated Assault, plus seven years for Eluding, both tied to a November 8, 2023, incident in Toms River. The Robbery and Aggravated Assault sentences are subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA), requiring Panatero to serve 85% before parole eligibility. All sentences will run concurrently.
Panatero pled guilty to all charges on December 16, 2024.
Incident Details
August 8, 2022: Toms River police responded to an assault at a local residence where Panatero threatened a female homeowner and later fled. He was arrested at a Beachwood residence but released under New Jersey Bail Reform.
November 2, 2023: Panatero forcibly removed a female acquaintance from her vehicle at the Sandcastle Diner in Beachwood, dragging her as he attempted to flee. The victim sustained cuts and abrasions. Panatero fled in her vehicle and was initially charged with multiple offenses, including Carjacking and Aggravated Assault.
November 8, 2023: Toms River police attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Panatero with stolen plates. He led police on a high-speed chase, reaching 90 mph on Fischer Boulevard before crashing into another vehicle at Yellowbank Road. Panatero was taken into custody without incident, and the other driver was treated for minor injuries.
Panatero has remained in custody since his arrest on November 8, 2023.