Joba Impersonator Sentenced to Probation
On January 15, 2009 I posted an article about a Toms River resident who was arrested and charged with theft by deception and two counts of disorderly conduct for impersonating Joba Chamberlain, the New York Yankees star pitcher. Now, Ryan Ward, the 30 year old impersonator, pled guilty on Wednesday to three counts of Disorderly Conduct in Belmar Municipal Court as a result of his plea agreement with the Belmar Municipal Prosecutor. Judge Dennis Lavender sentenced Ward to the 1.5 days he already spent in Monmouth County jail when he was arrested and also to two (2) years probation. As part of his probation, Mr. Ward must continue the alcohol treatment he is currently receiving. Further, for the two year probationary period Mr. Ward must stay out of the local bars and restaurants where he previously impersonated Joba Chamberlain. Mr. Ward confessed, as part of his plea, to signing more than 100 autographs, dating many women, and receiving free food and drink through his impersonation of Joba Chamberlain.
This seems to be a fair result based on the facts and circumstances surrounding the charges. Mr. Ward is not a threat to society and his behavior did not have a serious or significant negative impact on anyone. However, Mr. Ward must learn his lesson from this experience and cease this type of conduct for good. Otherwise, he could find himself back in prison and next time he would certainly be facing indictable criminal charges at the county level for impersonating Joba Chamberlain and receiving benefits as a result of that deception.
For additional information regarding this story, please visit APP.com for "The Sentencing of Ryan Ward, Joba Chamberlain Impersonator".
