NJ man who shot boat dealer gets prison and restraining order

It's five years in prison for an Ocean County man who shot the owner of a boat dealership in the stomach about a year-and-a-half ago, according to prosecutors.

In addition to the prison sentence, 53-year-old Donald Rutter, of Tuckerton, was also ordered to permanently stay away from the man he shot — 55-year-old Thomas Jarvis, of Little Egg Harbor.

Rutter pleaded guilty last month to aggravated assault and stalking.

While he was sentenced to 18 months in prison for the count of stalking, the time would run simultaneously, according to the judge who heard the case.

Boat dealership in Little Egg Harbor Township where owner was shot in January 2021 (Google Maps)

On the evening of Jan. 5, 2021, police officers responding to a 911 call found Jarvis suffering a gunshot wound at his business, Jarvis Marine, on Radio Road in Little Egg Habor.

Rutter was identified as a suspect and was found three weeks later in Atlantic City by U.S. Marshals agents — where police said he was hiding out under the boardwalk.

Investigators previously said that Rutter blamed the end of his 18-year marriage on Jarvis — who has since recovered from his injuries.

Erin Vogt is a reporter and anchor for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach her at erin.vogt@townsquaremedia.com

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: