Local Homebuilder Indicted on Money Laundering, Theft Charges

A luxury homebuilder from Stafford Township has been indicted on charges of money laundering and theft, authorities said Wednesday.

David Haugland, whose companies specialized in luxury homes on Long Beach Island, is accused of fraudulent acts that cost investors more than $1.1 million, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.

Prosecutors allege that Haugland convinced investors to put up money to redevelop plots of land he owned on the island – land that he, in reality, did not own.

"Haugland induced the investors to give him money to finance the construction of new homes on these parcels, yet neither he nor his company, or any entity controlled by him, ever owned or had authority over the properties in question," said Proseutor Marlene Lynch Ford in a prepared statement.

The investigation into Haugland's activities started in 2009 after complaints were filed with the Little Egg Harbor Police Department, Ford said.

Haugland operated as Haugland and Sons from an office on 9th Street in Ship Bottom. He previously operated as Haugland-Ward from the same location. Ward Building Group – which is no longer associated with Haugland – is still in business and based in Ship Bottom.

Haugland was indicted on charges of first degree money laundering, second degree theft by deception, theft by failure to make required disposition of property received, attempted theft by deception and writing bad checks.

Hagland is currently free on $75,000 bail. A trial date has not been set.