On November 2, 2022 at 3:10 A.M., a resident called the Secaucus Police and reported that he observed a suspicious Jeep Compass on 6th Street in the area of Flanagan Way with four people inside. Upon the arrival of Police Officer Dwight Wise, the Jeep Compass sped off with its lights off. The Jeep Compass was reported to be stolen out of New York City on October 29, 2022. Other responding police units searched the immediate area and Police Officer Orlando Gonzalez located the vehicle on Pandolfi Avenue.
While attempting to elude police, the stolen Jeep Compass crashed into two marked police vehicles on Golden Avenue where it became immobilized. The driver, a 16-year-old male from Brooklyn, NY, attempted to flee, but was taken into custody by Police Officers Wise and Gonzalez. At the time of his arrest he was found in possession of a folding knife. The other individuals alleged to be within the stolen vehicle remain at large. The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed and/or additional arrests may be made.
“This arrest was made possible because of the partnership we have developed with the community,” Chief Dennis Miller said. “The resident’s keen eye and reporting of suspicious activity led to an immediate police response, where thankfully none of my officers were injured. I want to laud the efforts of the Night Tour who consistently remain proactive to protect our residents’ property while they sleep. Additionally, I implore to the legislature to enact laws with penalties that will hold these criminals accountable since they continue commit crimes without fear of repercussion.”
The 16 year male was charged with Receiving Stolen Property [2C:20-7], Eluding [2C:29-2(b)], Resisting Arrest [2C:29-2a(1)] and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon [2C:39-5(d)]. He was lodged in the Essex County Youth Detention Facility.
Anyone with additional information on this incident, can contact the Secaucus Police Detective Division at (201) 330-2052 or detectivedivsion@secaucusnjpolice.gov. These charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
