SECAUCUS, NJ — On December 23, a report of a stolen 2022 Hyundai Genesis led to the uncovering of a series of burglaries and thefts by a group of juveniles from Newark. The incident began with the burglary of a Millridge Road residence in Secaucus, where the juveniles stole car keys at approximately 5:54 A.M.
The group arrived in Secaucus in a Kia Forte, reported stolen earlier that day in Newark, which they abandoned at the scene. They then used the stolen Hyundai Genesis to travel to Woodridge. In Woodridge, they attempted burglaries at two homes but were deterred by the residents. The group subsequently tried to steal a BMW in Carlstadt but were interrupted by the homeowner.
The spree ended when the stolen Hyundai Genesis was involved in a crash in Irvington. The juveniles fled the scene before police arrival. The Secaucus Police Anti-Crime Unit conducted a thorough investigation leading to the arrests related to these incidents.
On January 10, a 14-year-old male from Newark was arrested and detained at the Essex County Juvenile Detention Facility. Another 14-year-old male from Orange was arrested on January 16 and released to a parent. A 15-year-old from Newark has been charged but remains at large. The charges include Receiving a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Motor Vehicle Theft, Burglary, Theft, and Conspiracy to Burglary.
Chief Dennis Miller of the Secaucus Police Department noted the increasing trend of car thefts by individuals from the Essex County area targeting suburban neighborhoods.