MARLBORO, N.J. — Marlboro Township Mayor Jonathan Hornik and Police Chief Peter Pezzullo addressed residents Monday following two unsuccessful burglary attempts in the town last week. In a joint statement, they commended police officers for apprehending a suspect and emphasized the importance of following state guidelines on police procedures.
The suspect, who was apprehended Thursday morning, was found casing a neighborhood and interfering with an investigation, officials said. While the burglary attempts failed, the incident sparked online debate regarding the police response, especially after video footage of one of the incidents circulated on social media.
An internal review conducted by the Marlboro Police Department found that the officer involved followed proper protocols. The officer confirmed the suspect’s vehicle, requested backup, and safely pursued the vehicle at speeds exceeding 100 mph, according to the statement. Officials clarified that certain actions suggested online, such as shooting out tires or ramming vehicles, are prohibited under New Jersey’s Attorney General guidelines.
“Fortunately, our police officers were able to thwart these burglary attempts,” said Hornik. He credited the reduction in local property crimes, which have dropped by more than 80% over the past year, to both the efforts of police and vigilant residents.
Officials urged residents to remain proactive in reporting suspicious activity. “See something. Say something. We will do something,” the statement concluded, reminding the community to contact police at 732-536-0100 or dial 911 for crimes in progress.