LINDEN, NJ – Two men are facing dozens of charges after investigators uncovered what police describe as a large-scale organized retail theft operation that targeted stores in 28 municipalities across New Jersey.
Authorities said the investigation identified 38 separate thefts tied to the suspects, stretching from Union County to 11 additional counties across the state.
Police announced the arrests after linking the thefts through a coordinated investigation led by the Linden Police Department.
Key Points
- Two men were charged in connection with 38 retail thefts across 12 New Jersey counties.
- The suspects, Jovon Smith of East Orange and Christopher Ellen of Passaic, face multiple second- and third-degree charges.
- The alleged thefts occurred in 28 municipalities, including Linden and other towns in Union County.
Suspects accused of leading organized retail theft enterprise
Investigators said 36-year-old Jovon Smith of East Orange and 32-year-old Christopher Ellen of Passaic were each charged with leading an organized retail theft enterprise, among other offenses. Smith faces one count each of second-degree leader of organized retail theft enterprise, second-degree fencing stolen property, second-degree theft by deception, and 38 counts of third-degree theft by deception.
Ellen faces matching second-degree charges and 26 counts of third-degree theft by deception.
Police uncover statewide theft pattern
According to authorities, the thefts were part of a coordinated pattern affecting businesses in multiple regions, including Union County. Police did not release details about how the thefts were carried out or what items were stolen but said the operation involved the sale or fencing of stolen goods across county lines.
Officials credited interagency cooperation among departments across New Jersey for identifying the suspects and linking the separate cases. The investigation remains active as police review additional evidence that could lead to further charges.
