Newark police recover stolen puppy, arrest suspect in east ward burglary

NEWARK, NJ – Newark police helped reunite a burglary victim with her stolen puppy after arresting a suspect accused of breaking into her East Ward home and taking the young dog along with personal belongings.

The theft occurred around noon on November 13 when a man entered the residence and fled with a 2-month-old puppy and two jackets.

Police identified the suspect through surveillance footage and located him the following day.

Key Points

Newark police recovered a 2-month-old stolen puppy taken during a home burglary.
The suspect, 43-year-old Jose Soto of Newark, was arrested without incident.
Soto faces burglary and theft charges following the East Ward break-in.

Surveillance footage led officers to suspect

According to Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr., investigators obtained video showing the man entering and leaving the residence. The footage allowed officers from the 3rd Precinct to identify the suspect as Jose Soto.

He was taken into custody the following day without incident. Police were able to return the puppy safely to its owner shortly after the arrest.

Suspect charged, investigation ongoing

Soto, 43, has been charged with burglary and theft. Authorities said the case remains under investigation but credited quick police work and community assistance for the safe recovery of the pet.

Officials reminded residents to secure doors and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement immediately.

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