Newark police search for suspect accused of stealing license plate on grove street

Newark police search for suspect accused of stealing license plate on Grove Street

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1 min read
March 17, 2026

Newark, NJ – Police are asking for the public’s help identifying a suspect accused of removing a license plate from a parked vehicle in Newark earlier this month, an incident captured on surveillance video in the city’s South Ward. Authorities say the theft occurred just after midnight and involved two vehicles, including one reported stolen.


Key Points

  • Theft reported March 12 in the 300 block of Grove Street
  • Suspect seen driving stolen silver Honda CR-V with NJ plate N98SAW
  • Police urge tips as suspect remains unidentified

According to the Newark Department of Public Safety, the incident took place at approximately 12:09 a.m. on Thursday, March 12. Surveillance footage shows the suspect arriving in a stolen silver Honda CR-V bearing New Jersey registration N98SAW.

Investigators said a second vehicle, described as a black Acura Integra without a front license plate, pulled up alongside the Honda at the Grove Street location before leaving the area.

Surveillance captures suspect removing plate

After the Acura departed, the suspect exited the stolen Honda and removed a license plate from a victim’s parked vehicle. The stolen plate bears New Jersey registration IMLC78, according to officials.

The suspect then returned to the Honda CR-V and fled northbound on Grove Street. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Authorities seek public’s help identifying suspect

Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr., is urging anyone with information about the suspect’s identity to come forward. Tips can be submitted to the Newark Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stoppers line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477), with all calls kept confidential. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through the department’s website.

The investigation remains active.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital newsroom providing original reporting on New Jersey, national news, government, public policy, public safety, courts, and community affairs.

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