BELLEVILLE, N.J. – A Belleville police officer who tracked down a domestic violence burglary suspect and caught the individual following a foot pursuit has been named the department’s Officer of the Month for August.
Officer Gabriel Curiel received the recognition for proactive police work that contributed to several investigations and arrests during the month, according to the Belleville Police Department. Officials singled out his response to the domestic violence burglary as his most notable case.
The suspect had already fled when Curiel responded, but police said the officer continued investigating, located the suspect’s vehicle and ultimately apprehended the individual after a brief foot chase. The department said his actions brought a dangerous situation to a safe conclusion and provided security to the victim and her children following the incident.
Key Points
- Officer Gabriel Curiel was named Belleville Police Department’s Officer of the Month for August.
- Police said Curiel tracked down a suspect who fled after a domestic violence burglary.
- Curiel apprehended the suspect following a brief foot pursuit and also assisted with other arrests during August.
Officer Tracks Down Suspect After Burglary
Belleville police said Curiel’s “attention to detail and proactive police work” played an important role in multiple investigations and arrests throughout August.
His response to the domestic violence burglary stood out. Although the suspect had left the scene before Curiel arrived, the investigation did not end there.
Through follow-up work, Curiel located the vehicle associated with the suspect, according to the department. He then apprehended the individual following a brief foot pursuit.
Police did not identify the suspect or disclose the charges filed in the case. The department also withheld additional details about the burglary and the victim, consistent with the sensitive nature of the incident.
Belleville Police Name Curiel Officer of the Month
The department said Curiel has assisted with numerous other investigations and arrests in the community, praising his initiative, courage and readiness.
“His work ethic, courage, and willingness to take initiative exemplify the dedication we expect from members of the Belleville Police Department,” the department said.
Officials also highlighted Curiel’s continued training and physical fitness, saying he maintains a high level of readiness while serving on patrol.
The department announced his Officer of the Month recognition Wednesday and thanked Curiel for his service to Belleville residents.
Why was Gabriel Curiel named Belleville’s Officer of the Month?
Police credited Curiel’s work on several investigations and arrests in August, particularly his apprehension of a suspect following a domestic violence burglary.
How did Officer Curiel catch the burglary suspect?
Belleville police said Curiel conducted follow-up investigative work, located the suspect’s vehicle and ultimately apprehended the individual after a brief foot pursuit.
Did police identify the suspect in the domestic violence burglary?
No. The department’s announcement did not identify the suspect or specify the charges filed in connection with the incident.
Sources: Belleville Police Department public statement, Sept. 2, 2026.
