SECAUCUS, NJ—Kendall Smith, a 32-year-old resident of Jersey City, has been charged by the Secaucus Police Department Detective Division in connection with a series of hotel robberies. The incidents, targeting female victims involved in prostitution, occurred at various hotels throughout Secaucus.
The first reported incident took place on May 17, 2024, at the La Quinta Hotel on Lighting Way. Smith and other suspects allegedly forced their way into a hotel room, brandishing knives, and fled with money, personal items, and documents after a struggle with the occupants.
A similar attack occurred at the Red Roof Inn on Meadowlands Parkway on May 31, where Smith and an accomplice reportedly assaulted another victim and stole her belongings. That same evening, license plate readers newly installed in the area captured the suspects’ vehicle, providing a critical lead to investigators.
Another robbery on June 4 at the Meadowlands Plaza Hotel involved Smith and an accomplice who choked a victim, threatened her life, and then stole her personal belongings. License plate cameras again captured the getaway vehicle.
On June 5, while under surveillance, Smith was apprehended by Secaucus and Jersey City Police near his residence in Jersey City. A court-authorized search of his vehicle yielded further evidence linking him to the crimes.
Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miller commended the effective use of license plate reading technology, supported by Mayor Gonnelli and the Town Council, which has proven instrumental in addressing and solving crimes in the community. Mayor Gonnelli also praised the partial installation of this system, which has already significantly aided police efforts.
