Man forces his way into woman's new jersey motel room before robbing and assaulting her

Man Forces His Way into Woman’s New Jersey Motel Room Before Robbing and Assaulting Her

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1 min read
July 23, 2026
Secaucus detectives arrested a Bordentown man in connection with a June robbery at a local hotel that investigators say targeted the victim.

SECAUCUS, N.J. – A month-long investigation into a robbery at a Secaucus hotel has resulted in the arrest of a 39-year-old Bordentown man, according to the Secaucus Police Department.

Police said officers responded at approximately 5:32 a.m. on June 6 to the Red Roof Inn, 15 Meadowlands Parkway, after receiving a report of a robbery. The victim told officers that a man forced his way into her hotel room, assaulted her, stole cash and jewelry, and fled the area.

Photo: man forces his way into woman's new jersey motel room before robbing and assaulting her

Detectives identified suspect through investigation

The investigation was led by Detective Gabriel Galella of the Secaucus Police Department. Authorities said detectives determined the robbery was not a random act and that the victim had been specifically targeted.

Photo: man forces his way into woman's new jersey motel room before robbing and assaulting her

Investigators identified the suspect as Freddie R. Mendenhall Jr., 39, of Bordentown. Detectives conducted surveillance at his residence during the early morning hours of Thursday and arrested him upon his arrival, police said.

Suspect lodged in Hudson County Jail

Mendenhall has been charged with robbery and prostitution-related offenses under New Jersey law. Following his arrest, he was lodged in the Hudson County Jail pending court proceedings.

“Secaucus Detectives will work tirelessly and hunt down individuals who commit crimes in Secaucus to bring them to justice,” Chief Dennis Miller said in a statement. “The Secaucus Police Department is committed to investigating all crimes affecting the quality of life of both residents and visitors of this Town. I praise the diligent work of my Detectives and I thank them for their dedication.”

The charges are accusations, and Mendenhall is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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