Full Notification

Today, Chief Mark Tinitigan announced the arrest over the weekend of an Elizabeth man who is being charged with Burglary to a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Mischief, Receiving Stolen Property, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.

On the afternoon of Sunday, March 30th, Patrol Officers responded to a residence for a report of a vehicle that had been broken into and sustained damage. A neighbor provided surveillance footage that depicted the suspect rummaging through the vehicle the night prior.

Day shift Patrol Officers recalled information relayed to them during shift change by previous night shift Patrol Officers regarding a suspicious individual they identified in the same neighborhood. Further investigation revealed the suspect in the surveillance footage of the motor vehicle burglary was the same individual identified by the night shift Patrol Officers.

The suspect, identified as 20 year-old Saleem Martin, was charged on a complaint-warrant for Burglary to a Motor Vehicle and Criminal Mischief.

Near the end of their shift, day shift Patrol Officers observed Mr. Martin to be walking within the Borough at which time they stopped him and placed him under arrest. As a result of the arrest, a foldable knife and numerous suspected stolen credit cards were located on his person. Mr. Martin was additionally charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Receiving Stolen Property.

Chief Tinitigan wishes to thank the community for their part in the investigation. A local resident called reporting suspicious activity on the night of Saturday, March 29th, leading to the identification of suspect which aided in a future investigation. Additionally, another resident provided surveillance footage which was vital in furthering the investigation.

Chief Tinitigan also commends his Patrol Officers for their effective communication across shifts and their ongoing dedication and vigilance in investigating crimes. Day Shift Officers Contributing to this investigation were Sgt. Roselli, P.O. Szukics, and P.O. Auciello. Night Shift Officers contributing to this investigation were Sgt. Dumas, P.O. Jensen, and P.O. Manhary.

Residents are reminded that burglars are opportunists. In order to eliminate their opportunities please take extra steps to make sure your vehicles are locked, secured, and any valuables are not left inside. Additionally, ensure that all residential doors, windows, and gates are closed and locked. If you are not home, it is suggested to have lights on timers and deliveries stopped or redirected elsewhere until your return.

If you are the victim of a burglary or attempted burglary, please call 9-1-1 immediately and refrain from disturbing anything at the crime scene.

Residents are encouraged to immediately call 732-238-1000 (or 9-1-1 if there is an emergency) to report suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity in your neighborhood. Take note of any descriptions of the individual(s) and vehicle(s) and be prepared to give them to the dispatcher when calling.

As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Saleem Martin are merely accusations and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.