Police activity 
Roselle, NJ – On Thursday, August 21, 2025, a proactive traffic enforcement detail by the Roselle Police Department led to the arrest of a local man after officers discovered he was operating a stolen vehicle and attempted to flee the scene.
At approximately 8:09 pm, officers were conducting radar enforcement in the area of West 6th Avenue and Washington Avenue when they observed a 2020 Land Rover Range Rover disregard a stop sign. A motor vehicle stop was initiated, during which officers determined that the vehicle displayed fictitious license plates. Further investigation confirmed the SUV had been reported stolen out of Watchung, NJ.
As officers moved to take the driver, identified as Donovan White, 31, of Roselle, into custody, White attempted to put the vehicle in drive and flee. A struggle ensued inside the vehicle during which White struck one of the officers in the face. Additional officers quickly responded and, after a brief struggle, safely subdued White and placed him under arrest.
Two officers sustained minor injuries during the incident and are expected to make full recoveries.
White has been charged with the following offenses:
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer
- Resisting Arrest (2 counts)
- Obstruction of the Administration of Law
White was processed, placed on a warrant, and transported to the Union County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Roselle Police Chief Helder Freire commended the officers, stating: “This incident highlights the dangerous and unpredictable situations our officers face each day. I am extremely proud of their courage, professionalism, and relentless commitment to protecting the residents of Roselle. Their swift response not only ensured the safety of our community, but also reflects our broader dedication to addressing reckless driving and the nationwide speeding issue.”
The case remains under investigation.
These criminal charges are mere accusations. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Instructions:
No action needed
Address/Location
Roselle Police Department
210 Chestnut St
Roselle, NJ 07203
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 908-245-2000
Alert Details
- Severity:
- Minor - Minimal to no known threat to life or property
- Urgency:
- Past - Responsive action is no longer required
- Certainty:
- Unlikely (p ~ 0)
- Category:
- Other events
- Event:
- Routine Weekly Test
