Man Caught On Camera Trying To Burglarize Vehicles: Stafford PD

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — A man trying to burglarize vehicles in Manahawkin was caught Wednesday thanks to a Ring surveillance camera, Stafford police said. Authorities quickly found Jason Smith at Manahawkin's Route 9 bus stop, police said.

Stafford police received a report at 8:45 a.m. Wednesday of a male attempting to enter vehicles in Ocean Acres. The victim had video evidence on his or her Ring Doorbell security camera. Police quickly found Smith through the description of him and through tips on the Ring Neighbors app.

Smith, 34, of Little Egg Harbor, was charged with theft, burglary and criminal contempt. Since residents locked their vehicles, Smith didn't steal anything, police said.

Stafford PD reminded residents to keep their vehicles locked to prevent criminal entry.

The Stafford Township Police Department joined the Neighbors app in February. Through the free app, you can:

• monitor neighborhood activity
• share crime and safety-related videos, photos and text-based posts
• receive real-time safety alerts from neighbors, local law enforcement and the Ring team

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