Crime & Safety

Nutley Cops: East Orange Man May Be Responsible For Burglary String

Nutley police are investigating whether a recently arrested East Orange man may be connected to several local burglaries.

Nutley, NJ – Nutley police are investigating whether a recently arrested East Orange man may be connected to a rash of burglaries in the township.

According to the Nutley Police Department, Justin Hines, 20, was arrested last week when the Neptune Police Department found him – along with four other persons – in custody of a 2013 Nissan Sentra reported stolen from a Rhoda Avenue driveway.

Nutley detectives assumed possession of the vehicle and were able to recover items allegedly stolen during two separate Alexander Avenue burglaries. Neither of the victimized residents realized they had been victimized until notified by police, authorities said.

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Detectives also found surveillance video that allegedly shows Hines on one of the victim’s doorsteps and attempting to enter their home, authorities said.

Nutley police charged Hines with theft of a motor vehicle, as well as multiple counts of burglary to auto, attempted burglary to auto and attempted burglary to a residence. Neptune police also charged Hines with possession of stolen property.

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“There is a strong possibility Hines may be responsible for other burglaries that occurred in Nutley,” Police Director Alphonse Petracco stated in a news release.

An investigation is ongoing, police said.

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