Crime & Safety

Cranford Bike Thief Caught In the Act: Police

Breaking: Police said they saw the man use bolt cutters to try and steal a locked bicycle from the Cranford Train Station.

CRANFORD, NJ — A Union County man was arrested in connection with trying to steal a bike from the Cranford Train Station on Tuesday.

Richard A. Harrington, 60, of Elizabeth was witnessed by Cranford Police Detectives Spencer Durkin and Timothy W. O’Brien using bolt cutters to try and steal a locked bicycle, Cranford Police Detective Sgt. Ryan Greco reported.

As detectives approached Harrington, he didn't listen to their commands and began to resist arrest. He was eventually taken into custody, police report.

Find out what's happening in Cranfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Numerous reports of bicycle thefts have been reported over the past several weeks from the Cranford Train Station. In response, members of the Cranford Police Department Investigative Division conducted daily undercover surveillance operations.

“We know the frustration of arriving at the Cranford Station only to find your bicycle was stolen,” Acting
Police Chief Joseph VanBergen said. “I’m pleased that our surveillance operations were successful and
we will continue these efforts as necessary to get the message out that this type of criminal activity will
not be tolerated.”

Find out what's happening in Cranfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Harrington was charged with criminal attempt to commit theft, possession of burglary tools and resisting
arrest.

He was released from custody pending an October appearance in Union County Superior Court.

(Image via Google Maps)

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.