Accused North Jersey Serial Burglar Will Be Held In Jail: Report

MORRIS TWP, NJ— An man who is accused of burglarizing nine homes in four counties during a three week period will remain in jail before his trial, a Morris County judge ruled on Thursday.

Jason Major, 34, is accused of posing as a a Department of Public Works employee, knocking on door to make sure the homes were empty before breaking into them. Although he was arrested for burglaries before, new bail reform laws allowed his release.

Under new bail laws, those accused of a crime can only be held in jail pre-trial if they are found to be a danger or a flight risk. Prosecutors in Morris and Passaic Counties both filed motions to have him detained, the Daily Record reported. Sussex County has filed a motion to revoke his release.

Major has allegedly stolen over $20,000 worth of goods during burglaries, including $10,000 worth of jewelry from a Rockaway home. He was also charged with possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia; the Daily Record reported that Major is allegedly an addict.

He was most recently arrested for a Wayne break-in, where he allegedly stole $5,100 worth of goods.

Prosecutors now have 90 days to indict Major, and another 180 days after that to bring the case to trial.

Hopatcong Police had previously warned against Major, saying in a statement, "In our efforts to keep the public safe we can only attach Major's picture to this press release. If you see him on your property or a neighbors, please call 911."

Image via Hopatcong Police