In Cedar Grove: Shoplifting at Staples / Car Hits Deer / Suspended License

Editor’s Note: The following incidents are reprinted directly from the Cedar Grove police blotter, a listing of selected incidents that may not include the full scope of activity in the area. All of the following incidents are accusations, and all suspects should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

On Monday, August 31, at 4:23 p.m., police responded to Pompton Avenue at Morgan’s Farm on a report of a badly injured deer. Upon arrival, police discovered a badly injured deer in the roadway that had been apparently struck by a motor vehicle. Due to the animal’s severe injuries, it was necessary for police to destroy the deer. The involved vehicle left the scene prior to police arrival. Due to the large deer population in the area, motorists are urged to use caution when operating near wooded areas, especially between dusk and dawn.

On Wednesday, September 2, at 9:23 p.m., police responded to the Staples Store on Pompton Avenue on a report of a shoplifting in progress. The store manager reported a male suspect had walked out of the front door dragging two storage bins and upon following the man into the parking lot, she observed him get into a silver vehicle and leave the scene. Police conducted an area for the suspect and vehicle with negative results. The store manager was unsure what merchandise was in the bins and would be conducting an inventory to determine what was missing from the store.

On Sunday, September 6, at 12:23 a.m., Ptl. Dominick Buscio initiated a motor vehicle stop for an observed violation. A subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of the 36 year-old operator, Juny Espinal of Paterson, on charges he was operating the vehicle while his NJ driving privileges were under suspension, in addition to being wanted on an outstanding warrant issued by the Clifton Court. Espinal was processed on all charges at police headquarters and released pending court appearance, after posting the required bail.