Motorcycle Theft-Ring Broken Up By Westfield Police

WESTFIELD, NJ — An investigation that began with the theft of a motorcycle in Westfield has led to the breakup of what officials describe as a multi-county theft ring targeting high-end motorcycles across northern and central New Jersey.

Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro said the investigation began on Dec. 19, 2025, when a resident of Parkside at Westfield on Echo Lane reported a 2024 BMW S1000 RR motorcycle had been stolen from the property.

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What followed, according to officials, was a broader investigation that uncovered a coordinated operation involving multiple people and locations across the state.

Investigators determined that luxury motorcycles — primarily BMW and Ducati models — were being targeted at apartment complexes. People would reportedly scout locations using personal vehicles before returning with a van to steal the motorcycles.

Authorities said the stolen bikes were taken to a garage in Perth Amboy, where they were dismantled within about 48 hours, boxed, and prepared for overseas shipment. Those boxed parts were then picked up and loaded into cargo containers destined for the Dominican Republic.

The investigation was conducted over several months by the Westfield Police Department, with assistance from the Secaucus Police Department, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, and the New Jersey State Police Port Investigations Unit.

Officials said the case included the execution of multiple search warrants and the recovery of three dismantled motorcycles and two stolen vehicles.

The investigation culminated on May 12, with multiple arrests connected to the operation.

Among those charged was Frederick Cesar Tavarez, 27, of Perth Amboy, who faces multiple second-degree charges, including theft of a motor vehicle, operating a facility for stolen auto parts, and participating in an auto theft trafficking network, along with conspiracy-related charges.

Also charged was Angel Rodriguez Diaz, 27, of Elizabeth, who faces third-degree charges including theft of a motor vehicle, receiving stolen property, participation in an auto theft trafficking network, and conspiracy.

Both Tacarez and Diaz were processed at the Westfield Police Department and taken to the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark pending further court proceedings.

Bolivar Batista Minaya, 39, of Newark, and Emanuel Collazo, 29, of Perth Amboy were also charged and issued summonses to appear in court

Officials said the group is collectively connected to the theft of nine motorcycles valued at around $115,000, as well as a Honda SUV and Acura sedan valued at more than $55,000 combined.

“This five-month long investigation unmistakably demonstrates the Westfield Police Department will vehemently pursue those responsible for vehicle thefts occurring in Westfield – even when the investigations of those thefts lead to locations outside of its jurisdiction,” Battiloro said in a statement.

He added that the department will continue working with law enforcement partners across the state to address vehicle theft activity.