Weehawken police officers have much to celebrate. Recently, arrests were made, helping to keep Weehawken streets safe.
“We’re very happy,” said Deputy Chief of Police Jeff Fulcher, about the continued efforts to keep down crime.
On Aug. 11 at 3:30 a.m. in the vicinity of James Street, Detective Brian Mera noticed a young man wandering between Shippen and James streets along Hudson Avenue. According to Fulcher, the officer parked his vehicle, got out, and went on foot to get closer to the suspect to see what he was up to.
“He appeared to be [allegedly] tampering with cars, trying the handles, trying to see which cars were unlocked,” said Fulcher.
Officer Mera stopped the suspicious individual for questioning.
“We’re very proud to have the kind of technology that allows us to catch criminals.” – Jeff Fulcher
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According to police, Mera found a GPS system with a car charger. “Now knowing that this is the most common item stolen from cars, the investigation continues,” said Fulcher who also noted that they are trying to locate the owner of the GPS. “No one has really come forward on it,” said Fulcher.
Those that believe the GPS could be theirs should contact Weehawken police at (201) 863-7800.
Later it was also revealed that Molina had warrants out for his arrest in Union City and Ridgefield. The warrants were for alleged burglary and assault. He was taken to the Hudson County jail but is currently residing in the Bergen County jail for the warrant in Ridgefield, according to Fulcher. The Ridgefield warrant for Molina has bail set at over $1,500 and the warrant in Union City has bail set at approximately $700.
Police found another out-of-town suspect
As if using undercover police officers to keep Weehawken safe wasn’t enough, police used surveillance technology to catch two actors on Pershing Road.
On Aug. 6 at 9:30 p.m. two suspects were apprehended not far from the steps that lead to the lower portion of Pershing Road from JFK Boulevard East. The suspects were seen by civilians passing by who reported them to police and via night vision surveillance cameras.
Carlos Infante, 31, from Garfield and Marino Ortiz, 30, who claimed to be homeless, were allegedly in possession of a controlled dangerous substance and a hypodermic needle.
The duo allegedly threw the needle out into the bushes when confronted by police.
Both suspects were sent to Hudson County jail in lieu of bail since both claimed they didn’t have any money to pay the bail.
The arrest was made by police officer Eric Hammer.
“Those camera’s have greatly reduced the incidents of criminal activity on Pershing Road,” said Fulcher. “We’re very happy with the cameras.”
Melissa Rappaport may be reached at mrappaport@hudsonreporter.com