A North Bergen man was arrested for hindering apprehension after he allegedly jumped 20 to 30 feet from the police headquarters window.
According to Lt. Christopher Brignola, the man, Nwadike Chinemeze, 27, of North Bergen, was also charged with obstructing the administration of law on April 16.
Brignola said police were called at 9:15 p.m. to 43rd Street on the report that a man was screaming in the street. When they arrived, they were met by Chinemeze, who allegedly stated that he was the victim of a home invasion.
Chinemeze said two unidentified black males entered his home holding handguns and demanding money and jewelry, police said. He claimed the burglars got away with $500.00 in cash and a silver-colored necklace.
He provided police with a description of an automobile.
Brignola said Chinemeze agreed to come to headquarters for an interview and a formal statement. During the interview he asked to use the bathroom, but after several minutes passed, the detective working the case went in to check on him and realized he was gone, most likely through a window with a 20 to 30 ft. drop.
With the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, Chinemeze was found several blocks away on 43rd Street and Durham Avenue, where it was allegedly confirmed that he jumped from the window.
Police said he did not have any major injuries, but was taken as a precaution to the Jersey City Medical Center for examination, where it was found that he suffered from a bruised leg, sore neck, and back.
Chinemeze allegedly told police that he had given them his brother’s name in order to conceal his identity and was worried that through the interview police would learn his true identity and arrest him.
He was found to have an outstanding warrant for dangerous drugs issued by the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office.
Judge Nino Falcone set his bail at $25,000 with no 10 percent bail bond option.
Brignola said the home invasion is under investigation. No arrests have been made.
Surveillance videos lead to arrest
Police apprehended Nelson Reyes, 19, of North Bergen, after identifying him as the person who allegedly used a stolen credit card in several North Bergen stores.
He was charged with receiving stolen property, two counts of theft by deception, two counts of credit card theft, and two counts of fraud.
According to police, on March 27 a North Bergen resident reported to police that their car had been broken into and their wallet had been stolen.
Police said that the victim’s credit card was allegedly used on March 26, and then a few times on March 27 before the credit card was cancelled. Reyes allegedly used the card at gas stations, a convenience store, and a fast food restaurant.
Falcone set his bail at $50,000 with no 10 percent bail bond option.
Tricia Tirella may be reached at TriciaT@hudsonreporter.com.