On May 5, 2021 at 6:30 P.M., a Secaucus resident reported that his vehicle was stolen from the Subway parking lot, 10 Meadowland Parkway. The Secaucus Police then notified surrounding jurisdictions of the stolen 2021 Toyota Corolla.
At approximately 12:06 A.M., Clifton Police contacted the Secaucus Police Department and stated that the stolen Toyota was involved in a theft at the BP Gas Station on Route 3 East in Clifton. Clifton Police further advised that the vehicle fled on Route 3 East.
Secaucus Police began probing the town and found the stolen Toyota Corolla abandoned in the Red Roof Inn parking lot, 15 Meadowland Parkway. Responding Secaucus Police Officers secured the scene and summoned Secaucus Police Canine Unit, Police Officer Vince DeFazio and K-9 Strobe. K-9 Strobe tracked the suspect to the parking lot of the Extended Stay, 1 Meadowland Parkway where Jean Cardenas was placed under arrest, without incident. At the time of his arrest, additional evidence was recovered, confirming he had stolen the vehicle.
“All officers involved in this incident did a great job in preserving the crimes scene and utilizing our new crime fighting tool to make this arrest,” Chief Dennis Miller said. “This police department will continue to go above and beyond to protect Secaucus residents and their property. K-9 Strobe will be officially unveiled at the Secaucus Town Council meeting on May 11, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.,” Miller said.
Jean Cardenas, 20, of Englewood, NJ was charged with Burglary [2C:18-2a] and Theft of a Motor Vehicle [2C:20-3a]. Cardenas also had an active warrant out of Teaneck with no bail. He was lodged in the Hudson County Jail. These charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
