Longport Makes Arrest in Overnight Car Theft Operation

For Immediate Press Release
Public Information Officer - Sgt Ray Burgan
[email protected]

On Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at approximately 1:28am, the Longport Police Department received an anonymous call regarding three suspicious individuals in the unit block area of North Pelham Avenue.  Patrol was advised that the individuals were observed pulling on vehicle door handles throughout the immediate area. 

Within minutes, Ptlm. Morelli (assisted by Ptlm. Lupperger and Sgt. Silva) arrived on location and observed three individuals entering a 2013 Black Ford Focus.  It was soon revealed that this vehicle was stolen out of Washington Township. 

The three individuals fled from police and were not apprehended; however two juvenile males were found inside the stolen vehicle and were taken into custody. 

Later this morning (at approximately 7:00am), another vehicle, a 2019 BMW X1 Sport Utility Vehicle, was reported stolen.  According to the owner, it was believed to have been taken sometime between 1:00-1:30am. Keys were reported to have been inside the vehicle at the time it was taken. 

So far, one juvenile has been charged on summonses and released while the other was released to his parents by order of the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office Legal Advisor

The Longport Police Department received mutual aid from members of the Margate City and Ventnor City Police Departments.

*All subjects are innocent until proven guilty

Investigation remains on going at this time

Local News Articles:

https://pressofatlanticcity.com/news/local/juveniles-arrested-in-stolen-...

https://catcountry1073.com/longport-nj-police-surprise-car-burglars/?fbc...