Walgreens, West Caldwell, NJ
Fairfield (NJ) – The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Rafael Romero-Perez, (45), of Passaic, NJ for being in possession of a stolen vehicle on February 26, 2024. On that date at approximately 7:52 am, Fairfield officers were alerted by Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) that a stolen vehicle had entered town travelling east on Route 46. The vehicle in question was described as a white Toyota Camry that was reported stolen from Passaic, NJ on February 25, 2024.
Corporal Jeffrey Dean located the vehicle on Route 46 East near Hollywood Avenue. With the assistance of other officers, a high-risk motor vehicle stop was conducted. The driver and only occupant, Romero-Perez was placed under arrest. Prior to the vehicle being impounded, it was searched and located inside were items that had allegedly been shoplifted earlier from the Walgreens in West Caldwell. Further investigation determined that Romero-Perez allegedly matched the description of the shoplifter. The total value shoplifted was $545.16. These items were retained as evidence.
Romero-Perez was transported to police headquarters for processing. He was charged with both being in possession of a stolen motor vehicle as well as the proceeds from the shoplifting. Romero-Perez was transported to the Essex County Jail pending an initial court appearance.
(Charges are merely allegations until the defendant is proven guilty or pleads guilty in a court of law).
Issued by: Officer Stacy Chiarolanza (PIO)