Boy Charged After Attempted Break-In in Howell, New Jersey

A 12-year-old was charged with breaking into a home in Howell, New Jersey, earlier this week. Interestingly, it appears the homeowner took quick action and pursued the boy.

According to Lt. John Barroqueiro, police were called just before 3:30 p.m. on Monday to report an attempted break-in at a residence on Princeton Drive. The homeowner was already on the scene, holding the boy down when officers arrived.

The homeowner reported hearing a loud noise outside his home. Upon investigation, he discovered that his front door had been pried open, damaging the frame. Additionally, he mentioned seeing the boy flee on an electric bike before he decided to take action.

Not willing to let the matter slide, the homeowner chased the boy in his car. He managed to corner him not far from the scene, restraining him until the police arrived.

Dressed in a T-shirt, shorts, and sandals, the homeowner did not have any weapons on him during this encounter, as noted by Barroqueiro.

The homeowner then provided officers with footage from a Ring doorbell camera. The video showed the boy approaching the door and kicking it forcefully, which resulted in significant damage.

When the police examined the home, they confirmed the extensive damage to the front door. The boy was arrested and charged with criminal mischief but was later released to his father at the police station.

In a twist later that evening, the boy’s mother visited the police station and alleged that the homeowner had pointed a gun at her son. However, Barroqueiro noted that law enforcement returned to the scene, reviewed the available surveillance footage, and spoke with several witnesses. They all corroborated that no firearm was presented during the incident.

Barroqueiro summarized the situation by stating, “At this time, no evidence is available to support the later claims.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Patrol Officer Ellie Lavalin at 732-938-4575, ext. 2722.