Two Newark men arrested for shoplifting at Hazlet Home Depot

Two Newark men are facing charges for their roles in a shoplifting incident at the Home Depot in Hazlet on Saturday morning around 9:53 am.

Police responded to Home Depot for a report of a shoplifter about the leave the store with over $3,000.00 in merchandise.

Patrolman Anthony Forlenza responded and immediately made contact with the suspect, Alexis Beltran, 19, Newark, as he was loading the stolen merchandise into the vehicle.

As the officer attempted to handcuff Beltran he pushed Forlenza and fled on foot.

Officers searched the area but could not find Beltran.

A short time later K9 Sgt. Robert Dickens arrived on scene with K9 Bane and began to search the area for Beltran.

K9 Bane picked up the subjects scent and it led officers to the annex building at the corner of Highway 35 and Bedle Road.

Beltran was then found hiding nearby and was then taken into custody without incident.

Officers seized the vehicle Beltran was using and will be filing for forfeiture.

During the investigation another man (registered owner of the vehicle) arrived at police headquarters to inquire about his vehicle being seized.

He agreed to be interviewed and was also charged for being Beltran’s accomplice.

Alexis Beltran, 19, Newark, was charged with Robbery by Physical Force, Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, Shoplifting, Conspiracy to Commit Shoplifting.

He was transported to Monmouth County Jail.

Enrique Santiago, 34, Newark, was charged with Shoplifting and Conspiracy to Commit Shoplifting.

He was released on a summons.

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