🔑 KEYS LEFT INSIDE CAR LEADS TO VEHICLE THEFT IN SECAUCUS 🚔
Secaucus police arrested a Texas woman for allegedly stealing a car after the owner left the keys inside while entering a restaurant. Authorities discovered the suspect, Chanika Crear, also had an outstanding warrant out of Houston.
SECAUCUS, NJ — A vehicle was reportedly stolen from a Secaucus parking lot after the owner left the keys inside while entering a nearby restaurant, according to police.
The theft occurred around 1:33 p.m. on Wednesday, September 16, in the parking lot near the Wendy’s and Dunkin’ Donuts at 16 Meadowlands Parkway.
Police said the woman left her keys inside her 1996 Honda Accord and went into Wendy’s. When she returned, the vehicle was gone.
🔎 Secaucus police contacted the New Jersey State Police Auto Theft Task Force in Newark, which assisted investigators in identifying a suspect.
Authorities said Chanika Crear, 49, of Houston, Texas, was later arrested by Secaucus police and charged with burglary and theft of a motor vehicle.
Police also discovered that Crear had an outstanding warrant listed in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database from Houston, Texas.
⚖️ Crear was lodged at the Hudson County Jail.
🚗 Safety Reminder: Always take your keys with you when leaving your vehicle unattended. Even a brief stop can provide an opportunity for a vehicle to be stolen.
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