By: Tracie Carter
A 63-year-old Hackensack man was arrested after police responded to reports of lewd behavior at an apartment complex near John F. Kennedy Boulevard East and 71st Street, according to a statement sent by the North Bergen Police Department.
Authorities said the incident occurred around 10:25 a.m. on August 4, 2025, when Guttenberg Police officers were called to the scene for reports of a man masturbating on a bench.
Upon investigation, officers identified the suspect as Mark R. Schmitt, who was subsequently taken into custody.
Schmitt was charged with burglary, criminal trespass, lewdness, and hindering apprehension after allegedly providing officers with a false name.
During processing, police also discovered he had an active warrant issued by the Hackensack Municipal Court, as well as a prior criminal trespass case from July of this year.
Following his arrest processing, Schmitt was issued a complaint warrant and later transported to the Hudson County Correctional Center.
Chief Frank Pelaez commended the public for their assistance in the case.
“This arrest not only resolved the immediate complaint but also led to Schmitt’s identification in a separate investigation that may have otherwise remained unsolved,” Pelaez stated. “We urge residents to report suspicious activity to ensure community safety.”
Anyone with additional information related to this case is encouraged to contact the Guttenberg Police Department at 201-868-3300.
