By: Richard L. Smith
In a series of coordinated burglaries, several Newark residents have been charged for their involvement in a crime spree that targeted residences in Somerset County.
The suspects, who stole multiple luxury vehicles and other valuables, were apprehended following a joint investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies.
On January 2, 2024, at approximately 2:48 a.m., officers from the Bernards Township Police Department responded to a burglary in progress at a residence on Johnson Circle.
The suspects stole a 2023 Audi RSQ8, a 2021 Cadillac Escalade, and a 2022 BMW X5M. They fled the scene, leaving behind a Kia Soul reported stolen from East Orange.
Earlier, a similar incident occurred in Green Brook Township, where officers responded as the burglary was happening.
The suspects escaped in a 2020 BMW X4, also reported stolen.
Prosecutor McDonald announced that a joint investigation involving the Bernards Township Police Department, Bernardsville Township Police Department, Green Brook Township Police Department, and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit led to the identification and arrest of five individuals involved in these burglaries.
On June 19, 2024, Rasadi Creighton was charged with multiple offenses, including motor vehicle theft and burglary.
He was served with his complaint-warrant while in custody at the Bergen County Jail on unrelated charges.
The same day, Furquan Ahmad was arrested and charged with similar offenses while in custody at the Monmouth County Jail.
On June 27, 2024, Jashamir Hardiman was arrested and charged with burglary, theft of motor vehicles, and joyriding.
He was also served with his complaint-warrant while in custody at the Bergen County Jail.
Nasir Davis was arrested and charged with receiving a stolen motor vehicle and participating in an auto theft trafficking network. He was served with his complaint-warrant at the Monmouth County Jail.
A 15-year-old male juvenile was also charged on July 11, 2024, with burglary of a motor vehicle, theft of a motor vehicle, and participating in an auto theft trafficking network.
He is scheduled for a future court date.
Additionally, Damien Coleman has been charged with receiving stolen property and participating in an auto theft trafficking network. Coleman remains at large, and authorities are seeking information on his whereabouts.
Prosecutor McDonald commended the collaborative efforts of the involved law enforcement agencies, including the Hillsborough Township Police Department and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations Intelligence Center, for their roles in the investigation.
This cooperation exemplifies the commitment to protecting the citizens of Somerset County through coordinated and persistent efforts.
Anyone with information regarding Damien Coleman is urged to contact the Bernardsville Police Department or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.