By: Richard L. Smith
Three individuals have been charged following a sweeping, multi-agency investigation into an alleged multi-million-dollar theft and money laundering operation targeting a long-established Union County business.
According to information sent by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Alejandro Garcia, 49, of Manasquan, is facing first-degree money laundering along with multiple counts of second-degree theft, credit card fraud, and conspiracy to commit theft.
Sandra Garcia, 51, also of Manasquan, has been charged with second-degree theft and conspiracy, while Rosemarie Ritacco, 46, of Nutley, faces charges including second-degree theft, third-degree theft, and conspiracy.
Authorities said the investigation began in September 2025 after a referral from an Elizabeth-based company, R. Roman Truck Leasing, Inc., which reported that Garcia had allegedly diverted approximately $2.5 million over a five-year period.
Detectives assigned to the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Special Prosecutions Unit, led by Detective Jessica Tattoli, expanded the probe and uncovered what officials described as a much larger scheme.
Investigators allege that Garcia, a 27-year employee of the company, ultimately stole nearly $8 million through unauthorized checks, cash withdrawals, and payments routed to others.
Prosecutors further allege that Garcia created a shadow company, Roman Truck Leasing Co. of NJ Corporation, to help facilitate and conceal the theft while funding a lavish lifestyle.
On April 21, 2026, authorities executed search warrants at a business location in New Brunswick and at a residence in Wall Township.
The operation involved multiple agencies, including the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit, New Brunswick Police Department, Wall Township Police Department, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Search Warrant Entry Team, and the Department of Labor Office of the Inspector General.
Sandra Garcia was served with a complaint-summons and is scheduled to appear in court on June 4, 2026. Ritacco was similarly served on April 22, 2026, with a court appearance set for the same date.
Alejandro Garcia turned himself in to authorities on April 21, 2026. He was processed and remains lodged in the Union County Jail pending a detention hearing.