By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Maplewood announced charges against two Newark teenagers accused in connection with a series of residential burglaries and attempted vehicle thefts that occurred between December 2025 and January 2026.
According to the Maplewood Police Department, 18-year-old Znajay Nelson and 18-year-old Zameer Suggs, both of Newark, were identified through investigations conducted by the department’s Detective Bureau following multiple incidents at occupied homes across the township.
Police said the incidents occurred on Courter Avenue, Collinwood Road, New England Road, Edgewood Place, and Oakland Road.
Investigators allege the suspects targeted residences during the early morning hours, with several incidents involving stolen vehicles, burglary tools, and alleged efforts connected to an auto theft trafficking network.
Among the charges filed against Nelson are burglary, attempted burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to commit motor vehicle theft, receiving stolen property, theft, possession of burglary tools, and participating in an auto theft trafficking network.
Suggs was charged with conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to commit motor vehicle theft, receiving stolen property, and participating in an auto theft trafficking network related to several of the incidents.
Police stated that all individuals connected to the investigations have now been identified and charged.
The Maplewood Police Department reminded residents to secure their homes and vehicles at all times as investigators continue efforts to combat residential burglaries and auto theft-related crimes.