On Monday afternoon, February 24, 2020, at about 12:30, Officers of the Newark Police Department responded to a residence on East Cleveland Avenue for a report of a burglary in progress, according to M/Cpl William Smith.
Smith said it was discovered that the suspect had entered the residence and had stolen items including gaming systems and computer equipment prior to fleeing the scene.
The suspect who was known to one of the victims contacted the victim earlier in the day and asked to meet with him at the residence. While at the residence, the suspect began fighting the victim and eventually pulled him out of the house, according to Smith. As the suspect continued to drag the victim away from the house he broke free and ran from the scene.
At that time, the suspect entered the residence and stole the items, all while three residents were locked in an upstairs bedroom, according to Smith. It was also discovered that a second suspect had driven Whittlesey to the house, and at one point, got out of his vehicle. At this time, his identity is unknown, but surveillance cameras in the area of the residence captured him on video.
Through investigative measures, Officers identified the suspect, as Jamal L. Whittlesey, 20, of Elsmere. A search warrant was obtained for his residence and several of the stolen items were located, including additional evidence linking Whittlesey to the crime, said Smith.
On March 2, 2020, Whittlesey was arrested without incident. He was charged with Burglary 2nd Degree, Attempted Kidnapping 2nd Degree, Theft Greater than $1,500, Theft Under $1,500, and Conspiracy 2nd Degree. He appeared before Justice of the Peace Court #2 by video and committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Center on $17,000 secured bail.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Detective A. Whitt at (302) 366-7100 x. 3483 or [email protected].
NPD is trying to identify the man pictured below.
