​Newark Resident Wanted in Connection to Motor Vehicle Theft

Fairfield (NJ) The Fairfield Police Department is looking for assistance in locating Juan Torres (28), of Newark, NJ in association with the theft of a motor vehicle that occurred on June 21, 2023.  On that date at approximately 8:12 am, officers were dispatched to Fisher Transmission on a report of a vehicle being stolen from that location.

Upon the officer’s arrival, they were advised that a 2012 Econoline van was stolen from the property.  A 1999 Ford Econoline van with New York license plates was parked in place of the stolen one.  Further investigation determined that this vehicle had been reported stolen on 6/19/23 from Newark, NJ.

Officer David DeCarlo and Detective Nicholas Cocchi investigated further.  

On June 22, 2023, the 2012 Ford Econoline van was located in Rutherford, NJ.  The vehicle was involved in a motor vehicle crash and the driver, Torres, was transported to the hospital for injuries sustained in the crash.  Through video surveillance, Detective Cocchi was able to positively identify Torres as the suspect who allegedly left the stolen vehicle and in turn stole the other.

Prior to being charged by Fairfield authorities, Torres was released from the hospital.  As a result, an arrest warrant has been issued for Torres.  He is also currently wanted by the Newark Police Department in an unrelated manner.  Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Fairfield Police Department at 973-227-1400.  All tips will be kept confidential.

(Charges are merely allegations until the defendant is proven guilty or pleads guilty in a court of law).

Issued by: Officer Stacy Chiarolanza (PIO)