Fairfield (NJ) The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Franklin Francisco (26) and Michael Cabrera-Rosario (24), both of Paterson, New Jersey for shoplifting and conspiracy on February 24, 2020. On that date, at approximately 1:51PM, an employee from Walgreens, located at 397 Route 46 West, contacted the Fairfield Police Department stating that a shoplifting had just occurred. It is alleged that a male (later identified as Francisco) passed all points of sale without paying and exited the store carrying merchandise in a Walgreens basket totaling $2,407.52. The male was described as wearing a blue and white sweater, a blue jacket and jeans with a short haircut and facial hair.
A description of the suspect was immediately broadcasted to responding units. Video surveillance was also viewed by police confirming the alleged theft. Another witness provided information that indicated the suspect entered a white Ford Focus that was parked on the east side of the building. It then allegedly fled onto Route 46 West.
A short time later, Officer John Seragusa observed a vehicle matching this description travelling east on Fairfield Road, and then entering Route 46 East near the West Essex Diner. A motor vehicle stop was conducted and during the investigation it was determined that the rear passenger allegedly matched the physical description of the suspect. He was identified as Francisco. It is further alleged that, in plain view in the rear seat of the vehicle was the Walgreens basket along with miscellaneous merchandise laying on the floor. Later during a search of the vehicle, additional merchandise was also located and seized.
After a brief investigation, both Cabrera-Rosario and Francisco were placed under arrest. They were both charged with third degree shoplifting and third-degree conspiracy. Cabrera was later released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in the Essex County Superior Court on March 26, 2021. Francisco was transported to the Essex County Jail and remanded there pending a bail hearing.
(It should be noted that the charges against Cabrera-Rosario and Francisco are merely allegations and that they are presumed innocent until they either plead guilty or are found guilty in a court of law)
Authorized by: Chief Anthony Manna