Police Blotter: Resident Stole Copper Piping, Caused Flood

On July 16, police arrested Christopher J. Lentz, 25 of Madison, and charged him with burglary, theft, criminal mischief, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and two counts of employing a juvenile to commit a crime. On the same day, Madison Police responded to Crestwood Drive when a neighbor noticed a shattered rear window at the victim's home. Upon investigation, it was determined that the house had been burglarized and ransacked. Madison detectives responded and processed the crime scene with the assistance of the Morris County Sheriff Department CID Unit. During the scene processing, it was discovered that the thieves tore out copper piping in the basement, causing two feet of flooding. The Madison Fire Department responded and assisted with pumping out the basement. Through investigation, it was determined that Lentz, who also resides on Crestwood Drive, was responsible for the crime. Items from the residence (copper, electronics, jewelry, silverware and a violin) where later located in his residence along with the marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Lentz had apparently exploited a juvenile in the commission of the burglary and was charged accordingly. Damage to the residence is estimated to be in excess of $20,000 while the value of the stolen property is believed to be in excess $5,000. The Madison Police Department anticipates other arrests and charges in the very near future. Lentz was ultimately committed to the Morris County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail.

On July 12, police arrested Robert R. Giuliano Jr., 37 of Cedar Knolls, on the strength of a $600 Madison warrant. Giuliano was originally arrested by Hanover Township police and turned over to Madison authorities. He was later released on his own recognizance pending his court date.

On July 15, police arrested Leslie F. Willoe, 36 of Elmwood Park, and charged her with driving while intoxicated. Police had stopped Willoe for speeding, clocking her at 89 mph in a 65 mph zone on Route 24. Once stopped, police determined that Willoe was operating her vehicle under the influence of alcohol and she was subsequently arrested. After processing, she was released to a family member. Willoe was charged with driving while intoxicated, careless driving and speeding.

On July 16, police arrested John R. McGinty, 38 of Madison, and charged him with driving while intoxicated. While on patrol in the area of the Madison Train Station, police were approached by a citizen who reported that McGinty was possibly intoxicated and was concerned because he drove off. Police were able to locate the vehicle on Kings Road and observed it making an improper turn onto Samson Avenue. Once stopped, McGinty was found to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested. McGinty, who was also charged with careless driving and DWI, was released from custody the following day.

On July 16, police arrested Eric V. Muse, 51 of Morristown, and charged him with driving while intoxicated. Police had stopped Muse for traveling 81 mph in a 65 mph zone on Route 24. During the motor vehicle stop, police determined that Muse was driving under the influence of alcohol and arrested him. After processing, Muse was released to a family member pending his court appearance. Muse was also charged with speeding, careless driving, and having an expired insurance card.

The Madison Police Department, Fire Department and Volunteer Ambulance Corps responded to approximately 16 medical emergencies during this past week.

The Madison Police Department investigated eight motor vehicle crashes during the same period.