Resident's Phone Call Leads to Vehicle Theft Arrests

Three men have been charged with motor vehicle, as well as burglary and theft from 14 Madison vehicles, according to the Madison Police Department.

Vaughanet Torrence, 29, and Ralph Harris, 27, both of Newark, as well as Louis Walker, 18, address unknown, were arrested by Patrolman Chad Rybka and Detective Ken Shannon on Feb. 14 at about 7:02 a.m.

The men were charged with two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, as well as burglary and theft from 14 vehicles within the borough.

A citizen who police say is a long time participant in National Night Out, allegedly observed a suspicious male in his neighbor’s driveway attempting to steal their car. The resident immediately called police headquarters and gave a description of the car the man allegedly fled in, along with the other occupants.

Rybka and Shannon were just coming on duty and observed the vehicle on Main Street and Alexander Avenue. After pulling the vehicle over, Harris was identified by the resident. The men were taken to police headquarters for processing. After processing, they were taken to the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu $100,000 bail pending a mandatory court appearance.

Sgt. John Keymer and Patrolman Kevin Boone assisted with the arrest. Shannon is continuing an investigation with other jurisdictions.

Madison Detective Lt. Jerry Mantone said he credits the resident's phone call to the police department in making the arrest.