Holmdel

Feb 06, 2023

Attempted House Burglary Suspects Caught by Police

On Feb. 5, at about 6:40 am, a resident on Kimball Turn reported three males wearing dark clothing, ski masks and gloves on their property attempting to enter the garage. Once the homeowner made their presence known to the suspects, they ran to a waiting vehicle and fled the area. The suspect’s vehicle was a white, four-door Mercedes-Benz E Class.

The suspect vehicle was quickly located by Holmdel Police Officer Ptl. Michael Sasso, who conducted a motor vehicle stop along with additional Holmdel officers and a Middletown Police K9 unit. The vehicle was occupied by one adult and three juveniles who matched the caller’s description. Also found in the vehicle were black gloves, black ski masks and additional items which are believed to be stolen property.

All occupants were taken into custody without incident, and the suspect’s vehicle was impounded. The driver, 27-year-old Zarif Harden of Plainfield, was charged with Using Juveniles in the Commission of a Crime and all involved were charged with Attempted Burglary, Criminal Attempt, Conspiracy, and Criminal Trespass. Harden was lodged in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, and after consultation with the Monmouth County Juvenile Intake Team, it was determined that all involved juveniles were to be released to a parent or guardian.

It is believed that the suspects were in the Holmdel area for possibly two to three hours prior to this incident. If anyone saw this vehicle or has additional information, please contact Ptl. Sasso at 732-946-4400 ext. 1893 or msasso@holmdelpolice.org.