Newark Police Seek Suspect in Car Theft

Authorities are asking the public for help identifying a person who took a sewing machine, boots, and a jacket from an unlocked vehicle on Schley Street.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Property Crime

Photograph of a parked sedan with its door slightly open on a quiet brick-lined city street at dusk, fallen leaves on the sidewalk. — Newark police are asking the public to help identify a suspect who took a sewing machine, boots, and a jacket from an unlocked car on Schley Street on October 7. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Newark Department of Public Safety is seeking information about a suspect who allegedly opened the door of a parked, unlocked car in the 100 block of Schley Street on Wednesday, October 7, at approximately 8 p.m., and removed a sewing machine, a pair of boots, and a jacket. Surveillance footage captured the suspect entering the vehicle.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the risk of leaving vehicles unlocked, as the suspect allegedly needed no force to access the car and its contents. Public assistance in identifying the suspect could help police move the investigation forward.

Police have not announced an arrest or criminal charges in the case, and the Newark Department of Public Safety is asking residents to contact the Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-695-8477 with information. The department has not said whether the stolen items have been recovered.

The players

Newark Department of Public Safety

The municipal agency responsible for police operations in Newark, New Jersey, which is investigating the theft and has asked the public for information.

The details

The suspect allegedly approached a woman's parked, unlocked vehicle on Schley Street, opened the door, and removed a sewing machine, a pair of boots, and a jacket. Police did not identify the brand or model of the sewing machine or release an estimated value for the stolen property.

October 7, 2026, approximately 8 p.m.: The theft occurred on Schley Street.
November 5, 2026: Police publicly appealed for information about the suspect.

Legal Context

Police appeals for anonymous tips through Crime Stopper programs are a common tool for property crime investigations, relying on community members to report suspects whose identities are not yet known. The Newark request follows this pattern, using surveillance footage to seek public identification.

Residents who park on the street are reminded that leaving vehicles unlocked can make them targets for theft. Anyone with information about the suspect can contact the Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-695-8477.

The takeaway

Locking your vehicle and keeping valuables out of sight can reduce the chance of becoming a target for car theft. Reporting any information to police through the Crime Stopper line can help investigators identify suspects.