An alleged crime spree across New Jersey saw Enajaim E. Bowman accused of stealing over $18,000 from numerous Dunkin’ Donuts, sparking extensive law enforcement action and a subsequent surrender.
Key Takeaways
- Enajaim E. Bowman is accused of targeting 14 Dunkin’ Donuts locations in a two-month burglary spree.
- The thefts amounted to over $18,000 in stolen cash and gift cards, with significant property damage caused.
- Authorities identified Bowman through security footage, leading to his arrest.
- Bowman faces multiple charges, including burglary and theft.
Bowman’s Alleged Criminal Spree
Bowman reportedly orchestrated a series of calculated burglaries over two months, capitalizing on late-night hours to strike 14 Dunkin’ Donuts locations across New Jersey. The targeted counties included Bergen, Middlesex, Morris, and Union, where Bowman allegedly broke into the stores, stealing between $700 and $3,000 from each outlet and amassing over $18,000 in total. His methods involved prying open doors and windows to access tills, safes, and managers’ offices.
Despite Bowman’s success in 13 locations, a failed attempt at a Dye-House Road establishment in Emerson ended without gains. An incident in Edison saw Bowman leave empty-handed but resulted in an estimated $500 in damages. The cumulative property destruction across all sites reached approximately $10,000.
Investigation and Arrest
The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office coordinated with Hackensack and Union Township police to go over evidence gathered from surveillance cameras. Such collaborative efforts pinpointed Bowman through distinct patterns in the burglaries, leading to his voluntary surrender to law enforcement.
Charges against Bowman are extensive, including 14 counts of third-degree burglary, several theft charges, and related offenses like criminal mischief. He remains in Bergen County Jail, awaiting his initial court proceedings. The pattern executed by the suspect was evident, enabled by security footage that uncovered his operational schedule, notably between late night hours and targeting several stores during weekly intervals.
Reaction and Consequences
The arrest concludes a nerve-wracking period for affected Dunkin’ Donuts operators in the region. It also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of effective security measures and the efficiency of law enforcement collaborations when tackling organized crime. The police demonstrated diligence and efficiency, as noted by their statement that security footage played a significant role in solving the case.
Ultimately, Bowman’s exploitative venture re-emphasized challenges small businesses often face in less-monitored times. A vigilant adjustment in preventive measures among similar establishments may prove to be an immediate requirement as these businesses resume normal operations, hopefully with newfound security perspectives.
Sources:
- Newark man burglarized 14 Dunkin’ restaurants in middle of night, prosecutor says
- Brazen Dunkin’ Bandit Steals $18K From 14 Locations Across New Jersey: Prosecutor | Union Daily Voice
- Newark man stole more than $18K from 14 different Dunkin’ Donuts locations across New Jersey: cops
