Teens Arrested and Parents Charged After Vehicle Break-Ins Across Gloucester City
GLOUCESTER CITY, N.J. — Police say three teenagers are facing dozens of charges after a string of vehicle break-ins over the weekend, and now the parents of two of them have also been charged for failing to supervise their children.
Overnight Burglaries in Highland Park
The Gloucester City Police Department confirmed the arrests of a 16-year-old and 17-year-old from Camden and 19-year-old Wesley Hunter of Cherry Hill. Officials allege the group broke into multiple cars in the Highland Park section of the city during the overnight hours, stealing items including credit cards.
Hunter, who already had active warrants, was turned over to the Camden County Metro Police Department and remains in custody at the Camden County Correctional Facility. He is awaiting a preliminary hearing.
Juveniles Released, Parents Charged
The two minors were taken to the Camden County Juvenile Detention Center, fitted with ankle monitors, and later released to their parents.
Authorities then charged the parents of the juveniles with failure to supervise their children, a step that local residents said is overdue.
“I think they should start that. Parents should start taking care of their kids,” said Donna Etherington, who lives nearby.
Neighborhood Concerns
Residents of Highland Park and surrounding areas expressed frustration, noting that car thefts and break-ins have been a persistent issue. Surveillance video showed the suspects walking from vehicle to vehicle, checking for unlocked doors.
Police noted that the neighborhood’s proximity to I-76, less than half a mile away, makes it an attractive target for thieves looking for quick getaways.
“It’s easy access. It’s easy to get in and out of town,” said neighbor Charles Clair, whose block had also seen thefts in recent months. “Her car actually got stolen a couple months ago. Thank God they recovered it in Camden.”
Investigation Continues
Police say they recovered some of the stolen items but are urging residents to check their vehicles for missing property. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Gloucester City Police Department.
Do you think parents should face charges when their children commit crimes like vehicle break-ins? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
