LINDEN, NJ — Two men face multiple charges in connection with an organized retail theft operation that spanned 28 municipalities across 12 New Jersey counties.
Jovon Smith, 36, of East Orange, was charged with one count of second-degree leader of organized retail theft enterprise, one count of second-degree fencing stolen property, one count of second-degree theft by deception, and 38 counts of third-degree theft by deception.
Christopher Ellen, 32, of Passaic, was charged with one count of second-degree leader of organized retail theft enterprise, one count of second-degree fencing stolen property, one count of second-degree theft by deception, and 26 counts of third-degree theft by deception.
The investigation revealed a pattern of 38 separate thefts across the state.
The incidents occurred in Union and Linden in Union County, and 26 other municipalities in 11 additional counties, according to the Linden Police Department.
