Man wanted after failing to appear in court in Phillipsburg

PHILLIPSBURG, NJ — Police are searching for a man who failed to appear for court proceedings after being arrested in connection with a stolen vehicle case.

Frailin M. Candelario-Tejeda, 19, of Allentown, Pennsylvania, is wanted on charges of unlawful taking of means of conveyance, obstructing administration of law, theft by unlawful taking and criminal mischief to a traffic sign or signal.

On Jan. 2, 2024, Candelario-Tejeda was arrested in connection with a motor vehicle that had been reported stolen out of Paterson.

As officers attempted to stop the vehicle, Candelario-Tejeda and other passengers exited and fled while the vehicle was still in motion, causing it to strike a traffic sign, police said.

After a brief foot pursuit, Candelario-Tejeda was taken into custody and transported to the Warren County Jail.

He was later released pending court proceedings.

Following his release, Candelario-Tejeda failed to appear for subsequent court proceedings, and a bench warrant has been issued for his arrest.

His current whereabouts are unknown.

Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact the Phillipsburg Police Department at 908-835-2002.

Tips can be provided anonymously.