A 12-year-old boy was arrested Monday afternoon after allegedly kicking in the front door of a Howell residence and attempting to flee the scene on an electric bike.
Police said officers responded to the area of Princeton Drive at approximately 3:28 p.m. following reports of a male attempting to break into a home. When officers arrived, they found the homeowner restraining the juvenile suspect on the ground.
According to investigators, the homeowner told police he was inside his residence when he heard a loud bang coming from the front of the house. After going to the door, he discovered it had been forced open and that the door frame had been damaged.
The homeowner then looked outside and allegedly saw the juvenile running toward the side of the driveway, where he got onto an e-bike and attempted to flee.
Police said the homeowner pursued the suspect and, after a short distance, managed to stop him and hold him on the ground until officers arrived. Authorities noted that the homeowner was wearing only a T-shirt, shorts, and sandals during the encounter and was not carrying anything in his possession.
Investigators said Ring camera footage provided by the homeowner showed the juvenile approach the front door before turning around and delivering a hard backward kick that forced the door open and caused significant damage.
The juvenile was arrested and charged with criminal mischief. He was later released to his father at police headquarters.
Police said that later Monday evening, the juvenile’s mother contacted authorities alleging that the homeowner had pointed a firearm at her son during the incident.
Officers returned to the scene, interviewed multiple eyewitnesses, and reviewed available surveillance footage. According to police, all eyewitnesses stated that no firearm was ever displayed or pointed at the juvenile, and investigators said they found no evidence to substantiate the allegation.
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is asked to contact Patrolman Lavarin #722 at 732-938-4575 ext. 2722.
Are Askanim needed in this matter?