By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark man has been arrested in connection with a recent wave of commercial smash-and-grab burglaries that occurred across Montclair, according to a statement released by the Montclair Police Department.
Between February 28 and March 2, 2025, officers responded to multiple reports of break-ins and attempted burglaries at local businesses throughout the township.
The incidents, described as “smash and grab” style, involved a suspect shattering storefront doors or windows in order to gain entry and steal valuables.
The first reported incident occurred on February 28 at The Chicken and Shawarma, located at 180 Bloomfield Avenue.
Surveillance footage captured a male suspect dressed in all dark clothing smashing the front door in the early morning hours.
Once inside, the suspect removed a cash register containing approximately $210 before fleeing.
The crime was discovered later that morning by arriving employees, who immediately notified police.
That same day, officers were called to Sofia’s Pizzeria at 322 Orange Road, where they found the front door had also been smashed with a rock.
However, in this case, the suspect was unable to enter the business.
Detectives later confirmed through surveillance footage that the same individual was responsible for both incidents.
By March 2, authorities had documented a total of five break-ins or attempted break-ins across Montclair.
Then on March 14, two more similar burglaries occurred, bringing the total number of cases to seven.
Through diligent investigative efforts, Montclair detectives identified the suspect as 20-year-old Jalen Dorch of Newark.
He was linked to the burglary at The Chicken and Shawarma as well as the attempted burglary at Sofia’s Pizzeria.
On April 7, Dorch was located and apprehended in Union, NJ. He has since been charged with third-degree burglary, theft, attempted burglary, and two counts of criminal mischief.
Following his arrest, he was transported to the Essex County Correctional Facility.
The investigation into the remaining burglaries is ongoing, and officials say additional charges may be filed as more evidence is gathered.