Warrant Issued for Motorist Who Fled From Police

Police are searching for a West Milford man who fled when a Wyckoff patrolman attempted to stop him for speeding.

Eric Trent, 21, of West Milford was clocked traveling 65 mph on Route 208 north at 1:50p.m. March 31, police said. Patrolman Michael DeMaio attempted to stop Trent, who allegedly disregarded the officer and increased his speed up the highway. The pursuit was stopped for safety reasons in Franklin Lakes.

A subsequent investigation determined that Trent was involved in two hit-and-run collisions in Riverdale, police said. Authorities have not been able to locate the West Milford man, and family members tell police that he has not lived at home for weeks.

A warrant has been issued for Trent's arrest. Wyckoff police charged him with nine separate motor vehicle violations as well as failing to stop for a law enforcement officer. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Wyckoff police at 201-891-2121.

• An employee of Bethany Church reported a break-in on April 5.

Police said someone entered the church, possibly through an unlocked door, and then pried open a locked door leading to the sanctuary. The suspect also climbed a 6-foot wall to gain access to a room that houses computer and recording equipment, although it was unknown if any items were taken.

Lt. Charles Van Dyk, Detective Sgt. Joseph Soto and Patrolwoman Brenda Groslinger investigated.

• A Wyckoff teen will appear in Municipal Court on charges of underage drinking and driving.

Police responded to a call at 2:15 a.m. April 4 of a motorist driving recklessly while speeding. Lt. David Murphy and Sgt. Michael Ragucci responded to Glendale Road to find a parked vehicle occupied by a 17-year-old Wyckoff male.

The subsequent investigation determined that the boy had consumed alcohol. He was charged with DWI while under the legal age to consume alcohol, being an unlicensed driver and failure to wear a seatbelt. He was released to his mother.

• A Colonial Road resident must answer several criminal charges after police responded to his home at 1:10 a.m. April 4.

Lt. Murphy, Sgt. Ragucci and Patroman Kevin Kasak arrived at the home and were told that Steve Santangelo, 20, was intoxicated and "out of control." Family members had attempted to restrain him, and the responding officers tried to get control of Santangelo after arrival. Police said the resident pushed Ragucci and spit in his face after being handcuffed.

Santangelo was committed to Bergen Regional Medical Center due to his level of intoxication. Police charged him with aggravated assault, assault and resisting arrest. The complaints were referred to Superior Court.