MANSFIELD TOWNSHIP, NJ (Warren County) – A Warren County man was arrested twice within two weeks for theft-related offenses in Mansfield Township, police reported this week.
The first arrest occurred on Aug. 15, when police responded to a report of theft at the BP gas station. Upon arrival, the officer reviewed video footage showing a Hispanic male leaning over the counter and stealing money from the lottery register, police said.
The investigation identified Leiner S. Solorzano Mera, 24, as the suspect, who was alleged to have taken approximately $135. He was located, interviewed, and subsequently arrested. He was charged with theft by unlawful taking and, due to bail reform policies, was released pending a court appearance, police said.
Just days later, on Aug. 26, Mera found himself in trouble again. He was arrested after allegedly pushing an employee against a wall at Donaldson Farms and stealing approximately $2,142 from the cash register, police said.
As law enforcement set up a stop and hold for Mera, they learned he had already been arrested earlier that day for allegedly stealing jewelry from The Gold Mine, located at 176 Main Street in Hackettstown, from which he had been released on a summons. When officers located him, a foot pursuit ensued, ultimately leading to his arrest, police said.
Mera was charged with theft, resisting arrest, and assault for knowingly causing bodily harm to the employee. He was then lodged at the Warren County Correctional Facility, police said.
