GLOUCESTER CITY, N.J. — Three suspects were arrested early Wednesday after officers interrupted a burglary in progress at Big Daddy’s Seafood, where the group was caught attempting to steal a commercial ice cream machine, according to police.
Key Points
- Three suspects arrested during burglary attempt at Big Daddy’s Seafood in Gloucester City.
- Officers interrupted the theft of a commercial ice cream maker around 4:25 a.m.
- Keith Blackwell allegedly committed prior burglaries at the same location.
At approximately 4:25 a.m., Patrolmen Dominick Stellaccio and Darren Darcangelo of Platoon “B” observed suspicious activity at the eatery. Believing a break-in was underway, additional units responded with a coordinated approach led by Sgt. Mike Prus.
On the scene, officers found three individuals actively trying to remove the appliance from the premises. The suspects were identified as Keith Blackwell, 65, of Gloucester City; Brian Hoskins, 42, of Woodbury; and Nicole Figueroa, 41, of Camden.
A follow-up investigation by the department’s Detective Bureau revealed that Blackwell had allegedly targeted the business on several prior occasions, removing items and causing property damage. “Further investigation by our Detective Bureau revealed that Mr. Blackwell committed Burglary, Criminal Mischief and Theft by removing items from the business on numerous dates,” the department stated.
All three suspects were charged with multiple offenses and processed on complaint warrants before being remanded to jail.
Blackwell faces charges including burglary, theft, criminal mischief, conspiracy, criminal attempt, and possession of burglary tools. Hoskins was charged with criminal attempt, conspiracy, and possession of burglary tools. Figueroa was charged with conspiracy and hindering apprehension.