Westfield Police Report Fraud, Theft Incidents Last Week

Car sale scam, apartment burglary, and tip jar theft among the crimes reported in the New Jersey town.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Westfield Police Department has reported several incidents of fraud, theft, and attempted fraud that occurred in the town last week. A would-be car buyer was scammed out of $2,000 after sending a deposit for a fraudulent vehicle listing on Facebook. Thieves also broke into a resident's apartment and stole around $7,000 worth of personal items. Additionally, a male suspect was caught on surveillance video stealing a tip jar containing about $40 from a local food establishment.

Why it matters

These types of property crimes, including fraud, burglary, and theft, can have a significant impact on the community, causing financial losses and eroding a sense of safety and security. The Westfield Police Department's reporting of these incidents aims to raise awareness and encourage residents to be vigilant in protecting themselves and their property.

The details

According to the police report, on February 16th, a resident reported being the victim of a fraud scheme. The victim said she sent approximately $2,000 via Zelle as a deposit for a vehicle advertised for sale on Facebook, but later discovered the listing was fraudulent and originated from a compromised account. Two days later, on February 18th, a business representative reported an attempted act of fraud and identity theft, where a suspect tried to purchase a $61,000 vehicle using another person's identity. On February 19th, a resident reported a theft from their apartment, with multiple personal items valued at around $7,000 missing. Also on February 19th, surveillance video captured a male suspect stealing a tip jar containing about $40 from a local food establishment.

  • On February 16, 2026, a resident reported fraud.
  • On February 18, 2026, at noon, a business reported an attempted act of fraud and identity theft.
  • On February 19, 2026, a resident reported a theft from their apartment.
  • On February 19, 2026, a male suspect was caught on surveillance video stealing a tip jar from a food establishment.

The players

Westfield Police Department

The local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating and reporting on the crimes that occurred in Westfield, New Jersey last week.

Victim of Facebook car sale scam

A resident who sent $2,000 as a deposit for a vehicle advertised for sale on Facebook, only to discover the listing was fraudulent.

Suspect in attempted $61,000 vehicle purchase

An individual who attempted to purchase a $61,000 vehicle using another person's identity, which was reported as an attempted act of fraud and identity theft.

Victim of apartment burglary

A resident who returned to their apartment to find the door unlocked and multiple personal items valued at around $7,000 missing.

Suspect in tip jar theft

A male individual who was caught on surveillance video stealing a tip jar containing about $40 from a local food establishment.

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What they’re saying

“The victim reported she sent approximately $2,000.00 via Zelle as a deposit for a vehicle advertised for sale on Facebook. After sending the funds, she discovered the listing was fraudulent and originated from a compromised account.”

— Westfield Police Department, Law enforcement agency (tapinto.net)

“A business representative stated a suspect attempted to purchase a vehicle priced at $61,000.00 utilizing the identity of another person. All communications were conducted via cell phone. There has been no monetary loss at this time.”

— Westfield Police Department, Law enforcement agency (tapinto.net)

“The victim returned to her apartment and discovered her apartment door to be unlocked and multiple personal items missing from her apartment, valuing approximately $7,000.00.”

— Westfield Police Department, Law enforcement agency (tapinto.net)

What’s next

The Westfield Police Department is continuing to investigate these incidents and urges residents to be vigilant in protecting themselves from fraud and theft. The department may provide updates on any arrests or further developments in the cases.

The takeaway

These crimes highlight the importance of exercising caution when conducting online transactions, securing one's home, and being alert to suspicious activities in the community. The Westfield Police Department's reporting of these incidents serves as a reminder for residents to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard their property and personal information.