Three Essex County Sheriff’s Officers Charged With Theft in East Orange Narcotics Search

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Sheriff Amir Jones announced on August 28, 2025, that three Essex County Sheriff’s officers have been charged with theft following an investigation into the unauthorized removal of property during a January 10, 2023 narcotics search warrant in East Orange.

The search took place at the apartment of Kirk Mansook at 470 Park Avenue. Mansook, who was arrested on minor drug charges and later released, reported that several personal items were missing when he returned home. The stolen property allegedly included multiple boxes of high-end sneakers and a designer belt.

Surveillance Footage Exposes Alleged Theft

Investigators say surveillance video revealed:

• Officer Jimmy Rodriguez, 39, of Kearny, and Officer Fabian Caicedo, 45, of East Rutherford, were seen removing items from the apartment, placing them in plastic bags, and loading them into a work vehicle.

• Later, Rodriguez and Officer Erik Udvarhely, 44, of Belleville, transferred the stolen items from the work vehicle into their personal cars.

Charges Filed Against the Officers

• Jimmy Rodriguez: Third-degree theft and fourth-degree falsifying or tampering with records.

• Fabian Caicedo: Third-degree theft.

• Erik Udvarhely: Third-degree receiving stolen property.

All three officers were immediately suspended without pay in accordance with New Jersey Attorney General guidelines.

Prosecutor and Sheriff Condemn the Conduct

“These charges reflect our unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. No one is above the law and when law enforcement officers betray the public trust, they will be held responsible,” said Prosecutor Stephens.

Sheriff Jones added: “We are deeply saddened and profoundly disappointed. This conduct does not represent who we are, and it will not be tolerated. Any officer who violates the law will be held fully accountable.”

Public Encouraged to Report Tips

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office urges anyone with information related to criminal activity to call the confidential tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC (1-877-847-7432).

Officers Charged

• Officer Jimmy Rodriguez (Kearny)

• Officer Fabian Caicedo (East Rutherford)

• Officer Erik Udvarhely (Belleville)