Crime & Safety

Hazlet PD Addresses 'Social Network Rumor'

Police issue bulletin explaining what is true, and not true, about a man who knocked on a door in Hazlet.

On Tuesday, the Hazlet Police Department issued a bulletin to Holmdel and neighboring municipalities refuting a rumor circulating on the Internet that a phony window salesman was pushing his way into homes and robbing people.

"It's not true," said Lt. Stephen Schmidt on Tuesday, "This has just taken its own life. From what we see, it's baseless."

A version of the text message sent to Holmdel Patch by several readers said:

Find out what's happening in Holmdel-Hazletwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

To All my NJ family and friends in Monmouth County/surrounding area....PLEASE READ. One of my friends just posted and its been confirmed by Hazlet PD. There is a white van going around the Hazlet, Holmdel, Middletown, Union Beach and surrounding area knocking on doors and asking if you want new windows then forcing there way in your house. I am passing along because I would rather you all be safe.
Please repost!

What is true, say Hazlet Police, is that on Jan. 5 at 8:04 p.m., a caller reported a white male, about 25 years old, wearing a multi-colored jacket and white hat. He was going door to door in Hazlet. At one location, he asked if he could enter the home and was told no. When asked by the resident what he wanted he said he worked for a windows and siding company. After being told by the resident that they were not interested he simply walked away.

Find out what's happening in Holmdel-Hazletwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The man was then seen talking on his cell phone when a white minivan arrived and picked him up, according to the police report.

The man had no ID indicating he worked for a windows and siding company nor did the van that picked him up, police said. Patrols responded and checked the area but did not find the man or the white van.

Hazlet Police said that at no time was a crime committed, nor anyone hurt. The call was labeled suspicious.


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