Observant Citizen's Tip Lands Blackwood Man in Jail

A Gloucester Township man who allegedly helped himself to an armload of construction materials landed in a jail cell thanks to an observant citizen.

Gloucester Township Police said a tipster called just before 11 a.m. on Jan. 2 to report a suspicious man near a Woodthrush Avenue home under construction. The caller said the man parked his vehicle and walked through yards, returning to his car carrying items, including copper tubing and wiring.

The tipster gave police a description of the suspect and car, and responding offers located Matthew Bailey, 30, of Huntington Mews condominiums.

Officers uncovered the items allegedly stolen, police said, and arrested Bailey.

Bailey was jailed on $25,000 bail for burglary, criminal mischief, theft by unlawful taking and possession of burglary tools. He also had outstanding traffic warrants, according to police.

Citizens who notice something amiss should call at 856-228-4500 or leave an anonymous tip at 856-842-5560.