Matawan PD Identify Alleged Car Burglar Using DNA

DNA evidence led to the recent arrest of an Aberdeen man who allegedly broke into a vehicle parked near the Matawan Terrace apartments in May 2011, according to the .

Police say that a suspect, later identified as James Pitts, 45, entered an unlocked 1995 two-door Infinity on May 5, 2011 while it was parked on Cross Road. The owner of the Infinity was not sure if anything was missing, however the handle of the glove compartment, which had been locked, was broken, Lt. Ben Smith said.

Blood was found on the handle of the glove compartment and on the car door, according to Smith. Police believe the suspect cut his hand while attempting to break open the compartment. The blood was sent to the New Jersey State Police lab for DNA analysis.

The DNA came with a positive identification for Pitts, Smith said. His DNA was already in the database as a result of previous crimes, according to Police.

Pitts was arrested by Det. Joseph Lovallo on Jan. 25. He was charged with burglary and criminal mischief. Bail was set at $15,500 and he was transported to the Monmouth County Jail.