Crime & Safety
Man Disguised As 'Ghost' In Wayne Robbery: Cops
Joseph Elder, 59, tried to hide his identity by looking like Casper the ghost, police said.
WAYNE, NJ — A township man dressed up like a ghost while allegedly committing a burglary at a hotel Saturday.
Joseph M. Elder, 59, was charged with burglary and theft after police investigated a burglary at the Ramada Inn on Route 46 East at about 11:30 p.m. Saturday, said Detective Capt. Laurence Martin. He was a guest at the hotel.
Police determined that Elder entered the lobby of the hotel from the former "Tilted Kilt" restaurant, which used to be located where the hotel is, Martin said.
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Elder tried to hide his identity using a "Casper the ghost"-style bed sheet with eye holes cut out, Martin said.
Elder jumped over the hotel counter and took money out of the cash drawer. He then left through the former "Tilted Kilt" restaurant, Martin said.
Find out what's happening in Waynefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Elder was arrested, booked, and taken to the Passaic County Jail, the captain said.
Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com
Photo: Joseph M. Elder, 59 (Wayne Police Department)
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