Manhattan Man Tied To Commercial Burglaries In New Rochelle: Police

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Police have linked a New York City man to at least two recent burglaries in the City of New Rochelle, authorities said.

The New Rochelle Police Department says that on Saturday, around 4:50 a.m., officers responded to a commercial burglar alarm on North Ave.

Once on the scene, police saw that the front window of the business had been shattered with a rock. Officers soon identified and stopped a suspect believed to be involved.

Marcos Veloz, 25, of Manhattan, was found to be in possession of a pry bar, a hatchet and a mallet. NRPD noted that these tools were consistent with the method of entry observed at the scene, leading to his arrest.

NRPD says that the rapid response and thorough investigation by officers ensured that Veloz was apprehended before he could commit additional crimes.

After further investigation, police said they found striking similarities between Saturday's incident and a prior commercial burglary that took place on March 12, at a Main St. business. In the previous burglary, entry was also gained through forced means, and evidence suggested a pattern of criminal behavior, according to investigators.

After pursuing additional leads, officers were able to conclusively link Veloz to the Main St. burglary as well.

He has been charged in connection with both incidents. Charges include two counts of felony third-degree burglary, two counts of felony third-degree criminal mischief, and misdemeanor possession of burglary tools.

NRPD is asking anyone with additional information about these incidents to call the non-emergency line at 914-654-2300 or anonymously at 914-632-COPS.