Man arrested for robbery and aggravated assault in Hoboken

A Hoboken man was arrested for robbery and aggravated assault after a foot chase took place near Park Avenue and 3rd Street.

Police says that at about 11:56 AM, Officer Steven Albert observed two males running southbound on Park Avenue approaching 3rd Street; the male giving chase waved at Officer Albert and yelled, “Police! Police! Stop Him, he just robbed me!” Officer Albert exited his marked police vehicle and instructed the lead male to stop. The actor did not stop and Officer Albert engaged in a foot pursuit. Officer Albert chased the actor south on Park Avenue and then west on 3rd Street. Officer Albert apprehended the actor in the area of 259 3rd Street. Officer Albert and the actor ended up on the ground where the actor continued to resist by not allowing Officer Albert to handcuff him. As Officer Albert struggled with the actor, Officer Bernardo Munoz arrived and assisted with placing the actor under arrest.

Officer Albert learned from the on scene investigation that the actor, identified as Jose Vanegas (23) of Hoboken, had shoplifted at Hoboken Pet located at 524 Washington St. Vanegas placed six dog jackets in a green backpack and attempted to leave the store without paying for the merchandise. An employee attempted to stop Vanegas but was punched twice in the head. Vanegas fled heading southbound with the employee following. Vanegas then took a chalkboard sign belong to East LA 508 Washington Street. An employee exited East LA and Vanegas began to run with the sign. The employee of East LA gave chase south on Washington Street until Officer Albert took over. During the chase, Vanegas dropped the chalkboard and several of the dog jackets. Vanegas was charged with Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and Resisting Arrest. All of his charges were placed on a warrant and Vanegas was transported to the Hudson County Jail. Officer Albert suffered an abrasion to his knee.

He was treated by an ambulance and refused any further medical treatment at this time. Officer Albert returned to full duty with no restriction. Officer Munoz injured his hamstring and is currently out injured.

Defendant is innocent until proven guilty in a court of Law.