$500K Armored NJ Police Truck Stolen, Taken For Joyride, Police Say

NEWARK, NJ — An Essex County man was arrested after stealing a $500,000 armored police vehicle and taking it on a joyride, according to NJ Transit Police.

On July 14, around 4 a.m., a BearCat, or Ballistic Engineered Armored Response Counter Attack Truck, was taken from the NJ Transit Police Emergency Service Unit headquarters.

According to authorities, the thief caused roughly $13,000 in damage to other NJ Transit Police property when attempting to exit the parking garage in the nine-ton vehicle.

A BearCat is a heavily armored tactical vehicle primarily used by SWAT, police, and military for hostage situations, active shooters, and other tactical operations.

The truck was eventually found abandoned in Irvington, roughly a 20-minute drive from where it was stolen.

Investigators placed Christopher A. Burton-Frazier, 39, of Maplewood, behind the wheel of the heavily armored truck.

Burton-Frazier was arrested two days after the theft and faces multiple charges, including theft and burglary, according to NJ Transit Police.

According to NJ.com, Burton-Frazier admitted to the crime on Tuesday morning. The report adds that he stole the BearCat’s 7-inch backup-camera monitor and an 18.5-ounce SABRE pepper-spray fogger.

The incident is still under investigation by NJ Transit Police.