Package Thief Corners Hoboken Woman in Elevator, Steals Her Purse & Cell Phone

A harrowing evening for a Hoboken woman, as a man who was allegedly raiding packages in her lobby followed her onto the elevator and stole her purse and cell phone.

According to the Hoboken Police Department (HPD), Det. Quinn, Officer Montalvo, Sgt. Rotondi and PO Bullock responded to a robbery call on 5th Street.  The victim explained that she arrived home and observed a male who was opening packages in the lobby. The alleged package thief then followed the victim into the elevator, where he forcefully took her cellphone and her purse.

Soon after, Det. Quinn located a male who fit the description near 3rd  & Jackson Streets. Upon questioning, he was found to be in possession of the victim’s cellphone and was placed under arrest. He was then found to be in possession of personal items belonging to the victim. Andre Wheeler, age 35, of Hoboken was transported to HPD headquarters and charged with Robbery, Burglary, Theft, and False Imprisonment. He was later remanded to the Hudson County Rehabilitation Center.

The victim did not suffer any serious injuries and her property was returned.