Allendale officers honored for role in multi-state burglary takedown

Allendale Mayor Amy Evolinski and the Borough Council on May 8 honored local officers after a Cedar Grove police delegation described a months-long, multi-jurisdictional investigation that federal and local officials said ended with multiple arrests.

A Cedar Grove manager who introduced the presentation credited Allendale officers with assisting in an investigation that began in October and spanned several states. The speaker said the investigation used surveillance, license-plate readers and tracking warrants and involved the FBI and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. “Ultimately, there were 12 people taken into custody,” the presenting officer said, adding that the probe identified an organized theft crew that targeted Asian business owners across the Eastern Seaboard.

Mayor Evolinski praised the department’s relationship with residents and thanked officers for the work. “I just am so proud of our police officers,” she said, noting the town’s support for the force and the department’s youth and professionalism.

Chief Mike Dillon thanked the council for support and noted the department’s collaborative work with neighboring towns and federal partners. A formal proclamation read by the visiting delegation named Chief Michael Dillon and several Allendale officers for their service.

The presentation emphasized interagency cooperation but did not include details about ongoing prosecutions; the presenters said federal authorities had taken custody of the suspects and pursued charges. No public comment was recorded opposing the recognition.

The council concluded the presentation with photo opportunities and brief remarks of appreciation before moving on to regular business.