Arrests Made in Franklin for Walmart Thefts

FRANKLIN BOROUGH, NJ – On March 8, 2016, Franklin Police responded to a reported theft at the Walmart in Franklin.

Upon patrols arrival the asset protection associates from the Walmart had reported that a male a female attempted to take nearly $1,000 in merchandise. Asset protection associates reported after a brief chase the male ran off and the female left in a vehicle.

Franklin Police Detectives investigated and found that Doreen Zelaya, 53, of Jersey City had assisted Tahlee Dzurella, 33, of Jersey City in taking merchandise from the store without first purchasing it. Ms. Zelaya is alleged to have taken pieces of merchandise and then distract employees while Mr. Dzurella left the store with the merchandise.

Asset protection associates reported nearly 60 items taken valued at nearly $1,000.00.

Ms. Zelaya was arrested in Franklin on the 8^th at about 8:00 PM. She was charged with the theft and released. There was a warrant for Tahlee Dzurella with bail set at $15,000.

The subject wanted was apprehended this afternoon at 4:30 PM by Chief Eugene McInerney.  Chief observed what he felt was a suspicious male in front of anytime fitness in Franklin on Rt. 23. When the chief approached the subject, he found him to be Tahlee Dzurella, the subject who was wanted for  the theft which occurred on March 8, 2016.   Tahlee Dzurella was found to be in possession of a  hypodermic needle at the time of his arrest.  He was lodged in the Sussex County Jail in lieu of $15,000 bail with no ten percent option. 

The complaints that were filed are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The charges may be presented to a grand jury for potential indictment.

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