Brooklyn man pleads guilty to staged car theft scheme at NJ mall

🚨Jonathan D. Martinelli, 44, of Brooklyn, admitted he could not make his car payments

🚨He made arrangements to have it stolen from a mall parking lot

🚨The SUV was used in several armed robberies

ELIZABETH — A Brooklyn man admitted to helping stage the theft of his SUV from a New Jersey mall that was later used in several armed robberies.

Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel said that Jonathan D. Martinelli, 44, of Brooklyn, paid an individual $700 to have his car "stolen" when he could not afford the payments on his Land Rover in 2023. Martinelli then parked the SUV in a pre-determined spot and hid the key.

Several people came to "steal" the vehicle, which was later used in multiple armed robberies in Essex County, according to the prosecutor. Details about the robberies were not disclosed.

Stolen vehicle report raises questions

Questions were raised about the theft when Martinelli filed a stolen vehicle report with Elizabeth police. The claim was for what he said was recently purchased high-end electronics, clothing, and jewelry valued at $5,680 that was inside the SUV when it was stolen.

Detectives were able to stop the insurer from paying on the claim, according to Daniel. Martinelli admitted his guilt and was sentenced to probation.

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These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

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