Suspect accused of slashing tires in police custody

SOMERDALE, NJ (WTXF) - Police in South Jersey have identified and charged a vandal suspect accused of slashing more than 50 tires on police and fire vehicles. The suspect was taken into police custody Tuesday night without incident.

The incident occurred early Sunday morning outside the Somerdale Police Department in Camden County.

Police say a man was recorded by a security camera as he snuck around the municipal parking lot, early in the morning.

52 tires were slashed on almost all of the police vehicles, along with the fire marshal's car, totaling several thousands of dollars in damage. Personal vehicles were also damaged.

Police say the suspect went to the Camden Metro Police Department to report his bike had been stolen around 11:30 p.m. Sunday. According to the police, the man who reported his bike stolen identified himself as Edward Holmes of the 200 block of Ava Avenue in Somerdale, NJ. After a photo of the vandal suspect was released, the Camden Metro officer recognized the suspect as the same man who reported his bike stolen the night before.

Holmes faces numerous charges. His motive remains unknown.