October 13, 2022
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police say they are no longer searching the area off Route 1 for the burglary suspect. The incident began at 11:30 a.m. when staff at the Sonesta Suites at 4375 Route 1 reported finding numerous tools in a guest’s room. The tools were believed to have been stolen from several commercial shipping containers at the hotel overnight. The hotel is in the process of being remodeled and several contractors have items stored in the containers in the parking lot. In addition to the containers, two vehicles were broken into and items stolen. Police had earlier taken reports of over $24,000 in tools stolen overnight.
As police were responding, the victims of the thefts, who were staying only rooms away confronted the suspect, Travis Mollett age 33 of Dayton, Ohio who was renting the room. Mollett was working for a commercial painting contractor out of Ohio doing work in the area. Mollett fled when police arrived and a perimeter was set up to attempt to locate him. Two K9 dogs from the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office tracked Mollett’s sent along Route 1 headed south. After an extensive search of the wooded areas behind the hotel, the search was called off at 3:30 pm.
Detectives assisted by the Middlesex County Prosecutors Office obtained a search warrant for the hotel room. Detectives recovered numerous stolen tools and equipment from the hotel room. Detectives are following several leads to locate Mollett. When located he will be charged in connection to the thefts.
Anyone with information is asked to call South Brunswick Police at (732) 329-4646.
Travis Mollett age 33 of Dayton, Ohio