 Jimmy Rodriguez
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 Fabian Caicedo
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 Erik Udvarhely
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Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones announced today that three Essex County Sheriff’s officers were charged with theft on August 28, 2025 following an investigation into the unauthorized removal of items during the execution of a narcotics search warrant.
The incident occurred on January 10, 2023, at the apartment of Kirk Mansook, located at 470 Park Avenue in East Orange.
At the time, Officers Jimmy Rodriguez, 39, of Kearny, Fabian Caicedo, 45 of East Rutherford, and Erik Udvarhely, 44, of Belleville, were assigned to the Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Narcotics.
During the search, Mansook was arrested on minor drug charges and later released. Upon returning home, he discovered several items were missing, including multiple boxes of high-end sneakers, and a designer belt.
Surveillance video revealed that Officer Rodriguez and Officer Caicedo removed the items, placed them in plastic bags, and loaded them in their work vehicle. Officer Rodriguez and Officer Udvarhely later transferred the items to their personal vehicles.
“These charges reflect our unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. No one is above the law and when law enforcement officers betray the public trust, they will be held responsible. The people of Essex County deserve integrity from those who serve them,” said Prosecutor Stephens.
Sheriff Jones added “We are deeply saddened by this incident and profoundly disappointed when officers fail to uphold the oath they were sworn to honor. The Essex County Sheriff’s Office has fully cooperated with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office throughout this matter. This conduct does not represent who we are, and it will not be tolerated. Anyone who violates the law will be held fully accountable.”
Officer Rodriguez is accused of moving the items from the work vehicle and into his personal vehicle. He is charged with third-degree theft and fourth-degree falsifying or tampering with records. Officer Udvarhely is also accused of moving the items from the work vehicle into his personal vehicle and is charged with third-degree receiving stolen property. Officer Caicedo is accused of helping take the items out of the apartment and is charged with third-degree theft. All three officers were suspended without pay-as per Attorney General guidelines-when the charges were filed.
The public is encouraged to report any information related to criminal activity by contacting the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will remain confidential.