Man Charged With Stalking In West Orange: Police – West Orange, NJ Patch

WEST ORANGE, NJ — West Orange police charged a man with stalking and burglary after he allegedly followed a woman and tried to enter her home, authorities said.

According to the West Orange Police Department, the victim reported that a man later identified as Edward J. Johnson “gawked” at her at the CVS pharmacy on Prospect Avenue on Sept. 13. Johnson then followed her home, but was startled by her husband and fled the scene.

“As the week progressed, detectives identified Johnson returning to the victim’s street on two additional occasions and even making an attempt to enter the victim’s home,” police said. “Entry was not gained due to Johnson being interrupted by a neighbor.”

Johnson had recently moved from Cambria Heights, New York, and had been staying at a hotel on Prospect Avenue at the time, police said.

West Orange police arrested Johnson on Oct. 7 and charged him with stalking and criminal attempt-burglary. He was transported to the Essex County Correctional Facility.

“It should also be noted Johnson claims to frequent numerous CVS and Walgreens pharmacies in an attempt to solicit female acquaintances,” police said.

Any residents who have experienced similar incidents involving Johnson or his vehicle, a 2020 Chevy Suburban with Pennsylvania registration plates, can contact Detective Jose Alvarez at 973-325-4025 or Jalvarez@wopd.org.