Suspect charged in sprinkler theft

METUCHEN- After an investigation conducted by Metuchen police Detective James Connolly and Edison police Detective Tom Lacik, police arrested and charged Michael M. Ruiz, 20, of Edison, onApril 23 with 15 counts of theft of brass backflow valves and sprinkler system pumps from businesses and residences in the borough over a two-month period.

The thefts of the 11-backflow valves, which prevent sewage from backing up into a structure, and four sprinkler system pumps, occurred between Feb. 23 and April 13, police said.

Ruiz was released on his own recognizance, police said.

The total amount of victim loss in all of the thefts accounted for $5,850 in stolen parts, police said.

"Primarily, victims have not realized that they are victims of theft until they were preparing their sprinkler systems for use this spring," said Patrolman David Liantonio.

Any Metuchen residents who find that they were also victims should contact Connolly at (732) 632-8501.

Any victims outside of Metuchen should contact their municipality's police department. Thefts were also reported in Edison and Woodbridge townships, police said.