File source: Crime in NYC

A 19-year-old man has been charged in connection with a series of home invasions across New Jersey, which included the theft of luxury vehicles worth $700,000. The case marks the first prosecution under the state’s new law that imposes harsher penalties for home invasion crimes.

Samir White, a Newark resident, faces multiple charges, including home invasion burglary and four counts of residential burglary. Under the recently enacted law, home invasion burglary is now classified as a first-degree crime, while residential burglary is considered a second-degree offense.

Authorities allege that White, along with three unidentified accomplices, used stolen vehicles to travel to targeted homes across the state. Once there, they reportedly forced entry using crowbars, stealing key fobs and other valuables before fleeing in the homeowners’ luxury cars, which included BMWs, Audis, and Porsches.

“This case exemplifies why we strengthened the law—to crack down on those who violate the safety and security of people’s homes,” the state Attorney General’s office said in a statement.

While White has been taken into custody, his three accomplices remain at large. Law enforcement continues efforts to track them down, urging the public to come forward with any information.