Newark Woman Sought in Connection with July Kidnapping and Robbery

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NEWARK, NJ — Authorities are searching for a Newark woman wanted for questioning in connection with a July kidnapping and robbery incident, according to Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda.

Wendy Melendez, 43, is being sought by detectives investigating an incident that occurred on July 10 at approximately 9 p.m. near the intersection of Mt. Prospect Avenue and Montclair Avenue. Police responded to reports of a robbery involving two suspects on mopeds who allegedly targeted a driver.

According to investigators, one suspect approached the driver’s side of the vehicle, knocked on the window, and reached in to remove the keys from the ignition after the victim lowered the window. The vehicle was then unlocked, allowing the second suspect to enter. The suspects reportedly stole the victim’s wallet, which contained $200 in cash and a debit card, and then forced the victim to drive to a nearby Bank of America branch at 526 Bloomfield Avenue. There, the suspects ordered the victim to withdraw $760 from his account before fleeing on their mopeds.

Detectives have not disclosed the nature of Melendez’s connection to the incident but are seeking her for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.

Director Miranda is urging anyone with information on Melendez’s whereabouts to contact the Newark Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). Tips can remain anonymous, and rewards may be available.