A Bayonne man struggled with cops, resisting arrest after being caught breaking into a house on East 38th Street, police said.
Derek Booker, 38, of Bayonne, was charged with burglary, theft, obstructing a governmental function, and resisting arrest, according to Police Lt. Eric Amato.
Booker was taken into custody at approximately 9:24 a.m. on Friday from the area of 41st Street and Broadway. Officers were responding to a residence on East 38th Street on a report of burglary in progress.
Upon arrival, they were informed by a building tenant, who was watching the cameras from a remote location, that the burglar had fled the scene.
From video of a security camera, officers were able to identify the actor as Booker and began searching the area for him.
About a half hour later, Booker was located in the area of 41 Street and Broadway, but retreated into his home once he noticed the police presence. Officers repeatedly advised Booker that he was under arrest and demanded that he open the door, authorities said.
He repeatedly refused to comply but officers were able to gain entry into his residence and place him under arrest. During the arrest, Booker resisted arrest by flailing his arms and taking a fighting stance, officials said.
After a brief struggle, Booker was safely taken into custody and a stolen tool was recovered and returned to the owner, police said.