Man said his boardwalk store was ransacked, it turns out he did it himself

Man said his boardwalk store was ransacked, it turns out he did it himself
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - MAY 19: Tram tours at Atlantic City Boardwalk in New Jersey, as seen on May 19, 2019. Atlantic City is a resort city in the northeast known for its casinos, boardwalk and beach.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ – On April 5, 2021, a store clerk was charged after calling 911 reporting a crime that was proved to be false.At 12:42 pm, patrol officers responded to H & A Fashions located in the 1400 block of the Boardwalk in reference to an alleged robbery and damage to the store.

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The store clerk, Malik Awais, told officers that several individuals entered the store, stole items valued at $100, pushed him as they fled, and caused property damage totaling more than $5,000.

Detectives of the Criminal Investigations Section and Forensics Unit responded to the store to investigate. Personnel from the department’s Surveillance Center began to review camera coverage from the area.

One camera had the storefront within view. Personnel reviewed the camera and did not see anyone entering or exiting the store matching the description of the suspects from the time the store opened in the morning to the arrival of officers. In addition, a person who was described as a witness was found not to be present during the alleged crime. It was ultimately found that the alleged crime did not occur and the report was fabricated.

The investigation was led by Detective Ann McGlynn.CHARGED: Malik Awais, 26, of Egg Harbor Township, NJ.CHARGES: False report to law enforcement authorities.

Awais was placed on a summons with a future court date. Charges are mere accusations, and the accused are considered innocent until proven guilty.

Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the Atlantic City Police Department Criminal Investigations Section at 609-347-5766. Information can be text to tip411 (847411). Begin the text with ACPD. All texts are anonymous.