06/18/2026
North Wildwood Police Department Announces Arrest in 2020 Burglary Investigation
On February 10th, 2020, officers from the North Wildwood Police Department responded to a report of a burglary at a construction site, in the area of 300 E. 7th Avenue. The contractor reported a broken window at the residence and blood in the area of the window as well as inside of the residence.
The North Wildwood Police Detective Bureau responded and processed the scene, collecting photographs and several items of evidentiary value, including blood samples recovered from the residence. It was also discovered that personal property was removed from the residence.
On May 13, 2026, the North Wildwood Police Department received an Investigative Hit Notification from the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). The notification indicated that Pablo C. Galeano (46) from Rio Grande, NJ was a DNA match to the evidence collected during the February 10, 2020, burglary investigation.
On June 18th, 2026, Galeano was charged with Burglary (N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2A (2)), Theft (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2B (3)) & Criminal Mischief (N.J.S.A. 2C:17-3A (1)). Galeano was processed and released on a summons in accordance with New Jersey’s bail reform guidelines and is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The North Wildwood Police Department would like to recognize the efforts of its Detective Bureau, and forensic partners whose diligence and preservation of evidence helped bring this investigation to a successful resolution. If you have any information related to this case, please contact the North Wildwood Police Department Detective Bureau at (609) 522-2411. The public can also provide tips anonymously through our website at www.nwpd.org “Submit a TIP” icon.
