New Jersey mother arrested for obstructing police after teen found hidden at home

When a 17-year-old was reported missing by his father, East Brunswick officers began an extensive search, entering his mother’s address and checking databases. Jennifer Buckley claimed the son was not at her house and might be a self-risk. Detectives found inconsistencies in her statements and, after obtaining a warrant, discovered the teen hidden in a crawl space beneath the home, where he had apparently been staying.

Officers concluded Buckley had helped conceal him, resulting in her arrest for obstructing the administration of law. The police chief praised the resources devoted to the case and emphasized that false information hampers public safety efforts. No injuries to the teenager were reported.