Sewell Resident Admits to Crime Spree Across Atlantic County

A Sewell man has admitted to a months-long crime spree across Atlantic County that included stealing vehicles from casino parking garages, burglarizing cars, and leading police on a chase along the Atlantic City boardwalk.

Michael Celia, 36, entered guilty pleas on Tuesday, August 6 to five criminal charges: taking a vehicle without authorization, methamphetamine possession, breaking into a vehicle, resisting law enforcement, and motor vehicle theft. The charges range from third-degree to fourth-degree offenses.

Prosecutors say the incidents unfolded over a five-month period from late September 2025 into mid-February 2026, with law enforcement agencies throughout Atlantic County investigating the separate cases before connecting them to Celia.

The first incident occurred on September 27, 2025, when Atlantic City police officers on patrol discovered an abandoned stolen vehicle. Surveillance cameras captured footage showing Celia inside the vehicle, leading to his identification and subsequent charges.

Less than three weeks later, on October 15, 2025, Hamilton Township police stopped Celia during a shoplifting investigation. Officers found methamphetamine in his possession, authorities said.

The crime spree continued on October 27, 2025, when a vehicle owner at Bally's parking garage discovered items missing from their car after leaving it overnight. Security footage recorded the break-in, and investigators identified Celia as the person who burglarized the vehicle, according to prosecutors.

Just days later, on November 1, 2025, Atlantic City police received a call about a trespasser at Tropicana who refused to leave. When officers arrived, Celia took off running, prosecutors said. Police pursued him on foot along the boardwalk and onto the beach before finally taking him into custody.

The final case involved a vehicle stolen from Caesars parking garage on February 18, 2026. The owner had parked her car the day before and returned to find it gone. Surveillance video showed someone testing door handles on multiple vehicles before successfully entering and driving off with the victim's car. Investigators later determined Celia was the suspect and arrested him.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Celia faces a combined prison term of four years in state prison. His sentencing is scheduled for October 1.