A Paramus officer's police vehicle was stolen while he picked up an order from Lodi's in Hackensack last month.

By Cecilia Levine From Daily Voice

A 61-year-old Hackensack man is facing charges after stealing a marked Paramus police car that had been left running outside a restaurant — then driving it home just a quarter mile away, according to sources with direct knowledge of the incident.

Just before 10 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16, a Paramus police officer parked his patrol vehicle in front of Lido Restaurant, at 701 Main St., in Hackensack, and left it running with the key in the ignition while he went inside to pick up an order, sources said.

When he returned moments later, the car was gone.

The stolen vehicle was found about a quarter mile away, in the parking lot of 605 Main Street, with minor damage after the suspect apparently struck an object during the short drive, sources said.

The suspect was identified as Michael P. Pascarella, 61, of 582 Main St., in Hackensack. It is believed that he drove the vehicle back toward his apartment complex and parked it in a nearby lot, sources tell Daily Voice.

Pascarella was charged with unlawful taking of a means of conveyance and criminal mischief. 

While Pascarella isn’t considered a serious offender, he’s known around town for stirring up trouble, sources said. Records show he has a handful of traffic violations dating back more than a decade, including a DUI.

Paramus Police Chief Robert Guidetti said his officer did nothing wrong.

"Police vehicles remain running to power essential equipment, and ensure officers can respond immediately to emergencies," the chief said.

"The vehicle was unlawfully taken. The department is reviewing the incident to further strengthen security measures and prevent future occurrences."