A 12-year-old juvenile was arrested Monday afternoon after allegedly attempting to force entry into a residence in Howell Township, according to police.

The incident occurred around 3:28 p.m. on May 25 in the area of Princeton Drive. Howell Township Police said officers responded to reports of a male attempting to break into a home.

Upon arrival, officers found the homeowner holding the juvenile suspect on the ground outside the residence. The victim told police he was inside his home when he heard a loud bang coming from the front door. When he went to investigate, he discovered the front door had allegedly been kicked open, causing damage to the door frame.

Police said the homeowner then observed the suspect running toward the side of the driveway, where he allegedly got onto an e-bike and attempted to flee the scene.

According to investigators, the homeowner followed the suspect in his vehicle and was able to stop him a short distance away before holding him down on the ground until officers arrived.

Authorities said Ring camera footage provided by the victim allegedly showed the juvenile approach the front door before delivering a forceful backward kick that damaged and opened the door.

The juvenile was charged with criminal mischief and later released to his father at police headquarters, police said.

Later that evening, the juvenile’s mother reportedly contacted police claiming the homeowner had pointed a firearm at her son during the encounter. Officers returned to the scene and reviewed surveillance footage while also speaking with several witnesses. Police said all witnesses stated that no firearm was displayed at any point during the incident, and investigators found no evidence to substantiate the allegation.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Ptl. Lavarin #722 at 732-938-4575 ext. 2722.