2020 News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2020

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Public Information Bureau (609) 882-2000
Major Brian Polite - ext. 6514
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Sgt. Lawrence Peele - ext. 6531
Sgt. Philip Curry - ext. 6515
Tpr. Alejandro Goez - ext. 6527
Tpr. Charles Marchan - ext. 6513


Multi-Agency Fugitive Sweep Nets 21 Individuals Wanted for Violent Crimes in Essex County

East Orange City, N.J. - The New Jersey State Police Fugitive Unit coordinated a 3-day mobile deployment initiative that led to the arrest of 21 violent fugitives in Essex County last week.  Of the 21 people arrested, 11 were identified as street gang members.

Detectives from the New Jersey State Police Fugitive Unit, Crime Suppression North Unit, and K-9 Unit along with members of the United States Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force - Newark Division, Essex County Sheriff's Office, East Orange Police Department, Irvington Police Department, Orange Police Department, and the New Jersey Department of Corrections targeted violent, recidivist criminals who had warrants for their arrest and were believed to be involved in recent criminal activity in Essex County.  The targets for the operation were identified through various investigative means including street level-intelligence, patrol advisories, and information provided by the New Jersey State Police Real-Time Crime Center North Unit.

From Wednesday, October 14, to Friday, October 16, a total of 21 fugitives wanted by state, county, and local law enforcement agencies were apprehended in various locations throughout Essex County. The accused were wanted for various crimes including homicide, aggravated assault, aggravated sexual assault, armed robbery, motor vehicle theft, burglary, unlawful sale of firearms, unlawful possession of firearms and various drug offenses. All suspects were lodged at the Essex County Jail.

"This coordinated, multi-agency effort leading to the arrests of 21 of the state's most wanted fugitives, including 11 gang members, will go a long way in making Essex County's communities safer," said Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal. "This successful operation is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of our local, state, and federal law enforcement officers who work tirelessly to reduce violent crime in New Jersey."

“This sweep resulted in the apprehension of some of Essex County’s most dangerous fugitives, and it represents a significant step towards reducing violent crimes in the area. Operations like these also often result in valuable intelligence that helps solve additional crimes in and around the targeted jurisdictions,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.  “The success of this initiative delivers the message that we are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to locate and arrest violent offenders that threaten the safety of our communities.”

Charges are mere accusations, and the accused are considered innocent until proven guilty.

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