A federal jury convicted an Essex County man for his role in the knifepoint robbery of a Harrison taxi company, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
According to U.S. Attorney Sellinger, Alfuquan Turner, 46, of Newark, was convicted on June 7 of Hobbs Act robbery following a four-day trial in Newark federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and the evidence at trial:
On September 23, 2019, Turner walked into the Harrison Cab Company armed with a knife and his face covered with a plastic bag.
He demanded money from the cab company’s dispatcher. After the victim informed Turner that there was no money in her office, Turner continued his threats and demands.
Ultimately, after Turner attempted to stab the victim and the victim fought back, Turner took the victim’s cell phone and attempted to leave.
When the victim tried to get her phone back, Turner hit her in the face, pushed her to the ground, and asked her if she wanted to die.
Turner then choked the victim until she lost consciousness, after which he stole her jewelry, cell phone, and other items.