By: Richard L. Smith
A coordinated effort by Essex County law enforcement, including Newark Police, led to the arrests of a man and two juveniles involved in an armed carjacking on Sunday night.
According to a statement released by Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, the incident began around 8:45 p.m. when Newark Police officers spotted a black 2016 Range Rover in the 400 block of West Market Street.
The vehicle had been reported stolen earlier that evening in a carjacking in East Orange.
Director Miranda said the driver ignored police attempts to pull the vehicle over, sparking a chase that wound through East Orange and into Bloomfield.
The pursuit ended on South Ashland Avenue in Bloomfield, where the driver and passengers abandoned the SUV and fled on foot.
According to Director Miranda, Newark Police deployed their helicopter, NPD1, to assist in the search.
The suspects were found hiding in residential backyards nearby. Officers apprehended 19-year-old Mr. Ashton Richards of East Orange and two male juveniles, ages 15 and 17, also from East Orange.
All three suspects face charges of receiving stolen property, obstruction, and resisting arrest. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Authorities reminded the public that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
The swift collaboration between law enforcement agencies highlights their commitment to maintaining public safety across Essex County.