By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark man is in custody following a robbery that took place late Thursday morning in Kearny, thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of multiple law enforcement officers.
According to a statement released by the Kearny Police Department, the incident unfolded around 10:50 a.m. when Officer Ryan Wilson was flagged down by a man who had just been robbed of his jewelry near the intersection of Halstead Street and Kearny Avenue.
The suspect, who was riding a bicycle, fled upon seeing Officer Wilson.
As he attempted to evade capture, the suspect ditched both his bike and outer clothing layers, which were later recovered by officers.
Officer Wilson relayed a detailed description of the suspect—including notable facial tattoos—to fellow officers in the area, helping to quickly coordinate the search.
The suspect was seen running through residential backyards, crossing Belgrove Drive, and continuing south along the riverbank on Passaic Avenue.
Detectives Matos, San Martin, and Nunez later spotted the man, who again attempted to flee.
A prolonged foot chase ensued and ended near Grant Avenue in East Newark, where Officer Sean Wilson and East Newark Sergeant Fiore successfully apprehended the suspect.
A search following the arrest turned up the stolen jewelry and a knife in the suspect’s possession.
Police also recovered an airsoft pistol that had its orange safety tip removed, raising concerns about its potential use in the crime.
The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Marquis E. Simmons of Newark, faces multiple charges including robbery, theft, four weapons offenses, and two counts of obstructing the administration of law.
Surveillance footage from Kearny’s town cameras played a key role in tracking the suspect’s movements and supporting the arrest.
In a statement, Kearny Police Chief Scott Macfie praised the officers’ actions:
“Outstanding work by our officers in apprehending this robbery suspect. Criminals should know—if you break the law in this town, we will find you and we will hold you accountable.”