A 30-year-old man was sentenced to more than 40 years in state prison, after shooting a Newark police officer that helped impede a store robbery.
According to Essex County Prosecutor's Office spokeswoman, on July 30, 2014, Donald Easterling, armed with a handgun and using extended magazine robbed the 99 Cent Zone on Clinton Avenue. Although two employees managed to escape, leaving the store owner and two customers inside.
Responding officer spotted Easterling leaving the store with a bag and a gun. Easterling pointed a gun at the officer, who fired two rounds at the robber, striking him once. Newark police officer Dennis Dominguez arrived Dominguez to assist officers when Easterling shot him in the knee, according to authorities.
Although Dominguez's injury was non- life threatening they ended the officer's 19-year career with the city department.
Easterling was ultimately found guilty of aggravated assault, robbery and weapons offenses.
He must serve 85 percent of his 45 year sentence before he is eligible for parole.