Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose reports that a Newark Police Officer suffered minor injuries after being shot by a suspect during the execution of a search warrant this morning at a basement apartment located at 168 Goodwin Avenue.
The suspect, James Dennard, 22, was immediately arrested director Ambrose said.
Authorities said shortly after 6 a.m., members of the Newark Police Department and the Emergency Services SWAT team were executing a search warrant.
As members of the SWAT Team were breaching the door leading to the basement, one shot was fired from the interior, striking a member of the SWAT team on his bullet proof vest.
The officer was rushed to the University Hospital, where the 15-year veteran was treated for his injuries.
Police recovered a 9MM handgun, marijuana scale and packaging materials from the residence.
Dennard is charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Possession of Prohibited Ammunition (extended magazine).
Additional charges are pending authorities said.
“I commend the officers from the Emergency Services SWAT Team for the way they handled the situation—especially because a 2-year old child was in the house, Director Ambrose said.
Director Ambrose urges anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call the Department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or 1-877-NWK-GUNS (1-877-695-4867).
All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.