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 at168 Goodwin Avenue.
The suspects, Mr. James Dennard, 22, and Ms. Latasia Philips were immediately arrested.
According to police shortly after 6 a.m., members of the Newark Police Department and the Emergency Services SWAT team were executing a search warrant.
Authorities said 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.
EMS rushed the officer 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.
Police charged Mr. Dennard is with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Possession of Prohibited Ammunition (extended magazine). Additional charges are pending.
Police charged Ms. Philips -who occupied the apartment- with possession of a weapon and second degree endangering the welfare of a child.
Police said Philips is the mother of the 2-year-old home during the incident.
“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.