By: Richard L. Smith
Essex County officials announced today that an Essex County jury has convicted Leo Germain, 25, of Irvington, of first-degree murder for fatally shooting a 16-year-old boy from Newark.
According to a statement released by Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Spokesman Robert Florida, on June 10, 2021, Germain, along with three suspects yet to be identified, conspired to shoot and kill the boy inside an apartment building on the 100 block of Seymour Avenue in Newark.
The victim only identified by friends as ‘Carlos’ was shot multiple times, including once in the head.
Following a two-day trial before the Honorable Patrick Arre, county officials said, Judge of the Superior Court, the jury deliberated for a day before convicting Germain of conspiracy to commit murder, murder, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and two counts of illegal possession of a firearm.
Judge Arre will sentence him on May 19. He faces up to life in New Jersey State Prison for the murder conviction.
“The jury held Leo Germain accountable for his vicious conduct against a boy whose life was taken far too soon,” said Assistant Prosecutor Jacqueline Bilinkas, who tried the case with Assistant Prosecutor Jenna Ventola.
“This verdict has brought justice to the young victim's family,” added Bilinkas, “and will hopefully deter others from committing these acts of violence.”
Acting Prosecutor Stephens said that gun violence is the No. 1 cause of death for young people in this country.
“As we continue to grapple with this issue globally,” he said, “the Assistant Prosecutors of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, like Ms. Bilinkas, will remain vigilant in protecting victims' rights and their families.”