By: Richard L. Smith
Two East Orange men who had previously pled guilty for their roles in a shooting that occurred on August 6, 2022, at the Menga Lounge in Linden have now been sentenced for their crimes.
Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel and Linden Police Chief David Hart jointly announced this development.
According to the statement, on December 8, the Honorable Thomas Isenhour presided over the sentencing of Najir Paige, 29, and Sharif Evans, 26, in connection to the Menga Lounge incident.
Paige received a sentence of 10 years in New Jersey State Prison for second-degree aggravated assault, of which he must serve 85%.
Additionally, he received a five-year sentence for second-degree certain persons not allowed to possess a firearm, serving the entirety of this sentence.
Sharif Evans, on the other hand, received a three-year probation sentence. He was also credited for the 452 days he had spent in jail after his arrest.
His charges were related to third-degree hindering apprehension due to his role in transporting Paige away from the shooting scene and his efforts to conceal the vehicle involved.
Assistant Prosecutor Nicole Siano, who led the prosecution, detailed the events leading up to the sentencing.
In the early hours of August 6, 2022, following a dispute inside the Menga Lounge, Najir Paige retrieved a handgun from Sharif Evans' vehicle and discharged multiple rounds through the front door of the establishment, which was filled with patrons.
The incident resulted in two victims sustaining serious but non-fatal gunshot wounds, with a third individual also suffering injuries.
Prosecutor Daniel expressed appreciation for the meticulous efforts of the law enforcement team involved in bringing the case to justice. Linden Detective Nicole Andrews, Union County Prosecutor's Office Detective Katelyn Prata, and Assistant Prosecutor Nicole Siano collaborated extensively to build a strong case against the individuals responsible for the crimes, ensuring that justice was served for the victims.