By: Richard L. Smith
Newark Public Safety Director Fritz G. Fragé reported the arrest of 31-year-old Mr. Khalil Cuttino of Phillipsburg following an incident that left two police officers injured.
The confrontation occurred Friday, April 12, at around 5:09 p.m. in the 300 block of Clinton Avenue.
Authorities were called to the scene after reports surfaced of a man wielding a handgun.
When officers detained an individual matching the suspect's description, a large crowd quickly formed around them.
Amid the ensuing chaos, Cuttino, who was among the bystanders, allegedly struck two officers with closed fists.
Both officers sustained injuries from the attack and were subsequently transported to University Hospital.
They are currently recovering with non-life-threatening injuries and are in stable condition.
Following the incident, detectives launched an investigation that led to the identification of Cuttino as the primary suspect.
A warrant was issued for his arrest, and he was apprehended earlier Sunday.
Police said Cuttino is now facing two counts of aggravated assault on police officers and one count of obstruction of the administration of the law.
It is important to note that these charges are accusations, and Mr. Cuttino is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The case continues to be under investigation as authorities work to fully resolve the matter.
