By: Richard L. Smith
A state grand jury has decided not to file criminal charges in connection with the death of Daniel King, 30, of Millville, New Jersey, who passed away after an encounter with New Jersey State Police on July 9, 2023, according to a statement released by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA).
The case was reviewed by the OPIA and presented to the grand jury, in line with the Independent Prosecutor Directive of 2019.
The investigation included interviews, video footage, photographs, and autopsy results, all of which were presented to the jury.
On September 23, 2024, the jury voted "no bill," determining that no criminal charges would be brought against the officers involved.
The incident occurred on July 8, 2023, when Trooper Mark Allonardo responded to a home on Fordville Road in Fairfield Township after King requested a police escort to retrieve property.
During the encounter, King became confrontational and attacked Trooper Allonardo, biting his face and causing injury. Civilians assisted in subduing King, and additional state troopers arrived to help with his arrest and transportation.
King was charged with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer. However, after being taken to the NJSP Bridgeton Station, King suffered a medical episode and became unresponsive.
Despite lifesaving efforts, he was transported to Inspira Medical Center in Vineland, where he passed away the following evening.
An autopsy revealed the presence of phencyclidine (PCP) in his system at the time of his death.
The grand jury’s decision concludes the investigation, with no charges filed against the troopers involved.