A 32-year-old Newark man was sentenced to nine years in state prison today in connection to the 2012 home invasion robbery.
Rasheed Bohler was convicted on Aug. 10 of robbery and burglary charges for the Feb. 21, 2012 incident.
According to Superior Court Judge Richard Sules, the nine year sentence is just, after addressing how Bohler, who is stronger than the teen, "took advantage of this victim's stature compared to your own." Bohler who will receive more than two and half years credit for time served, must serve nearly eight years before becoming eligible for parole.
Essex County Assistant Prosecutor Olajide Araromi was granted more time to determine whether the state will pursue a trial on the kidnapping charge against Bohler after he allegedly tied the teen with strips of cloth from pillow cases.
Bohler is due back in court on Oct. 23., on which date, Essex County Assistant Prosecutor Olajide Araromi is expected to have a decision.
On the date of the incident, Bohler who entered the Littleton Avenue residence wearing a mask, tied the boy for about an hour with strips of cloth from the pillow cases. The teen then was able escape home to call 911.
The boy was able to identify Bohler as an acquaintance of his mother, whom the teenager had seen before after recognizing his voice during the robbery. After reviewing photos of potential suspects the boy positively identified Bohler.