Newark, N.J.- Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced today that Wadi Brown, 34, of Newark, was sentenced to 40 years in New Jersey State Prison for the fatal shooting of Keion Alston, 20, also of Newark, in 2025.
On July 16, 2026, a jury found Brown guilty of first-degree murder, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
The Honorable Patrick J. Arre, J.S.C. presided over both the trial and the sentencing.
The prosecution proved that on May 10, 2025, Brown and Alston met on Bergen Street before walking around the corner to Harding Terrace. Witnesses testified that the two men argued before Brown fired six shots at Alston, striking him in the back and killing him.
Following the sentencing, Assistant Prosecutor Mona said, “We are thankful that we were able to secure justice for Keion Alston and appreciate the strength and support his family and loved ones have shown throughout this case.”
Under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act, Brown must serve 85 percent of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole.
Anyone with information related to criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will remain confidential.
WADI BROWN
