Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert D. Laurino today announced that Everett Rand, 40, of Newark has been arrested for the murder of David Payton, 39, of Newark. Rand was also charged with weapons offenses, possession of heroin, and possession with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school.
Payton was found in an unoccupied house located at 25 Chelsea Avenue in Newark at approximately 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 17 with what appeared to be gunshot wound. A caretaker who had come to check on the property discovered the body.
The suspect and the victim were friends. The two were allegedly involved in a dispute over money. The weapon used in the homicide was seized when officers executed a search warrant at Rand’s home.
Rand was taken into custody in Newark on a weapons offense on Thursday. Today he was charged with Payton’s murder and the drug offenses.
Bail was set at $750,000 by the Honorable Harold Fullilove, JSC. Rand is being held at the Essex County Correctional Facility.
Prosecutor Laurino commended Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Marquise Carter, Newark Detective Anthony Iemello, Lt. Michael DeMaio and Assistant Prosecutor Michelle Miller.
These are mere accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
