Update on Belleville Homicide

The death of Daniel Mejia, 23, of Newark has been determined to be a homicide. Mejia was found non-responsive in a parking lot on Honiss Street in Belleville on Tuesday, Jan. 4. at approximately 5:06 a.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Following an autopsy today, the cause of death has been determined to…

Second Homicide in Newark in 2011

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert D. Laurino announced today that Carlos Rodriguez, 30, of Newark has been charged with aggravated manslaughter in connection with the death of Jennifer Riley, 26, of Newark. On New Year’s Day, Newark Police responded to a 6:30 a.m. 911 call at a home on Delavan Street in Newark. When they…

Orange Man Convicted in Montclair YMCA Murder

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert D. Laurino announced today Kenneth Duckett, 39, of Orange was found guilty by an Essex County Jury. Duckett was convicted of murdering the mother of his two children, Monica Paul, 31, of Montclair. Duckett was also convicted of two weapons offenses. The trial began on Dec. 1. Assistant Prosecutors Rachel…

Newark Man Charged in Fatal Shooting

There has been an arrest in the homicide that occurred in the Vailsburg section of Newark last evening, whereby a 16-year old victim was fatally shot. Kristin Best, 18, of Newark, he has been charged with Aggravated Manslaughter, Possession of a Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for unlawful purpose. These charges are mere accusations.…