Feb. 1, 2016
Jury Convicts Woman of Reckless Manslaughter in Super Bowl Sunday Killing
Newark – Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that an Essex County jury has convicted Amber Brooks, 21, of Newark of reckless manslaughter for fatally shooting Michael Brown, 49, of Newark.
Following a three week trial before the Honorable Carolyn Wright, Judge of the Superior Court, the jury convicted of Brooks of reckless manslaughter, unlawful possession of a weapon and aggravated assault by pointing a fire arm.
Assistant Prosecutor Roger Imhof, who handled the case, said, Brooks faces five to 10 years when she is sentenced on March 18.
“As always the state respects the jury’s verdict,’’ said Assistant Prosecutor Imhof. “This case is an example of too many illegal firearms getting in the hands of young people who revert to the use of guns to resolve minor disputes. Mr. Brown was a completely innocent bystander who was simply patronizing a city eatery when he was shot and killed by the defendant.’’
Brooks shot Brown on Feb. 3, 2013, Super Bowl Sunday, as he walked along Elizabeth Avenue in Newark at approximately 8:15 p.m. The shooting occurred during an argument between Brooks and another woman. That woman accused Brooks of breaking into her apartment.
