Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray and Newark Police Director Samuel DeMaio announced today that Leon Thomas, 24, of Newark was arrested today for the murder of Ronald Kelly, 44, of Irvington.
Kelly was fatally shot on June 1, 2012 in the vicinity of 727 South 15th Street in Newark. Thomas was arrested at a private residence in the city of Newark without incident earlier today. He is charged with murder and two weapons offenses.
The arrest was made by members of the FBI Gang and Violent Crime Task Force and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide/Major Crimes Task Force.
“I want to once again congratulate the Essex County Homicide Task Force for a job well done in the arrest of murder suspect Leon Thomas. I would also like to extend my appreciation to the federal agents from the FBI who assisted in his apprehension. Here in Newark we are fortunate to have numerous law enforcement agencies based within our boundaries. The relationships we have been able to nurture over the years with each of those agencies has proven an invaluable resource in our efforts to prevent and reduce crime and arrest violent offenders who often seek shelter in cities throughout the country,’’ said Director DeMaio.
Bail was set at $750,000. The arraignment is expected to take place next week but the exact date has not yet been set.
These are accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they plead guilty or are found guilty in a court of law.
