Newark, N.J.-Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced today that a Newark man has been convicted in connection with a 2022 fatal shooting in West Orange.
On June 4, 2026, after six days of deliberations, a jury convicted Kocou Anani, 26, of second-degree aggravated assault and second-degree conspiracy to commit aggravated assault. He was acquitted of first-degree murder.
Assistant Prosecutor Brianna Sandroni and Assistant Prosecutor Jason Alterbaum tried the case before the Honorable Kevin Barry, J.S.C.
The prosecutors proved that on September 27, 2022, Anani and four co-conspirators were waiting outside a deli on Watson Avenue when Corington Valentin, 20, of West Orange exited the store. The defendant initiated a physical altercation with Valentin. The co-conspirators joined the fight, and one of the men shot Valentin twice in the back. The victim was taken to St. Barnabas Medical Center where he was later pronounced deceased. During the altercation, Valentin also fired a weapon, striking and wounding the defendant.
Assistant Prosecutor Brianna Sandroni said, “This outcome reflects our office’s continued commitment to seeking justice for victims and their loved ones. We hope this verdict brings some measure of closure to the victim’s family.”
The prosecutors thanked Essex County Prosecutor’s Office investigators for their dedication and tireless efforts throughout the investigation of the case.
Anani is scheduled to be sentenced on July 20, 2026. He faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in state prison.
The public is encouraged to report any information related to criminal activity by contacting the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432. All calls will remain confidential.
KOCOU ANANI
