Newark, N.J.- Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II announced today that a jury has convicted Jarell Riles, 35, of Newark, of first-degree felony murder, first-degree murder, as well as robbery and weapons offenses.
Assistant Prosecutor Julianne Bollettieri and Assistant Prosecutor Nidhi Goel tried the case before the Honorable Ronald Wigler, J.S.C.
The jury returned its guilty verdict on February 18, 2026, following five days of testimony.
Riles was convicted in the fatal shooting of Jose Gaona, 67, of Newark, on December 31, 2023.
The prosecution proved that Riles first robbed a man at gunpoint on Vessey Street in Newark during the early hours of December 31, 2023, forcing the victim to the ground and pistol-whipping him during the robbery. Riles then drove to Malvern Street, where he observed Gaona getting into his vehicle. He exited his car, confronted Gaona at gunpoint, and robbed him of his personal belongings. When Gaona attempted to re-enter his vehicle, Riles shot him seven times in the back, ultimately killing him.
Assistant Prosecutor Julianne Bollettieri said, “The death of Mr. Gaona and the violent robbery of the other victim are tragic and senseless crimes. We hope this conviction for these brazen acts of violence against members of the Newark community brings some sense of security to all Essex County residents. While nothing can bring back the life that was lost, we hope this conviction will bring Mr. Gaona’s family some measure of closure.”
Assistant Prosecutor Nidhi Goel added, “No verdict can bring back the victim whose life was senselessly taken or fully heal the wounds of the surviving victim. However, the unanimous guilty verdict affirms that these senseless acts of violence will not go unpunished. Our deepest sympathies remain with both victims and their loved ones.”
The prosecutors also thanked investigators from the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Newark Police Division, the New Jersey State Police, and the Orange Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.
Riles is scheduled to be sentenced on March 27, 2026.
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.
