Five Defendants Enter Guilty Plea in Video Attack

 Newark – Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that five men have entered guilty pleas before the Honorable Richard T. Sules, Judge of the Superior Court, for assaulting a 28-year old Newark man on Sunday, Jan. 10, at Broad and Market Streets in Newark’s downtown area.

“We believe these guilty pleas and the sentences recommended by the state are an appropriate resolution of the case given the brazen attack that occurred in broad daylight in downtown Newark,’’ said Assistant Prosecutor Sarah Vander Woude, who handled the case.

According to Assistant Prosecutor Vander Woude, the victim was assaulted as he handed out flyers along with free cigarettes and compact discs, promoting his business. He told police he was approached by individuals who told him to leave, accusing him of taking business from them by handing out free cigarettes. When the victim ignored their warnings, approximately 8 to 10 males brutally assaulted him and stole his briefcase containing his flyers, cigarettes and CDs.

The victim was hospitalized with injuries to his head, face and body.

The assault was captured on video by a citizen.

Today, the two most culpable defendants — Corey Sabb, 22, of East Orange and Trevone Craig, 21, of Newark — agreed to three year sentences. Under the No Early Release Act, they must serve 85 percent of their respective sentences before they are eligible for parole. Both Trevone Craig and Sabb pled guilty to one count of aggravated assault.

The other three defendants, who are believed to have played a lesser role, pled guilty to lesser degrees of aggravated assault. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Julio Pendola, 28, of Newark must serve a flat four years in state prison. Both Jahid Nelson, 18, and Joshua Craig, 19, both of Newark, are expected to be sentenced to flat three year sentences. Sentencing before Judge Sules is scheduled for Jan. 30, Assistant Prosecutor Vander Woude said.