Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that Anwar Crockett, 32, and Ali Ibn Karim, 31, both of Elizabeth, were sentenced to extended prison terms today by the Honorable Martin Cronin, J.S.C.
Crockett was sentenced to 30 years with a 22-year period of parole ineligibility. Karim was sentenced to 24 years with a 19-year period of parole ineligibility. Earlier this year an Essex County jury of convicted the two of eluding, conspiracy to commit aggravated assault and weapons charges, including possession of an assault firearm. In addition, the defendants were convicted of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.
Both defendants were acquitted of a double murder and other related charges.
On Sept. 15, 2010, Reginald Wilson, 26, and Ishmeal Bowers, 32, both of Newark were shot to death on Concord Street and Sherman Avenue in Newark.
On Sept. 19, 2010 the defendants were pursued by the Elizabeth Police from Elizabeth into Newark. During the chase, the defendants fired multiple gun shots at the police. The pursuit ended in Newark and two weapons, including a Mac-11 assault weapon, were recovered in the vehicle.
“We are satisfied with the sentence imposed by the court,’’ said Assistant Prosecutor Adam Wells who tried the case with Assistant Prosecutor Eileen O’Connor. In addition to the current convictions, Crockett has four prior felony convictions and Karim has five prior felony convictions.
