NEWARK, NJ – Newark Public Safety Director Fritz G. Fragé announced the arrest of four suspects involved in shooting incidents in the mid-way point of July. These arrests mark significant progress in the Newark Police Division’s ongoing Summer Crime Reduction Initiative.
Director Fragé emphasized the urgency of addressing senseless violence on the streets and praised the dedicated work of the shooting detectives.
They have been conducting thorough investigations to identify and apprehend those responsible for these crimes.
The individuals arrested and their charges are as follows:
- Raafiq J. Everson, 25, of East Orange, was arrested on July 17 for unlawful possession of a weapon and false swearing, in connection with an incident that occurred on July 3 in the vicinity of Orange Street and Myrtle Avenue.
- On July 15, Kevin Swinton, 27, of Newark, was arrested for robbery, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. These charges stem from an armed robbery that took place on April 4 at 1st Street and Orange Street.
- Clifton Johnson, 58, of Newark, was apprehended on July 11 on charges of unlawful possession of a weapon and certain persons prohibited from weapon possession. The charges are related to a shooting incident that occurred on July 4 in the 300 block of South 8th Street.
- Victor Lopez, 34, of Newark, was taken into custody on July 10 and is facing charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes, and criminal mischief. These charges are in connection with an incident that occurred on June 23 in the 600 block of Summer Avenue.
Director Fragé reiterated the Newark Police Division’s unwavering commitment to combat crime during the Summer Crime Initiative. The department is working diligently day and night to make the streets safer for the community. Additionally, Director Fragé expressed gratitude to the community partners for their support in providing essential services, resources, and events that contribute to neighborhood safety.