NEWARK, NJ – An Essex County woman has been sentenced to 144 months in prison for her involvement in a one-night crime spree of robberies and shootings in Jersey City, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Siobhan Chandler, 21, of Newark, previously pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to use and carry a firearm in relation to a crime of violence, attempted Hobbs Act robbery, Hobbs Act robbery, and using and carrying a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti handed down the sentence on May 14, 2024, in Newark federal court. Her co-conspirator, Rodney Williams, faces charges but is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
On the evening of November 14, 2023, Chandler and Williams carried out multiple armed robberies. At a gas station, Williams pointed a gun at an attendant, demanding money. The pair threatened the employees with force and violence, obtaining money before fleeing. At a second location, Williams again pointed a firearm at a clerk, demanded money, and fled with Chandler after receiving the cash. At a restaurant, the duo threatened a cashier with a gun. Williams discharged the firearm, shooting the cashier in the chest, before fleeing with the money.
In addition to her prison term, Chandler was sentenced to five years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited the Jersey City Police Department, led by Public Safety Director James Shea, and the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under Prosecutor Esther Suarez, for their roles in the investigation. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assisted in the case.
The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae D. Gray of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
- Newark Police Recover Vehicle Linked to Bus Stop Robbery, Suspects Sought
NEWARK, NJ - The Newark Department of Public Safety is making a public appeal for assistance in identifying suspects involved in a May robbery. According to Public Safety Director Fritz G. Fragé, a white 2017 Infinity Q70 used in the crime was recovered.
The incident occurred early in the morning on May 20, when two Black males emerged from the vehicle and robbed an individual at a bus stop on Littleton Avenue. The suspects stole a bookbag containing two cell phones, debit and credit cards, and other personal items before fleeing in the same vehicle, driven by another unidentified suspect.
The vehicle was found on May 30, and its owner, Sa Jadah Hodge, has since been cleared of needing further questioning. Police are now focused on identifying the two male suspects: the first described as having a medium build and wearing black clothing with a yellow traffic vest and face mask; the second with a heavy build, dressed in a black hoodie, tan pants, and a face mask.
- Multiple Thefts Reported in Stafford County
STAFFORD, VA - The Stafford County Sheriff's Office responded to two significant larceny incidents on June 13, with one involving high-value items and another repeat shoplifting offense.
At the Days Inn on 14 Simpson Road, early in the morning at approximately 5:49 AM, Deputy D.A. Robertson was called to a scene where a victim reported the theft of a wallet and a watch valued together at $22,000. The victim stated that an acquaintance had been in his room before he slept, and upon waking, found both the acquaintance and his valuables missing.
Later that day, at 1:32 PM, Deputy J.E. Cordes responded to a larceny at the Target located at 25 South Gateway Drive. Store staff reported a female suspect involved in 'skip scanning' items at the checkout. Recognized from two previous shoplifting incidents at the same location, the suspect was charged with three counts of shoplifting. She was subsequently released on personal recognizance by the magistrate.
- Grand Jury Charges 15 in “SaySlide” Gang Postal Theft Ring in Philadelphia
HARRISBURG, PA - Attorney General Michelle Henry has announced charges against 15 members and associates of the "SaySlide" criminal organization. This group, based in Philadelphia's Ogontz and Oak Lane neighborhoods, has been implicated in a violent theft and fraud scheme targeting USPS drop boxes across Philadelphia and its suburbs.
Following a month-long Grand Jury investigation, the organization is accused of stealing master keys to access blue USPS drop boxes and subsequently removing checks from envelopes to alter them for fraudulent payouts. The suspects, including alleged ringleader William Logan, 28, face charges of corrupt organizations, conspiracy to commit murder, aggravated assault, and armed robbery.
All defendants are currently in custody, with arraignments underway. Attorney General Henry highlighted the severity of the scheme, noting the substantial financial losses incurred by individuals relying on the mail for payments and transfers.
- Howard Heat Raises $5,000 for Police Benevolent Fund in Annual Howard Cup
HOWARD COUNTY, MD - The Howard Heat hockey teams, representing both the Howard County Police Department and the Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, competed in this year's Howard Cup, successfully raising $5,000 for the Howard County Police Benevolent Fund.
The Howard Heat has been actively participating in various tournaments, leagues, and charity events for over 20 years, dedicating their efforts to supporting those in need through sportsmanship and community engagement. This year's Howard Cup was yet another testament to their commitment to charitable causes.
- Fugitive Sought for Shooting in North Jersey
PATERSON, NJ - The Paterson Police Department is actively seeking information regarding a man wanted in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on Broadway in March. Authorities have released a call for public assistance.
The department urges anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to contact the Shooting Investigation Unit at 973-321-1342. The police hope that public tips will lead to the swift apprehension of the individual involved.
- NYPD Investigating Groping Incident
BRONX, NY - The New York City Police Department is requesting public assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a forcible touching incident on the BX12 bus. The incident occurred within the 52 Precinct.
On Friday, June 14, at approximately 12:20 PM, a 27-year-old female was approached by an unknown male who grabbed her buttocks. The suspect exited the bus at Fordham Road and Grand Concourse and fled on foot. The victim did not sustain any injuries.
The suspect is described as a male with a dark complexion, about 5 feet 9 inches tall with a slim build. He was last seen wearing a black adjustable baseball hat, a black t-shirt, black pants, and carrying a black fanny pack. Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward to assist the investigation.