NEWARK, NJ – Today, a Passaic County man was indicted for seven armed robberies of pharmacies across Passaic County, as announced by U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger.
Onijee Burgess, 26, from Paterson, New Jersey, faces a nine-count indictment including conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and related firearm charges. The series of robberies spanned from November 2022 to April 5, 2023, involving Burgess and accomplice Antonio Rivera, among others. Both are currently detained.
The indictment covers three counts of Hobbs Act robbery, one count of attempted Hobbs Act robbery, and multiple firearms offenses. The most severe charges against Burgess could lead to a life sentence and mandatory consecutive terms for firearm-related crimes.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger highlighted the collaborative effort of federal and local law enforcement agencies, including the FBI’s New Jersey field office and several municipal police departments, which played a crucial role in linking Burgess and Rivera to the crimes through extensive video and cell phone evidence.
Each count also carries a potential fine of up to $250,000 or double the monetary equivalent of the gain or loss from the offenses. Burgess’s arraignment is pending scheduling.