New Jersey man sentenced to six years for armed robbery in Port Jervis

A New Jersey man will serve six years behind bars for an armed robbery in Port Jervis that led to a multi-agency investigation and cross-state conviction.
New Jersey man sentenced to six years for armed robbery in Port Jervis
Quick Arrest Made in Northwest D.C. Robbery Attempt WASHINGTON, DC - Following a Northwest robbery attempt, D.C. Metro Police Department’s Third District detectives have swiftly apprehended a suspect. The incident occurred today around 2:53 PM, in the 1200 block of W Street, Northwest. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Lenare Leath, Jr. of Northwest D.C., allegedly brandished a knife and pushed the victim to the ground in an attempt to steal their property. After a struggle, the suspect fled empty-handed but was quickly caught by responding officers. The victim sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital. Leath has been charged with Assault with Intent to Commit Robbery. Photo 107991078 | Arrest © Oleg Dudko | Dreamstime.com

Douglas Hill, 29, of Newton, New Jersey, was sentenced Wednesday to six years in prison for his role in a 2023 armed robbery in Port Jervis, according to Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler. Hill will also serve five years of post-release supervision following his guilty plea to robbery in the second degree.

The robbery occurred at approximately 3:45 a.m. on December 30, 2023, when Hill and a co-defendant approached an individual on Ball Street, displayed what appeared to be handguns, and forcibly stole property. The stolen items included a laptop, jewelry, and a wallet.

Authorities recovered the proceeds of the robbery from Hill’s residence in New Jersey after executing a search warrant. Surveillance footage and investigative coordination between New York and New Jersey law enforcement agencies led to Hill’s arrest.

Hill admitted in court to forcibly stealing the victim’s property and displaying a weapon during the robbery. His co-defendant previously pleaded guilty and received a separate prison sentence.

District Attorney Hoovler credited the City of Port Jervis Police Department, the Newton Police Department, and the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office for their roles in the cross-state investigation.


Key points

  • Douglas Hill was sentenced to six years in prison for a 2023 armed robbery in Port Jervis.
  • He and a co-defendant used firearms to rob a victim of personal property, including electronics and jewelry.
  • The stolen items were recovered at Hill’s home following a multi-agency investigation.

Law enforcement collaboration leads to arrest and sentencing

The case underscores ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat firearm-related offenses in the region. District Attorney Hoovler emphasized the importance of prosecuting individuals who use or threaten violence in the commission of crimes, even when investigations require cooperation across state lines.

Hill’s sentencing concludes a coordinated investigation involving both New York and New Jersey agencies. The judicially approved search warrant executed at Hill’s residence was key in recovering evidence used to support the charges.

The court did not disclose further details about the co-defendant’s sentence, but confirmed both individuals have now been held accountable.

Officials did not report any injuries resulting from the robbery. The victim’s identity was not released.