TRENTON, NJ – The death of fugitive Joanne Chesimard, also known as Assata Shakur, is stirring renewed focus on one of New Jersey’s darkest chapters — the 1973 murder of State Trooper Werner Foerster — and the lingering sense that justice was never fully delivered.
Chesimard, a convicted killer and member of the Black Liberation Army, was serving a life sentence when she escaped from a New Jersey prison in 1979 and fled to Cuba, where she lived in exile for decades. Her death, confirmed this week, closes the chapter on her life but leaves open wounds for law enforcement and Foerster’s family.
Political leaders respond
Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli said Chesimard’s death was “a reminder of the lasting tragedy that justice was never served,” while Gov. Phil Murphy issued his own statement of solidarity with Foerster’s widow and family.
“Unlike his killer, Trooper Foerster never had a chance to live out his days in peace,” Murphy said.
One person tied to the murder is living out his days in peace, thanks to Democrat appointed judges, and one appointed by Murphy himself.
Spotlight on Sundiata Acoli release
The case also casts new attention on Sundiata Acoli, Chesimard’s accomplice and former Black Panther, who was freed in May 2022 after nearly 50 years in prison. Acoli, now 85, was released following a 3-2 ruling by the New Jersey Supreme Court, with three justices nominated by Democratic governors casting votes in favor of parole.
Justice Barry Albin, nominated in 2002 by Gov. James McGreevey, and Justice Fabiana Pierre-Louis, nominated in 2020 by Murphy, were among those voting to release Acoli.
His freedom remains a point of contention among law enforcement groups and political leaders.
Legacy of a trooper’s sacrifice
Trooper Foerster was shot and killed during a traffic stop on the New Jersey Turnpike on May 2, 1973. Chesimard, Acoli, and another accomplice opened fire after being pulled over. One accomplice was killed in the shootout, Acoli was captured and convicted, and Chesimard was sentenced to life before her escape.
Foerster’s name remains etched in New Jersey State Police history, his death serving as a lasting reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement on the front lines.
Key Points
- Joanne Chesimard, convicted in the 1973 killing of Trooper Werner Foerster, has died in exile after escaping prison in 1979.
- Gov. Phil Murphy and Jack Ciattarelli issued statements honoring Foerster and his family.
- Chesimard’s death revives scrutiny of Sundiata Acoli’s 2022 release, approved by a divided New Jersey Supreme Court.
