Local News Report

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations. Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment

Three Indicted for 2019 Stabbing Death of 17-Year-Old in Queens

Handcuffs

Three Indicted for 2019 Stabbing Death of 17-Year-Old in Queens

**Queens, NY** – Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has announced the indictment of Tianna Benjamin, Charles Gillespie, and Kyra Tyrell by a grand jury in connection with the murder of 17-year-old Talasia Cuffie in November 2019. The charges include murder, weapon possession, and conspiracy. Cuffie was attacked following a memorial basketball game for another victim, Aamir Griffin, unrelated to her death. The attack was driven by a mistaken belief that Cuffie was pregnant with Gillespie’s child.

According to the DA’s statements, Cuffie was persuaded to visit a residential block by the defendants and then stabbed in the abdomen and groin. She was left severely injured on the sidewalk and later died in the hospital. The Queens District Attorney’s Office emphasized its dedication to seeking justice for Cuffie and her family.

The individuals charged are Benjamin, aged 29, from Jamaica; Gillespie, aged 24, from Jamaica; and Tyrell, aged 22, from Brooklyn. They face charges of murder in the second degree, criminal possession of a weapon, and conspiracy. Benjamin and Tyrell

Ohio man indicted 25 years after Charles Ballard found shot and burned in home

Ohio man indicted 25 years after charles ballard found shot and burned in home

Brian Swanson Charged with 2000 Murder of Charles Ballard

**Columbus, OH -** Brian Swanson, 48, has been indicted for the murder of Charles “Chico” Ballard, which occurred 25 years ago. On February 9, 2000, Ballard’s body was discovered in his home on the 300 block of E. 17th Ave.

Officers responding to the scene found that Ballard, then aged 22, had suffered multiple gunshot wounds and his body had been set on fire. It took until last Friday for Swanson to be arrested in connection with the crime.

Swanson’s arrest marks a significant development in the prolonged investigation into Ballard’s death.

Details about the case are discussed in the podcast, The Fifth Floor, which can be found on all major podcast platforms.

Wall Township police issue warning after spike in resisting arrest cases

Wall township police issue warning after spike in resisting arrest cases

Wall Township Police Alert Community on Resisting Arrest Incidents

**Wall Township, NJ** – The Wall Township Police Department released a statement on Wednesday addressing a surge in resisting arrest incidents. Officials point out that resisting arrest not only constitutes a criminal offense, but also endangers both those arrested and officers.

The department reported six cases of resisting arrest over the weekend. Chief of Police Sean O’Halloran emphasized the potential dangers, noting that officers are trained in de-escalation techniques, but active resistance may necessitate the use of force, potentially leading to injuries.

Resisting arrest can manifest as physical or verbal actions, including struggling, fighting, fleeing, making threats, or refusing legal commands. The department stressed that resisting does not prevent arrest and could heighten risks for those involved.

Chief O’Halloran urged cooperation with law enforcement as key to safe outcomes, underscoring the department’s commitment to professionalism and respect. Residents with concerns or questions are encouraged to contact the department at 732-449-4500.

Stolen purse leads to showdown outside Utica convenience store

Stolen purse leads to showdown outside utica convenience store

Suspect Charged in Utica Purse Theft

**Utica, NY** – On March 16th, Utica Police responded to a report of a stolen purse on the 1100 block of Schuyler St. The purse contained credit cards and other personal items.

During the investigation, authorities discovered the suspect attempted to use the victim’s identification at a convenience store to buy cigarettes. The store clerk did not complete the sale because the photo ID did not match the suspect.

This information was relayed to the victim, who informed the police. The Criminal Investigations Division took over, identifying the suspect. Later, the victim saw the suspect again near the store and retrieved some stolen property following an altercation.

On April 2nd, the suspect, Fonta Young, age 41, was apprehended and faces charges. These include two counts of Grand Larceny in the fourth degree, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property, and Petit Larceny.

8-year-old hit by car in Chesapeake as driver charged with DUI

Police car with flashing lights.

Chesapeake Police Arrest Motorist in Juvenile Pedestrian Accident

**Chesapeake, VA** – On April 2, at approximately 7:34 p.m., Chesapeake Police responded to an incident involving a motor vehicle accident and a juvenile pedestrian at Bainbridge Blvd. and Holly Ave.

Upon arrival, officers found a vehicle and an 8-year-old male pedestrian involved in the accident. The child was transported to a local hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The vehicle’s driver, 60-year-old Randolph Bias of Chesapeake, was arrested on charges related to driving under the influence. Additional details about the charges are available through a provided link.