Mistrial Considered in Case of NJ Officer Charged in Fatal Shooting

Created: JANUARY 27, 2025

After four days of deliberation, the trial of a New Jersey police officer involved in a deadly 2019 shooting is facing potential complications. Officer Jovanny Crespo is charged with aggravated manslaughter, aggravated assault, and misconduct for shooting two men during a high-speed chase. Crespo maintains he acted in self-defense, claiming he saw a gun pointed at him. The incident, captured on dashboard and body camera footage, shows Crespo firing three times after exiting his patrol car. Prosecutors argue this violated state guidelines on the use of deadly force, which permit it only when facing "imminent danger" of death or serious bodily harm. The driver, Gregory Griffin, was killed, and a passenger was critically injured. Crespo, suspended without pay, spent a week in jail following his 2019 indictment. Late Friday, jurors revealed one member had prior knowledge and opinions about the case. With no alternate jurors remaining, the defense moved for a mistrial, citing potential prejudice. The prosecution countered, suggesting the jury be instructed to disregard any prior knowledge and concentrate on presented evidence. The judge will address the mistrial motion on Monday. Three jurors have already been replaced earlier in the trial due to scheduling conflicts.

Newark, Point Pleasant Beach crime

Comments(0)

Top Comments

Comment Form