Armed Heist in Saddle Brook: Five from Passaic County Face Charges

In a detailed operation, five Paterson residents are implicated in a violent early morning robbery, highlighting a broader fight against local crime.

In Newark, New Jersey, a shocking instance of armed robbery has brought to light the ongoing battle against violent crime in the region. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced charges against five individuals from Passaic County for their involvement in a meticulously planned armed robbery of a Saddle Brook residence. The accused, identified as Jamere Dixon, Jahad Foxworth, Tyra Jones, Jancarlos Rodriguez, and Lanasia Smith, were presented in federal court on February 28, 2024, facing serious allegations of conspiracy under the Hobbs Act and related firearm charges.

The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of June 28, 2022, saw three of the defendants allegedly invade a home, subduing two occupants at gunpoint to steal money, credit cards, and suspected drugs. The plot reportedly began with Smith, who had been inside the house earlier, facilitating the entry by leaving a door unlocked and even sending a picture of a safe to Rodriguez ahead of the crime. Following the robbery, the group, including Jones as the getaway driver, attempted to use the stolen credit cards, only to be captured on surveillance footage.

The legal repercussions for these charges are severe, with each count potentially leading to 20 years in prison and significant fines, emphasizing the gravity of their alleged actions. This case is a testament to the relentless efforts of federal and local law enforcement agencies under the Violent Crime Initiative (VCI), a coalition formed in 2020 to tackle the surge in violent crimes, particularly in and around Paterson. The initiative represents a unified front of federal, state, county, and city agencies dedicated to restoring safety and order in the community.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jake A. Nasar and Farhana C. Melo lead the prosecution. While the charges at this stage are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty, the case underscores the ongoing challenges and concerted efforts required to combat violent crime in New Jersey.

This incident highlights the complexities of prosecuting organized crime and reinforces the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure public safety. The collaborative framework of the VCI serves as a model for addressing the multifaceted nature of violent crime, promising a more secure future for the residents of New Jersey.