Carjacking Incident in Newark Leads to Charges Against Two Essex County Men

Authorities charge local men with carjacking and firearm possession following a coordinated theft in Newark, highlighting collaborative law enforcement efforts.

In a significant development reported by U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger, two men from Essex County, New Jersey, are facing charges after allegedly carjacking a vehicle in Newark. 

The accused, Arraqeeb Williamscook, 23, of East Orange, and Washir Singletary, 30, of Newark, have been formally charged with conspiracy to commit carjacking and carjacking, with Singletary facing an additional charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

The duo made their initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge José Almonte in Newark federal court on March 9, 2024, and were subsequently detained pending further proceedings.

The incident unfolded on December 9, 2023, when the victim was preparing to pick up an order from a local restaurant in Newark. While attending to his vehicle's tire, the accused reportedly arrived in a previously stolen Lexus. Williamscook allegedly entered the victim's vehicle and brandished what appeared to be a firearm when confronted. 

The situation escalated as Singletary took control of the victim's vehicle, with both suspects attempting to flee the scene. Despite their efforts, law enforcement quickly apprehended Williamscook and later Singletary, who was found with a firearm upon his arrest.

The legal repercussions for the charges include up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to commit carjacking, and up to 15 years in prison and the same fine for both the carjacking charge and the firearm possession charge.

This case has been propelled by the collaborative work of the FBI, under Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, and the Newark City Police Department, emphasizing the strong partnership between federal and local law enforcement in addressing violent crimes. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ingrid Eicher of the General Crimes Unit in Newark is representing the government in this case.

It's important to note that the charges presented are merely accusations, and the defendants are entitled to a presumption of innocence until proven guilty. 

This case underscores the commitment of law enforcement to ensure safety and justice in the community, tackling carjacking and firearm offenses with diligence and coordination.