Mayor James Solomon commends the swift, proactive police work by Jersey City Police Officers this week that led to five arrests following a violent robbery attempt involving approximately $3,000 in designer merchandise.

While patrolling the nearby housing unit on April 13, JCPD officers observed a disturbance near Summit Avenue and immediately intervened, stopping an active incident before further harm could occur.  The investigation determined the suspects arranged to meet the victim for a sale before assaulting him and attempting to take his property.

“This is exactly the kind of proactive, on-the-ground policing that keeps Jersey City safe.  Our officers stepped in at the right moment, prevented further violence, and ensured those responsible were held accountable,” said Mayor Solomon.  “We will continue to support strategies that prioritize swift response, strong enforcement, and the safety of every resident.”

“This was a fast-moving, violent situation that had the potential to escalate quickly.  Our officers recognized it in real time, intervened without hesitation, and took decisive action to stop it.  That is what effective policing looks like,” added Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose.

The victim sustained minor injuries, including abrasions and bruising, and refused further medical treatment.

The driver, Erik Lagunas, was issued multiple summonses, including leaving the scene of an accident and driving with a suspended license.  Additionally, the 18-year-old Paterson resident was arrested and charged with the following:

• Conspiracy
• Robbery
• Simple assault
• Assault by auto
• Possession of a weapon
• Kidnapping
• Aggravated assault

The other 4 actors were charged with conspiracy, robbery, and simple assault.  In addition to the juvenile actor, a 17 year old Clifton, the 3 suspects arrested are:

• Carmelo Greene, 21 of Paterson
• Kelvin Pichardo, 27 of Paterson
• Emil Nauffal Gutierrez, 21 of Clifton

The investigations remain active.

Anyone with information related to this or other incidents is asked to contact the Jersey City Police Department or submit tips anonymously through email at policetips@njjcps.org or by calling 855-JCP-TIPS

The post JCPD OFFICERS INTERRUPT VIOLENT ROBBERY IN PROGRESS, ARRESTING 4 ADULTS AND 1 JUVENILE first appeared on River View Observer.

Solomon Administration’s Focused Enforcement Results in 32 Firearms Recovered Citywide

Just two months into 2026, the Jersey City Police Department has made 17 arrests for unlawful possession of a handgun, as part of focused enforcement efforts targeting illegal handguns.  In connection with those arrests, officers safely recovered nine firearms.

Among the weapons recovered was a “ghost gun” assembled without a serial number and a firearm that investigators have connected to three separate cases involving the same actor.  All were charged under New Jersey law with unlawful possession of a handgun.

Citywide, a total of 32 firearms have been removed from circulation so far this year.  The enforcement results reflect the Solomon Administration’s commitment to proactive public safety.

“Every illegal firearm taken off the street represents a potential act of violence prevented,” said Jersey City Mayor James Solomon.  “Our strategy is clear.  We are identifying illegal weapons, intervening early, and holding individuals accountable before those firearms can be used to harm someone else.  This is about prevention, not reaction.”

“Our officers are removing these firearms from our neighborhoods without using their service weapons, placing themselves in harm’s way to prevent further violence.  That is disciplined policing focused on protection, not escalation,” said Acting Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose.  “We are sending a clear message that carrying an unlawful handgun in Jersey City will result in arrest.”

In the coming weeks, the Administration will advance several additional public safety initiatives to further strengthen crime reduction efforts, including patrol restructuring to enhance on-the-ground deployment and the reorganization of 911 dispatch operations to improve response times and coordination.

The Jersey City Police Department continues to encourage residents to report suspicious activity.  Community cooperation remains a critical component in preventing gun violence and ensuring safe neighborhoods across the city.

Anyone with information related to these or other incidents is asked to contact the Jersey City Police Department or submit tips anonymously through email at policetips@njjcps.org or by calling 855-JCP-TIPS.

The post Jersey City Police Make 17 Arrests for Illegal Handgun Possession Year-to-Date first appeared on River View Observer.

Mayor Solomon Announces Community Meetings Across All Six Wards to Address City Budget 

A series of facilitated dialogues will engage community leaders, elected officials, and residents in constructive conversations about the city’s fiscal challenges 

Mayor James Solomon today announced a series of community meetings across all six wards of Jersey City, designed to engage residents and community leaders in open, constructive dialogue about the city’s budget challenges. The meetings represent the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive civic participation as the city navigates a critical fiscal moment. 

The post Solomon Administration Announces Community Meetings Across All Six Wards to Address City Budget first appeared on River View Observer.