Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man today admitted carjacking in Montclair, New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Andy Cook, 24, of Newark, pleaded guilty before Judge Julien X. Neals to an indictment charging him with one count of carjacking and one count of conspiracy to use a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On Dec. 6, 2021, Cook’s accomplice approached the victim, who was inside her car that was parked on her driveway. The accomplice pointed a firearm at the victim and ordered the victim to leave her belongings and exit the car. Cook then entered the car and drove it away. After the victim called the police, law enforcement officers spotted the vehicle. Cook abandoned the vehicle in Newark and fled on foot before being apprehended.
The count of carjacking carries a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The count of conspiracy to use a firearm during a crime of violence carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for May 30, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI Newark Violent Crimes Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, with the investigation leading to the charges.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dong Joo Lee of the Narcotics/Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force Unit.