Newark Public Safety Director Brian A. O’Hara announced a significant breakthrough in the city’s ongoing Violence Reduction Initiative, with the arrest of Jose Soto Vargas, 39, in Newark, for discharge of a firearm. The arrest is part of a coordinated effort by law enforcement to combat gun crimes and apprehend individuals in possession of illegal firearms.

According to Chief O’Hara, the incident occurred on Monday, when Soto Vargas was involved in an altercation outside a business on Market Street. Amid the altercation, Soto Vargas attempted to retrieve an object from his pocket, resulting in a shot being fired. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Soto Vargas was quickly arrested by police, who recovered a loaded and damaged handgun. He now faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault and illegal possession of a weapon.

In addition to Soto Vargas’ arrest, the Newark Police Department made seven other arrests over the weekend as part of its Violence Reduction Initiative. Among those arrested were individuals found to be in possession of illegal weapons, including loaded handguns and ghost guns.

The series of arrests included Terry J. Rice, 25, of East Orange, and Tyrese Naraine, 21, of Newark, who were arrested following a motor vehicle stop. Both individuals were found to be in possession of loaded handguns and high-capacity magazines. Additionally, a 17-year-old male was arrested after being found with a loaded ghost gun during a motor vehicle stop.

Further arrests were made on Saturday and Friday, with individuals such as Quasin S. Lee, Davon West, Qualee Jones and Haywood Covington arrested for illegal weapons possession and other related charges. These arrests underscore the Newark Police Department’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the city’s residents.

Director O’Hara commended the efforts of law enforcement officers in apprehending individuals involved in violent and gun-related crimes. He emphasized that the Newark Police Department, along with community members, remain steadfast in their determination to remove illegal guns from the streets and maintain public safety.

It is important to note that all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.