A grand jury decided not to file charges against two Deputy U.S. Marshals involved in the fatal shooting of Esteban DeJesus Jr. in Jersey City. The investigation, led by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, concluded that the officers acted within their legal rights.
- The grand jury decided no criminal charges for the two Deputy U.S. Marshals involved in the fatal shooting of Esteban DeJesus Jr.
- DeJesus was wanted for murder and attempted murder in Orlando, Florida, and approached the marshals with a machete, disregarding commands.
- The investigation followed strict procedures to ensure transparency and neutrality, ultimately concluding the marshals acted lawfully.
Jersey City Shooting: Investigation and Verdict
In a decision announced recently, a state grand jury has chosen not to file criminal charges against two Deputy U.S. Marshals involved in the fatal shooting of Esteban DeJesus Jr., a 56-year-old man from Orlando, Florida.
This incident took place in Jersey City on July 8, 2023. The Deputy U.S. Marshals were part of the New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force.
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA), under Attorney General Matthew Platkin, conducted an exhaustive investigation into the incident.
This investigation included collecting and analyzing interviews, photographs, ballistics, and autopsy results provided by the medical examiner. The findings were then presented to the state grand jury.
After reviewing the evidence and testimonies, the grand jury voted “no bill,” indicating that no criminal charges should be filed against the marshals.
This decision came after a thorough review process intended to ensure neutrality, objectivity, and transparency, as mandated by the 2019 Independent Prosecutor Directive in New Jersey.
New Jersey Shooting: Background & Details
On the evening of July 8, 2023, members of the Fugitive Task Force were in Jersey City to assist the Orlando City Police Department in locating and apprehending Esteban DeJesus Jr.
He was wanted for murder and attempted murder related to a shooting incident that occurred in Orlando on July 7, 2023.
At approximately 11:10 p.m., the two Deputy U.S. Marshals, accompanied by a state trooper, encountered Mr. DeJesus near Jefferson Avenue.
According to the officers’ statements, Mr. DeJesus approached them, wielding a machete, and ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon. In response, the two Deputy U.S. Marshals discharged their firearms, striking DeJesus.
He was quickly transported to Jersey City Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Legal Requirements for Investigation
New Jersey law N.J.S.A. 52:17B-107(a)(2) requires the Attorney General’s Office to investigate deaths that occur during law enforcement encounters.
Such investigations must be presented to a grand jury to determine whether the evidence supports criminal charges against the officers involved.
The grand jury receives instructions on potential criminal offenses and legal justifications, including self-defense.
Neutrality and Objectivity in Investigation
In accordance with the 2019 Independent Prosecutor Directive, the investigation was conducted with strict neutrality and transparency.
A conflict check confirmed no conflicts of interest among the investigators. OPIA Executive Director Drew Skinner reviewed the investigation to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures.
Grand Jury Decision and Findings
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) investigated the incident in compliance with New Jersey law, which mandates investigations of deaths occurring during encounters with law enforcement officers.
The investigation involved thorough interviews, analysis of photographs, ballistics, and autopsy results from the medical examiner. This evidence was then presented to a state grand jury.
After reviewing the evidence and hearing testimonies, the grand jury concluded its deliberations on May 20, 2024, and voted “no bill,” meaning no criminal charges would be filed against the two officers.
This decision indicated that the jurors found no basis for criminal charges, concluding that the officer’s actions were justified under the circumstances.
Post-Decision Administrative Review and Oversight
Following the grand jury’s decision, OPIA evaluates whether the case should be referred to an appropriate law enforcement agency for administrative review under the Attorney General’s Internal Affairs Policy & Procedures.
OPIA oversees any ensuing review to ensure timely and appropriate actions based on the investigation’s outcomes.
In summary, the grand jury’s decision not to charge the two Deputy U.S. Marshals in the shooting of Esteban DeJesus Jr. shows how difficult and complex law enforcement work can be.
The thorough investigation conducted by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) adhered to strict protocols to ensure neutrality and transparency.
The grand jury concluded that the marshals acted lawfully in a high-risk encounter by examining all evidence, including officer statements, ballistics, and autopsy results.
This case shows the rigorous oversight and accountability mechanisms in place to investigate law enforcement actions and ensure justice and fairness for all parties involved.
