Cranford Police Charge Newark Man After Alleged Assault on Officers, Stolen Vehicle Investigation

CRANFORD, N.J. — An Essex County man was charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated assault on law enforcement, following an incident late Wednesday night on South Avenue East, according to the Cranford Police Department.Police said officers discovered a stolen and occupied 2013 Nissan Rogue parked at a business in the 200 block of South Avenue East at approximately 11:55 p.m. on April 29. The investigation was initiated by Officer Jack Korzeneski.The vehicle’s occupant, identified as Woodberlens Jules, 24, of Newark, was arrested after what authorities described as a violent struggle with officers at the scene.Police said that while in custody, Jules continued to act in a physically combative manner and spat on several officers. During transport to a hospital, he allegedly assaulted and injured another Cranford police officer.Police Chief Matthew Nazzaro commended the officers involved in the incident and addressed the reported assault on law enforcement.“Resisting or assaulting a law enforcement officer is unacceptable, and we will pursue anyone who commits these acts to the fullest extent of the law,” Nazzaro said in a press release.Jules was charged with receiving stolen property, aggravated assault on law enforcement, resisting arrest, hindering apprehension and refusal to submit fingerprints.He was transported to the Essex County Jail, where he is awaiting a detention hearing.