Trenton, NJ – A state grand jury declined to file criminal charges in the case involving the death of Don Jones, 50, in a Newark park on August 29, 2023, during an encounter with city police and members of the New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force. The investigation concluded that no criminal charges should be brought against Newark Police Officer Jasmine Jimenez.
After an investigation led by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA), evidence was presented to a state grand jury. Witnesses were interviewed, and evidence like video footage, ballistics testing findings, and autopsy reports were reviewed. The grand jury reached its decision on May 13, 2024, voting “no bill.”
Mr. Jones was sought by the U.S. Marshals New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force due to an active warrant for his arrest related to a homicide in Union County. During the encounter in West Side Park, Mr. Jones brandished a handgun, leading to a pursuit by task force members and police officers. Subsequently, Mr. Jones took his own life, amidst calls from law enforcement to drop the firearm, and Officer Jimenez discharged her weapon.
Video recordings of the incident are now being released, following the Attorney General’s established policies. These recordings, made public online, aim to promote unbiased, transparent investigations into fatal police encounters.
The conclusion of the inquiry determined that no officials should face criminal charges in this incident, in line with the guidelines set forth by the OPIA and the Independent Prosecutor Directive.