LINDEN, NJ – Officers addressing quality of life issues in Linden last Friday evening arrested two men and recovered a stolen handgun loaded with hollow point ammunition, along with a large knife and suspected crack-cocaine.
Around 9:15 p.m. on Friday, police observed a group drinking alcohol at the intersection of Union & Charles St. The investigation that followed resulted in the arrest of Adem Johnson, 39, of Linden, and Elie Princilus, 33, of West Orange.
Johnson faces charges of second-degree possession of a weapon, being a certain person not to possess a weapon, fourth-degree possession of hollow point ammunition, third-degree possession of stolen property, and fourth-degree possession of a fixed dagger.
Princilus was arrested on outstanding warrant charges and is charged with third-degree possession of cocaine. Both Johnson and Princilus were committed to the Essex County Jail and are awaiting appearances in Superior Court.
Other individuals present at the scene were released without further incident.
Police Chief David Hart stated, “I am very proud to see another illegal gun taken off the streets. We have been very aggressive in our efforts to reduce violent crime, and we will continue to press forward to ensure residents feel safe in their neighborhoods.”