Paterson suspect with rifle, handgun, ammos arrested after chase, police say
By Jonathan Greene
Published: November 24, 2020
A suspect with a rifle, handgun, and ammos was apprehended by police after a chase through Plum Street on Monday night, according to public safety director Jerry Speziale.
Jhoan M. Rodriguez, 28-year-old, of Paterson, has been charged with 12 weapons offenses. He was observed standing outside Quest Lounge at 54 Washington Avenue at around 6:40 p.m. He was standing in the corner with two other men.
Police sergeant Edgar Taylor received information a suspect was at the location with a duffel bag that contained a weapon. As police officers approached, Rodriguez began to walk south on Plum Street. He then began to flee on foot, police said.
Police officers Elbruz Dagistanli and Jensin Burgos gave chase while loudly telling the suspect, “Stop!”
Rodriguez ignored the commands and continued running towards Spring Street.
Police officer Levis Qirjako followed the chase closely in a vehicle. Police observed Rodriguez throw the duffel bag on the roof of 54 Plum Street, but the bag hit a wall and fell on the sidewalk.
Burgos caught up with Rodriguez. He tried to take the suspect into custody, resulting in a physical struggle.
Dagistanli observed the suspect reach for his waistband. He helped to subdue the suspect. Police ultimately placed Rodriguez under arrest.
Burgos retrieved the duffel bag.
Police recovered a .22 caliber Mossberg 715P rifle with a 25-round capacity magazine and a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun with 10-round capacity magazine. Also seized was 22 caliber hollow point Remington ammunition, four 9mm Luger ammunition, 9mm Speer Luger hollow point ammunition, and the gray duffel bag containing a white towel and a pair of gloves.