Two men were criminally charged after report of a gun at Halloween Party

On October 31, 2021 there was a small gathering at a residence in Essex Fells. There was false information that was posted over social media that there was an open house party at this residence which resulted in over 30 uninvited individuals showing up and refusing to leave the home. When the resident and his son asked them to leave multiple physical and verbal altercations occurred. During these altercations a handgun was displayed and pointed at the resident. Upon Police arrival all parties had left the scene. After a month long investigation by the Essex Fells Police Detectives led by Sergeant Paulo Gomes, Detective Leigh Leaf and Detective Jonathan Berger they were able to identify two individuals as being the main actors.

On December 2, 2021 Lance E. Mclaughlin of Maplewood, 19, was charged criminally for assault and criminal mischief. On December 16, 2021 Officers of the Essex Fells Police Department with the assistance of Essex County Swat Team, and Cedar Grove Police Department conducted a search warrant of the residence of John P. Green Jr. of Cedar Grove, 20. Mr. Green was arrested on scene without incident and transported back to Essex Fells Police Headquarters for processing. Mr. Green was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (handgun), Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Terroristic Threats, Criminal Trespass and Improper Behavior. He has been remanded to the Essex County Correctional Facility awaiting his hearing.

These charges against both parties are merely allegations and they are both presumed innocent until they enter a plea of guilt or are found guilty in a court of law.

Authorized by: Chief Darren Volker