14-Year-Old Accused in Newark Detective’s Killing to Be Tried as Adult in Federal Court

Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced the decision, citing a zero-tolerance stance on violent crime and gang-related offenses.

Detective Joseph Azcona, a five-year veteran of the Newark Police Department, was fatally shot on March 7 during an illegal firearms investigation.
The suspect, a 14-year-old alleged member of the Bloods gang, is accused of killing Azcona and injuring another officer, who is expected to recover.
Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba confirmed the suspect will be charged as an adult in federal court, bypassing New Jersey’s prohibition on trying offenders under 15 as adults.
The suspect, currently hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and illegal weapons possession.
The case has reignited national debates on juvenile justice, gang violence, and protections for law enforcement officers.