Suspect was seen handling gun, police say
NEWARK -- A 30-year-old city man was arrested and charged with weapons offenses after he was found in possession of a loaded handgun Tuesday, police spokesman Sgt. Ron Glover said.
Personnel with the city's Violence Reduction Initiative made the arrest around 9 p.m. in the South Ward. The unit consists of officers and investigators with the FBI, State Parole, the Essex County sheriff's department and prosecutor's office, State Police and city police.
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While patrolling near Keer Avenue and Hobson Street, officers spotted someone leaning against a double-parked car and speaking with someone inside, then noticed Abdul Ausby place an object that appeared to be a gun in his waistband, Glover said.
When officers approached, the car sped off but Ausby remained when ordered not to move. Officers found a 9-mm Luger in his waist area, Glover said. Ausby was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon and other offenses.
"The officers in our city have a tremendous undertaking in keeping our citizens and visitors safe. Each gun that they take off our streets is one less weapon that could be used to put someone in harm's way," said Newark Police Director Eugene Venable. "Policing can sometimes be a thankless job. I cannot stress enough how totally supportive I am of the hard-working men and women of the department and of the fine work that they do each and every day."
Police ask that anyone with information about this or any other crime call the department's 24-hour Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 877 NWK-TIPS (877 695-8477) or NWK-GUNS (877 695-4867).
Paul Milo may be reached at pmilo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@PaulMilo2. FindNJ.com on Facebook