The Village of Newark leadership would like to address the recent incident resulting in major injury to a citizen of our community, Mr. Johnny “Tat” White who was severely beaten on his own property following a period of harassment by a neighbor, which resulted in his hospitalization for jaw and orbital fractures.
The Newark Community Collaboration Committee met with members of Wayne Action for Racial Equality (WARE) and Community Advocate James Schuler to discuss reports of racial motivation in the incident and the impact to the community at large as news agencies report that a “hate crime” designation is not being made.
The Newark Police Department would like to clarify that the incident is still under investigation and the Department will continue to gather evidence to present to the District Attorney, who is ultimately responsible for charging determination. The Newark Police Department considers this to be a serious matter and continues to provide additional support to Mr. White and his family to ensure that the Order of Protection is honored.
WARE has released a statement acknowledging that at a time when communities across our nation are experiencing an increase in reported acts of hatred and racial violence, it is essential that we respond with accountability, equal justice under the law, and a clear commitment to preventing further acts of hate in our communities.
The Newark Community Collaboration Committee encourages citizens to contact the Newark Police Department with any concerns about circumstances of harassment with racial overtones so appropriate actions can be taken. If anyone has any additional information about Mr. White's case, please call the Newark Police Department.