Man Gets 100 Years for New Year’s Eve Shooting

A 35‑year‑old Newark resident, Jarell Riles, received a century in prison after he killed a 67‑year‑old neighbor on New Year’s Eve. Judge Ronald Wigler handed down a 100‑year term for first‑degree felony murder, murder, robbery and weapons charges. Riles was found guilty on February 18 for the fatal shooting of Jose Gaona, a local resident.

The Crime Spree

• Morning start: Riles pulled a man on Vesey Street at gunpoint, forced him to the floor and used his pistol against him.
• Later: He drove over to Malvern Street, spotted Gaona getting into a car, pulled out of his own vehicle, pointed a gun at Gaona and stole his belongings.
• When the victim tried to re‑enter his car, Riles shot him seven times in the back, killing him.

Legal Consequences

Under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act, Riles must serve at least 85 % of his sentence before parole is possible. The case underscores how a night meant for celebration can quickly turn into tragedy when violence erupts in the streets.