In a dramatic turn of events, four individuals were arrested after allegedly committing an armed robbery targeting a mail carrier, followed by a high-speed police chase through several New Jersey towns. The suspects, identified as Tarik Dunbar (23), Shakir Tinney (22), Conna Richburg (19), and Jaylisa Varnor (19), now face multiple charges related to stolen property, resisting arrest, and possibly more.
How the Incident Unfolded
The incident began with the theft of a Nissan vehicle, which was later used to carry out the armed robbery of a mail truck on a Wednesday. According to Bloomfield Police Chief George Ricci, one of his detectives spotted the stolen car in Belleville and attempted to pull it over. However, the suspects refused to stop, triggering a high-speed chase.
Since the crime involved a felony, officers were authorized to pursue the suspects. The chase extended through Newark and East Orange, where the suspects recklessly crashed into at least two other vehicles before their stolen Nissan eventually broke down near Summit Street.
The Chase and Arrest
After the car broke down, all four suspects tried to escape on foot. One suspect was quickly found hiding behind another vehicle, while the others were apprehended shortly after. Video footage from the scene even captured officers tackling one of the suspects as they attempted to flee.
Despite the chaotic nature of the chase and the crashes involved, no injuries were reported, either among the suspects, police officers, or civilians.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
All four suspects were charged with receiving stolen property and resisting arrest. In addition, Conna Richburg faces an extra charge for eluding police. Authorities have indicated that more charges may be filed, especially because the crime involved the theft of federal mail.
Chief Ricci emphasized the seriousness of the case, stating, “It’s personal mail—credit card information, social security info—all information a criminal can use for their benefit. Because it was a federal truck and the mail is federal, the postal inspector is doing an investigation as well, and federal charges may be coming.”
This means the suspects could face not only state charges but also federal ones, which often carry more severe penalties.
The Importance of Protecting Mail
Crimes involving the U.S. Postal Service are taken very seriously because they often involve sensitive personal information. Stolen mail can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and other crimes that affect victims long after the initial theft. Since this case involves federal mail, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service has stepped in to investigate, which could significantly impact the legal consequences for the suspects.
This incident highlights the risks criminals take when committing serious offenses like armed robbery, vehicle theft, and fleeing law enforcement. Thanks to quick action by the police, the suspects were apprehended without any injuries to the public. The investigation is ongoing, and federal charges may soon follow, underscoring the severity of crimes involving the U.S. mail.
