State Grand Jury Declines to Criminally Charge State Troopers Involved in Death in Custody at NJSP Bridgeton Station on July 9, 2023

TRENTON — A state grand jury has voted not to file any criminal charges at the conclusion of its deliberations regarding the death of Daniel King, 30, of Millville, New Jersey, who died following an encounter with New Jersey State Police (NJSP) troopers on July 9, 2023.

Mr. King’s death was investigated by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) and presented to New Jersey residents serving on the grand jury in accordance with the Independent Prosecutor Directive of 2019. In July 2021, OPIA issued standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure these grand jury presentations are conducted in a neutral, objective manner, with appropriate transparency regarding the process, consistent with the directive.

The investigation included witness interviews, photographs, review of video footage, and autopsy results from the state medical examiner. This evidence, including video of the incident, was presented to a state grand jury. After hearing the testimony and evidence, the grand jury finished deliberating on September 23, 2024, and voted “no bill,” meaning jurors concluded no criminal charges should be filed against any involved troopers.

According to the investigation, on July 8, 2023, at approximately 7 p.m., Trooper Mark Allonardo was dispatched to a residence on Fordville Road in Fairfield Township, Cumberland County, to assist Mr. King, who had requested a police escort to retrieve property at the residence. While there, Mr. King became confrontational and attacked Trooper Allonardo. A struggle ensued during which the two men fell to the ground and Mr. King bit Trooper Allonardo’s face, piercing his skin. Thereafter, two civilians intervened and held Mr. King while he was handcuffed. Several members of the NJSP, including Troopers Zachary Reichenbach, Nicolas Salamone, and Arturo Sanchez, responded to the scene to provide backup and assist in the arrest and transportation of Mr. King.

Every criminal must be punished and every innocent must get justice.

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