A Newark man is accused of impersonating a federal immigration officer to carry out a string of late-night robberies.
Newark police allege the suspect targeted two pedestrians during early morning hours, wearing an “ICE” emblem patch and wielding a flashlight. Authorities say he employed impersonation tactics in order to intimidate victims before stealing cash and personal belongings, according to NJ.com.
The first incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. on January 22, when a man driving a dark-colored SUV, now identified as Julio Garcia Barrera, approached a pedestrian on North 8th Street. The driver allegedly exited the vehicle, shined a flashlight in the victim’s face, and claimed to be an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. After forcibly pinning the victim against their vehicle, he stole roughly $500 from his wallet and fled the scene.
A second robbery followed two days later on January 24 around 3:40 a.m. near Bloomfield Avenue. Police say the suspect used the same tactics, including displaying an ICE patch, shining a flashlight, and questioning the victim’s citizenship. The victim was searched and robbed of about $300, along with a debit card and identification. The stolen debit card was later used at multiple gas stations in East Orange.
Garcia Barrera was taken into custody Monday.
He is charged with two counts of robbery and two counts of impersonating a public servant. Court records do not list an attorney representing him.
The case highlights a growing concern across the nation. Because of public fears surrounding immigration enforcement, the use of masks by federal agents as seen in Minneapolis, and lack of identifying badge numbers or nameplates, critics warn that criminals can easily impersonate public servants for the purpose of committing crimes.
NJ law enforcement officials are urging residents to report suspicious activity.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.