By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark man has been arrested and charged after authorities say he robbed a woman while she was pushing her infant in a stroller along a Summit street Wednesday morning.
According to a statement released by the Summit Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 9 a.m. on June 10 near the intersection of Park Avenue and John Street.
Police said a mother was walking with her infant when a man approached her from behind before moving in front of both the victim and the stroller.
The suspect then allegedly attempted to take the woman's cellphone by force.
A brief struggle followed as the victim tried to hold onto the device, but the suspect ultimately gained possession of the phone.
Authorities said the suspect also reached into the stroller and took the victim's sunglasses before fleeing the area in a dark-colored vehicle later identified as a 2024 Chevrolet Impala.
A witness immediately called 911, prompting a large police response and a rapid investigation by detectives.
According to police, investigators quickly identified the suspect as Darell L. Mitchell, 55, of Newark.
At approximately 11 a.m., less than two hours after the robbery, detectives located Mitchell on Hillside Avenue in Newark and placed him under arrest.
Police said Mitchell was found in possession of property reported stolen during the incident.
Mitchell has been charged with robbery, endangering the welfare of a child, and receiving stolen property.
Following processing, he was transported to the Essex County Correctional Facility, where he is being held pending his first appearance in Union County Superior Court.
Summit Police Chief Ryan Peters praised the work of investigators, calling the incident a disturbing crime that targeted a mother caring for her infant child.
Chief Peters credited members of the Detective Bureau for their swift and professional efforts, noting that their quick response led to the suspect's identification and arrest within hours of the incident.