By: Richard L. Smith
A Georgia man has been federally charged after authorities say he shot his former girlfriend during a dispute and transported her across state lines into New Jersey against her will, according to a statement released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer announced that 37-year-old Jovan Young is facing charges of kidnapping and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Young made his initial appearance in Newark federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III, where he was ordered detained.
According to federal documents and statements made in court, the incident began on the evening of December 24, 2025, while Young and the victim were traveling from Georgia to New York to spend Christmas with the victim’s family.
During the trip, the two became involved in a dispute while driving in New York.
Authorities allege that during the argument, Young pulled out a firearm and shot the victim in the abdomen, leaving her paralyzed.
Investigators say he then transported the victim from New York into New Jersey without her consent, keeping her confined inside the vehicle for several hours following the shooting.
Officials said the victim was eventually left on the side of the road in or around Denville, where she was later discovered by law enforcement.
Following his arrest on December 25, 2025, authorities reported that Young was found in possession of a firearm equipped with a green laser, which matched the description provided by the victim.
Federal prosecutors said the kidnapping charge carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison, while the weapons charge is punishable by up to 15 years behind bars. 
Both charges also carry significant financial penalties.
The case remains pending as federal authorities continue their prosecution.