Former Newark officer Jovany Crespo sentenced to 27 years in prison in 2019 shooting after Gregory Griffin's death

NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) — A former Newark officer was sentenced Friday to 27 years in prison for the 2019 death of a man killed during a police chase.

Jovany Crespo was found guilty last June of aggravated manslaughter, aggravated assault and professional misconduct.

On January 28, 2019, Crespo fired his service weapon at a fleeing vehicle in three locations after the driver, Gregory Griffin, sped away from a traffic stop.

During a chase for several miles through the streets of Newark, Crespo fired multiple shots at the vehicle and ultimately killed Griffin. His passenger, Andrew Dixon, was seriously injured.

At the time of the incident, Crespo said he saw guns in the vehicle, but other officers said the car's tinted windows prevented them from seeing inside.

Crespo's lawyers argued his actions were justified, but the prosecution said they were excessive.

Crespo's mother, Aida, begged for mercy, shedding tears as she spoke of her son and the impact the long sentence would have on their entire family.

The families of Griffin and Dixon say the verdict was justified.

If he behaves, Crespo will spend just under 23 years in prison.

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