Morris County, NJ – A grand jury has indicted two individuals, Auraceli Maldonado (24) and Jean Rockson (33), for their alleged roles in a violent robbery and shooting that occurred during a botched drug deal at a Route 46 motel on October 18th, 2023. The victim in the attack, a 36-year-old man, sustained severe leg injuries that necessitated above-the-knee amputation.
According to investigators, Maldonado and Rockson met with the victim at the motel intending to conduct a drug transaction. The situation escalated, leading to an argument and armed robbery. During the altercation, the victim was shot in the leg, and both suspects fled the scene with drugs, money, and the victim’s phone. Authorities believe the stolen phone was inadvertently left behind, aiding in the identification of the suspects.
Following the incident, Maldonado was apprehended in Florida. A search warrant executed on her vehicle yielded ammunition matching the weapon used in the shooting. Rockson was later arrested at his residence in New Jersey.
Both individuals now face charges of robbery, aggravated assault, conspiracy to commit robbery, and weapons offenses. Their arraignment is scheduled for Monday.
While authorities have not disclosed the specific details of the suspects’ relationship or their connection to the victim, they have confirmed the use of an AR-style rifle in the crime.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal drug activity and highlights the importance of reporting suspicious behavior to law enforcement.
