Newark Man Accused Of Carjacking Porsche In Montclair

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A Newark man has been accused of taking part in a carjacking last December in Montclair, authorities announced Monday.

Andy Cook, 23, was charged with conspiracy to commit carjacking, carjacking and conspiracy to use a firearm during a crime of violence, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Prosecutors said the carjacking took place in Montclair, but didn’t release the specific location in an initial statement. Authorities said:

“On Dec. 6, 2021, Cook’s accomplice approached the victim, who was inside her car that was parked on her driveway. The accomplice pointed a firearm at the victim and ordered the victim to leave her belongings and exit the car. Cook then entered the car and drove it away.”

After the victim called the police, law enforcement officers spotted the vehicle, a 2021 Porsche Cayenne, and followed it onto Interstate Route 280 in Orange, according to the criminal complaint.

Cook then stopped the car, left it in the middle of the highway and fled on foot near the First Street exit in Newark. Police chased after Cook, finding him hiding in a residential building near Second Street in Newark. Officers found him in possession of the Porsche’s key, the complaint alleges.

Prosecutors said the count of conspiracy to commit carjacking carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The count of carjacking carries a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The count of conspiracy to use a firearm during a crime of violence carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com