‘TV Crew’ Arrested With Fake Explosive At Newark Airport: Cops

NEWARK, NJ — Port Authority police arrested nine members of a reputed “television crew” who allegedly tried to take a fake explosive through the security line at Newark Airport as part of a film stunt on Thursday, authorities say.

According to the Port Authority, a group of nine people who later claimed to be with a “television show” tried to pass a “suspicious package” through security screening at Terminal One of the busy international airport.

The item – placed inside a carry-on bag – resembled an explosive device. It was later found to be fake, police said.

Some of the group were filming the encounter. None were able to produce media credentials, authorities said.

After conducting an investigation, police arrested the “film crew” and charged them with creating public false alarms, interference with transportation and conspiracy. The arrestees included:

• Ruben M. Montenegro, 44, Barclay Avenue, Staten Island NY
• Samuel Micah Berns, 39, Magnolia Boulevard, Hollywood CA
• Jacob M. Towsley, 34, East Koy Road, Portageville, NY
• Michael L. Palmer, 51, McBaine Avenue, Staten Island NY
• William Oaks, 36, Lewis Avenue, Brooklyn NY
• Philip K. Nakagami, 26, Regent Street, Jersey City NJ
• Carlos F. Gonzalez, 33, 32nd Street, Queens NY
• Timothy S. Duffy, 34, Village Lane, Sparta NJ
• Adolfo Lacola, 51, Drew Court, Staten Island NY

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Photo: Port Authority of NY/NJ