On July 5th, 2024, members of the Guttenberg Police Department’s Patrol Division and Criminal Investigations Bureau located and apprehended 18-year-old Miguel A. Palma of Guttenberg, NJ, who was wanted for an active warrant issued during the course of a recent theft investigation. During their on-scene investigation, Officers and Detectives located a loaded handgun inside of Mr. Palma’s handbag, chambered for 9mm ammunition. Mr. Palma was then transported to the Guttenberg Police Department for his arrest processing.
At the Guttenberg Police Department, Mr. Palma was processed on the active criminal warrant and also charged with the unlawful possession of a weapon [2C:39-5B(1)], possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose [2C:39-4A(1)], the possession of a firearm by a minor (under 21 years of age) [2C:58-6.1B], possession of a controlled dangerous substance [2C:35-10A(1)], and possession of prescription legend drugs [2C:35-10.5E(1)]. Additionally, Mr. Palma was also charged with hindering his own apprehension [2C:29-3B] after he attempted to provide Officers and Detectives with a fake name during their initial encounter. Upon the completion of his arrest processing, Mr. Palma was issued both of his complaint warrants and then lodged in the Hudson County Correctional Center.
If anyone has any information pertaining to this incident, they are encouraged to contact the Guttenberg Police Department at 201-868-3300 or email:
1. Lt. Aleksandar Ramadanovic aramadanovic@guttenbergpolice.org
2. Det. Sgt. Marcin Rysiec mrysiec@guttenbergpolice.org
The charges above are merely accusations. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty in a court of law.
Message from Deputy Chief Frank Pelaez: I want to take a moment to highlight the efforts of some of our Officers and Detectives, who continuously strive to ensure that the residents of the Town of Guttenberg are safe from individuals who seek to victimize and subject our community to violence. To our residents, rest assured that the Guttenberg Police Department will continue to prioritize your safety and the safety of our community.