In a powerful moment of justice and solidarity, two Atlantic City criminals faced a courtroom packed with police officers after they tried to kill an officer during a robbery gone wrong.
The incident unfolded outside Caesars Casino when two officers responded to reports of three men attempting to rob three victims. The confrontation quickly escalated into a violent shootout. Tragically, 25-year-old suspect Jerome Damon was killed during the exchange. Meanwhile, 29-year-old Officer Jostle Vadell was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, later stabilizing but left paralyzed and on a ventilator.
“Our hearts are heavy at this hour, but our resolve to capture these suspects remains undeterred,” said New Jersey PBA president Patrick Colligan in a heartfelt statement. “We ask for prayers for Officer Vadell, his family, and the Atlantic City Police Department.”
When suspects Demitrius Cross and Martel Chisolm appeared in court, they were met not just by a judge, but by a sea of uniformed officers there to honor their fallen brother in blue and stand united in support.
In a hopeful update, Officer Vadell’s wife shared on Facebook, “Josh is doing amazing! He was taken off the ventilator this morning, responding with small words, able to sit supported in a chair, and now showing some movement on his left side. He is improving every day, and I believe it’s all thanks to the love and support you have shown our family. I can’t respond individually, but please know Josh feels all your love.”
The story quickly went viral, inspiring an outpouring of support for Vadell and admiration for the officers’ courtroom show of brotherhood.
“These two are a menace to society. They should never be released,” one commenter wrote. Another added, “It’s great to see the men and women in blue standing strong together.”
