Former East Orange Police Officer Devin L. Higgs has been found guilty by an Essex County jury of aggravated assault and endangering the welfare of his nine-year-old son. The verdict follows revelations of severe physical abuse, including 22 rib fractures, a fractured scapula, and numerous bruises and scars. The trial, ending on March 1, 2024, resulted in Higgs being convicted on multiple charges.
He faces a maximum sentence of 80 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for April 12, 2024. Prosecutors praised the victim's bravery and the medical teams for their role in uncovering the abuse, hoping the verdict will encourage other abuse victims to come forward and serve as a warning to abusers.