Newark Man Sentenced to 100 Years for Killing 67-Year-Old During Violent Robbery Spree

A 100-year prison sentence sounds like the end of a story. For one Newark family, it's only the beginning of a lifetime without a father, grandfather, and loved one.

An Essex County judge has sentenced 35-year-old Jarell Riles of Newark to 100 years in state prison for the fatal shooting of 67-year-old Jose Gaona during a violent robbery spree on December 31, 2023, according to prosecutors. Under New Jersey's No Early Release Act, Riles must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

The sentence brings accountability. It cannot undo what happened.

Prosecutors said Gaona was getting into his vehicle on Malvern Street when Riles approached him at gunpoint, demanded his belongings, and shot him seven times in the back as he attempted to flee.

Authorities said the violence had already begun earlier that day. Before killing Gaona, Riles allegedly robbed another man at gunpoint on Vessey Street and struck the victim with a handgun. Investigators said the attacks were part of the same violent spree that left multiple victims and an entire community shaken.

A jury convicted Riles in February of murder, felony murder, robbery, and multiple weapons offenses. This week's sentencing closes the criminal case, but it cannot erase the impact left behind.

For Gaona's family, there is no sentence long enough to replace the years that were stolen. For neighbors, it is another reminder of how quickly an ordinary day can turn into tragedy.