Disabled NJ man's condo taken over by armed youth gang, cops say

HAMILTON (Atlantic) — Four gang members, including two teenagers, used a disabled man's condo for their drugs and guns, according to police.

The unnamed victim returned to his home at the Sandpiper Condos in Mays Landing on June 2. He was surprised to see the gang had set up shop with multiple firearms, according to a criminal complaint.

Jermaine Philo, Eric Perez, both 23, and the teens were still at the home when the cops showed up, according to the affidavit. Police said they were dressed in colors representing the Kutta gang, which uses minors to carry out its crimes.

Breaking AC reported that Perez appeared for a detention hearing Monday. His attorney reportedly told the judge that Philo's rapper name was also Kutta and that Perez was his manager.

Authorities said they found a .223 caliber rifle, a handgun, and a kit to convert a handgun into a rifle. Investigators also said they found hollow-point rounds and marijuana.

The condo owner told police that Philo had threatened to kill him. His fear of "intimidation and retaliation" played a key role in Judge William Miller's decision to keep Perez detained, according to Breaking AC.

This is not Philo's first encounter with law enforcement. He was arrested by State Police in October 2020 after officers conducting a traffic stop said they found a handgun and more than 320 grams of marijuana.

Along with firearms and drug charges, Philo and Perez are both charged with first-degree employing a minor to commit a criminal offense.

Philo and Perez were ordered to be kept at Atlantic County Justice Facility. The two teens, ages 15 and 16, were detained at a juvenile detention center but have since been released.

Rick Rickman is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at richard.rickman@townsquaremedia.com

Click here to contact an editor about feedback or a correction for this story.

Netflix’s Most Popular English-Language TV Shows Ever

These are the most popular TV shows ever on Netflix (in English), based on hours viewed in their first 28 days on streaming.

See the Must-Drive Roads in Every State

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: