Sundiata Acoli

Werner Foerster was only 34 years old when he was gunned down in the line of duty.

In a 3-2 decision, the state's highest court says Sundiata Acoli is not likely to commit another crime and overturns the Parole Board denial of his release.

The decision kicks Sundiata Acoli's case back to a parole board, which will have to decide whether to release the man convicted of killing Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973.

Anyone who travels Route 18 over the Turnpike will notice the plaque bearing the inscription “Werner Foerster Memorial Bridge.” To many passing that way, it probably means little. But to anyone who was around in 1973, and certainly to members of law enforcement, the name Werner Foerster still evokes memories of a gun battle that left the trooper dead...