Plainfield man convicted of attacking officer with dirt bike during Route 22 incident

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Somerville, New Jersey — A 39-year-old Plainfield man was sentenced to 364 days in prison Friday for attacking a North Plainfield police officer during a chaotic dirt bike incident on Route 22 in April 2022, authorities said.

Victor Ogando-Marte was convicted of third-degree aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, third-degree resisting arrest and disorderly persons causing bodily injury with a deadly weapon. Judge Peter J. Tober, who presides over the Somerset County Superior Court, emphasized during sentencing that such behavior should be deterred.

The incident occurred during rush hour on April 13, 2022, when Ogando-Marte and a group of 15 to 20 others were illegally and recklessly riding dirt bikes on Route 22. Testimony revealed that the group was driving through traffic, demonstrating and blocking vehicles. near the Rock Boulevard intersection.

North Plainfield Police Officer James Kirchner attempted to stop Ogando-Marte, who then used his dirt bike to drag the officer by his shoulder into the middle of the highway, causing injuries. Police said Ogando-Marte resisted arrest while other dirt bikes surrounded the officer and attacked him.

The situation calmed down thanks to the intervention of good Samaritans, 911 callers, off-duty officers and responding support. While Ogando-Marte was subdued, other dirt bikers fled the scene and were not identified.

Officials said the sentence reflects the seriousness of the attack and the public safety risks associated with reckless dirt bike activities.