Guilty Verdict for Newark Man who Carjacked 'Brave' Motorist

A carjacker whose quick-thinking victim escaped by slamming into an Essex County Sheriff’s vehicle was convicted Tuesday by a Superior Court jury in Newark. 

Isaiah Greene, 24, of Newark, was found guilty of kidnapping, sexual assault and robbery as well as carjacking. He faces up to 60 years in prison when he is sentenced in June.

On Dec. 20, 2011, Greene carjacked his 20-year-old victim in South Orange, then forced her to drive while he groped her. When she was near Vailsburg Park in the West Ward, the woman drove into the sheriff’s car. 

“The victim in this case was extraordinarily brave under the most horrendous circumstances,’’ said Assistant Prosecutor Brian Matthews, who tried the case. “The verdict provides some comfort to a young woman who has been through a horrific ordeal.’’

Greene has two prior convictions for narcotics offenses and a prior conviction for receiving stolen property.