Calls Intensify for Justice as New Jersey Trooper’s Killer Escapes Prosecution in Cuba

Calls Intensify for Justice as New Jersey Trooper’s Killer Escapes Prosecution in Cuba

On May 2, 1973, a tragic incident unfolded on the New Jersey Turnpike when New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster approached a vehicle stopped for a broken taillight. Inside that car were three armed members of the radical Black Liberation Army, setting the stage for an encounter that would end in tragedy.

The confrontation escalated into a deadly gunfight. Tragically, Officer Foerster sustained four gunshot wounds and lost his life. Now, decades later, this cold-blooded murder is igniting renewed calls for justice from law enforcement officials and political leaders alike.

A Fugitive on the Run

One of the individuals in the vehicle that day, Joanne Chesimard, has evaded justice ever since. In 1979, she managed to escape from a New Jersey prison. Since then, she has enjoyed a life of freedom in Cuba, evading extradition while remaining a fugitive from American justice.

Current New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick J. Callahan has made it clear that Chesimard should not be living freely. He expressed his passionate desire to bring her to justice, stating, “I want her yesterday, and I have Trooper Foerster’s handcuffs ready to go on her when she lands on that tarmac, wherever she is.” This sentiment echoes the frustrations felt by many law enforcement officials across the nation.

Extradition Demands Grow

In light of Chesimard’s continued freedom, officials are now advocating for her extradition, as well as the return of an estimated 70 other fugitives living in Cuba. These individuals include convicted murderers, airline hijackers, and others who have found refuge under the protection of the Cuban regime.

In 2017, then-President Donald Trump publicly called on the Cuban government to surrender Chesimard and fellow fugitives. He declared, “Return the fugitives from American justice, including the return of the cop-killer Joanne Chesimard.” Recently, the Trump administration has implemented stricter sanctions against Cuba, which could potentially facilitate the return of these fugitives to U.S. soil.

Political Outrage

Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, has not held back in his criticism of the Communist regime for offering sanctuary to American criminals. He stated, “The Cuban regime continues to provide safe haven for terrorists and criminals, including fugitives from the United States.” The brutality of Trooper Foerster’s murder remains etched in the memories of his family and colleagues, and the demand for justice persists.

Rubio’s remarks inherently demand accountability from both the Cuban government and the U.S. authorities regarding fugitives. He added, “The brutal killing of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster will never be forgotten, and we will never stop fighting for justice.”

Historical Context and Policy Shifts

The diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba have undergone significant changes over the years. In 2015, President Obama took steps to normalize relations, which led to the limited return of some fugitives. However, high-profile terrorists remained untouched. In 2018, James R. Ray, wanted for murder in New Jersey, was returned to face trial and ultimately died in custody awaiting sentencing.

During his first term, Donald Trump reversed many of Obama’s policies, re-designating Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. This shift has reignited debates regarding Cuba being a refuge for a range of American criminals. Colonel Callahan articulated the emotional toll that Chesimard’s freedom takes on law enforcement. He remarked, “It’s painful for law enforcement, not only in New Jersey, but across the country.”

Proposed Legislative Actions

Senator Rick Scott from Florida has taken a stand by sponsoring a bill known as the Frank Connor and Trooper Werner Foerster Justice Act. This legislation seeks to ensure that fugitives residing in Cuba face justice in the U.S. Scott’s determination reflects broader frustrations over Cuba’s harboring of fugitives and terrorists.

He emphasized the need for stronger measures against the Cuban government, insisting that funds should not flow into a nation that harbors wanted criminals. Scott firmly stated, “They’re clearly a state sponsor of terrorism.” He also commended Trump for reinstating Cuba on the terror watchlist.

Personal Stories of Tragedy and Loss

The bill also honors the memory of Frank Connor, a New York City banker who was killed in a bombing orchestrated by the terrorist group FALN in 1975. The tragedy claimed the lives of four individuals and injured over fifty others. Connor’s son, Joe, has been a strong advocate for bringing fugitives to justice, insisting that the U.S. government must exert its economic power to negotiate their return.

He stated, “We have these convicted terrorists 90 miles from home; we have the economic leverage on Cuba to bring them back.” His passion stems from the belief that achieving justice for his father would carry profound significance.

A Unwavering Commitment to Justice

On the anniversary of the FALN attack, Secretary Rubio honored Connor and other victims, reaffirming the need for justice. He expressed, “We owe the victims and the American people our unwavering commitment to holding the Cuban regime accountable.”

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, recognizing the importance of remembering Trooper Foerster, articulated the ongoing commitment to justice. He stated, “More than half a century later, we continue to pursue his murderer’s repatriation to New Jersey to face the consequences of her actions.”

The Ongoing Struggle

Colonel Callahan has been relentless in his pursuit to bring Chesimard back to face judgment. He described it as an open wound in the history of the state police, highlighting the emotional burden borne by law enforcement officers. His determination is relentless, stating, “There’s not a day that goes by that I’m not trying to do something about bringing her back here.”

As discussions regarding justice for Officer Foerster continue, the quest for accountability from the Cuban regime remains intense. The combined efforts of political leaders and law enforcement stress the importance of never forgetting the sacrifices made in the line of duty.

Fox News Producer Maria Paronich contributed to this report.