Fairfield (NJ) The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Cherry K. Koster (32) of Bogota, N.J. for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose on March 18, 2021. On that date, at approximately 4:33 PM, Fairfield police officers were dispatched to the intersection of Two Bridges Road and the Route 46 West exit ramp for a two-car motor vehicle crash.
The initial investigation revealed that a 2007 mini Cooper, that was being operated by Koster, was turning south onto Two Bridges Road when it struck a 2016 Hyundai SUV that was facing north on Two Bridges Road and stopped at a red traffic signal. Both the driver and passenger of the Hyundai complained of chest pain and eventually sought medical attention at an area hospital.
As the officers continued their investigation, it is alleged that Koster told the officers that she was under the influence of cocaine and alcohol. Officer James Ciampi then attempted to administer field sobriety tests. As this was being done, it is alleged that Koster lunged at the officer in what she later described as an attempt to take the officer’s handgun. The officer was not contacted in this attempt. Koster was then placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters.
While at headquarters, it is alleged that further investigation revealed that Koster was not under the influence. It is further alleged that she told officers that she deliberately struck the other vehicle. Koster was not injured because of the crash.
In addition to the criminal charges, Koster was also issued several motor vehicle summonses. She was eventually released on her own recognizance pending an initial hearing in the Superior Court in Newark, N.J. on April 19, 2021. She was eventually transported to an area hospital.
(It should be noted that the charges against Koster are merely allegations and that she is presumed innocent until she either pleads guilty or is found guilty in a court of law)
Authorized by: Chief Anthony Manna
