ROCHESTER, NY – Jaden Z. Campbell, 19, is facing a lengthy prison sentence after admitting to a brazen carjacking that escalated into a dangerous high-speed pursuit through Monroe County. Campbell pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to charges of carjacking and using/carrying a firearm during a crime of violence. The feds aren’t playing around – the charges carry a mandatory minimum of five years behind bars, with a potential life sentence and a $250,000 fine.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of July 11, 2022, near Resolute Street and North Clinton Avenue. According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassie Kocher, Campbell approached a man – Victim 1 – as he walked toward an apartment building. Brandishing a firearm, Campbell allegedly threatened, “give me everything or I’m gonna pop you.” The victim complied, handing over the keys to his 2006 Infiniti G35. Campbell then forced the victim to start the car before speeding away.
When Rochester Police located the stolen Infiniti, Campbell didn’t hesitate to put the pedal to the metal. A 25-minute chase ensued, tearing through Monroe County roadways. Authorities say Campbell reached speeds of approximately 85 MPH at times, finally crashing the vehicle in a ditch near Quaker Road in Scottsville, NY. But the reckless behavior didn’t stop there. During the pursuit, Campbell allegedly tossed a 9mm pistol from the Infiniti onto Cranbrook Drive in Irondequoit, NY.
This wasn’t a solo operation. The investigation, which led to Campbell’s guilty plea, was a joint effort between the Rochester Police Department (Chief David Smith), the New York State Police (Major Brian Ratajczak), the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (Sheriff Todd Baxter), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (Special Agent-in-Charge John B. DeVito). The combined forces brought Campbell to justice.
Campbell’s legal troubles aren’t over yet. He’s scheduled to be sentenced on January 17, 2024, at 10 a.m. before Judge Geraci. Expect a harsh penalty given the severity of the crimes and the danger he posed to the public during the chase. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, led by Trini E. Ross, is making it clear: armed carjacking and reckless endangerment will not be tolerated in Western New York.
Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing. This incident highlights the ongoing struggle to keep illegal firearms off the streets and hold violent offenders accountable. The streets of Rochester are a little safer with Campbell off them – at least for a while.
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