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New York Man Admits Role in Brutal Kidnapping
A Bronx man has admitted his role in a horrific kidnapping that left a Paterson store worker shaken. Maurice Cottman, 41, pleaded guilty to kidnapping, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
On October 8, 2020, Cottman and his conspirator, Reginald Law, entered a retail store in Paterson and assaulted the victim, who was working in the store. The pair dragged the victim from the store, threw him into the back of a U-Haul truck and drove to New York. Cottman and Law then pistol-whipped the victim in the head and face, leaving him battered and bruised.
Cottman called the victim’s family and demanded a staggering $200,000 for his safe return. However, law enforcement officers were hot on their trail and soon tracked the U-Haul to Harlem, New York. When they approached, Cottman and Law fled in the truck, sparking a high-speed chase that ended with the U-Haul crashing and the pair scattering. Cottman was arrested, but Law managed to evade capture until May 26, 2021.
The victim was rescued from the U-Haul, and Cottman’s guilty plea brings some much-needed closure to the case. However, Reginald Law remains at large and faces pending charges. Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig credited the FBI with leading the investigation and thanked the FBI New York Field Office and the Paterson Police Department for their assistance.
The case is a stark reminder of the dangers of violent crime and the importance of law enforcement’s tireless efforts to keep our communities safe. Cottman’s sentencing is scheduled for February 2, 2022, and he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae D. Gray represents the government in the case, and the charges against Reginald Law remain pending. The Paterson community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that justice is being served, but the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of vigilance and community engagement in preventing such crimes.
The FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, led the investigation and is to be commended for their dedication and expertise in bringing this case to a close.
Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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