Maurice Cottman, Kidnapping, New Jersey 2020

A Bronx, New York, man has been brought to justice for his role in a heinous crime committed in New Jersey.

Maurice Cottman, 41, pleaded guilty to kidnapping in a Newark federal court. He was charged with one count of kidnapping, punishable by a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.

According to documents filed in the case, Cottman and his conspirator, Reginald Law, entered a retail store in Paterson on October 8, 2020. They assaulted the victim, who was working in the store, and dragged him into the back of a U-Haul truck. Cottman and Law then drove to New York, where they pistol-whipped the victim in the head and face. Cottman demanded $200,000 for the victim's return.

The police were able to track down Cottman and Law in Harlem, New York. When they approached the U-Haul, Cottman and Law fled, leading to a motor-vehicle pursuit. The U-Haul eventually crashed, and a foot pursuit ensued. Cottman was arrested, but Law managed to escape. The victim was rescued from the U-Haul.

Reginald Law was arrested on May 26, 2021, but his charges remain pending. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The investigation was led by the FBI, with the assistance of the FBI New York Field Office and the Paterson Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shontae D. Gray will represent the government in the case.

Cottman is scheduled to be sentenced on February 2, 2022.

The case highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies working together to bring criminals to justice. It also serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of committing violent crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/pr/new-york-man-admits-role-kidnapping