Laquay Phillips, 38, was arrested in June after police located him while investigating an earlier assault.
MAYS LANDING, N.J. — An Atlantic City man has pleaded guilty to aggravated assault and drug possession charges stemming from two separate encounters with police earlier this year.
Laquay Phillips, 38, pleaded guilty Wednesday, November 4, to third-degree aggravated assault and third-degree possession of a controlled dangerous substance before Superior Court Judge Christine Smith, according to the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office.
Under the plea agreement, prosecutors will recommend an aggregate sentence of five years in New Jersey State Prison.
The charges stem from incidents in Atlantic City on May 19 and June 2, 2026.
Assault Investigation Leads to Charges
According to prosecutors, Atlantic City police officers responded May 19 to a report that a man had been assaulted.
When officers arrived, they encountered a victim who had sustained visible injuries.
The victim identified Phillips as the person responsible for the assault and told investigators that Phillips had fled before police arrived.
Authorities subsequently charged Phillips in connection with the incident.
The prosecutor's office did not release additional details about the circumstances of the assault or the extent of the victim's injuries.
Police Locate Phillips Two Weeks Later
On June 2, Atlantic City police received a report that Phillips, who was wanted in connection with the May assault, was at a particular location.
Officers responded and located Phillips.
During that encounter, police found Phillips in possession of cocaine, according to prosecutors.
He was arrested and charged with the drug offense in addition to the earlier assault charge.
Phillips ultimately pleaded guilty to both third-degree offenses.
Sentencing Scheduled for December
The plea agreement calls for a recommended combined sentence of five years in New Jersey State Prison.
Phillips is scheduled to be sentenced December 15, 2026, before Judge Smith.
The proposed sentence remains subject to the court's approval.
The Atlantic City Police Department investigated both incidents.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
