A 39-year-old Plainfield man was convicted last week by a Somerset County jury in connection with the aggravated assault of a police officer on April 13, 2022. The conviction followed a weeklong trial.

According to the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office, Victor Ogando-Marte was driving an illegal dirt bike on Route 22 in North Plainfield when the incident occurred. Ogando-Marte was with a group of about 15-20 other dirt bike riders.

"Testimony revealed that, during rush hour, the dirt bike pack was driving recklessly by weaving in and out of traffic, popping wheelies, and obstructing the passage of other vehicles," the prosecutor said in a statement.

When Ogando-Marte neared the Rock Avenue intersection, North Plainfield Police Officer James Kirchner attempted to apprehend him. During the attempted arrest, police say the driver hit the officer with his dirt bike, dragging him from the shoulder into the middle of the highway.

"Once on the ground, the Defendant actively resisted arrest, while other dirt bikers circled and attacked the officer," the prosecutor said.

Bystanders who witnessed the incident called 911 as additional police units arrived and managed to place Ogando-Marte under arrest, while the other dirt bikes fled the scene.

The Somerset County prosecutor says Ogando-Marte was convicted on charges including aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest and inflicting bodily injury with a deadly weapon. He could face up to five years in New Jersey state prison when his sentencing takes place on Nov. 1.