Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that Joel Hester, 25, of Newark was sentenced to 40 years in New Jersey state prison for the murder of Oscar Ayo, Jr., 31, also of Newark.
On the night of June 14, 2010, the two men were arguing when Hester pulled out a gun and shot Ayo in the head on Astor Street near McCarter Highway. Ayo died five hours later at a local hospital.
A jury found Hester guilty in July.
Hester, a reputed Bloods gang member whose street name is ‘Bandana,’ was indicted on three counts, including first degree murder and two weapons offenses. Hester’s previous convictions include obstruction of justice, aggravated assault, and eluding.
Hester’s sentence includes a concurrent term for weapons possession. He must serve 85 percent, or a minimum of 34 years, under the No Early Release Act.
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