A Vineland man is facing significant prison time after a Cumberland County jury convicted him of leading Millville police on a dangerous high-speed chase that ended with his vehicle rolling over more than six years ago.
On April 1, 2026, jurors found Efrain Dejesus, 43, guilty on two charges: Eluding in the second degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b, and Obstruction in the fourth degree in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-1a. Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae announced the conviction following a trial that began with jury selection on March 25, 2026.
The incident that led to these charges unfolded on December 7, 2019, when members of the Millville Police Department attempted to stop a 2010 Porsche Panamera in the 500 block of North 2nd Street. Dejesus, who was driving alone in the vehicle, refused to pull over and instead led officers on a pursuit through our community.
During the chase, prosecutors presented evidence showing that Dejesus disregarded several traffic control devices while traveling at high speeds. The pursuit continued until officers terminated it on Wheaton Avenue in the area of Coombs Road, prioritizing public safety as the situation escalated.
The chase didn't end there, however. Approximately a mile from where police ended their pursuit, Dejesus lost control of the Porsche at the intersection of South Main Road and Lincoln Avenue. The vehicle rolled over in the crash, which was subsequently investigated by members of the Vineland Police Department Traffic Safety Unit.
The conviction carries serious consequences. Dejesus faces ten years in New Jersey State Prison for the Eluding charge and a maximum of eighteen months in New Jersey State Prison for Obstruction. His sentencing has been scheduled for a date in May.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals who choose to flee from law enforcement. High-speed chases put not only the suspect at risk, but also officers and innocent community members who happen to be on our roads. The successful prosecution demonstrates our local law enforcement's commitment to holding those who endanger public safety accountable for their actions.
