NEW BRUNSWICK – The bodyguard who violently removed Charlie Kratovil at April Ryan’s request has been charged criminally by the State of New Jersey, Middlesex County.

The charges filed against April Ryan’s bodyguard, Joel Morris, include:

  • Harassment (2C:33-4B, a disorderly persons offense)
  • Assault (2C:12-1A, a disorderly persons offense)
  • Theft by Unlawful Taking (2C:20-3A, a 3rd-degree indictable offense)

Morris is summoned to appear in court for his arraignment on September 12, 2019 at 9:00. Judicial officer Marlina Papotto signed the summons.

April Ryan's bodyguard, Joel Morris, moments before stealing Charlie Kratovil's camera
Joel Morris, bodyguard for April Ryan moments before taking Kratovil’s camera – Photo courtesy of New Brunswick Today

April Ryan has not issued a statement regarding the Aug 3 incident involving the violent ejection of New Brunswick Today journalist, Charlie Kratovil, during her keynote speech at the 4th annual 2019 NJ Parent Summit.

“As a first principle, it is never under any circumstances permissible for a person aggrieved at being photographed or videotaped to lay hands on the journalist, or attempt to take away the journalist’s equipment.” – NJ Society of Professional Journalists

The summit was organized by Shennell McCloud (Barnes), executive director for Project Ready NJ. No comment has been received or made by Project Ready NJ or any other program sponsors.

2019 NJ Parent Summit Sponsors
2019 NJ Parent Summit Sponsors

Summation Video of Incident

Video from New Brunswick Today’s camera: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=obZ9zZ8IBEg
Video from Heldrich Hotel security camera: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73WScfrY9fg

#EyesOnNJ News will have cameras in the courtroom to livestream the arraignment of Joel Morris on September 12, 2019. Stay tuned and be sure to subscribe for updates.

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