Morris Prosecutor: Butler Man Sentenced on Multiple Crimes in the Borough in 2016

Published on April 16, 2019

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp announces that Dylan Howard, a/k/a Dylan Hannah, 25, of Butler, has been sentenced to 12 years in New Jersey State Prison, with a minimum of six years of parole ineligibility, related to a series of crimes that occurred in Butler from March 8 through March 31, 2016.

Howard previously pled guilty to Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, Aggravated Assault by Pointing a Weapon at a Law Enforcement Officer, Burglary (two counts) and Shoplifting.

Additionally, Howard was a second time gun offender and pled guilty to being a Certain Person Not to Have a Weapon.

This case stemmed from an investigation into shoplifting at the Lowes Home Improvement store in Butler in March 2016. Subsequently, an investigation was opened related to a car burglary at the Noah's Arc Preschool, also in Butler on March 31, 2016.

At that time, Howard left the scene to avoid contact with law enforcement and later entered a vacant home in Butler where he had been squatting. Howard left the home disguised as an old woman and was found at his grandparent's home a short time later.

Inside the home, Howard had a rifle, which he possessed unlawfully and pointed it at Butler Police Officer Jorge Reyes. Based on prior convictions, Howard was not legally permitted to possess a weapon.

Sentence was imposed by Superior Court Judge Thomas Critchley. The State was represented by Assistant Prosecutor Kelly Sandler in this matter.

(PNG, 23KB)Prosecutor Knapp said, On March 31, 2016, the life of Butler Police Officer Jorge Reyes was changed forever. While facing the worst imaginable scenario for an officer, Sergeant Reyes performed calmly under the pressure and I commend him for that.''

Knapp thanked Assistant Prosecutor Sandler and the Major Crimes Unit for their efforts in this case, as well as Butler Police Chief Ciro Chimento and his department for their work on the case.

Inquiries should be directed to Public Information Officer Peter DiGennaro at pressinquiry@co.morris.nj.us or 973-829-8159.