The Fairfield Police Department announces the arrest of Marcelo Valencia-Solis, 44, of Hackensack, New Jersey, following an encounter on August 22, 2026, that resulted in multiple weapons charges, including aggravated assault on a police officer.
At approximately 10:07 PM, Fairfield Police Corporal Jeffrey Dean observed a black 2018 Harley-Davidson motorcycle traveling on Two Bridges Road without a visible license plate. Corporal Dean also observed that the operator was wearing a denim motorcycle vest displaying an upper rocker reading “Thunderguards” and a lower rocker reading “New Jersey,” which commonly indicates affiliation with the New Jersey chapter of the Thunderguards outlaw motorcycle gang.
Corporal Dean initiated a motor vehicle stop for the suspected violation.
During the stop, Valencia-Solis allegedly removed several motorcycle license plates from his saddlebag, including one that had been altered with electrical tape. When Corporal Dean asked whether Valencia-Solis possessed any items that would concern the officer, Valencia-Solis allegedly removed a switchblade from his pants pocket and held it in a manner in which the blade could readily be engaged.
Corporal Dean immediately ordered Valencia-Solis to drop the knife. When he failed to comply, Corporal Dean took hold of his wrist in an attempt to control the weapon. After repeatedly ordering Valencia-Solis to drop the knife, he eventually threw it to the ground.
As Corporal Dean attempted to place Valencia-Solis under arrest, Valencia-Solis allegedly continued to resist and repeatedly attempted to reach toward his waistband.
Detective Reo’s Immediate Response
At that moment, Hackensack Police Detective Michael Reo, who was off duty and at the nearby Wawa, observed the developing situation. Recognizing the potential danger to Corporal Dean, Detective Reo immediately responded to assist his fellow law enforcement officer.
Detective Reo intervened without hesitation, assisting Corporal Dean in gaining control of Valencia-Solis until additional Fairfield officers arrived on scene. Valencia-Solis was subsequently placed in handcuffs and taken into custody.
A search of Valencia-Solis incident to his arrest resulted in the recovery of a loaded Ruger .380-caliber handgun from his waistband.
Valencia-Solis was charged with unlawful possession of a handgun, unlawful possession of a switchblade, gang criminality, aggravated assault on a police officer, resisting arrest, and tampering with public records. He was remanded to the Essex County Correctional Facility pending an initial hearing in Superior Court.
Hackensack Police Chief Michael Antista commended the actions of both Corporal Dean and Detective Reo.
“This incident is a strong reminder of the ever-present dangers faced by law enforcement officers and how quickly a routine motor vehicle stop can escalate into a potentially deadly encounter. Corporal Dean demonstrated professionalism and courage throughout the incident, and I commend him for his actions.
“I also want to specifically recognize Hackensack Detective Michael Reo. Detective Reo was off duty, and yet when he saw a fellow officer in a dangerous situation, he immediately stepped forward to assist. His actions are a tremendous example of the commitment law enforcement officers have to one another and to the safety of our communities.
“The actions of Corporal Dean and Detective Reo reflect the courage, professionalism, and commitment that we expect from members of the law enforcement profession. Their quick response helped bring a dangerous situation to a safe conclusion.”
The Fairfield Police Department extends its appreciation to Detective Reo for his immediate response and assistance, as well as to Corporal Dean and the responding Fairfield officers who worked together to safely resolve the incident.
Please note: The charges against Valencia-Solis are merely allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless and until he pleads guilty or is found guilty in a court of law.
