Mickleton Man Arrested & Charged With Multiple Offenses Including Criminal Attempt – Homicide, Aggravated Assault on Deptford Police Officer Following Disturbance at Mall

The Deptford Police Department announced the arrest of Michael Carberry, 43, of Mickleton following a disturbance at the Deptford Mall on Friday night.

On May 19, 2023 at approximately 7:33 pm, Deptford Township Police Patrol units were dispatched to the Deptford Mall for a report of a male who was allegedly harassing patrons and acting in a disorderly manner.

Patrol Officer Anthony Gatto arrived a short time later and made contact with the male, who was now on the second level of the Deptford Mall.

The male was asked to exit the property multiple times, to which he refused.

The subject, Carberry, then allegedly became confrontational regarding his expulsion from the property. In an effort to remove the male, Officer Gatto attempted to escort the male by guiding the subject by the arm.

The male allegedly shoved Officer Gatto’s hand away and refused to exit. As the suspect was being placed under arrest for the offenses of Defiant Trespass and Disorderly Conduct, the suspect took a bladed “Fighting Stance.”

Officer Gatto attempted to physically restrain the suspect, however Carberry was allegedly able to employ a “guillotine” chokehold on Officer Gatto, effectively cutting off the blood and oxygen supply of the officer.

While Carberry and the uniformed officer continued to struggle, a bystander was able to intercede and assisted Officer Gatto with escaping the chokehold and getting the suspect into handcuffs.

Officer Gatto suffered minor injuries during the incident and was treated by Gloucester County EMS.

Charges Filed

The suspect was formally charged with several offenses including: Criminal Attempt (Homicide), Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, and Defiant Trespass.

Carberry was subsequently lodged in Salem County Jail.

Statement from Chief Joe Smith

Chief Joe Smith made the following statement in reference to this incident: “Now, more than ever, we rely on the strength of community and the strength of each other. We value our relationships with the residents and stakeholders of Deptford Township and we are thankful that a mall patron had the bravery to intervene and assist our officer. For that, I am forever grateful.”

This case is being investigated by Det. Eric Bailey of the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office and Det. Mike Tirado of the Deptford Township Police Department.

You are asked to call (856)845-6300 or (856)845-2220 if you have any information regarding this incident.

All persons charged with crimes are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law.