Law enforcement agencies at the federal and state level are currently offering cash rewards for information leading to the arrest of multiple individuals wanted in connection with serious crimes tied to New Jersey.

Officials say the cases remain active and that public assistance may be critical, particularly where suspects are believed to have fled the state or the country. Reward offers are typically authorized when investigators determine that tips from the public could materially advance an investigation.

The list below reflects New Jersey–connected fugitives for whom authorities are publicly offering monetary rewards based on the most recent law-enforcement bulletins available at the time of publication.

Fugitives Authorities Are Offering Rewards For

Nazeer Hameed — Reward up to $50,000

Federal authorities are seeking Nazeer Hameed in connection with the 2017 killings of a woman and her six-year-old son in Maple Shade, Burlington County. Investigators believe Hameed fled the United States shortly after the incident. A cash reward is being offered for information leading to his arrest and prosecution.

Ricky Vargas — Reward up to $15,000

Ricky Vargas is wanted in connection with a fatal stabbing outside a bar in Garfield, Bergen County, in early 2024. Authorities say Vargas fled New Jersey following the incident, prompting a federal warrant for unlawful flight. Investigators continue to seek information regarding his whereabouts.

Paterson Bank Robbery Suspect — Reward up to $5,000

The FBI and local law enforcement agencies are offering a reward for information identifying a suspect wanted in connection with an armed bank robbery at a PNC Bank location in Paterson, Passaic County, in January 2024. Authorities say surveillance images and public tips remain key to the investigation.

Angel Gonzalez — Reward up to $5,000

Angel Gonzalez is wanted on multiple sexual assault charges tied to incidents reported in Essex County. According to law-enforcement officials, Gonzalez left the region to avoid prosecution. A reward remains available for information that leads to his arrest.

Why Law Enforcement Offers Cash Rewards

Law enforcement agencies authorize cash rewards in cases where investigators believe information from the public could be decisive. Rewards are offered for information, not apprehension, and tipsters may be eligible to remain anonymous depending on the agency involved.

Officials emphasize that reward programs are intended to generate credible leads that help resolve serious criminal investigations and enhance public safety.

What To Do If You Have Information

Authorities strongly advise the public not to approach or confront any wanted individual. Anyone with information related to these cases should contact local law enforcement or the appropriate agency immediately.

If a suspect is spotted and an immediate threat is present, call 911.

Editor’s Note

Individuals listed in this report are wanted in connection with active criminal investigations. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Reward amounts, charges, and case statuses are subject to change.

Sources

Federal Bureau of Investigation (Newark Field Office)
New Jersey State Police
New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice
U.S. Marshals Service
Public law-enforcement wanted bulletins