Violent Beating Of New Jersey Teen Caught On Tape
By Robin Rieger
LUMBERTON, N.J. (CBS) -- It is hard to watch a videotape posted on YouTube of 18-year-old Justin Baker of Lumberton being beaten by two men, one police have identified as 19-year-old Joseph Abraham. On the tape, Baker is accused of stealing Abraham's video games.
"My first reaction was to cover up," Baker explained. "I got hit in the temple a couple times. You can hear me on video saying 'I can't see.'"
Lumberton Police say Abraham is facing simple assault charges in the attack Thursday at his Lumberton apartment. Police are still trying to identify the second man, who will also be charged.
Baker says Abraham's sister was also in the room. Police say they are exploring potential charges against whoever taped the incident and posted it on YouTube.
"It's a very violent fight," Lumberton Detective Thomas LaRosa said. He says the videotape clearly shows the beating and will help in court.
"With the video, there's no denying what happened," LaRosa explained.
"I was embarrassed and then ... full of rage," Baker said.
Instead of retaliating, Baker went to police, who he admits he's had trouble with in the past.
"I wanted to do what people were always telling me to do, do the right thing," Baker said.
CBS 3's Robin Rieger went to the apartment where the attack occurred for comment and had the door closed on her.
