Justice caught up to a violent chapter in South Jersey’s recent criminal history as a Clementon man was convicted for his role in the deadly 2022 shooting of a Maple Shade resident. The verdict marks a major development in a case that shook the tight-knit Burlington County community and highlights the ongoing commitment of New Jersey’s law enforcement system to ensure accountability for violent crime.
After just over two hours of deliberation, a Burlington County jury returned a guilty verdict against Teon Macklin-Goodwine, 25, of Clementon. The charges stem from a brazen, fatal robbery attempt that left Ezekiel Sanders Jr., 32, dead outside his home at the Fox Meadow apartment complex.
Macklin-Goodwine was found guilty on several counts:
- Felony Murder (First Degree)
- Robbery (First Degree)
- Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (Second Degree)
- Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose (Second Degree)
- Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (Second Degree)
His sentencing has been set for August 29 at the Burlington County Courthouse in Mount Holly by Superior Court Judge Mark P. Tarantino, J.S.C.
A Tragic Night in Maple Shade
The deadly incident unfolded on the evening of January 16, 2022, when officers from the Maple Shade Police Department were called to the Fox Meadow apartment complex after reports of gunfire. On arrival, they found Sanders with gunshot wounds lying on Gardenia Drive. He was rushed to Jefferson Hospital in Cherry Hill, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.
Investigators soon pieced together a chilling picture: Macklin-Goodwine, along with co-defendant Gregory Berry, 24, of Glassboro, had come to the complex that night with the intent to commit a robbery. What followed turned fatal.
Co-Defendant Pleads Guilty
Berry, who cooperated with authorities, pled guilty to Aggravated Manslaughter (First Degree) last year as part of a plea agreement with the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office. He is currently awaiting sentencing and is expected to serve a recommended 17-year prison term under the terms of that deal.
Law Enforcement and Prosecution
This case represents the kind of interagency cooperation that defines New Jersey’s law enforcement community. The investigation was led jointly by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office and the Maple Shade Police Department, with crucial support from the Glassboro Police Department. Detective Sergeant Kevin Sobotka (BCPO) and Detective Brian Martino (MSPD) served as lead investigators.
Assistant Prosecutor Matt Lynch handled the prosecution, navigating a complex case that ultimately led to conviction.
Crime, Accountability, and Community Safety in New Jersey
This case underscores the unwavering resolve of New Jersey’s legal system to bring justice to victims and their families, while also sending a clear message to those who bring violence into our neighborhoods: accountability is real, and it is coming.
New Jersey, especially in regions like Burlington County, has made concerted efforts to prioritize public safety, modernize criminal investigations, and work across jurisdictions to crack down on violent crime. These efforts aren’t just felt in the courtroom—they’re reflected in safer communities and growing public trust in law enforcement.
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Final Thoughts
The conviction of Teon Macklin-Goodwine brings a sense of closure to a heartbreaking case, but it also shines a light on the dedication of New Jersey’s officers, detectives, prosecutors, and legal professionals who fight for justice day in and day out.
At Explore New Jersey, we remain committed to highlighting the stories that matter—the ones that impact our neighborhoods, reflect our values, and remind us all why law and order in the Garden State is not just a concept, but a living commitment to safety, fairness, and justice.