Middlesex County, New Brunswick, State of NJ

Workers Memorial Day 2024

April 26, 2024

On Workers Memorial Day, April 28, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration remembers and honors all the workers in New Jersey and across the country who have lost their lives due to an injury, illness or disease on the job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports approximately 5,486 people died as a result of workplace injuries in 2022.

In New Jersey, 32 workers lost their lives in 2023.

As we remember the fallen, we reflect on the lasting impact these fatalities have had on families, friends, co-workers and communities at-large, and mourn with all of them. These tragedies are compounded by the knowledge that most workplace fatalities are preventable when employers follow required safety standards, have proper controls in place and make safety and health programs a priority. Good jobs change lives. And good jobs are safe jobs.

A safe workplace isn’t a privilege; it’s every worker’s right.

On Workers Memorial Day and throughout the year, we all need to work together to make sure employers embrace safety and health as a core value in their operations so that every worker goes home safely, every day. We also must remember each one of us has a role to play. If you are aware of, or witness workplace dangers — or feel unsafe on the job — don’t ignore the hazards. Speak up and share your concerns with your employer. If nothing changes, contact your local OSHA office.  Reports can be made confidentially.

As we honor those workers unable to come home on Workers Memorial Day, let us all reaffirm our commitment to helping make sure that no one has to sacrifice their life for a paycheck.

-OSHA’s Administrator for the New York Region, Richard Mendelson

The writer for the above editorial is OSHA’s Administrator for the New York Region, Richard Mendelson

A Proclamation on Workers Memorial Day, 2024

A job is about more than a paycheck — it is about dignity and respect.  Our Nation’s workers built this country, and we need to have their backs.  On the most basic level, that means every worker in this Nation deserves to be safe on the job.  Too many still risk their lives or well-being in unsafe work conditions or dangerous roles.  On Workers Memorial Day, we honor our fallen and injured workers and recommit to making sure every worker has the peace of mind of knowing that they are protected at work and can return home safe to their families every night.

I am proud to be the most pro-labor President in history, and from day one, my Administration has fought to make workplaces safer and fairer.  Our American Rescue Plan invested $200 million into keeping workers safe during the pandemic and guaranteeing that workers had sick leave available if they got COVID-19.  We also used the full power of the Defense Production Act to deliver personal protective equipment to workers who needed it.  We vaccinated 230 million Americans so they could return to offices, stores, factory floors, and more without worrying about their health. 

Strong unions are at the core of all of this work.  Every major law that protects workers’ safety passed because unions fought for it.  That is why, as my Administration makes the biggest investment in our Nation’s infrastructure in generations, we are also incentivizing companies to hire union workers, pay prevailing wages, and support pre-apprenticeships and Registered Apprenticeships that help workers learn how to safely do the job.  At the same time, my Administration finalized a rule requiring Project Labor Agreements for most large-scale Federal construction projects, helping ensure these projects are completed safely, efficiently, and on time.

I am proud of my work standing up for unions, from being the first sitting President to walk a picket line to nominating union advocates to the National Labor Relations Board, which has helped protect the right to organize.  I also signed Executive Orders restoring and expanding collective bargaining rights for the Federal workforce, and I re-established labor-management forums at Federal agencies to ensure Federal workers on the job are heard.  I signed the Butch Lewis Act, protecting the pensions that millions of Americans worked their whole lives for.  I have expanded coverage through the Affordable Care Act and slashed prescription drug prices, making health care more affordable for millions of working families. 

At the same time, the Department of Labor has also made it easier for whistleblowers to report unsafe working conditions, regardless of their immigration status, and are hiring and training hundreds of workplace inspectors to ensure employers are meeting health and safety requirements.  Last year, my Administration issued the first-ever heat Hazard Alert to protect millions of farm, construction, and other workers who spend their days outside in increasingly extreme heat.  We also finalized a new rule to limit miners’ exposure to toxic silica dust — protecting more than 250,000 from its harmful effects.  The Department of Labor has also ramped up the enforcement of heat-safety rules, conducting more than 4,000 heat inspections in the past 2 years.  They have also completed over 65,000 workplace safety and health inspections since 2022, helping keep workers in high-risk industries safe.  Further, my Administration published a rule that allows workers to choose a representative to accompany an Occupational Safety and Health Administration official during a workplace inspection, ensuring workers are being heard.  The Department of Labor is working to develop a national standard to protect indoor and outdoor workers from extreme heat that can be hazardous to their health.

We are also fighting for the courageous first responders who routinely run toward danger to protect the rest of us.  The Department of Labor proposed a rule that would strengthen safety standards for emergency responder equipment, training, and vehicle operations for the first time in more than 40 years.  These new standards would transform many current industry best practices to requirements and could prevent thousands of injuries for more than one million brave first responders across the country.  I was also proud to sign the Federal Firefighters Fairness Act, which boosted pay for over 10,000 Federal firefighters to help recruit more to the job, because I know that nothing keeps firefighters safe like more firefighters.  We are also committed to protecting firefighters from the harmful effects of toxic “forever chemicals”, which are still too often found in firefighting equipment and fire suppression agents.  I signed legislation extending the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program to firefighters who are permanently disabled and to families of firefighters who die after experiencing trauma like PTSD — it will not bring their loved ones back, but we owe them.

Today, our Nation is in the midst of a great comeback.  Our economy is growing, wages are rising, and inflation is down.  We have created a record 15 million jobs.  On Workers Memorial Day, we recommit to making sure that every worker in this country is safe on the job.  We honor those who lost their lives or have been injured on the job; we stand by their families; and we stand with the labor unions that are fighting to guarantee every worker safety, dignity, and respect.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 28, 2024, as Workers Memorial Day.  I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate service, community, and education programs and ceremonies in memory of those killed or injured due to unsafe working conditions.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this

twenty-sixth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.

                             JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Middlesex County honors fallen workers at annual Workers Memorial Day event in New Brunswick 

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – In recognition of Workers Memorial Day, the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners gathered with local dignitaries, representatives from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and leaders from organized labor at the entrance of the Health & Life Science Exchange (HELIX) site on Paterson Street, New Brunswick on Friday, April 26.

“Workers Memorial Day is about remembering those hardworking Americans who lost their lives over the past year as a result of work-related incidents or illness,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “Let us pause for a moment to honor the workers who have passed and continue to commit ourselves to doing everything we can to safeguard workers and their families in the future.”

Speakers included Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios; New Jersey Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin; Michael McLaughlin, Vice President of the Middlesex County Building and Construction Trade Council; Wayne Martiak, President of the Middlesex County AFL-CIO Continuing Labor Council; and Patricia Jones, Area Director U.S. Department of Labor/OSHA, Avenel Area Office.

Held annually on April 28, Workers Memorial Day was established nationally in 1989 in honor of the date the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 went into effect.

Area Director OSHA Avenel Area Office Patricia Jones

Middlesex County AFL-CIO Continuing Labor Council President Wayne Martiak

Middlesex County Building and Construction Trades Council Vice President Michael McLaughlin

Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios

New Jersey Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin

Reverend Sean Winters from the Diocese of Metuchen

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Ocean County

Virginia Man Convicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl in Virginia and Ocean County, NJ Areas

April 26, 2024

NEWARK, N.J. – A Virginia man was convicted for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger announced today.

Djavon Holland, 37, of Virginia, was convicted on April 15, 2024, by a federal jury of two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl following trial before U.S. District Judge Peter G. Sheridan in Trenton federal court.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial:

In August 2021, law enforcement officials received information that Holland was engaged in narcotics trafficking in or around the Virginia area and New Jersey. On Aug. 12, 2021, a confidential source working with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office contacted Holland to arrange a meeting with a confidential source working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). On several occasions, Holland drove to New Jersey and sold fentanyl to ATF’s confidential source.

The narcotics offenses each carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of $5 million. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the ATF, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller, and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, with the investigation leading to the conviction.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan N. Linares and Jenny Chung of the Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.

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Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
Lacey, Monmouth County, Ocean, Ocean County

Forked River Man Convicted of Murdering Wife

April 26, 2024

FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An Ocean County man has been convicted of fatally strangling his wife following an argument and leaving her body on the side of a road in Ocean Township about a year and a half ago, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.

A jury returned a guilty verdict against 53-year-old Jeremy B. Cruz of Forked River following a trial before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Jill G. O’Malley.

Just after 1 a.m. on Sunday, October 30, 2022, a woman who appeared to have sustained severe injuries was observed by a concerned motorist on Colonial Avenue, near the intersection with Asbury Avenue. Upon responding, Ocean Township Police Department officers located the victim, identified as 51-year-old Dawn C. Cruz, who was pronounced dead at the scene.     

At approximately the same time, Jeremy Cruz turned himself in to authorities at Berkeley Township Police Department headquarters in Ocean County. A joint investigation by members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean Township Police Department, Asbury Park Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and Berkeley Township Police Department led to a charge of first-degree Murder.

Cruz was indicted in January 2023. At trial, which began last week, the State disproved the defendant’s intoxication defense, leading to the conviction.

This case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Caitlin J. Sidley and Carey J. Huff. Cruz was represented by Adam Mitchell, Esq., and Deven Ferrara, Esq.  

“This conviction happened to coincide with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and it’s difficult to conceive of a crime more senseless, or a victim more deserving of justice, than a person killed by their spouse over nothing more than a simple argument,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “We sincerely thank the jury for their service in this matter and hope that the verdict delivers some small measure of solace to Dawn’s friends, family, and loved ones.”

 Sentencing in the case has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 14 before Judge O’Malley, at which time Cruz will face a term of up to life in state prison.  

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Uncategorized

Fatal Crash in Manalapan Under Investigation

April 26, 2024

MANALAPAN, NJ (MONMOUTH) – A fatal crash that took place in Manalapan yesterday morning is under active investigation, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.

Shortly before 4:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, members of the Manalapan Police Department responded to the area of U.S. Route 9 and Ryan Road to find the two vehicles involved in the crash: a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee and a 2017 Nissan Sentra, operated by an adult male and an adult female, respectively.

The driver of the Nissan was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Cherokee remained on scene and was hospitalized for minor injuries.

An investigation involving members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Serious Collision Analysis Response Team (SCART), and the Manalapan Police Department remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information about this matter is being asked to contact MCPO Detective Brian Boryszewski at 800-533-7443 or Manalapan Police Department Patrolman Michael DeCristofaro at 732-446-4300.

No charges or summonses have been issued with regard to the incident at this time.

Mercer County, Trenton

Art All Night Trenton Set to return in June 2024

April 26, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–It’s back! Mark your calendars for Art All Night Trenton 2024, presented by
Artworks Trenton. This 24-hour event will feature art, music, and more for the whole family.

In-person programming will take place at the Trenton War Memorial on Saturday, June 29th
from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. and begin again on Sunday, June 30th from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. A virtual component will take place for the full 24 hours and be accessed on the Art All Night website and socials.

“Art All Night will happen this year! This event has been a huge fundraiser for Artworks. We are looking for donations, volunteers, and most importantly art submissions from the community. Since Art All Night is at the War Memorial, we want to highlight the local businesses and restaurants in the area,” said Craig Shofed, Managing Director of Artworks Trenton.

“I am thrilled to see the return of Art All Night, a beloved tradition that celebrates the vibrant creativity of our community,” Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said.  “This event not only showcases the incredible talent within the capital city area, but also serves as an economic engine and opportunity to support our local business and restaurants. I encourage everyone to mark their calendars for June 29th and 30th to experience the incredible art, music, and culture, that will be on display at the War Memorial.”

Not only is Art All Night Artwork’s biggest fundraiser but it encompasses what the creative hub does all year round in one event. Artworks strives to provide artists of all skill levels a
professional platform and diverse interactive programming accessible to all. Overall, inspiring, empowering and inviting the world to witness the incredible artistry and culture within the Capital City.

“Art All Night can only happen with the support of our sponsors, donors, and most importantly, the volunteers. Things will look a little different this year in our beautiful new home, the Trenton War Memorial, but you can expect all the fan favorites like hundreds of pieces of art, master classes and demos, musical performances, the film festival, and more!” said Addison Vincent, Artistic Director of Artworks Trenton.

To find out more info, become a sponsor, volunteer, donate, and submit art, please go to
www.artallnighttrenton.org

File photos: Art All Night 2018

Mercer County, Trenton

Trenton Starbucks to Close, Employees offered Jobs at Other Locations

April 26, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora stated, it is with mixed emotions that I acknowledge the closing of the Capital City’s only Starbucks Community Store located on South Warren Street. While saddened by this closure, I want to express my gratitude to Starbucks Corporate for their collaboration with the city throughout this process.

From the outset, our priority has been to ensure that the dedicated Trenton workers impacted by this closure are supported in finding suitable opportunities. I am pleased to report that Starbucks has been proactive in offering these employees positions at other locations within their network, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of our community.

While the closure of the South Warren Street store is indeed a loss, I remain optimistic about the future. The City of Trenton and Starbucks have maintained an open dialogue, exploring potential avenues for future collaboration and investment in our community. Together, we are committed to fostering growth and opportunities for our residents.

I urge our residents to continue supporting local businesses, as they are the lifeblood of our community. As we navigate this transition, let us remain resilient and united in our efforts to build a stronger, more vibrant Trenton downtown for generations to come.

File photo: Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora

File photo

Brick, Lakewood, Ocean County, Toms River

Toms River Woman Pleads Guilty to Robbery, Assault and Narcotics Possession

April 24, 2024

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 22, 2024, Olivia Paige, 35, of Toms River, pled guilty to Robbery before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., in connection with an incident that occurred on August 29, 2023, in Lakewood Township.  Additionally, Paige pled guilty to Possession of Cocaine in connection with an incident that occurred on January 11, 2023, also in Brick Township.  Finally, Paige pled guilty to Aggravated Assault in connection with an incident that occurred on April 14, 2023, likewise in Lakewood.  At the time of her sentencing on June 28, 2024, the State will be seeking a term of eight years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) – subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act – as to the Robbery charge, three years NJSP as to the narcotics offense, and 18 months NJSP as to the Aggravated Assault charge.  The sentences are to run concurrently.

On August 29, 2023, Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department were summoned to the area of Clifton Avenue for a reported robbery.  Responding Officers determined that a female was sitting in her car on Clifton Avenue, when she was approached by a female suspect who brandished a knife and demanded money.  The victim handed the suspect money, at which time the suspect fled the area.  The Officers were able to ascertain a detailed description of the suspect.  A short time later, the Officers located the suspect – later identified as Paige – at a nearby eatery.  Paige was taken into custody without incident; she was searched incident to arrest, and found to be in possession of a five-inch utility knife.  Paige was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where she has been detained since August 29, 2023.

On January 11, 2023, Officers from the Brick Township Police Department were summoned to a convenience store on Maple Avenue for a reported shoplifting.  An investigation by responding Officers determined that Paige was responsible for taking items from the store without paying for them.  Paige was located behind the store with the missing items, and taken into custody without incident.  Paige was searched incident to arrest, and found to be in possession of cocaine.  Paige was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

On April 14, 2023, Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department were dispatched to the area of First Street for a report of a disorderly female.  Responding Officers found that the female – later identified as Paige – was shouting profanities and acting in an erratic manner.  As Officers attempted to subdue Paige, she spit in their faces.  Paige was taken into custody, transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Shanon Chant-Berry who handled these cases on behalf of the State, and commends the Lakewood Township Police Department and Brick Township Police Department for their efforts in connection with these investigations – leading to Paige’s guilty pleas, and soon her state prison sentence.

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Asbury Park, Monmouth County

Asbury Park Man Sentenced to 40-Years for Home Invasion and Sexual Assault

April 24, 2024

FREEHOLD – An Asbury Park man who entered a stranger’s home in 2021, threatened and robbed two occupants at knifepoint, and sexually assaulted one of them has been sentenced to 40 years in state prison for the crime, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.

Shawn Connolly, 37, was sentenced Tuesday by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Henry P. Butehorn, who also noted that the term is subject to New Jersey’s No Early Release Act, which mandates that 85 percent be served prior to the possibility of parole.

Shortly before 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, members of the Asbury Park Police Department responded to a home on 7th Avenue for a 911 call. Upon arrival, they immediately located Connolly and took him into custody without incident, recovering proceeds from the robbery in his pockets.  

An investigation by members of the Prosecutor’s Office and the Asbury Park Police Department determined that shortly before the officers’ arrival, the two victims, an adult male and female, suddenly awoke to Connolly in their bedroom wielding a knife and threatening to harm them, having entered through a kitchen window. During the course of the robbery, the female victim was sexually assaulted by Connolly after he ordered the male to leave the room to retrieve cash; as he did so, the male victim also called 911 and left the line open.

Connolly was indicted in November 2021 before the case proceeded to trial in September 2023. Following a little more than two weeks of proceedings, the jury delivered guilty verdicts on charges of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, first-degree Armed Robbery, second-degree Burglary, second-degree Sexual Assault, third-degree Making Terroristic Threats, and three related weapons offenses. In accordance with his sentence, Connolly will also be required to register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and remain subject to Parole Supervision for Life.

This case was tried by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Keri Schaefer and Christopher Ammon. Connolly was represented by John M. Murphy III, Esq., of Staten Island. 

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Freehold, Monmouth County

52-Count Indictment Returned Against Former Gas Station Attendant Accused of Thefts

April 24, 2024

FREEHOLD – A Monmouth County Grand Jury has returned a 52-count indictment against a former gas station attendant charged with stealing thousands of dollars from more than a dozen customers during the course of his work shifts, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.

Patrick A. Brown, 48, of Newark is charged with 13 counts apiece of third-degree Credit Card Fraud, third-degree False Uttering, third-degree Theft, and fourth-degree Credit Card Theft.

An investigation led by Sgt. Sean Foley of the Freehold Township Police Department revealed that the thefts took place during a limited amount of time in August 2023, with each following a similar pattern. Brown would accept a credit card or debit card from a customer at the Wawa on U.S. Route 9 North, then quickly swipe it through an attached device on his personal phone, funneling hundreds of dollars at a time into a bank account he controlled, before using the card to pay for the legitimate orders of gasoline.

Brown was criminally charged the same week as the report of the initial theft, then charged with more offenses as additional victims became known. His next appearance in Monmouth County Superior Court is scheduled for Monday, May 6.

Anyone with information about Brown’s activities, or anyone who believes they may have been victimized, is urged to contact Sgt. Foley at 732-252-1950 or sfoley@twp.freehold.nj.us.

This case is being prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Fronk. Brown is being represented by Terence Van Dzura, Esq., with an office in East Brunswick.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

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Burlington

Burlington County Couple Convicted of Forced Labor and Other Federal Crimes

April 24, 2024

CAMDEN, N.J. – A Burlington County, New Jersey, couple was convicted today of forced labor and other crimes related to their coercive scheme to compel two victims to perform domestic labor and childcare in their home, harbor the victims knowing that they were unlawfully present in the United States and unlawfully confiscate the victims’ passports, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger and Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced.

Bolaji Bolarinwa, 50, was found guilty of two counts of forced labor, one count of alien harboring for financial gain and two counts of document servitude following a two-week trial before U.S. District Judge Karen M. Williams in Camden federal court. The jury also convicted Isiaka Bolarinwa, 67, of two counts of forced labor and one count of alien harboring for financial gain. The defendants were each acquitted of a second count of alien harboring for financial gain.

“These defendants engaged in an egregious bait-and-switch, luring the victims with false promises of a life and an education in the United States, and instead subjected them to grueling hours, physical abuse and psychological abuse,” U.S. Attorney Sellinger said. “Forced labor and human trafficking are abhorrent crimes that have no place in our society, and I am grateful to our team of prosecutors, agents and support staff for ensuring that justice was done in this case.”

“The defendants exploited the victims’ trust and then inflicted physical and mental abuse against them, all so they could keep the victims working for their profit,” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division said. “Human trafficking is a heinous crime, and this verdict should send the very clear message that the Justice Department will investigate and vigorously prosecute these cases to hold human traffickers accountable and bring justice to their victims.”

“Imagine showing up in a foreign land, hoping for a better life, and ending up trapped with no place to go and no one to turn to for help,” FBI Newark Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy said. “The victims in this investigation suffered in unimaginable ways at the hands of their captors, enduring years of physical and mental abuse. Human trafficking often takes on many different forms and can hide in plain sight. I want to commend the agents and victim specialists who worked on this case, alongside our partners at the US Attorney’s Office. We want everyone to know if you or anyone you know is a victim – you can come to us for help. We will bring your tormentors to justice.”

According to documents filed in this case and the evidence at trial:

From December 2015 to October 2016, Bolaji and Isiaka Bolarinwa – originally from Nigeria, but living in New Jersey as U.S. citizens – recruited two victims to come to the United States and then coerced them to perform domestic labor and childcare services for their children through physical harm, threats of physical harm, isolation, constant surveillance and psychological abuse. The defendants engaged in this venture knowing that both victims were out of lawful status while working in their home.

Once the first victim arrived in the United States in December 2015, Bolaji Bolarinwa confiscated her passport and coerced her through threats of physical harm to her and her daughter, verbal abuse, isolation and constant surveillance to compel her to work every day, around-the-clock for nearly a year. Isiaka was aware of his wife’s threats and abusive behavior toward the victim and directly benefited from the victim’s cooking, cleaning and childcare. The defendants then recruited a second victim to come to the United States on a student visa. When the second victim arrived in the United States in April 2016, Bolaji Bolarinwa similarly confiscated her passport and coerced her to perform household work and childcare but relied more heavily on physical abuse. On at least one occasion, Isiaka Bolarinwa also physically abused the second victim, and he was aware of his wife’s coercive, abusive behavior toward the second victim and directly benefited from her cleaning and childcare. The two victims lived and worked in the Bolarinwa home until October 2016, when the second victim notified a professor at her college, who reported the information to the FBI.

The defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each forced labor count. The defendants face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the alien harboring count and Bolaji faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each unlawful document conduct count. They will also be required to pay mandatory restitution to the two victims and each face a fine on each count of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or gross loss from the offense, whichever is greatest.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Dennehy in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty verdict.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Elizabeth Hutson of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit.

Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit https://humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at https://www.justice.gov/humantrafficking. 

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Defense counsel:
Bolaji Bolarinwa: Jeff Zucker Esq., Camden
Isiaka Bolarinwa: Robert Gamburg Esq., Philadelphia

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Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County, Trenton

Cold Case Investigation Leads to Arrest and Charges in 2008 Ewing Township Homicide

April 22, 2024

TRENTON — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced that an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force (MCHTF) in conjunction with the New Jersey Attorney General’s Cold Case Network has resulted in the charging of two suspects in connection with the 2008 robbery and fatal beating of Leroy Julious in Ewing Township, New Jersey.

Breyon Goodman, 36, of Trenton, and Jason Howard, 41, are each charged by complaint with Murder (1st degree), Felony Murder (1st degree), and Robbery (1st degree). Goodman was arrested in Trenton on April 15, 2024, by members of the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office has filed a motion to detain him pending trial. Howard, 41, was served his complaints in Rhode Island, where he is incarcerated for an unrelated incident.

According to the public documents filed in the case, on May 9, 2008, Ewing Police responded to the report of a caller stating that the victim, Leroy Julious, was injured and on the ground, bleeding. Upon arrival, officers observed a vehicle parked diagonally in front of a residence at the scene. There were multiple individuals on scene, including Howard, who was standing outside of the open driver’s door of the vehicle. Witnesses directed officers to Mr. Julious, who was lying on the ground in a gravel lot. The victim had severe head trauma, with blood on his face, head and neck, and officers noticed his pockets were turned inside out. Mr. Julious was pronounced dead at the scene.

As alleged, investigation revealed robbery to be a potential motive in the case. Officers learned that Mr. Julious was known to carry money and that his wallet was not on him when he was found. As alleged in the complaint affidavit, investigation also indicated that the assault on Mr. Julious started in the garage carport of a nearby house and his body was dragged to the empty gravel lot.

In March 2023, the Mercer County Homicide Task Force received new information and the case was reopened. At the direction of Prosecutor Onofri, the case was presented to the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability’s (OPIA’s) Regional Cold Case Task Force. In the fall of 2023, all viable physical evidence was resubmitted to the NJSP Central Regional Laboratory, including DNA evidence. Technological advancements in forensic science provided new information related to the case.

“For 16 years the senseless, cruel death of Leroy Julious has gone unsolved,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “But law enforcement did not forget, and did not give up. We hope the charges bring a measure of relief to the victim’s grieving loved ones.”

“Dogged detective work, technological advances, inter-agency cooperation, and a shared, unflagging desire for answers and accountability for this terrible crime have brought about these charges,” said Thomas J. Eicher, Executive Director of the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability. “This development in this long-dormant case demonstrates the effectiveness of the cooperation and capabilities of the Cold Case Network.”

“These detectives are relentless in the pursuit of justice,” said Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri. “The technological and investigative resources made possible through this collaboration of law enforcement agencies are invaluable, and I’m grateful to the Attorney General’s Office for the formation of the Cold Case Task Force. Now we are able to announce charges and provide Mr. Julious’ family with answers after all of these years.”

“We are continuing to investigate this murder and are asking for the public’s help,” Prosecutor Onofri continued. “Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact MCHTF detectives at (609) 989-6406 or mchtftips@mercercounty.org.”

Attorney General Platkin and Prosecutor Onofri commended all of the New Jersey Cold Case Task Force’s participating agencies, including the Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. They also expressed their appreciation to the NJSP Office of Forensic Sciences, the NJSP Central Regional Laboratory, the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force, the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, and the Ewing Police Department, under the direction of Chief Albert Rhodes, for their assistance.

The charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

First-degree Murder and Felony Murder crimes carry a sentencing exposure of 30 years to life in state prison and fine of up to $200,000. First-degree Robbery crimes carry a sentence of up to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. The potential sentences are provided solely for informational purposes, as any potential sentence is determined by a judge.

Jackson, Ocean County, Toms River

Jackson Township Man Charged with Two Counts of Assault by Auto

April 22, 2024

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 20, 2024, Erick Perez-Ramirez, 40, of Jackson, was charged with two counts of Assault by Auto, in connection with an automobile crash that occurred in Toms River during the early morning hours of April 20, 2024.

On April 20, 2024, at approximately 4:45 a.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department responded to the area of Bay Avenue and Ethan Court for a report of a serious motor vehicle crash.  An initial investigation by responding Officers determined that a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado operated by Perez-Ramirez and containing front seat passenger Viviana Arciniegas-Diaz, 33, of Toms River, and rear seat passengers William Rubiano, 31, and Maria Vega-Diaz, 33, both of Toms River, was traveling eastbound on Bay Avenue when it failed to negotiate a right hand turn in the roadway.  The Silverado then left the roadway and struck a tree.  As a result of the crash, Ms. Arciniegas and Ms. Vega-Diaz were transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of their injuries.  They are both listed in stable condition.  Mr. Rubiano and Perez-Ramirez were uninjured and remained at the scene.

Responding Officers observed that Perez-Ramirez appeared to be intoxicated at the scene of the crash.  Based upon those observations, Officers attempted to administer the standardized field sobriety tests (FSTs) to Perez-Ramirez.  Perez-Ramirez was unable to successfully perform the FSTs; as such, he was charged with Driving Under the Influence and placed under arrest.  Perez-Ramirez was thereafter transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where a draw of his blood was obtained pursuant to a court-authorized warrant.  The results of the blood draw remain pending.  Perez-Ramirez was subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.

Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad, Toms River Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.

The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

R.P.C.  3.6(b)(6).

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
Ocean County, Toms River

Toms River Man Charged with Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography

April 22, 2024

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 21, 2024, Edward Lynch, 52, of Toms River, was charged with Distribution of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.

This investigation was the result of a referral from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).  NCMEC received cyber-tips that an individual was downloading images of child pornography from the internet; an investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit identified an IP address associated with a residence in Toms River as the location from which the individual was downloading these images.

On August 24, 2023, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, and Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit, executed a court-authorized search warrant on the subject residence.  As a result, Detectives seized multiple electronic devices from the residence.  An initial forensic examination of the devices by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit led to the discovery of more than 1000 items of child pornography.  Further investigation revealed that Lynch was the individual responsible for downloading the child pornography in question.  On August 24, 2023, Lynch was charged with Possession of Child Pornography.  Lynch was taken into custody at his residence without incident; he was thereafter transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

In furtherance of the investigation, a full forensic examination on all seized electronic devices by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit revealed that Lynch knowingly distributed more than 1000 items of Child Pornography by using the internet applications of Telegram, Session, and Wickr Me.  As a consequence, Lynch was additionally charged on April 21, 2024 with Distribution of Child Pornography, along with a second count of Possession of Child Pornography.  On that date, Lynch surrendered himself to Toms River Township Police Headquarters.  He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.

Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit, and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation.

The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

R.P.C.  3.6(b)(6).

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
Cape May

AG Platkin Announces Former Mayor of Wildwood Indicted on New Charges Stemming from Solicitation of Job from City Attorney, Unreported Income

April 22, 2024

TRENTON — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) announced today that a state grand jury has returned a new indictment against former Wildwood Mayor Peter J. Byron, accusing him of abusing his official position to request a job from a city attorney, then failing to pay state taxes on his earnings from that position for years.

A new seven-count indictment was filed on April 16, 2024, against Byron, 68, of Wildwood, New Jersey, who resigned from office in September 2023. He has been accused of the following new offenses:

  • Official misconduct – 2nd degree
  • Tampering with public records – 3rd degree
  • Falsifying or tampering with records – 4th degree
  • Failure to pay tax – 3rd degree (two counts)
  • Filing a fraudulent return – 3rd degree (two counts).

According to the allegations in the indictment, Byron, who had been elected as a city commissioner before serving as mayor, used his official position as a commissioner to unlawfully pursue and obtain employment from an attorney who had a contract with the City of Wildwood and held official appointed positions with the City.

It is further alleged that Byron submitted required annual financial disclosure statements to the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs in which he failed to properly identify the job with the attorney as a source of income in 2017 and 2018.

Additionally, the investigation revealed that Byron failed to pay required state income tax on income earned from New Jersey sources in 2017 and 2018. The investigation found Byron’s New Jersey income tax return falsely omitted required New Jersey-sourced income earned during those years.

“As alleged, the former mayor inappropriately used his power and influence for unlawful personal financial gain, betraying the public’s trust,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Elected officeholders are expected to serve the public, not use their authority to line their own pockets.”

“The former mayor had a clear conflict of interest in seeking and accepting this job, given his power over the city contracts and appointments of his employer,” said OPIA Executive Director Thomas J. Eicher. “Cashing in unlawfully on positions of power damages the public’s confidence in government, and this indictment should send a message that those who do so will be held accountable.” 

Byron was previously indicted in a separate matter on state charges for allegedly fraudulently participating in the State Health Benefits Program. The investigation revealed that Byron and his codefendants in that matter were never eligible for benefits because they were never “full-time” employees as defined by state law, which requires elected officials to have work hours fixed at 35 or more hours per week to be eligible. It is alleged, however, that the defendants fraudulently enrolled in the SHBP and received publicly funded health benefits. That case is pending.

Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. Third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. Fourth-degree offenses could lead to up to 18 months in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The case is being prosecuted by OPIA Deputy Attorneys General Brian Uzdavinis and Niccole Sandora, under the supervision of OPIA Corruption Bureau Deputy Chiefs Andrew Wellbrock and Jeffrey J. Manis and OPIA Executive Director Eicher.

Defense attorney:

Eric Shenkus, Deputy Public Defender, Cape May Court House, New Jersey

Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron Facebook Page that has been since deactivated.

Grand Jury Indicts Wildwood Mayor, Former Mayor, City Commissioner Over Alleged Fraudulent Participation in State Health Insurance Program 
Mayor Of Wildwood, NJ Pleads Guilty To Two Counts In Preparation Of Fraudulent Tax Returns
Acting AG Platkin Announces Charges Against Wildwood Mayor, Former Mayor, and City Commissioner for Fraudulently Participating in State Health Insurance Program
Mercer County, Robbinsville, Robbinsville

Levittown, PA Man Struck and Killed on New Jersey Turnpike in Robbinsville

April 22, 2024

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Sgt. Jeffrey Lebron of the New Jersey State Police, Office of Public Information told MidJersey.news that Troopers responded to a motor vehicle crash this morning April 22, 2024, at 2:17 a.m. on the New Jersey Turnpike south milepost 64.1 on the inner roadway in Robbinsville Township, Mercer County.

Based on a preliminary investigation, in the area of milepost 64.1, a BMW 428i and a BMW X3 were involved in a collision, becoming disabled within the southbound lanes of the New Jersey Turnpike inner roadway. A BMW 328i was traveling southbound and collided with the unoccupied and disabled BMW 428i. After the collision, the driver of the BMW 328i parked on the right shoulder and exited the vehicle. A Hyundai passenger vehicle was traveling southbound and collided with the disabled 428i, subsequently striking a pedestrian and the rear of the parked 328i. 

As a result of the crash, the pedestrian associated with the BMW 328i, Alton Smith, a 30-year-old male from Levittown, PA, sustained fatal injuries. The driver of the Hyundai sustained minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital. There were no other injuries reported. The crash remains under investigation, and there is no additional information available.