September 30, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A candle light vigil was held at Waterfront Park tonight for 15-year-old shooting victim Shemiah Davis who was killed by senseless gun violence on September 25, 2021.
Photos by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
Month: September 2021
September 30, 2021
WASHINGTON – Legislation supported by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to provide more than $8.1 million in Community Disaster Loan (CDL) forgiveness for Jersey Shore towns in the Fourth Congressional District impacted by Superstorm Sandy passed the House of Representatives and was signed into law today as part of a stopgap measure to avoid a government shutdown.
“This long-awaited Community Disaster Loan forgiveness is greatly welcomed and much-needed relief for our local towns and communities that were devastated by Superstorm Sandy,” said Rep. Smith, who voted for the measure on the House Floor. “Nearly nine years after Sandy, our towns have finally received the reprieve they both need and deserve—and were originally assured—from these difficult payments.”
Mayors from Point Pleasant Beach and Manasquan, two of the towns in Smith’s district slated to receive CDL forgiveness, thanked Smith for his tireless efforts to secure the significant relief that will free up funds for critical municipal projects and other needed local improvements.
“Point Pleasant Beach is so grateful to have an attentive and hardworking member like Congressman Chris Smith representing us,” said Mayor Paul Kanitra. “He listened to our needs regarding CDL forgiveness, and he and his staff put in countless hours to make this a reality. We expect the effects of this to save the Borough close to $1 million dollars.
“This is a big deal,” said Manasquan Mayor Ed Donovan. “This represents hundreds of thousands of dollars that we would’ve had to repay, that we can now use for other needed projects and improvements in Manasquan. There is no lack of projects we need funding.”
In addition to securing relief for New Jersey towns, the legislation will also provide assistance to other eligible towns across the country with outstanding Community Disaster Loans.
Administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the CDL program provides operational funding for local governments to continue basic operations after substantial revenue loss caused by a major disaster, such as Superstorm Sandy, that adversely affects their ability to provide essential municipal services.
September 30, 2021–Update from yesterday’s accident
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)—New Jersey State Police stated that 14 occupants traveling in a Ford Econoline van traveling north in the area of mile post 59 yesterday were injured around 3:25 p.m. The van went off the road to the right, struck the guardrail, reentered the roadway and overturned. Of the 14 occupants, four were ejected and one sustained fatal injuries, two sustained serious injuries and the rest sustained minor injuries.
The driver, Silvestre Diaz, 33, of Camden, NJ sustained minor injuries. Passenger, Daniel Del Carmen Marmol Batista, 55, of Ridgewood, NY sustained fatal injuries. 47-year-old female passenger and 19-year-old male passenger sustained serious injuries.
The right and center lanes were closed for about 5 hours. The accident remains under investigation.
September 29, 2021
EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–Mayor Janice S. Mironov and Council Members Peter Yeager, Marc Lippman, Alan Rosenberg and John Zoller joined owner Imtiyaz Ahmad for the Grand Opening of the new restaurant Spice Wok in Windsor Center at the intersection of Route 130 South and Route 571.
Mayor Mironov stated, “East Windsor is excited to welcome this new Asian Fusion restaurant Spice Wok to complement the many varied culinary choices offered in the Township. This new eatery offers a variety of Asian dishes in their spacious restaurant or convenient take-out service at their highly visible location in Windsor Center on Route 130 South”.
Family-owned Spice Wok offers a variety of popular Asian Fusion cuisine, such as chicken, beef, lamb, seafood, and vegetable entrees prepared in a variety of ways including traditional Mongolian, Manchurian, Szechuan and Thai styles. Spice Wok, which is occupying the corner space, joins other Windsor Center businesses including Aldi, Staples, Ross Dress for Less, and Retro Fitness. The restaurant offers dine-in and take-out service for customer convenience. Current hours of operation for Spice Wok are Tuesday through Sunday 11 A.M. to 10 P.M. Ordering is available via phone at (609) 308-2070 or on their website at www.spice-wok.com.
September 29, 2021
PLAINSBORO-SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, Chief Fred Tavener
of the Plainsboro Police Department, and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announce authorities are investigating an aggravated sexual assault that occurred in the area of Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park on the border of Plainsboro and South Brunswick Townships.
A joint investigation has determined, on September 28, 2021, between 4:30 P.M. and 5:00 P.M., an adult woman was walking on a path adjacent to the canal where she was approached by a male armed with a weapon and moved to a secondary location on the Plainsboro-South Brunswick border where she was sexually assaulted.
The suspect is believed to be a Hispanic male, approximately 5’5”-5’6” tall, wearing dark-colored clothing and a dark baseball cap.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information
or surveillance footage of the area is asked to contact Detective Sue
Kowalski of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-3287, Detective Patrick Miller of the Plainsboro Police Department at (609)799- 2333, or Detective Dominick Delucia of the South Brunswick Police Department at (732)329-4646. Tips may also be submitted to http://www.middlesextips.com.
September 29, 2021
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on September 29, 2021, Michael Mahan, 38, of Ewing Township, pled guilty to Eluding in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b, Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b, Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(2), and Driving While Intoxicated in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, before the Honorable Michael T. Collins, J.S.C., in connection with a series of events that transpired in Jackson Township on May 8, 2021. At the time of his sentencing on November 19, 2021, the State will recommend a term of eight years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) as to the Eluding charge, and five years NJSP as to the Terroristic Threats and Aggravated Assault charges. The sentences are to run concurrently.
On May 8, 2021, Jackson Township Police Officers responded to a 911 call for a report of a stabbing incident on Maria Street. Responding Officers discovered a female with a large slash across her face. An investigation conducted by the Jackson Township Police revealed that the female victim had been followed to her residence by Mahan. Mahan held a knife to the victim’s neck, threatened to kill her, and then punched her in the face while holding the knife, thereby causing a laceration to her face. As a neighbor intervened and called 911, Mahan fled the area. Mahan’s vehicle was observed by Officers traveling on Toms River Road. A pursuit was initiated, and Mahan fled at a high rate of speed. As Mahan was attempting to navigate a turn onto West Veterans Highway, he struck another vehicle. As he continued travelling at a high rate of speed on West Veterans Highway, Mahan’s vehicle collided with yet another vehicle – forcing it off the road. Mahan’s vehicle traveled approximately 500 more feet before it became disabled; he was subsequently taken into custody without incident.
Mahan was initially transported to Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus in Lakewood for the purpose of securing a blood sample to determine whether he was operating the motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs; laboratory results from the blood draw later confirmed that Mahan’s blood alcohol level was .14 – nearly twice the legal limit under New Jersey law. Mahan was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has been lodged since May 8, 2021.
The female victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The occupants of the two vehicles struck by Mahan were treated at the scene for minor injuries. Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Veni who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as Jackson Township Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation leading to Mahan’s apprehension, guilty plea, and soon his state prison sentence.
Update here:
September 29, 2021
By: Tyler Eckel
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP (MERCER)– Multiple Fire & EMS agencies are on the scene of a serious crash in the Northbound lanes of I-295.
Hamilton Fire Department was dispatched to the area of Mile Marker 59 around 3:25 this afternoon on a reported serious crash with entrapment. Preliminary reports indicate that at least 15 people were injured in the crash.
The Southbound lanes were temporarily shut down for medical helicopters to land, but were quickly reopened when all patients were taken by ground. Northbound lanes remain completely shut down at the time of this post.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
Update here:
Additional Update here: BREAKING: Multiple injured in serious wreck on I-295
September 29, 2021 Update the south bound was reopened but heavy rubberneck delay south of the I-195/Route29 Interchange 1 Northbound will be closed for quite some time. This is in the area of Mile Marker 59
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 3:24 p.m. a serious accident occurred on I-295 in Hamilton Township in the area of the Scenic Overlook closing the highway in both directions. Multiple fire department responded to the scene and 9 ambulances and 2 paramedic units and 3 medical helicopters were called to the scene for reports of around 15 persons injured in the accident.
This is a preliminary report, NJSP has been contacted for official information, please avoid the area.
https://6abc.com/video/embed/?pid=11061543
September 29, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–At today’s meeting of the State Investment Council, Treasury’s Division of Investment reported that New Jersey’s Pension Fund generated a final, unaudited return of 28.63 percent for the 12-month period ending June 30, 2021, far surpassing any annual return on record for the last 20 years, as well as the 7.3 percent statutory assumed rate of return for Fiscal Year 2021 (FY 2021).
The fund also outperformed its benchmark of 26.28 percent by 235 basis points.
“This has been a historic year for New Jersey’s pension fund, both in reaching the milestone of making the first 100 percent actuarially determined contribution in 25 years, and now, with today’s news regarding our returns for the year,” said State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio. “Taking a look at the 20 year snapshot, this year’s returns dwarfed any annual performance over the last two decades, far surpassing the next highest return, which was 17.97 percent in 2011. On behalf of the hundreds of thousands of employees and retirees who depend upon the success and strength of the Pension Fund, I’d like to thank the Division of Investment and the State Investment Council for their hard work, stewardship, and commitment, which helped lead to this highly successful outcome.”
The FY 2021 return boosted the total unaudited market value of the Pension Fund to an estimated $94.4 billion as of June 30, 2021. This strong performance, coupled with the State’s record pension payment of $6.9 billion for FY 2022, will further strengthen New Jersey’s Pension Fund.
“We are pleased with the Fiscal Year 2021 returns, both in absolute and relative terms, as well as the broad participation and contributions across asset classes,” said Shoaib Khan, Acting Director of the Division of Investment. “The fund was well positioned to benefit from a constructive market environment, albeit a volatile one. The guidance, contributions, and effort by the State Investment Council and division staff were invaluable in making these returns possible.”
Most asset classes produced exceptionally strong contributions, led by private equity, public equity, real assets, private credit, and real estate.
The Division of Investment noted that the numbers reported today are unaudited and there is the possibility of final audit adjustments.
Photo by John Guccione http://www.advergroup.com on Pexels.com
September 29, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A Mercer County grand jury returned a four-count indictment this week charging Daniel L. Smith with the July shooting death of Shaquil Loftin in Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
Smith, 37, of Trenton, is charged with first-degree murder, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun and second-degree certain persons not to possess a firearm. He is being held in the Mercer County Correction Center pending trial.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department. On Friday, July 30, 2021, at approximately 4:40 a.m., Trenton police responded to a report of a shooting at a residence in the first block of Kelsey Avenue. Upon arrival, officers found the victim, identified as 23-year-old Loftin, shot in the face. Loftin was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center and pronounced dead a short time later.
A search warrant was executed at the Kelsey Avenue residence. Witnesses were interviewed and area surveillance footage was reviewed. As a result, Smith was identified as the individual who shot and killed Loftin.
Detectives continue to investigate what prompted the attack. The case remains under investigation for potential bias charges as Loftin is transgender and identified as female. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Dave Petelle at (609) 989-6406. Tips can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Heather Hadley presented the case to the grand jury.
Despite having been indicted, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Previous MidJersey.News stories here:
Daniel L. Smith, 37, Trenton
September 29, 2021
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on September 28, 2021, Ralph Downey, Jr., 21, of Manchester, was arrested and charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:7-2a(3). Downey was taken into custody without incident by officers of the Manchester Township Police Department and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Megan’s Law Unit. “Since 1994, Megan’s Law requires certain sex offenders to register with their local police departments whenever they move and/or change their residential address or place of employment. Failure to comply with this obligation is a third degree crime,” noted Prosecutor Billhimer. In this instance, Downey failed to meet his annual registration requirement with any law enforcement agencies. Downey is currently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Anyone with relevant information regarding this case – or others violating Megan’s Law requirements – should contact Sergeant John Argento of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 929-2027, extension 2903. The information may be provided anonymously. For further information, please visit the State Police Sex Offender Internet Registry at:
http://www.njsp.org/sex-offender-registry/index.shtml
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).
Ralph Downey, Jr., 21, of Manchester
September 29, 2021
HILLSBOROUGH, NJ (SOMERSET)–The Attorney General’s Office is conducting an investigation of a police-involved shooting that occurred yesterday, Sept. 28, in Hillsborough, N.J. One male civilian sustained fatal injuries. His identity is not being released at this time. No one else was injured.
According to the preliminary investigation, the shooting occurred at approximately 4:16 p.m. yesterday inside a residence on Piedmont Path in Hillsborough. Officers of the Hillsborough Police Department responded shortly after 4 p.m. to a 911 call reporting an emergency at the residence. After officers arrived, they encountered a male resident inside the house. During the encounter, one officer discharged his service weapon, fatally wounding the resident. Officers and emergency medical personnel rendered first aid to the resident and he was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where he was pronounced deceased at 5:28 p.m.
This investigation is being conducted pursuant to Attorney General Directive 2019-4, which implements the statutory requirement that the Attorney General’s Office conduct the investigation of any death that occurs during an encounter with a law enforcement officer acting in the officer’s official capacity or while the decedent is in custody, and which establishes clear standards and procedures for conducting such investigations.
The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.
September 29, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Details are still sketchy but around 9:30 a.m. Trenton Police responded to a Shot Spotter activation in the area of Southard at New Willow Streets. A few minutes later Trenton Police, Trenton Fire Department, TEMS, and Capital Health Paramedics were dispatched for a vehicle crash with one overturned and entrapment in the area of Brunswick and Heil Avenues in front of Capital Health Primary Care one block away from the Trauma Center. A victim from the shooting in the area of Southard Street was located in one of the vehicles, extricated and transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.
Trenton Police were able to confirm that there was a shooting with one victim struck and was being cared for at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.
No further information is available at this time.
Photos and video by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
September 29, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A Mercer County grand jury returned a nine-count indictment this week charging Keith N. Jordan with the July shooting death of 16-year-old Dion Ellis in Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
Jordan, 30, of Trenton, is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, second-degree aggravated assault, two counts of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, fourth-degree possession of a large capacity ammunition magazine, fourth-degree possession if a defaced firearm and third-degree hindering apprehension or prosecution. He is being held in the Mercer County Correction Center pending trial.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department. On Monday, July 5, 2021, at approximately 12:45 a.m., police responded to the area of Prospect Street and Stuyvesant Avenue on the report of a shooting. One victim, later identified as 16-year-old Ellis, was found shot in the head and pronounced dead at the scene. A second 16-year-old male was transported to the hospital and treated for a gunshot wound to the leg.
An initial canvas of the scene produced eight shell casings. Area video surveillance was reviewed and a suspect vehicle was identified, which was traced back to Jordan.
As a result of a search warrant being executed on Jordan’s 2016 Toyota Camry, he is also charged with obstruction and multiple weapons offenses. Detectives recovered a 9mm handgun with a 33-round extended magazine, hollow-point bullets, and an empty 10-round magazine.
Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Heather Hadley presented the case to the grand jury.
Despite having been indicted, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Keith N. Jordan, 30, Trenton
September 27, 2021
BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–On Monday afternoon, at 3:30 p.m., Emergency Responders answered a call of a house fire at 31 Bay Way in the Bay Harbor section of Brick. Upon arrival a heavy smoke and fire condition was observed. Strong winds helped to spread the fire quickly. The resident of 31 Bay Way, who was home at the time, was uninjured, but the home was completely destroyed.
The wind driven fire caused extensive damage to the upper portion of the house next door at 29 Bay Way. In addition spot fires on at least one area property were extinguished. The only injury was that of one of the fire fighters who suffered a minor burn that was treated by EMS on the scene.
The fire quickly reached a third alarm bringing Brick Township fire companies, Pioneer Hose, Breton Woods, Laurelton, and Herbertsville. In addition, the Point Pleasant Boro, Point Pleasant Beach, Silverton and East Dover fire companies also responded, along with the Police and the Brick Police EMS. Jackson and Lakewood covered the township’s fire houses while Brick Township’s fire and mutual aid companies worked to extinguish the fire.
The fire is being investigated by Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Brick Police Detective Bureau and the Brick Fire Safety Bureau.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Brick Fire Safety Bureau Chief Kevin Batzel at 732-458-4100. No further information is being released at this time.
September 27, 2021
On September 27, 2021 at 4:57 pm Hamilton Police responded to a serious motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Whitehead Rd and Second Ave. A 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan, driven by Mohamed Kallay, 47yoa from Hamilton, was traveling southbound on Whitehead Rd, when a 2001 Freightliner Truck, driven by Richard Crutchley, 66 yoa from Hamilton, was traveling northbound on Whitehead Rd when he crossed over into the southbound lane and struck the Dodge head-on. After the collision, the Freightliner Truck rolled onto its side and came to a stop on the corner of Whitehead Rd and Second Ave. Mr. Kallay was extricated from his vehicle by the Hamilton Fire Division. He was then transported by ambulance to Capital Health Regional for treatment for his injuries.
The crash is being investigated by Officer Bryan Wood, and Officer Brian DiBiasi. Any witnesses are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Traffic Unit at (609)581-4000.
Information may also be left anonymously on the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at 609-581-4008.
September 27, 2021
On September 12, thousands of walkers, runners and volunteers participated in NJ Sharing Network’s 5K Celebration of Life Walk and USATF Certified Race at the organization’s headquarters in New Providence, NJ. The event, which was presented by Hackensack Meridian Health and Pfizer and supported by dozens of other generous sponsors, honored those who gave the gift of organ and tissue, paid tribute to those who have received a transplant, offered hope to those currently waiting for a transplant and remembered the lives lost while waiting for the gift of life.
Family members and friends of the late Cynthia (Cindy) Von Schmidt, 55, of New Egypt, NJ, gathered together to form the “Cindy’s Amazing Grace” 5K team to honor her memory and show their support for NJ Sharing Network’s life-saving mission. Cindy, who passed away in 2016, was an organ and tissue donor who saved four lives and enhanced the lives of many others. Members of “Cindy’s Amazing Grace” offered the following message during the 5K Celebration of Life:
Cindy passed away in February 2016 of a brain aneurysm. She was 55 years young, married for 35 years and a mother of two. Besides her family she had three passions. Cindy was an avid skier, a beach lover and atop it all, a baker – a true connoisseur.
Cindy would spend months baking Christmas cookies for family and friends. Along with her daughter’s help, they would decorate and ship them all over the world! From the mountains of California to our military bases in around the globe – her cookies have been there.
Cindy was the most generous woman, always offering her hand to those who needed it. From organizing donations and fundraisers for those who needed help to rescuing dogs, Cindy made many efforts to help those she could. The day she left us, she gave the ultimate gift of four life-saving donations and multiple tissue donations to help others!
About NJ Sharing Network
Dedicated to saving lives through organ and tissue donation, NJ Sharing Network is the non-profit organization responsible for the recovery and placement of donated organs and tissue for the nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents waiting for a life-saving transplant. With headquarters in New Providence, NJ, the organization, selected by NJBIZ as one of the state’s “Best Places to Work” for the fourth consecutive year, is also part of the national recovery system, serving the 110,000 people on the national waiting list. To learn more, get involved and register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org.
September 27, 2021
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Township Fire Department, EMS and Robbinsville Police responded to Route 33 in front of the Township building for a multi vehicle accident. Upon arrival there were several vehicles involved in a rear end type collision. There were no serious injuries reported in the crash. The Robbinsville Township Police Department is investigating the crash.
September 27, 2021
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A Monmouth County grand jury has returned a 20-count indictment against a former Middlesex County Sheriff’s Officer charged with videotaping violent sexual assaults of multiple unconscious women over the span of three years, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced Monday.
Joshua Padilla, 36, was indicted Friday and is now charged with eight counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, seven counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy, four counts of third-degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, and one count of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
In February 2019, members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office’s Special Victims Bureau arrested Padilla, a resident of Berkeley Place in Eatontown, in relation to an investigation by the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
As a result of the investigation, Padilla was found to be in possession of numerous videos of himself performing sexual acts upon women who were clearly unconscious and unresponsive. Additionally, the defendant was found to be in possession of child sexual abuse materials. Many of these crimes took place at the defendant’s home in Eatontown, with others occurring in Middlesex County.
The sexual assault charges outlined today relate to three different adult victims and crimes taking place from 2016 into 2018, but investigators continue to seek additional information about Padilla’s activities. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Brian Hammarstrom of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-431-7160, Ext. 6413. “These were truly unspeakable crimes against utterly helpless victims,” Acting Prosecutor Linskey said. “We are encouraged by the progress made so far in shepherding this case through the criminal justice system, but troubled by the prospects
of other victims being out there who have yet to come forward – and who may not even have known they were victimized. We urge anyone with any information about the activities of this defendant to step forward and tell us what they know.”
Anyone who wishes to make an anonymous report about this case can call the Monmouth County Crime Stoppers’ confidential tip line at 1-800-671-4400. Tipsters can also text “MONMOUTH” and their tip to 274637, or they can email a tip via the website at www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com.
The investigation into Padilla has thus far resulted in criminal charges in three different jurisdictions; in July 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced that it was indicting him for producing, distributing, and being in possession of child sexual abuse materials after he allegedly recorded himself engaging in unlawful sexual contact with a 17-year-old girl in Pennsylvania and later uploaded the video online. In March 2021, Padilla pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual contact with a minor in relation to the aforementioned investigation by the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, admitting to attempting to meet with an undercover agent posing as a 14-year-old girl and digitally sharing with her sexually graphic images of himself.
If convicted on the charges filed in Monmouth County Superior Court, Padilla would face up to 20 years in state prison on each count of Aggravated Sexual Assault, up to five years on each count of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, up to five years for each count of Invasion of Privacy, and up to 10 years for Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Additionally, he would be subject to Parole Supervision for Life and would be required to register under Megan’s Law.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendants have all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
The defendant remains incarcerated in federal prison in Pennsylvania, and is no longer employed by the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office.
This case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Danielle Zanzuccki.
Joshua Padilla, 36
September 27, 2021 — Updated with information from Palisades Interstate Parkway Police
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On September 27, 2021, Middlesex County resident, Alan Seijas (30 years old), was arrested by Palisades Interstate Parkway Police, on a Hamilton Police Warrant regarding the Nottingham Tavern burglary.
Additional charges were filed for a September 13, 2021 burglary that occurred at the Princeton BMW located at 3630 Quakerbridge Road, also in Hamilton.
According to the Palisades Interstate Parkway Police, the investigation discovered that the male party we arrested in the article was driving a stolen Hertz rental Chevrolet Trailblazer taken from Ciocca Chevrolet in Lawrence and also stole items from vehicles at Coleman Cadillac in Lawrence, license plates off of a Chevrolet Equinox in Clark, New Jersey and committed a burglary of the IRL Game Shop in Hightstown, New Jersey.
Alan Seijas, 30, Middlesex County
On August 31,2021, Hamilton Police were detailed to The Nottingham Tavern at 9 Mercer Street on a burglary to the business. Responding officers were advised by the owner of the business that some unknown person broke into the business at approximately 12:30 AM August 30,2021. Entry was gained through a forced open rear door to the business. Once inside the suspect removed several bottles of alcohol and two I-Pads. The suspect left the scene in what appears to be a light color Cadillac SUV with no visible front license plate. The approximate value of the theft is $2,000 dollars.
The above pictured suspect is described as a white male, in his late 20’s and has distinct tattoos on his right and left forearms. The male was wearing gloves and a headband.
A second burglary occurred at the Princeton BMW located at 3630 Quakerbridge Road on September 13, 2021. Detective Nicolas Schulte was assigned the BMW investigation, and determined that the same suspect from the Nottingham Tavern burglary was also involved in that incident. Complaints were also generated regarding the Princeton BMW incident.
Hamilton Police Detectives are asking anyone with additional information concerning the Nottingham Tavern incident, to contact Detective Lawrence MacArthur of the Hamilton Police Division Criminal Investigations Section at (609) 689-5827 or via email at lmacarthur@hamiltonpd.org. Detective Nicholas Schulte can be contacted regarding the Princeton BMW burglary at (609) 689-5825 or via email at nschulte@hamiltonpd.org. The public can also contact the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008. Every defendant is presumed innocent until being found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
See previous MidJersey.News story here: The Nottingham Tavern Burglarized
UPDATE:
September 27, 2021
HAMILTON TOWNHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Hamilton Police Division are investigating a shooting homicide in Hamilton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
At approximately 8:20 p.m. on Saturday, September 25, 2021, Hamilton patrol officers located a deceased male in a parked vehicle on Rosalie Avenue, adjacent to Victor Avenue. The victim, identified as Dashawn Womack, 39, of Hamilton, suffered two gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene.
No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Shawn Bruton at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
September 27, 2021
SPRING LAKE, NJ (MONMOUTH)–According to NJ State Police Sgt. Alejandro Goez, troopers responded to the report of an overturned sailboat approximately 200 yards off the beach in Spring Lake at 2:25 p.m. There were multiple occupants on the vessel and troopers assisted with rescuing four of the occupants. There were no reported injuries. The occupants righted the vessel at about 3pm.
September 27, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The deceased victim from Saturday night’s shooting on Bellevue Avenue has been identified as 15-year-old Shemiah Davis. A 19-year old female was shot multiple times and remains hospitalized in critical condition. The third shooting victim is a 17-year-old male who sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. No arrests have been made and the shooting remains under investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department.
See related stories here:
Multiple Shooting in Trenton Leaves Teenaged Girl Dead, Two Others Severely Injured
Statement From Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora and Acting Police Director Steve Wilson on Saturday’s Bellevue Avenue Shootings
Acting Police Director Steve Wilson and I are outraged following the senseless shooting of four Trentonians, ages 20, 15, 17, and 19, on Bellevue Avenue near North 25 Housing on Saturday evening. Tragically, the 15-year-old has passed away. We stand with these families in their hour of unspeakable pain.
The scourge of gun violence in cities across America is profoundly impacting our communities. It is terrifying and unsettling to feel the weight of this issue so close to our home and our hearts. Since January 2021, Trenton PD has taken more than 150 guns off our streets, and a new task force established by Acting Director Steve Wilson is poised to do more. We have reduced gun violence in our city by 20% compared to the same period last year. Together, we can bring the offenders of this shocking crime before the law’s full force and begin the process of healing for our entire city.
The Trenton PD, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the New Jersey State Police, and other law enforcement are working at the Real-Time Crime Center gathering information to take these criminals off our streets. In addition, I ask residents of that neighborhood, including North 25 Housing and the public, to come forward with any information that might help us identify the perpetrators of these shootings and bring them to justice. You can provide information in confidence to the Homicide Task Force of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office at (609) 989-6406.
Names of 2021* homicide victims:
- 2/18/2021 Jabree Saunders, 26, from shooting on May 14, 2018
- 2/22/2021 Khalil Gibbs, 25, of West Windsor, shooting
- 2/25/2021 Lovelle Laramore, 60, of Trenton shooting
- 4/15/2021 Kaheem Carter, 22, of Trenton, shooting
- 4/20/2021 Shaquan McNeil, 25, of Trenton, shooting
- 4/24/2021 Cheryl Jones, 65, of Trenton, shooting
- 4/29/2021 Ramire Harvey, 25, of Trenton, shooting
- 5/15/2021 David Williams 36, of Trenton, shooting
- 5/29/2021 Edgar Geovani Sis-Luis, 34, of Trenton, aggravated manslaughter
- 7/05/2021 Dion Ellis, 16, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/14/2021 Pablo Herrera Chun, 53, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/19/2021 William Mitchell, 33, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/19/2021 Jermel Carter, 38, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/29/2021 Leonard Pettigrew, 58, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/30/2021 Shaquil Loftin, 23, Shooting, Trenton
- 8/01/2021 Daquan Basnight, 30, of Ewing, Shooting
- 8/13/2021 Javier Chaj-Ajtun, 33, of Trenton, Shooting
- 8/19/2021 Herberth Ramirez Pimentel, 37, of Trenton, Shooting
- 8/23/2021 Yanquai Edwards, 25, of Rancocas, NJ, Shooting
- 8/25/2021 Daron Cheston, 18, Trenton, Shooting
- 8/30/2021 Fred Davis, 43, Trenton, Shooting
- 9/06/2021 Shamiem Young, 26, Trenton, Shooting
- 9/17/2021 Jeff Charles, 37, Trenton, Shooting
- 9/25/2021 Shemiah Davis, 15, Trenton, Shooting
*Updated to reflect the person who died in 2021 from complications from a shooting on May 14, 2018 as per medical examiner report.
September 27, 2021
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police arrested a 28 year old Philadelphia man after he crashed his car with a loaded handgun on Route 1 Sunday morning September 26, at 2:39 a.m., Officer Kyle Klemas responded to a single car crash on Route 1 south near Sandhill Road. Officer Klemas found the 2016 BMW had collided into a utility pole and the driver, Alman Isangulov age 28 of Philadelphia and a passenger were still sitting in the vehicle. Officer Klemas observed Islangulov to have slurred speech and watery bloodshot eyes. Islangulov and his passenger both denied being injured and admitted to drinking alcohol in Brooklyn before attempting to drive home. As Officer Klemas spoke with the two men, Officer Brooke Goetz arrived and approached the passenger side of the vehicle. Officer Goetz observed a loaded Glock 31 on the passenger side floor of the car. Further investigation recovered a Glock airsoft gun from the rear passenger compartment of the gun. Both guns were connected to Islangulov
Islangulov was arrested and transported to South Brunswick Police headquarters. He was charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm and driving while intoxicated. He was lodged at the Middlesex County Correction Center pending his first court appearance.
Chief Raymond Hayducka said, “To be drunk driving with a loaded handgun is just reckless. This driver was impaired to the point he crashed and had in his possession a loaded handgun. This could have ended in tragedy in so many ways, from the crash, to the weapon, to the officers’ interaction. I want to credit Officers Klemas and Goetz for slowing things down and taking this suspect into custody without any injury.”
September 25, 2021
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, SEASIDE PARK, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 6:45 p.m., Seaside Park along with Seaside Heights were dispatched to 14th Avenue Beach for a boater in distress, the vessel was located in South Seaside Park-Berkley Township off 5th Lane Midway Beach. First reports from PD were that the boat was 100 yards offshore doing circles with the 3-4 swell it was slowly pushed in. Seaside Park & Seaside Heights deployed their rescues swimmers into the ocean as there were two victims onboard the vessel. Batting the surf the water rescue team was quickly able to get them off the vessel and to safely. Two victims were removed and checked by Toms River EMS. It is unknown what caused the power failure at this time.
Just after 11:00 p.m. the Seaside Park Fire Department was dispatched back to the beach for a “boat fire” No boat fire was found but it was reported that the sailboat was out of the water and on the beach.
Photos, video and story by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Trenton Shooting Update, 15 Year Old Victim Identified
September 25, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting that occurred tonight in the first block of Bellevue Avenue in Trenton. Police responded to a Shot Spotter activation for multiple rounds at approximately 6:45 p.m. At this time, three shooting victims have been identified, including a teenage girl who was pronounced dead at the hospital.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Tips can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org
Midjersey.news has learned that one of the injured, a 19-year-old is in critical condition at the hospital and that the teen age girl that died from the shooting was only 15-years-old. There is no additional information about the third victim available.
Trenton Mayor W. Reed Gusciora said, “My thoughts and prayers are extended to the families affected by this senseless act of violence. The incident is currently under investigation by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force. We’ll use every tool at our disposal to help bring these criminals to justice.”
This is the second known shooting in Trenton today. This afternoon just after 3:00 p.m. shots rang out in the area of MLK Boulevard, Beakes Street and Evans Avenue. Multiple shell casings were found on the ground. A vehicle was found in front of Capital Health Regional Medical Center riddled with bullet holes. It was reported a man was shot in the leg in the gunfire and transported by private vehicle to the hospital.
See this afternoon’s shooting at this link: Shooting In Trenton, MLK Blvd and Evans Avenue; Reports Man Shot In Leg, Vehicle Found Riddled With Bullet Holes
Names of 2021* homicide victims:
- 2/18/2021 Jabree Saunders, 26, from shooting on May 14, 2018
- 2/22/2021 Khalil Gibbs, 25, of West Windsor, shooting
- 2/25/2021 Lovelle Laramore, 60, of Trenton shooting
- 4/15/2021 Kaheem Carter, 22, of Trenton, shooting
- 4/20/2021 Shaquan McNeil, 25, of Trenton, shooting
- 4/24/2021 Cheryl Jones, 65, of Trenton, shooting
- 4/29/2021 Ramire Harvey, 25, of Trenton, shooting
- 5/15/2021 David Williams 36, of Trenton, shooting
- 5/29/2021 Edgar Geovani Sis-Luis, 34, of Trenton, aggravated manslaughter
- 7/05/2021 Dion Ellis, 16, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/14/2021 Pablo Herrera Chun, 53, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/19/2021 William Mitchell, 33, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/19/2021 Jermel Carter, 38, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/29/2021 Leonard Pettigrew, 58, Trenton, Shooting
- 7/30/2021 Shaquil Loftin, 23, Shooting, Trenton
- 8/01/2021 Daquan Basnight, 30, of Ewing, Shooting
- 8/13/2021 Javier Chaj-Ajtun, 33, of Trenton, Shooting
- 8/19/2021 Herberth Ramirez Pimentel, 37, of Trenton, Shooting
- 8/23/2021 Yanquai Edwards, 25, of Rancocas, NJ, Shooting
- 8/25/2021 Daron Cheston, 18, Trenton, Shooting
- 8/30/2021 Fred Davis, 43, Trenton, Shooting
- 9/06/2021 Shamiem Young, 26, Trenton, Shooting
- 9/17/2021 Jeff Charles, 37, Trenton, Shooting
- 9/25/2021 Shemiah Davis, 15, Trenton, Shooting
*Updated to reflect the person who died in 2021 from complications from a shooting on May 14, 2018 as per medical examiner report.
Photos and video by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
Photos by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
September 25, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police responded to a multiple shots fired call at MLK Boulevard and Beakes Street/ Evans Avenue just after 3:00 p.m. When Trenton Police arrived they found numerous shell casings on the ground on MLK Boulevard. It was reported one person was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center by private vehicle with a gunshot wound to the leg.
A vehicle was found riddled with bullet holes in front of Capital Health Regional Medical Center on Brunswick Avenue by Miller Street.
A witness at the scene told MidJersey.News that he thought the man was shot in the leg.
No further information is available at this time. Trenton Police Department is investigating the shooting.
September 25, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Last evening, the Mercer County Correction Center was notified that Clark Green Jr. an inmate being held at the Correction Center, was mistakenly released from custody on Thursday, Sept. 23, 2021 at approximately 8:30 p.m. in the City of Trenton.
Mr. Green, whose date of birth is Oct. 8, 1966, was being held at Mercer on a charge of theft by deception and while that case has been resolved, inmate Green also had robbery offenses out of Ohio. Through an interstate agreement with Ohio, Mr. Green, since Aug. 31, 2021 was being housed in Mercer on the local charge.
The matter is under investigation. The U.S Marshal’s NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force is the lead agency.
Anyone who sees the suspect should not engage him or approach him and should call 911.
September 25, 2021
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police continue to investigate the Friday evening crash on Route 130 that claimed the life of a Somerset County man. At 7:16 PM police responded to Route 130 south at the intersection of Deans Rhode Hall Road for a motor vehicle crash involving a passenger car and a tractor-trailer. Officers arrived to find a 2015 Dodge Dart had run into the rear of a 2015 Volvo tractor-trailer. The driver of the Dodge, a 52-year-old man from Somerset County was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the tractor-trailer was uninjured. The preliminary investigation revealed the tractor-trailer was stopped at the traffic signal when the Dodge ran under the back of the tractor-trailer.
The Monmouth Junction Fire Department, South Brunswick EMS, Middlesex County Medical Examiner, and the New Jersey State Department of Transportation responded to the crash. The highway southbound was closed for five hours during the investigation.
Anyone with information on the crash is asked to call South Brunswick Police Traffic Safety PFC Jesse Blake at (732) 329-4646.
September 25, 2021
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — Multiple fire departments responded to Big Snow at American Dream Mall for a roof fire around 4:15 a.m. Upon arrival there was a reported “working fire” on the roof of Big Snow the indoor ski slope. Additional aid was called to the scene including Carlstadt, Secaucus, Wallington, Mahwah, Woodridge, Moonachie and many others. Fire crews charged a stand pipe system and charged hand lines to get water on the fire.
The fire went to three alarms before the main body of fire was knocked down just after 6:00 a.m. Fire crews are still on scene reporting that they have smoldering roof material on fire.
According to New Jersey State Police Sgt. Alejandro Goez, “The fire at the American Dream was reported at 4:15 a.m. inside the Big Snow ski slope. The fire was contained to the top of the ski slope and several area fire departments responded to extinguish the fire. The building was unoccupied at the time and there are no injuries reported. Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire has been deemed nonsuspicious at this time.”
Hugh Reynolds, a Big SNOW Representative said, “We can confirm that there was a fire at Big SNOW overnight. Thankfully there were no injuries as the incident occurred outside of our normal hours of operation. We are tremendously thankful for the quick response and efforts of the local fire departments in working to contain this fire. As such, Big SNOW will be closed today while we assess the damage. We will release more details soon.”
This is still a developing story, please check back for further updates. MidJersey.News has reached out to Big Snow, American Dream Mall and NJ Sports and Exposition Authority for additional information.
Temporarily Closed
Please Note: We will be closed today, September 25. Any pre-purchased guests will be contacted directly and refunded.
Please note that Big SNOW will be closed today, Saturday September 25th. We apologize for this inconvenience and any disappointment this unexpected closure may cause for those guests who were planning to visit today. If you had a pre-purchased reservation, we will be refunding your order. We look forward to welcoming you back to Big SNOW soon. Please contact info@bigsnowad.com with any additional questions.
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