Month: June 2022

Pallets Of Animal Food Donated To The City Of Trenton Animal Shelter

June 30, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)—This morning Hawk’s Recovery and Towing Inc. donated 14 pallets of dog and cat food and other items to the City of Trenton Animal Shelter.

Owner Of Hawk’s Towing, Brian Hawkins. Delivers A Flatbed Loaded With Pallets Of Animal Food For The City’s Hungry Animals. Marge Wilson Caldwell, Brian Hawkins, & George Muschal with pallets loaded with pet food, 6/30/2022. On Scene News Photos By Brian McCarthy



Large Scrap Yard Fire In Fairless Hills, PA, Sends Smoke Billowing Into New Jersey

June 30, 2022

FALLS TOWNSHIP/FAIRLESS HILLS, PA (BUCKS)–A large fire at a scrap yard in the Fairless Hills section of Falls Township send smoke billowing into Mercer and Burlington Counties this afternoon. The fire appeared to be coming from behind Mazza Iron & Steel a family owned and operated metal recycling company based in Fairless Hills. A large column of smoke could be seen for miles and 9-1-1 centers fielded calls about the smoke condition. Falls Township Fire Company along with many mutual aid fire departments were on scene combating the fire. Fire departments called it a “rubbish” fire on Solar Drive in Falls Township.


A video from Levittown Fire Company Facebook page here:




Truck Fire Extinguished On Route 1 In Lawrence Township

June 30, 2022

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 11:10 a.m. Lawrence Township Fire Companies were dispatched to a truck fire on Route 1 South Bound near Franklin Corner Road. Firefighters arrived to find a box truck well involved in fire. Firefighters pulled handlines and quickly extinguished the fire. Route 1 south bound was closed by Lawrence Police during the firefight. No further details are available at this time.



Above photos by: Brian McCarthy


7-Count Indictment Returned Against Alleged Child Killer In Trenton, NJ

A Mercer County grand jury returned a seven-count indictment this week charging Isiah Roberts with the March 2022 shooting death of 9-year-old Sequoya Bacon-Jones in Trenton

June 30, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office reports that A Mercer County grand jury returned a seven-count indictment this week charging Isiah Roberts with the March 2022 shooting death of 9-year-old Sequoya Bacon-Jones in Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.

Roberts, 19, of Trenton, is charged with first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree aggravated assault, fourth-degree aggravated assault and second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun. 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. Sequoya was outside playing with her brother and other friends in the courtyard of the Kingsbury Square apartments around 7:30 p.m. on March 25, 2022, when gunfire broke out. She was shot once in the upper body as she ran for safety. She died just before midnight at a hospital in New Brunswick.

The investigation revealed that a Facebook feud between two women led to a fight that preceded the shooting.

Assistant Prosecutor Michael Grillo 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.


Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office reports that A Mercer County grand jury returned a seven-count indictment this week charging Isiah Roberts with the March 2022 shooting death of 9-year-old Sequoya Bacon-Jones in Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.

Roberts, 19, of Trenton, is charged with first-degree murder, three counts of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree aggravated assault, fourth-degree aggravated assault and second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun







U.S. Coast Guard Rescues One Person, As Boat Sinks 2NM Off Beach Haven, NJ

June 28, 2022

BARNEGAT LIGHT, NJ (OCEAN) U.S. Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light reports a 29-foot response boat crew rescued one from a sinking vessel two nautical miles off Beach Haven, yesterday, June 27, 2022. The person was saved off of their life unfortunately their 40-foot wooden trawler began taking on water and ended up sinking. No additional details are available.


U.S.C.G. Photos


Robocallers Admit Receiving Over $1.2M In Global Robocall Scam That Preyed On Elderly

June 28, 2022

NEWARK, N.J. – Two Indian nationals admitted to conspiracy to commit wire fraud by accepting illegally obtained $1.2 million in wire transfers from victims across the country, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Arushobike Mitra, 27, and Garbita Mitra, 24, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas in Newark federal court to an information charging them each with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

As part of an international fraud scheme, criminal India-based call centers utilized automated robocalls to victims across the country with the intent of defrauding U.S. residents, particularly the elderly. After establishing contact with victims through these automated calls, other members of the conspiracy would coerce or trick the victims into sending large sums of cash through physical shipments or wire transfers to other members of the conspiracy, including the Mitras. These conspirators used a variety of schemes to convince victims to send money, including impersonating government officials from agencies such as the Social Security Administration, or impersonating law enforcement officers from the FBI or DEA, and threatened victims with severe legal or financial consequences if they did not comply. Another method utilized by the callers involved convincing the victim they were speaking with someone from a tech support company and coercing the victim into granting the caller remote access to their personal computers. The caller would then access the victim’s bank accounts and make it appear to the victim that the caller had inadvertently added money to the victim’s bank account, when in fact the caller had simply transferred money from another one of the victim’s own accounts. The caller would then instruct the victim to “return” the money by way of mail or wire transfer to other members of the conspiracy, including the Mitras. Arushobike Mitra and Garbita Mitra are charged with receiving fraudulent transfers of cash from 48 victims across the country totaling more than $1.2 million.

The conspiracy to commit wire fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine of twice the amount of the loss, whichever is greater. Sentencing for both defendants is scheduled for Dec. 13, 2022.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Office of Investigations, New York Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Sharon MacDermott; special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Cyber Intrusion Group, and El Dorado Task Force Asset Identification & Removal Group, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge, Peter C. Fitzhugh in New York; postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Damon Wood, Philadelphia Division, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty pleas. He also thanked the Hoboken Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the New York City Police Department, and the Brunswick County, North Carolina, Sheriff’s Office for their assistance.

The government is represented by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Meriah Russell of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Camden.

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Defense counsel: William Strazza Esq., Chester, New Jersey, and Rubin Sinins Esq., Springfield, New Jersey




Body Recovered From Delaware River In Trenton

June 28, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Around 1:30 p.m. the Trenton Fire Department was dispatched for a body recovery in the Delaware River at the Lamberton Street Boat Ramp. A body was recovered about 30 feet from the shore line and turned over the the Medical Examiner for processing. The fire department cleared around 2:30 p.m. No additional details are available about the incident check back for further details as information becomes available.



MidJersey.News file photos by Brian McCarthy


Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Adds Four Detectives To Investigative Ranks

June 28, 2022

FREEHOLD – Yesterday may have marked the first day on the job for four newly hired detectives at the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, but today will not mark the first time they made headlines.

Nicolas Logothetis, Connor Johnson, Aaron Shaw, and Joseph Friscia had each made a name for himself long earlier.

“We consider ourselves truly fortunate to be welcoming four dynamic detectives who throughout their careers have made a habit out of serving the public with distinction and honor,” Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey said. “Our sincere expectations for each of them is that they continue to build upon their already stellar body of work.”

Logothetis, previously of the Hazlet Police Department, wasted no time in building a reputation for diligence; he was the recipient of the 2014 and 2015 Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Law Enforcement Distinguished Service Awards for leading his Department with a combined total of 28 DWI arrests over his first two full years on the job. He was also the recipient of a 200 Club of Monmouth County 2017 Commendation Award for teaming up with Long Branch Firefighter Frank Harris to save the lives of two elderly residents whose home was on fire. Having served Hazlet in the capacity of Detective, Field Training Officer, Motorcycle Officer, CPR Instructor, and Radar Instructor, Detective Logothetis holds a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from Montclair State University and a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice from Monmouth University.

Johnson, previously of the Morristown Bureau of Police in Morris County, several years ago became the first known openly transgender law-enforcement Officer in New Jersey history – he is now the first known openly transgender Detective ever to serve in a county prosecutor’s office in the state. Also a designated LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison, in that capacity he worked closely with the New Jersey State Police and New Jersey Office of the Attorney General (OAG) in creating public awareness of OAG Directive No. 2019-3, Law Enforcement Interactions with Transgender Individuals. Prior to joining the Bureau, Johnson served as a County Correctional Police Officer with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and a Public Safety Dispatcher with the County of Morris; he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Centenary College.

Shaw joins the Prosecutor’s Office following 15 years with the Eatontown Police Department, having most recently attained the rank of Detective Sergeant. Joining the MCPO as a Detective marks a homecoming of sorts – as a teen growing up in the area, Shaw was a participant in the office’s “6 a.m. Club,” a summer youth basketball league and mentorship program that was run by MCPO detectives. The detective mentors worked with the participants from 9th grade through college, and the program inspired Shaw to pursue a career in law enforcement. The recipient of more than half a dozen departmental citations or commendations for his investigative efforts on incidents such as a juvenile stabbing at Monmouth Mall and a shooting case that yielded the recovery of three handguns and a large quantity of heroin, along with two arrests, Shaw also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Monmouth University and a Master of Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Friscia, an eight-year veteran of the Union Beach Police Department, most recently served there as a Sergeant supervising a contingent of approximately 30 sworn officers, having also been designated as his Department’s Resiliency Officer, assisting colleagues in coping with stressors inherent to the job. Recipient of the 2019 Union Beach Police Department Officer of the Year “Officer William H. Letts Award,” Friscia has a track record of working the Department’s most high-profile and intensive narcotics, sex crimes, and internal affairs cases; he also holds an Associate’s Degree from Brookdale Community College and a Bachelor of Arts from the John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

“Our hiring process for new detectives is rightfully rigorous, and for good reason – this team of new hires with these outstanding credentials marks nothing short of a wealth of riches for the Office,” Acting Chief of Detectives John G. McCabe, Jr. said. “We have every confidence that they are capable of making an immediate contribution to our office, our cases, and our residents.”


Pictured L-R are newly hired MCPO Detectives Connor Johnson and Joseph Friscia, Acting MCPO Chief of Detectives John G. McCabe, Jr., Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey, Acting MCPO First Assistant Prosecutor Michael Wojciechowski, and newly hired MCPO Detectives Nicolas Logothetis and Aaron Shaw.


Tractor-Trailer Carrying 110 Kilograms-242 Pounds Of Cocaine Drove Though NJ To NY; Two NY Men Charged

June 28, 2022

NEWARK, N.J. – Two New York men were charged today with conspiring to distribute approximately 110 kilograms of cocaine as part of an international drug trafficking organization, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Eddie Velez-Pena, 33, of Yonkers, New York, and Robin Medina-Fabian, 38, of the Bronx, New York, are charged by complaint with conspiring to distribute and possessing with intent to distribute over five kilograms of cocaine. The defendants are scheduled to appear by videoconference today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

On or June 25, 2022, law enforcement officers conducted surveillance of a tractor-trailer driven by Velez-Pena and believed to contain narcotics for distribution. They observed the tractor-trailer drive through New Jersey and stop for a period of time in Hampton, New Jersey. Velez-Pena drove through New Jersey to the border of Yonkers and the Bronx, New York, where he met with Medina-Fabian. Velez-Pena transferred multiple duffle bags from his tractor-trailer to Medina-Fabian, who then placed them in the SUV.

Law enforcement officers then conducted a stop of Medina-Fabian’s SUV and observed in plain view several duffel bags matching those provided by Velez-Pena. Subsequent to receiving consent to search the SUV from Medina-Fabian, law enforcement recovered several duffle bags containing approximately 110 kilograms of cocaine and drug ledger sheets.

The count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over five kilograms of cocaine carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison and a $10 million fine.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, with the investigation leading to the charges.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

The New York OCDETF Strike Force is housed at the DEA’s New York Division and includes agents and officers of the DEA; the New York City Police Department; the New York State Police; Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations; the U. S. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; the U.S. Marshals Service; New York National Guard; U.S. Coast Guard; Port Washington Police Department; and New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jenny Chung of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.

The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Defense counsel:
Velez-Pena: Saverio Viggiano Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Newark
Medina-Fabian: Ernesto Cerimele Esq., Newark



South River, NJ Man Found Guilty On Child Several Pornography Charges After Throwing iPhone And iPad In Bay

June 28, 2022

TRENTON, N.J. – A Middlesex County, New Jersey, man was convicted of several counts involving images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.

Charles F. Browne, 52, of South River, New Jersey, was found guilty on June 27, 2022, following a six-day trial before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court of receiving child pornography, soliciting child pornography, possessing prepubescent child pornography, and concealing objects to impede the FBI’s investigation.

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

In September 2017, a cloud-based file service noticed that apparent child sex abuse material had been uploaded to, and maintained in, an account with the screen name “Charles Browne” and an email address containing the term “cbrowne.” The FBI obtained the files that were uploaded to the online account, which included prepubescent child pornography and two copies of Browne’s resume.

On April 8, 2019, law enforcement officers stopped Browne’s vehicle as he left his residence. Brown was given a Miranda warning and interviewed by law enforcement officers about the FBI’s ongoing child exploitation investigation. Browne initially denied having an iPad and then, in response to the agent’s question at the conclusion of the interview asking where his iPad was, responded that it was at home, which was approximately one mile away. Law enforcement officers told Browne that an online file account contained two images of prepubescent child sexual abuse created by an Apple iPhone Model 5C camera. Browne denied knowledge of the child pornography. At the conclusion of the interview, Browne was dropped off at his vehicle, which was locked.

At trial, Browne confessed that he broke into his vehicle after the FBI interview, removed an iPad and his iPhone, and then walked to a local private beach club. Browne was observed by a neighbor as he walked to the end of the dock and threw his iPad and iPhone into the bay.

After Browne returned to his residence without his electronic devices, the FBI conducted a canvass of the area and located the neighbor who had observed Browne throwing his iPad into the bay. The FBI sent in a dive team, which recovered Browne’s iPad and iPhone – an Apple Model 5C – from the bay.

The devices were repaired; review of the data recovered from the devices revealed videos and images of child sexual abuse. Web history from the iPad reflected that Browne had sought out images of child sexual abuse on the iPad the day before law enforcement officers interviewed Browne. Evidence from Browne’s iPad and iPhone reflected that Browne sent emails to others seeking child pornography “vids.”

The counts of receipt of child pornography and solicitation of child pornography each carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and fine of $250,000. The count of possession of prepubescent child pornography carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The count of concealing objects to impede a federal investigation count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 9, 2022.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jesse Levine of the Newark Division, Assistant Director Michael Driscoll of the New York Division, and Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp Jr., of the Birmingham Division; the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Lori Linskey; the Monmouth County Sherriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Shaun Golden; the Ocean County Sherriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy; the Tom’s River Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Mitchell A. Little; the South River Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Mark Tinitigan; and the Manalapan Township Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Edward Niesz, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty verdict.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamie L. Hoxie and Jonathan Fayer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.

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Defense counsel: Carlos Diaz-Cobo Esq., New Brunswick, New Jersey


Police Identify Driver Killed In Garden State Parkway Crash As 29-Year-Old From Lincoln Park

June 28, 2022

MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–New Jersey State Police confirmed one person has died in a serious wrong way motor vehicle crash yesterday June 27, 2022, on the Garden State Parkway last evening.

Troopers say they responded to a two vehicle crash on Garden State Parkway northbound on the express roadway at milepost 112 in Middletown Township, Monmouth County at 7:27 p.m. The preliminary investigation revealed that an Acura TL was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes on Garden State Parkway express roadway and a Chevrolet Colorado was traveling north in the northbound express roadway lanes. In the area of milepost 112, the front of the Acura collided with the front of the Chevrolet causing the Chevrolet to subsequently overturn. As a result of the crash, the driver of the Acura, identified as Hamilton W. Smith 3rd, 29, of Lincoln Park sustained fatal injuries. The driver of the Chevy sustained minor injuries and the passenger of the Chevy sustained no injuries. And Mr. Smith was the only occupant of the Acura. New Jersey State Police report that this is still an active investigation.


Robbinsville Fire Department Responds To Multi-Vehicle Crash On NJ Turnpike

June 27, 2022

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–At 2:23 p.m. the Robbinsville Fire Department and EMS was dispatched to the New Jersey Turnpike outer lanes near mile post 63.4 for a multi-vehicle crash (Near Windsor Road overpass). New Jersey State Police and Gorge’s Garage arrived for the tow. Upon arrival of the fire department it was determined to be minor non-life-threating and it was unclear if anyone was transported to the hospital. Firefighters remained on scene for a short time. New Jersey State Police is investigating the crash.



Another Wildfire Contained In NJ; 315-Acres Burned In Brendan T. Byrne State Forest

June 27, 2022

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reports that a wildfire at Brendan T Byrne State Forest – Brickworks Wildfire – Manchester and Woodland Townships has been contained.

As of 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 27, 2022 the New Jersey Forest Fire Service has achieved 100 percent containment of a 315-acre wildfire near Pasadena Road in Brendan T. Byrne State Forest.

Forest Fire Service staff will remain on scene to continue improving containment lines and monitor the area to ensure public safety. Smoke conditions may remain for several hours.

The fire’s cause remains under investigation.

Just last week the New Jersey Forest Fire Service contained a 13,500-acre fire in Wharton State Forrest you can read about that fire here.


Photos from NJ Forest Fire Service Facebook Page


Trenton Officials Confirm Police Officer Suspended From Incident That Occurred At Hamilton Township School

June 27, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)—City officials have confirmed that Trenton Police Officer Rudy Lopez, thirty-seven of Hamilton Township, NJ has been suspended from his position from a June 15, 2022, incident in Hamilton Township. Lopez was charged with two counts of harassment on a summons complaint from an incident at Lalor Elementary School in Hamilton, the complaint says he verbally threatened two victims, specifically by making threatening comments, causing alarm according to a Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Spokesperson.

The incident occurred June 15, 2022, between 8:30 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. while in front of the Lalor Elementary School in Hamilton.

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.



Update: Washington Road Reopened After Serious Crash

June 27, 2022

1:07 p.m. Update: West Windsor Police Report, road OPEN – The accident on Washington Rd between Route 1 and Faculty Rd has been cleared and the road is open!


June 27, 2022

WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)—About 10:58 a.m. West Windsor Police, West Windsor Emergency Services, Captial Health Paramedics, Princeton Junction FD and West Windsor Fire are on scene of a serious motor vehicle crash on Washington Road. There is no reported entrapment but one person is in grave condition that was removed from one a vehicle.


West Windsor Police report:

Road Closure – Washington Rd is closed between Route 1 and Faculty Rd due to a serious motor vehicle accident

Road Closure – Washington Rd is closed between Route 1 and Faculty Rd due to a serious motor vehicle accident.



Police Investigate Shooting On Corner Of Lalor And Beatty Streets In Trenton

June 25, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Just after 10:30 p.m., Friday June 24, 2022, Hamilton Police responded for a shooting at the 7-11 on the Hamilton side of Lalor Street at Deutz Avenue. Hamilton Police, Hamilton Fire Department and EMS responded. Prior to Fire Department and EMS arrival it was reported that police scooped the person and rushed them to the trauma center at Captial Health Regional Medical Center. The shooting was determined to be on the Trenton side, in the 500 Block of Lalor on the corner with Beatty Street. Police were seen searching the area in front of Mikey’s Bar and Grill for evidence. The shooting victim was believed to be a male and was reportedly shot in the chest. No further details are available at this time. This is an active investigation and when details become available the story will be updated.


Police investigate a shooting at the corner of Lalor and Beatty Street tonight.


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Acting AG Platkin Announces Charges Against Wildwood Mayor, Former Mayor, and City Commissioner for Fraudulently Participating in State Health Insurance Program

June 24, 2022

WILDWOOD, NJ — Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced today that Wildwood Mayor Peter J. Byron, former Mayor Ernest V. Troiano Jr., and current City Commissioner Steven E. Mikulski have been charged criminally for fraudulently participating in the State Health Benefits Program (SHBP).

Byron, 67, Troiano, 71, and Mikulski, 57, all residents of Wildwood, N.J., were each charged today by complaint-summons with second-degree theft by unlawful taking and third-degree tampering with public records or information. The three current and former city officials were charged in an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) that began with a referral from the New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits.

“Today we bring charges against current and former public and elected officials for what we allege are breaches of the public trust,” said Acting Attorney General Platkin. “We will work tirelessly to root out public corruption and restore faith in our institutions.”

Since 2010, New Jersey law has required elected officials to be full-time employees “whose hours of work are fixed at 35 or more per week” in their elected positions to be eligible to participate in the SHBP and receive employer-provided healthcare. The investigation revealed that Byron, Troiano, and Mikulski were never eligible because they were never “full-time” employees as defined by state law. They did not receive vacation, sick, or personal days, and maintained no regular schedule. It is alleged, however, that all three fraudulently enrolled in the SHBP and received publicly funded health benefits.

Troiano and Byron were elected to Wildwood’s three-member City Commission in 2011, and Troiano was sworn in as mayor. Both men voted in 2011 to pass a resolution that declared themselves full-time employees working “a minimum of 35 hours per week” for Wildwood. They subsequently enrolled in the SHBP. While Troiano and Byron did not work a regular full-time schedule or work at least 35 hours per week, they allegedly falsely signed and submitted timesheets to the city indicating they worked full days Monday through Friday. As a result, Wildwood and the SHBP paid over $286,500 in premiums and claims on behalf of Troiano from July 2011 through December 2019, and paid over $608,900 in premiums and claims on behalf of Byron from July 2011 through October 2021.

Mikulski became a member of Wildwood’s Commission in 2020. He enrolled in the SHBP and has since received publicly funded health benefits. Wildwood and the SHBP have paid over $103,000 in premiums and claims on his behalf through October 2021. It is alleged that he knowingly made false statements in a “Health Benefits Enrollment and/or Change Form” submitted to the City of Wildwood.

Deputy Attorney General Brian Uzdavinis is prosecuting the case for the OPIA Corruption Bureau under the supervision of Bureau Chief Peter Lee and OPIA Deputy Director Anthony Picione, with the assistance of Detectives of the New Jersey State Police Official Corruption South Unit. Acting Attorney General Platkin thanked the New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits for their referral.

Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000, while third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Defense Attorneys

For Troiano: Undetermined.

For Byron: Undetermined.

For Mikulski: John Tumelty, Esq., Marmora, N.J. 


Photo: City of Wildwood New Jersey Facebook Page


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Update: Towaco Man Indicted On Charges Of Death By Vessel, Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide, Assault By Vessel In Connection With Boat Crash; Father Indicted On Hindering Apprehension

June 24, 2022

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced on that June 22, 2022, Juan Fernandez, II, 19, of Towaco, New Jersey, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Death by Vessel in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5b(1); Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5.3a and Assault by Vessel in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:1c(2), in connection with a boat crash that occurred on the Barnegat Bay in Toms River on June 13, 2021, resulting in the death of Corey Molinari, 19, of Whippany, New Jersey.

On June 13, 2021, at approximately 1:13 a.m., the Toms River Township Police Department and the New Jersey State Police were notified of a boat crash that occurred in the Barnegat Bay. Officers responded to Antiqua Avenue and found that Corey Molinari had been ejected from a pontoon boat and suffered serious bodily injury including severe head trauma. At least six other occupants of the boat were identified and treated on scene for various injuries. Molinari was treated on scene and subsequently airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune where he subsequently died from his injuries. An investigation by the New Jersey State Police Troop “C” Criminal Investigation Office, New Jersey State Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit determined that Fernandez, II, was the operator of the pontoon boat when the boat struck a cement channel marker.

Further investigation revealed that Fernandez, II, had been consuming alcohol while operating the pontoon boat. Fernandez, II, was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River where he consented to a draw of his blood at approximately 9:32 a.m. Fernandez, II, blood alcohol content (BAC) was determined to be .037%. The State retained the services of Robert J. Pandina, Ph.D., a forensic psycho-pharmacologist, who analyzed the toxicology findings of Fernandez, II’s BAC. Dr. Pandina concluded through extrapolation analysis that Fernandez II’s BAC at the time of the collision was between .13% and .15%. In the State of New Jersey, an operator of a motor vehicle or vessel is presumed to be over the legal limit for purposes of alcohol consumption where his/her BAC is .08 or greater.

On September 9, 2021, Fernandez II was arrested at his residence without incident. He was transported to New Jersey State Police Tuckerton Station to be processed. He was then transported to the Ocean County Jail, and later released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

During the course of this investigation, Fernandez II’s father, Juan A. Fernandez, Sr., 59, of Towaco, was questioned by law enforcement in connection with this investigation. It was determined that Juan A. Fernandez, Sr., provided false information to Detectives during the course of the investigation; as a consequence, Juan A. Fernandez, Sr., has been indicted for Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3a(7).

Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Robert Cassidy who is handling the case on behalf of the State, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, New Jersey State Police Troop “C” Criminal Investigation Office, New Jersey State Police Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, for their combined and collective efforts in connection with this investigation resulting in Fernandez’s indictment.

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).


File photos from that night by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response

File photos from that night by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response




Juan Fernandez, II, 19, of Towaco, New Jersey, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Death by Vessel in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5b(1); Strict Liability Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5.3a and Assault by Vessel in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:1c(2), in connection with a boat crash that occurred on the Barnegat Bay in Toms River on June 13, 2021, resulting in the death of Corey Molinari, 19, of Whippany, New Jersey.


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Update: Driver Charged With, DWI, Reckless Driving, Open Container, and Vehicular Assault In Old Trenton Road Crash

June 24, 2022

WEST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–West Windsor Police reported that they responded to a serious motor vehicle crash at 10:32 p.m. on June 17, 2022. The head on crash occurred on Old Trenton Road near Pennington Drive when a white Chevrolet Colorado was traveling south and crossed over into the direct path of a black Genesis G70 traveling in the northbound lane. The crash caused extensive damage and entrapped both drivers and a passenger in the vehicles. West Windsor Division of Fire and Emergency Services, Princeton Junction Fire Company and West Windsor Fire Company responded and extricated all three individuals. All involved parties were transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. It was reported that all parties received serious non-life threating injuries. Old Trenton Road was closed for approximately four hours for the investigation and clean up.

The lead investigator is Traffic Officer E. McQuade from the West Windsor Police Department.

West Windsor Police say that they have charged Millstone resident Romulo Alfredo Menchu Aguilar with DWI, Reckless Driving, Open Container of Alcoholic Beverages in a Motor Vehicle, and Vehicular Assault (2 Counts) in a serious crash on Old Trenton Road June 17, 2022. Romulo Alfredo Menchu Aguilar was released to the custody of the Mercer County Corrections pending a future Mercer County Superior Court Appearance. The passenger of the Chevrolet Colorado was also a resident of Millstone, NJ. The driver of the Genesis G70 was a resident of Manalapan, NJ.

Please note that charges are merely accusations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


Previous MidJersey.news story here:



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Trench Rescue In Hamilton Township

June 23, 2022

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 1:50 p.m. Hamilton Township Fire Department and RWJ EMS were detailed to the 100 Block of North Hamilton Avenue near Norcross Circle for “domestic entrapment” Upon arrival it was determined that a trench collapsed, and a person was stuck in soil. A Hamilton Township Public Works vacuum truck was called to help with the rescue. Trenton Fire Department Taskforce was requested for additional aid to the scene. The person was removed about an hour later around 3:00 p.m. The person was transported to a nearby hospital by RWJ EMS and Captial Health Paramedics. Hamilton Township Police were on scene for crowd and traffic control. No further details are available.







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Check Your Tickets $30,000 Ticket Sold In Trenton, NJ

June 22, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The NJ Lotter reports that there was one third-tier prizewinning ticket sold for the Tuesday, June 21, 2022 drawing that matched four of the five white balls and the Gold Mega Ball drawn winning the $10,000 prize. That ticket was purchase with the Megaplier option, multiplying the prize to $30,000. That ticket was purchased at Mr. Convenient & Variety Store, 1 East State St., Trenton in Mercer County.

In addition to the third-tier prize won, 19 players matched four of the five white balls drawn making each ticket worth $500. Two of those tickets were purchase with the Megaplier option, multiplying the prize to $1,500. Moreover, 28,552 other New Jersey players took home $129,236 in prizes ranging from $2 to $600. The winning numbers for the Tuesday, June 21, drawing were: 08, 13, 18, 32, and 42. The Gold Mega Ball was 20, and the Megaplier Multiplier was 03.


Five Employees Arrested at Club XXXV On Prostitution Charges And Money Laundering

June 22, 2022

SAYREVILLE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)-Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief John Zebrowski of the Sayreville Police Department announced today that a joint investigation with The Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control and the Office of Criminal Investigations of the New Jersey Treasury Department, has led to the arrests of five individuals who are employed at Club XXXV in Sayreville, New Jersey.

In May of 2021, a search warrant was executed at Club XXXV and evidence of prostitution was uncovered. During that search, employees of Club XXXV Jeannine Nichols and Jason Portes were arrested for promoting prostitution and Jennifer Hecker was arrested for promoting prostitution and the solicitation of prostitution as well as money laundering.

On Tuesday, June 14, 2022, as a result of the ongoing joint investigation, several search warrants were executed on residences and businesses associated with the investigation with the assistance of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office.

Anthony Acciardi Sr, 58, of Freehold, Anthony Acciardi Jr, 29, of Old Bridge and Doreen Acciardi, 55, of Freehold were charged with first-degree money laundering, second-degree promoting organized street crime, third- degree promoting prostitution and other criminal offenses. Angela Mancini, 32, of Colts Neck, was charged with first-degree money laundering and second-degree conspiracy and Jennifer Hecker was charged with third-degree promoting prostitution and a disorderly person’s offense of solicitation of prostitution.

The defendants have been released from the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center as the result of their pre-trial detention hearing that took place on June 21, 2022, in Superior Court.

The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Sergeant Jason Mader of the Sayreville Police Department at (732) 727-4444, Detective Shadi Zaiton of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4263.

As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against the defendants are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.


Photos below from 35 XXXV Gentlemen’s Club Facebook Page:





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NJ Forrest Fire Service Reports 95% Containment Of 13,500-Acre Wildfire In Wharton State Forest

June 22, 2022

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reports that the Wharton State Forest – Mullica River Fire has reached 95 percent containment of a 13,500-acre wildfire at the Wharton State Forest in Washington, Shamong, Hammonton & Mullica Townships.

There is an ongoing investigation into an illegal campfire which has been determined to be the cause of the fire. Anyone with information can contact our Division B office at 609-726-9010.

✅ Road closures have been lifted.

✅ Atsion Recreation Area has reopened.

✅ Batsto Village has reopened.

⚠️ Hiking trails between Atsion and Batsto remain closed due to active fire activity.

⚠️ Kayaking and canoeing along the Mullica and Batsto Rivers remains closed between Atsion and Batsto. Pinelands Adventures has suspended kayak and canoe trips.

⚠️ Wharton State Forest’s Mullica River Campground remains closed.

The fire was first spotted at 10:06 a.m. Sunday by a Forest Fire Service observer at the Batsto Fire Tower. The fire was fueled by breezy conditions and low humidity.

Structure protection was provided by local volunteer fire departments from Atlantic, Burlington and Ocean counties, we thank them for their assistance.

The public is advised that smoke may be visible for an extended period while firefighters continue to patrol and mop-up this wildfire. Motorists traveling in the area should remain cautious of smoke, firefighters and fire vehicles that may be working on nearby roadways.

This will be our final update on this fire unless there are significant developments.

———————–

Helpful Wildfire Terminology

🔥 Wildfire – An uncontrolled fire burning the different types of vegetation that cover the land. A wildfire is considered a “major wildfire” after it exceeds 100 acres in size.

🔥 Containment – When reporting on a wildfire a percentage of containment will be given, which will state how much of the fireline has been completed.

🔥 Backfire – A fire intentionally set along the interior edge of a fireline by Forest Fire Service staff to consume fuel in the path of a wildfire and/or to change the direction of force of a fire’s convection column.

🔥 Fireline – The part of a containment or control line that is scraped or dug to mineral soil.

🔥 Threatened – Critical infrastructure, roads, homes and commercial buildings that are in the vicinity of a wildfire.



McDonald’s Of Trenton Celebrates “Thank You Crew” Nominee Ashanti Ross On World Music Day

June 21, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)– Ashanti Ross has been recognized for her continuous dedication and service to McDonald’s customers at the McDonald’s of Trenton on Olden Avenue in Ewing Township. She recently used her musical talents to perform for guests at her McDonald’s location, providing a unique and meaningful experience for those who dined at the restaurant.  

McDonald’s ‘Thank You Crew’ is a new nationwide campaign that invites customers across the country to recognize and celebrate McDonald’s crew and managers in their local restaurants that go above and beyond while inspiring others. To show their appreciation, store operators are hosting a one-of-a-kind thank you experience that is unique to each nominated Crew Member.

Ashanti held a performance and received a surprise celebration with her coworkers today, as she prepares to attend Berklee College of Music in the fall. Falling on World Music Day, this event aims to show appreciation for Ashanti’s commitment to McDonald’s and spotlight her musical abilities.

Ashanti Ross, McDonald’s ‘Thank You Crew’ Nominee plays at the Trenton McDonalds on Olden Avenue in Ewing Township this morning. Above Photos by: Brian McCarthy

Ashanti was surprised with a celebration at her McDonald’s location where she was presented with a college prep gift basket and cake by Keith and Kevin Smolar, Trenton McDonald’s and The Smolar Group Inc. Restaurants Owner Operators, as well as the People Experience Lead for The Smolar Group, Katelyn Smolar, to show their appreciation for her commitment to customers and fellow crew members alike. Ashanti performed a wonderful in-store concert featuring violin covers of Arianna Grande, Drake and more, and even moved outside so guests in the drive-thru could hear her performance! She was also joined by Angela Yu, the Franchise Business Partner for the McDonald’s Corporation, for a piano and violin duet.

Falling on World Music Day, this event served to thank Ashanti for always going above and beyond at McDonald’s as part of their new ‘Thank You Crew’ initiative, where McDonald’s crew and managers are celebrated in their local restaurants for their inspiring service. Ashanti will be attending Berklee College of Music in the fall, and her McDonald’s family was proud to shed light on her musical abilities and give her the special crew celebration she deserves!


Ashanti Ross, McDonald’s ‘Thank You Crew’ Nominee plays at the Trenton McDonalds on Olden Avenue in Ewing Township this morning. Above Photos by: Brian McCarthy


Above Photos by Brian McCarthy


Lawrenceville And Trenton Men Arrested For Theft And Desecration Of “Angel of Hope”

The pair scrapped the statue for $1,626.00 at a Philadelphia, PA, Scrapyard

June 21, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Police say that on May 7, 2022, the “Angel of Hope” statue was stolen from in front of 140 N Warren St. in Trenton, New Jersey. During the course of the investigation, it was found that Kevin L. Hampton, 51 years of age from Lawrenceville, New Jersey, and Zachary Carey, 48 years of age from Trenton, New Jersey were identified, charged, and arrested for the theft. During the investigation. detectives found that in the early morning hours of May 5th the statue was cut from its base in front of St. Mary’s Church, loaded into Hampton’s GMC Sierra pickup truck, then taken to a scrapyard in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, where Hampton and Carey scrapped the statue for $1,626.00

Both individuals were charged with Theft and Desecration of Venerated Objects.





File Photos by: Brian McCarthy


TPD Photo


Wildfire Update: NJ Forrest Fire Service Reports 13,500 Acre Fire Now 85% Contained, Routes 206 and 542 Reopen

June 21, 2022

The New Jersey Forrest Fire Service is reporting that continue to make substantial progress in containing a wildfire in Wharton State Forest – Washington, Shamong, Hammonton & Mullica Townships – which has reached 13,500 acres in size and is 85% contained.

ROAD CLOSURE UPDATES

✅ Route 206 – Reopened 11 a.m.

✅ Route 542 – Reopened 10 a.m.

Batsto Village, Atsion Recreation Area and all associated hiking and mountain bike trails remain closed to visitors. The Mullica River Campground and Lower Forge Campground are closed. Kayak and canoe launching along the Mullica River is closed from the Atsion Recreation Area to Batsto Village. These closures will remain in effect until further notice. Pinelands Adventures has suspended kayak and canoe trips.

18 structures are threatened. There are no reported injuries.

Motorists traveling in the area should remain cautious of smoke and watch for firefighters and fire vehicles that may be working on nearby roadways. Smoke impacts will remain elevated into the evening hours as winds diminish, and partial cloud cover moves over the area.

Please remember, “No Drones in Fire Zones – If YOU fly, WE can’t!”


Helpful Wildfire Terminology

🔥 Wildfire – An uncontrolled fire burning the different types of vegetation that cover the land. A wildfire is considered a “major wildfire” after it exceeds 100 acres in size.

🔥 Containment – When reporting on a wildfire a percentage of containment will be given, which will state how much of the fireline has been completed.

🔥 Backfire – A fire intentionally set along the interior edge of a fireline by Forest Fire Service staff to consume fuel in the path of a wildfire and/or to change the direction of force of a fire’s convection column.

🔥 Fireline – The part of a containment or control line that is scraped or dug to mineral soil.

🔥 Threatened – Critical infrastructure, roads, homes and commercial buildings that are in the vicinity of a wildfire.




Fire On Spruce Street In Lawrence Township Quickly Knocked Down

June 20, 2022

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 9:56 p.m. the Trenton Radio Room was receiving multiple 9-1-1 calls for a reported fire at the corner of Spruce Street and Brunswick Avenue and the Trenton Fire Department was dispatched to the fire. Within a couple of minutes, the address was updated to an address in the 800 Block of Spruce in Lawrence Township and all Lawrence Township Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene. First arriving firefighters found heavy fire on the first-floor rear of the building and went in service with a 1 3/4″ hose line. Firefighters called for an “All Hands” sending additional equipment to the scene. Firefighters reported that primary and secondary searches were negative. Firefighters quickly knocked down the fire and remained on scene for overhaul. No additional information is available at this time.



NJ Forest Fire Service Reports 12,000 Acre Wildfire 70% Contained

June 20, 2022

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service reports they are making substantial progress in containing a wildfire in Wharton State Forest – Washington, Shamong, Hammonton & Mullica Townships – which has reached 12,000 acres in size and is 70% contained.

Yesterday June 19, 2022 at just after 12:00 p.m. the fire was reported at 100 acres in size and the wildfire has grown to 12,000 acres in a short time.

ROAD CLOSURES
⚠️ Route 206 – from Chew Road to Atsion Road
⚠️ Route 542 – from Green Bank Road to Columbia Road

Batsto Village and all associated hiking and mountain bike trails are closed to visitors. The Atsion Recreation Area is also closed. The Mullica River Campground, Lower Forge Campground, Mullica River Trail and boat launches along the Mullica River are closed from the Atsion Recreation Area to Batsto Village. These closures will remain in effect until further notice. Pinelands Adventures has suspended kayak and canoe trips.

18 structures are threatened. Structure protection is in place and provided by local volunteer fire departments from Atlantic, Burlington and Ocean counties, we thank them for their assistance. There are no reported injuries.

Motorists traveling in the area should remain cautious of smoke and watch for firefighters and fire vehicles that may be working on nearby roadways. Smoke impacts will remain elevated into the evening hours as winds diminish, and partial cloud cover moves over the area.

Please remember, “No Drones in Fire Zones – If YOU fly, WE can’t!”



Local volunteer fire companies from Atlantic, Burlington and Ocean counties are protecting 18 structures from the fire. These photos are from the Basto area. Photos by: Michael Kamer



The smoke plume from the Mullica River Fire is visible on National Weather Service Radar.


National Weather Service GOES-16 satellite is designed to aid in fire detection. While wildfires, mostly of small size, are not uncommon in our region, a satellite signature like this is highly unusual around here according to the National Weather Service.


East Windsor Announces Independence Day Celebration On July 2, 2022, And Summer Programs At Etra Park

June 20, 2022

EAST WINDSOR TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–  Mayor Janice S. Mironov and Council Members invite all area residents to join with Township officials on Saturday, July 2 for the East Windsor Township Independence Day Celebration, at Etra Lake Park.  The rain date is Saturday, July 9.

The Independence Day celebration free entertainment begins at 6 P.M. with Jerry Rife’s Rhythm Kings Dixieland Jazz Band, a 6-piece band from the Delaware Valley area, best known for its traditional jazz sound.  They will be followed at 7:45 P.M. by the Trenton Brass Quintet Plus One, a 6-piece ensemble from Central Jersey performing Americana and a variety of popular melodies.  The spectacular fireworks display will commence immediately following the musical presentations, at approximately 9:30 P.M.

Mayor Mironov stated that, “Our Nation’s Independence Day is a great occasion for our residents to join together in celebration and recognition of our blessings of liberty and freedom.” She urged everyone to, “bring your blankets and chairs, and use the barbecue grills for a night of free fun at beautiful Etra Lake Park.”  There also will be vendors present for purchase of refreshments.  This free event is made possible through the generous contributions of many area businesses.

Mayor Mironov announced that the East Windsor Township summer program of free events at Etra Lake Park will continue on Saturday, July 16 at 7 P.M. with “Family-Night-In-The-Park”, featuring a large screen viewing of the newly released Disney computer-animated fantasy comedy film “Encanto” about Colombian teenager Maribel Madrigal who faces the frustration of being the only member of her magical family without special powers.  The movie will be preceded by games, crafts, DJ Music and dancing.

On Sunday, July 24 at 6 P.M. “Wooden Ships Band”, a Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young tribute band reproduces the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young songbook and will take attendees back in time to the era of the 1970’s.  All time Crosby, Stills song favorites highlighting the show will include Suite Judy Blue Eyes, Teach Your Children, Helplessly Hoping, Woodstock and Déjà Vu.

On Sunday, August 7 at 6 P.M., “Gypsy”, a Fleetwood Mac tribute band will perform with Stevie Nicks vocals and visuals that capture Nicks’ stage presence. “Gypsy” performs the greatest hits from Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac, including Stand Back, Rhiannon, Gold Dust Woman, Don’t Stop and so many more.

On Sunday, August 21 at 6 P.M., “B-Street Band” will perform, which is the top requested Bruce Springsteen tribute band on the circuit performing over 200 shows per year throughout the country.  “The Boss” himself has made an appearance to see the show, underscoring that the performance will be second-to-none, with favorite hits such as Cadillac Ranch, My Home Town, Glory Days, Hungry Heart and The River.

For information in the event of inclement weather for any of these events, call the East Windsor Information Hotline at (609) 443-4000 ext. 400 after 1 P.M. on the day of the event.  If there is inclement weather for the concerts (July 24, August 7, August 21), the program will be moved indoors to the East Windsor Regional School District Hightstown High School auditorium.

East Windsor Township thanks the following community businesses whose generous contributions have underwritten and made this summer entertainment possible:  Platinum Sponsors – Aurobindo, Novitium Pharma and QTS Data Centers;  Diamond Supporters – Hovione;  Gold Sponsors – The Woods at East Windsor, Comcast and One Mile Storage;  Silver Sponsors – Continental Auto Repair, LLC, Fordoz Pharma, IXP Corporation, McCaffrey’s Market, John Mayorek and Taco Bell;  Bronze Sponsors – Centrastate Healthcare Systems and Moe’s Southwest Grill.






Bensalem, PA Man That Sustained Fatal Injuries On NJ Turnpike Early Yesterday Morning Identified

June 18, 2022

CHESTERFIELD TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Sgt. Alejandro Goez from the New Jersey State Police Public Information Unit told MidJersey.News that an accident was reported at 3:33 a.m. north bound in the inner roadway at Mile Post 56.8

The preliminary investigation indicates that a tractor trailer traveling north struck a disabled Ford Ecosport in the right lane, which was unoccupied and disabled from a previous accident. The tractor-trailer then went off the road to the right, struck the guardrail and entered the outer roadway, where it struck a pedestrian standing in the left shoulder and became engulfed.

The pedestrian, William Beczo, 47, of Bensalem, PA sustained fatal injuries. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured. The accident remains under investigation by the New Jersey State Police.