POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 10:00 p.m., last night, April 28, Point Pleasant Beach police received a 9-1-1 call for a reported structure fire at 37 Arnold Avenue. When the police arrived, they confirmed the house was on fire. There were reports of issues with a nearby fire hydrant that seemed to fall apart and disconnect from the water main. A second alarm was called for as firefighters attempted to extinguish the fire on the third floor of the home that was wind whipped due to high winds from stormy weather. Firefighters started to make progress knocking down the fire but were beaten back by the flames and the building started to collapse as the evacuation signal was given.
Operating at the scene: Ocean Fire Company No.1, Point Pleasant Beach Fire Company No.2, Point Pleasant Borough Station 75, Silverton Station 29, Brielle 99-1, South Wall 52-3, and others.
No additional details are available at this time. The fire is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)-Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced today that an investigation conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department has resulted in one arrest in connection with the shooting homicide of Daniel Garvin earlier this month.
Rasheed Funderburg, 34, of Trenton, is charged with murder and firearms offenses. He was taken into custody on Wednesday morning by the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain the defendant pending trial.
At approximately 8:21 pm, on April 14, 2023, Trenton Police received a ShotSpotter activation for six rounds in the area of 328 Rutherford Avenue. Trenton Police responded to the area and eventually located a male in an area behind 332 and 330 Rutherford Avenue suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. He was identified as Daniel Garvin, 46 years old, of Trenton. Garvin was transported to the hospital but was later pronounced deceased.
During the investigation, Detectives learned that Funderburg had engaged in a physical altercation with a younger male at the liquor store located at 210 Prospect Street immediately prior to the shooting. The younger male fled around the corner to Rutherford Avenue and several individuals, including Funderburg, followed him. Funderburg was seen retrieving a handgun and approaching an alleyway where the younger male had been seen running. Funderburg then fired several shots down the alleyway from the street. The victim, Daniel Garvin, was struck three times by gunfire as he walked through the alleyway.
The charges are a result of an investigation by the MCHTF and TPD, specifically lead task force Detective Elijah Phillips. Anyone with information is asked to contact the MCHTF at (609) 989- 6406.
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Rasheed Funderburg, 34, of Trenton, is charged with murder and firearms offenses. He was taken into custody on Wednesday morning by the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain the defendant pending trial.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor, Angelo J. Onofri announced that on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at approximately 2:17 p.m., Ewing Police Emergency Dispatch received a 911 call regarding someone having been shot at 75 Sussex Street. Ewing Police Officers arrived on scene, located the victim, Dehaven Rogers in the front yard of the residence and safely removed him from danger. The suspect, Amir Williams, date of birth November 11, 1987, was seen in the front right window of the residence. Arriving Ewing Police personnel established a perimeter around 75 Sussex Street with their weapons drawn and began ordering Williams to come out with his hands up. Williams did not initially comply but he eventually exited the front door of the residence, surrendered himself to Ewing Police, and was placed in custody. Ewing Emergency Medical Services arrived on scene and transported Rogers to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment where he was later pronounced deceased.
Additional investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force led to Williams being charged with First Degree Murder and Second Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. He is currently in custody at the Mercer County Corrections Center. The Prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain the defendant pending trial.
METUCHEN, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Arthur Flaherty of the Metuchen Police Department announced today, that two juveniles have been charged with an act of juvenile delinquency for offenses which if committed by an adult would constitute Criminal Trespass, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:18-3(a), a fourth-degree crime.
On Wednesday morning, April 26, 2023, two unidentified juveniles entered the Metuchen High School. Shortly after entering the school, they were identified as non-students. Out of an abundance of caution and to facilitate a further search, the school was placed on lockdown.
Following an investigation by the Metuchen Police Department and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, no threat was found.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Robert Ring of the Metuchen Police Department at (732) 632-8501 or Detective Margaret Kolta of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-8842.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charge against the two juveniles are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Daniel Plumacker of the Sayreville Police Department announced today that John Denuto, 46, of Spotswood pled guilty to Endangering the Welfare of a Child and other offenses on Friday, April 14, 2023.
Denuto, a former special education teacher at the Sayreville Middle School and former wrestling coach at numerous other schools and organizations who exploited his position as both a teacher and a wrestling coach to meet and abuse his victims was initially arrested on February 15, 2020. An investigation by the Sayreville Police Department and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined Denuto had criminal sexual contact with a juvenile and he possessed child sexual exploitive materials that he had created by filming and photographing the previous mentioned juvenile. Further investigation revealed Denuto was in possession of additional sexual exploitive material of unidentified individuals.
On April 22, 2021, Denuto was indicted on one count of first-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, one count of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, three counts of third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, eight counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy, six counts of third-degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, six counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact, two counts of third-degree Witness Tampering, and one count of third-degree Hindering His Own Apprehension.
On Friday April 14, 2023, Denuto pled before the Honorable Benjamin
S. Bucca, J.S.C., to one count of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, one count of third-degree Endangering and one count of fourth-degree Invasion of Privacy. He is subject to a sentence of seven years and will be on parole supervision for life and must register under Megan’s Law. Denuto is scheduled to be sentenced by the Honorable Benjamin S. Bucca, J.S.C., on September 8, 2023.
Below is a list of schools, organizations, and clubs that the investigation revealed Denuto to be associated with:
Rhino’s Wrestling Club – Morganville
CJA Wrestling Club – East Brunswick
Pennsville High School – Pennsville
Raritan High School – Hazlet Township
Saint John Vianney – Holmdel
Sayreville Middle School – Sayreville
Sayreville High School – Sayreville
Middletown North High School – Middletown Township
Monroe High School – Monroe
Peddie High School – Hightstown
South Brunswick High School – South Brunswick Saint Joseph High School – Montvale
Union County College – Cranford
Camden Catholic High School – Cherry Hill Johnson High School – Clark
St. Thomas Aquinas High School (formerly Bishop Ahr HS) – Edison
Woodbridge High School – Woodbridge
7th & 8th Woodbridge Recreation Program – Woodbridge
7th & 8th Grade Old Bridge Recreation Program – Old Bridge Piscataway High School – Piscataway
Spotswood High School – Spotswood
Freehold Boro High School – Freehold Borough
In a separate prosecution, Denuto was adjudicated delinquent on May 20, 2022, for crimes which, if committed by an adult, would constitute two counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault. Denuto was the subject of a dispositional hearing on October 21, 2022, which resulted in his commitment by the Honorable Deborah J. Venezia to the care and control of the Acting Director of the Juvenile Justice Commission for an aggregate term of four years.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Police report that there is an active police investigation on Sussex Street between Louisiana Avenue and Oregon Avenue. There is no threat to the public at this time.
HAMILTON, NJ – Last week, the Hamilton Township Council unanimously approved Mayor Martin’s request to purchase 32.5 acres of land on Basin Road to preserve it as open space.
The land, which is partially wooded and wetland, is both upstream and adjacent to the Assunpink Creek in the Cornell Heights neighborhood. The Assunpink is a frequently flooded area of the Township.
Hamilton will seek grants from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres and Mercer County Open Space Assistance Program to help defray the purchase price of $188,000 and closing costs.
“Preserving more land in different neighborhoods throughout the Township is part of our continued goal of working with property owners to preserve green space rather than developed,” said Mayor Martin.
Following the acquisition of this land, Hamilton Township will have nearly 6,000 acres of preserved land – an amount greater than the entire land acreage of the City of Trenton. For more information on Hamilton Township Open Space, visit www.HamiltonNJ.com/CED.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH) – The Middlesex County man who attacked and killed a stranger in a Freehold Township parking lot nearly five years ago, solely motivated by the victim’s race, has been sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 35 years for the crime, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.
Jamil Hubbard, 30, of Sayreville was sentenced Tuesday afternoon by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Lourdes Lucas for causing the death of 56-year-old Jerry Wolkowitz.
At approximately 7:15 a.m. on the morning of Tuesday, May 1, 2018, members of the Freehold Township Police Department and other first responders rushed to the Chesterfield Apartments on Harding Road on a report of a physical altercation involving a person struck by a vehicle. At that location they found Wolkowitz in the apartment complex’s parking lot, having sustained severe injuries to his head, abdomen, and back. Wolkowitz was subsequently transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for emergency treatment.
Missing from the parking lot was Wolkowitz’s vehicle, a Kia Forte, which Hubbard was later found to have stolen. Hubbard then led police on a pursuit, refusing to obey commands to pull over, until it was terminated due to high speeds and out of concern for public safety. Minutes later, the Kia was found abandoned on Bordentown Avenue in Sayreville, and Hubbard was arrested by members of the Sayreville Police Department without incident at his home in the nearby Winding Wood Apartments.
An investigation involving numerous members of the MCPO Major Crimes Bureau, Freehold Township Police Department, and Sayreville Police Department later revealed that Hubbard was in the area that morning because he had slept in his vehicle overnight, having engaged in an argument with his ex-girlfriend, a resident of the apartment complex, the night before. When he woke up, he told investigators, he spotted Wolkowitz walking nearby and decided to try to kill him because he was white, initially attacking him from behind with punches and kicks before stealing his wallet and car keys. He also told investigators he dragged the victim into the parking lot and ran him over with the defendant’s car.
Wolkowitz, a longtime member of the Freehold First Aid and Emergency Squad and a freelance photographer, remained hospitalized in a coma until he died due to his injuries on Thursday, October 18, 2018. A Monmouth County Grand Jury returned an indictment against Hubbard in March 2019.
Hubbard’s prosecution was handled by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Hoda Soliman and Keri Schaefer, who presented evidence during a seven-week trial refuting an attempted insanity defense, showing that Hubbard’s conduct was intentional, knowing, and deliberate. At the conclusion of the trial, in November 2022, the jury convicted him of first-degree Murder, first-degree Bias Intimidation, second-degree Eluding, third-degree Theft from the Person, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and third-degree Motor Vehicle Theft.
Judge Lucas yesterday ordered that Hubbard serve a life term for the murder conviction, 25 years for the bias conviction, and 10 years for the eluding conviction, with all three terms to run consecutively to each other. During the sentencing hearing, three of Wolkowitz’s siblings and his fiancée either read statements into the record or had their remarks read into the record on their behalf. In addition, a statement by the victim’s now-deceased mother was read into the record by a family member.
Judge Lucas remarked on the case’s extreme brutality, which prompted an obvious need for deterrence.
“Racism has no place in our community. The evidence demonstrated this brutal attack was a targeted one, based on race, and such abhorrent behavior cannot be tolerated. Yesterday’s sentencing constituted an unambiguous message regarding this notion,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “There is no place in civilized society for those who commit such acts, and the only appropriate reckoning in cases such as these is their permanent removal from society. We hope that yesterday’s proceedings offered a measure of solace for the many individuals who so clearly loved and respected Mr. Wolkowitz so deeply.”
Hubbard was represented at trial by Allison Friedman, Esq. and Katherine M. Caola, Esq.
The Middlesex County man who attacked and killed a stranger in a Freehold Township parking lot nearly five years ago, solely motivated by the victim’s race, has been sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 35 years for the crime, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.
Jamil Hubbard of Sayreville (Left) was convicted of first-degree Murder, first-degree Bias Intimidation, second-degree Eluding, third-degree Theft from the Person, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and third-degree Motor Vehicle Theft, all in connection with the death of 56-year-old Jerry Wolkowitz (Right).
Amid National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Decades-Old Mystery of East Windsor Teen’s Death Is Solved
April 26, 2023
EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER) — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced that a collaborative, multi-agency investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force in conjunction with the New Jersey Attorney General’s Cold Case Network and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) has resulted in the conclusive identification of Nathaniel Harvey, formerly of East Windsor, as the individual responsible for the sexual assault and murder of Donna Macho in 1984. Harvey died in South Woods State Prison in Bridgeton in November 2020.
Ms. Macho, 19, went missing from the East Windsor home where she resided with her parents and sisters on or about February 26, 1984. Her skeletal remains were discovered in a wooded area in Cranbury, N.J., on April 2, 1995, and she was positively identified using dental records.
Throughout the initial and subsequent investigation by the East Windsor Township Police Department, with assistance from the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, persons of interest were developed in the case. Harvey, who was arrested around the same time Ms. Macho went missing and held in connection with several sexual assaults as well as an unrelated murder in the Windsor/Plainsboro, N.J. area, was identified early on as a possible suspect, but investigative leads dissipated and the case went cold. During the commission of his crimes, prosecutors say Harvey typically entered unlocked homes, where he would hold captive and rape young women.
In February 2022, at the direction of Prosecutor Onofri, the case was presented to the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability’s Central Regional Cold Case Task Force, one of the task forces statewide that makes up the Cold Case Network, formed in 2019. The investigation was reopened.
All viable physical evidence was resubmitted to the NJSP Central Regional Laboratory, including DNA evidence and fingerprints. During the initial investigation police found Harvey’s semen in Ms. Macho’s bedroom. But DNA testing was less precise at the time, and the testing conducted on that evidence was unable to match the bodily fluid to one specific individual. The reinvestigation of the case, and reexamination of the evidence using present-day DNA technology, matched it to Mr. Harvey, and determined that his DNA was the only DNA evidence in the room that should not have been present.
Ms. Macho’s body was found in April 1995 in a wooded area by a farm that Harvey briefly worked at around the time of her disappearance. Her vehicle was found abandoned by a nearby sewer plant, within walking distance of Harvey’s residence.
Though the initial autopsy ruled Ms. Macho suffered a gunshot wound to her head, further examination of her remains by the Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office during this cold case investigation determined that, although it was clear a head injury caused the victim’s death, it was not conclusively a gunshot wound. The cause of death was amended to evidence of homicidal violence and Ms. Macho’s manner of death remained recorded a homicide.
Harvey was sentenced to life imprisonment in connection with a different homicide in Middlesex County, and he remained incarcerated from the time of his arrest in 1985 until his death in 2020.
“By sharing personnel, expertise, and technological resources, the Central Regional Cold Case Task Force took a fresh look at this decades-old mystery and identified the suspect in this horrific crime,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “We are grateful Prosecutor Onofri referred this case to the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, and that all the agencies involved collaborated as a team to bring some resolution to the victim’s family. The life and the loss of Donna Macho was not forgotten, and this announcement illustrates the Cold Case Network will not relent in its pursuit of justice.”
“This case illustrates the importance and effectiveness of the Cold Case Network, and its ability to dedicate resources, including cutting-edge technology, to revive cold cases, apply previously unavailable tools to reexamine evidence and bring resolution to grieving families long haunted by unanswered questions,” said Carolyn Murray, Director of the Integrity Bureau of OPIA, which includes the Cold Case Network. “It also ensures with greater accuracy that the proper suspects are identified in connection with these cases, and those who are innocent are not falsely accused of criminal conduct.”
“Nearly 40 years have passed since the life of a 19-year-old was mercilessly stolen by a predator who discarded her remains in a shallow grave, leaving them unrecovered for more than 10 years,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Time does not erase the quest for justice, and although this murderer was imprisoned for another killing and died in custody in 2020, it does not make this conclusion any less meaningful. I applaud the Central Regional Cold Case Task Force and the State Police forensic scientists who were hopefully able to offer the slightest measure of consolation to the victim’s family after all these years.”
“All of the evidence that was viable to be tested has been tested and all leads have been exhausted,” said Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri. “After a comprehensive, cooperative investigation, cold case detectives were able to eliminate other potential suspects and are confident that Nathaniel Harvey is the perpetrator in the sexual assault and murder of Ms. Macho and the case is now closed.”
“I’m grateful to the Attorney General’s Office and the NJSP for the formation of the Cold Case Task Force,” said Prosecutor Onofri. “The technological and investigative resources made possible through this collaboration of law enforcement agencies are invaluable and allow us to bring some closure to families like the Machos after decades of questions and uncertainty.”
Attorney General Platkin and Prosecutor Onofri commended all of the Central Regional Cold Case Task Force’s participating agencies, including the Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability under the leadership of OPIA Executive Director Tom Eicher, the New Jersey State Police, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.
They also expressed their appreciation to the NJSP Office of Forensic Sciences, the NJSP Central Regional Laboratory, the Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, the New Jersey Department of Corrections’ Special Investigations Division, and the East Windsor Township Police Department for their assistance.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On April 24, 2023 at 11:26 a.m. the Hamilton Police Division dispatch center received a call concerning a male that was just attacked with a machete and was in the Quick Chek collapsed on the ground.
The incident occurred at 1111 S. Olden Ave. (American Auto). The victim got into a verbal argument with Nicholas Schiaretti, during the altercation Mr. Schiaretti brandished a machete and struck the victim multiple times. The victim was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment where he is recovering from his injuries. Mr. Schiaretti fled from the scene on foot but later turned himself into police custody.
Mr. Schiaretti was charged with criminal attempt homicide and weapons offenses and was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Center.
Anyone who has additional information can contact Detective M. Durand 609-581-5827.
All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Suspect: Nicholas Schiaretti
Mr. Schiaretti was charged with criminal attempt homicide and weapons offenses and was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Center.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–In the aftermath of the terrifying incident involving Robbinsville Township Patrolman Connor Boyle Saturday night on Route 130, Director of Public Safety Dave Fried and Police Chief Michael Polaski would like to remind the public of the “Move Over Law” – New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2 – which was enacted in 2009.
Every day, thousands of law enforcement officers and emergency personnel take to the streets to help keep the motoring public safe; putting their lives on the line to do so. One of the most dangerous aspects of a police officer’s job is stepping out of their vehicle and onto the roadway. Whether it is to conduct a motor vehicle stop, assist a disabled motorist, investigate a crash, or remove debris from the roadway, perils of all types are everywhere.
Statistics from 2011-2020 reveal that there have been 286 officer line-of-duty deaths due to vehicle crashes, and another 114 due to being struck by a vehicle.
These numbers are not only tragic, but they are often avoidable.
Research shows many drivers believe that moving over is simply an optional courtesy when they see law enforcement vehicles, other emergency vehicles, tow trucks and other public assistance vehicles on the side of the road. Let’s be clear: It is not optional. It is the law! We need to keep our first responders and vehicle assistance workers safe.
Let’s join together to protect those who protect you. The simple act of slowing down and moving over will prevent tragedies.
Slow down and move over. It’s the law!
New Jersey Statute 39:4-92.2
Procedure for motorist approaching certain stationary vehicle.
1. a. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle as defined in R.S.39:1-1 that is displaying a flashing, blinking or alternating red or blue light or, any configuration of lights containing one of these colors, shall approach the authorized emergency vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the authorized emergency vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change pursuant to paragraph (1) of subsection a. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
b. The operator of a motor vehicle approaching a stationary tow truck as defined in section 1 of P.L.1999, c.396 (C.39:3-84.6) that is displaying a flashing amber light, a stationary highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle that is operated by the State, an authority or a county or municipality and displaying flashing yellow, amber, or red lights, or a stationary sanitation vehicle displaying a flashing amber warning light pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2011, c.3 (C.39:3-54.27) shall approach the vehicle with due caution and shall, absent any other direction by a law enforcement officer, proceed as follows:
(1) Make a lane change into a lane not adjacent to the tow truck, highway maintenance or emergency service vehicle, or sanitation vehicle if possible in the existing safety and traffic conditions; or
(2) If a lane change under paragraph (1) of subsection b. of this section would be impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, reduce the speed of the motor vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed for the existing road and traffic conditions, which speed shall be less than the posted speed limit, and be prepared to stop.
c. A violation of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500.
L. 2017, c.43, s.1.
Robbinsville Police release video of traffic assist where Robbinsville Police Officer Boyle was struck by a hit and run driver.
Robbinsville Township Patrolman Connor Boyle has been released from the hospital and is home recovering.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)– Earlier today the City of Trenton issued a statement about an ongoing personnel investigation at the Trenton Police Department.
Full statement below:
In response to a series of articles, published in The Trentonian with incorrect information about an ongoing personnel investigation within the Trenton Police Department that relates to five officers at the Trenton Police Department, please be aware of the following:
This matter was referred to both the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office as well as the Attorney General’s Office. This case was referred back to us to handle administratively.
There is an ongoing investigation as to whether several officers misrepresented their sick/vacation time; any speculation by local media outlets should be disregarded until the ongoing investigation has been completed.
Computers at the Trenton Police Department were not “hacked.” All officers involved were administrative and therefore had “access” to the relevant systems.
Finally, only Pensions makes the decision whether to award a pension to a retiree. Pensions does a background check and seeks clearance from the appointing authority before making the decision to award a pension.
Please be advised that there are no easy choices here, but we do not take this lightly nor is anyone getting away without repercussions.
Pemberton, N.J. – The Attorney General’s Office is investigating a motorcycle crash that occurred during a police pursuit. The crash occurred on April 20, 2023, after a Pemberton Township Police Officer attempted to stop the motorcycle in connection with a criminal investigation. The motorcycle being pursued struck an unrelated civilian vehicle, resulting in the death of the motorcycle driver and serious injuries to the motorcycle passenger. The identities of the decedent and the other individual are not being released at this time.
According to the preliminary investigation, the crash occurred on County Route 687 West near the intersection of Davis Street in Pemberton shortly after 5:16 p.m.
A 2019 law, P.L. 2019, c. 1, requires the Attorney General’s Office to conduct investigations of a person’s 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. It requires that all such investigations be presented to a grand jury to determine if the evidence supports the return of an indictment against the officer or officers involved.
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Allentown High School Alumni [non-profit] group is hosting a fundraiser to benefit AHS student academic and athletic programs. On May 19, 2023, AHS alum and founder of the AHS 1980s Alumni group Scott Trethaway, will serve a day in In-House suspension to raise money for the students of the beloved alma mater. 35 years ago, Trethaway was “sentenced” to a day of suspension for a practical joke he pulled on the day of graduation. He never served his time. Trethaway will “turn himself in” to the Allentown High School Administration and the alumni group hopes the community will join them in raising his “bail” money. Superintendent of Schools Mr. Mark Guterl has noted this is first time in the high school’s history that an alumni group has supported the students in this way. 100% of the donations will support AHS student programs.
The AHS 1980s non-profit group was formed in the fall of 2022 to support one of their own. Thomas Falkowski, class of ’89 was inducted into the AHS Sports Hall of Fame last October during 2022 Homecoming. This induction was especially significant because the Allentown football program was almost terminated in the late 1980s. Because of the tenacity, school spirit and passion of the student body, the football program was saved. Fast forward to 2016. Allentown High School won its first sectional football championship in the Central Jersey Group IV finals. Today, the AHS football program is holding their own in the overall standing.
The AHS 1980s Alumni group has grown to well over 800 members with the focus of reconnecting and reminiscing. Many of the friendships stemmed from participating in academic and athletic programs. With a mission to give back, this group is hoping to demonstrate to the current AHS students that their programs and the friendships that grow from them can last a lifetime. “These programs matter and so do the students.” says Trethaway. “If we can encourage and support both that’s what we want to do.”
Donations can be made through Venmo, @Redbirds4EverAlumni or PayPal.ME/AHSalumni4ever
EAST WINDSOR TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Mayor Janice S. Mironov proclaimed National Library Week April 23 to 29, with the theme “There’s More to the Story” and recognized the important role of the two East Windsor library branches, Hickory Corner and Twin Rivers, of the Mercer County Library System. Mayor Mironov presented the Proclamation, along with Barnes and Noble gift certificates donated by Shiseido America, to Sharon Galbraith Ryer, Branch Manager of the Hickory Corner Library and Jeanne Murray, Branch Manager of the Twin Rivers Library branch, along with East Windsor Township Mercer County Library Commission Representative Phyllis Anker, President of the Friends of the Library for Hickory Corner Library Debbie Scherholz, President of the Friends of the Library for Twin Rivers Library Allan Siskind, and Vice President of the Friends of the Library for Twin Rivers Library Terry Goldstein.
Mayor Mironov stated, “Our libraries are an important center and resource here in East Windsor Township where groups can meet, residents have free access to books, newspapers and magazines, movies, music as well as use of computers. I am always excited to see how many people, young and old, embrace and utilize East Windsor’s two public libraries, the Hickory Corner Branch and the Twin Rivers Branch. Our libraries open doors to information, programs and opportunities are key building blocks of our democracy, and I am proud to continue to support their efforts to serve the people of our community.”
The Mayoral Proclamation issued by Mayor Mironov states, “our public libraries provide all people with books, information, computers, videos, audio cassettes and other resources to enrich their lives.” The Proclamation continues, “Librarians provide the essential guidance and support needed by children, teenagers and adults alike in their search for knowledge and information, as well as their pursuit of avocational and leisure interests.”
East Windsor Township Mayor Janice S. Mironov proclaimed National Library Week April 23 to 29, 2023, and presented the Proclamation and Barnes and Noble gift certificates donated by Shiseido, to local library representatives. Pictured (from left to right) are: Phyllis Anker, East Windsor Township Mercer County Library Commission Member; Debbie Scherholz, President of the Friends of the Library for Hickory Corner Library; Sharon Galbraith Ryer, Hickory Corner Library Branch Manager; Mayor Janice S. Mironov; Jeanne Murray, Twin Rivers Library Branch Manager; Terry Goldstein, Vice President of the Friends of the Library for Twin Rivers Library, and Allan Siskind, President of the Friends of the Library for Twin Rivers Library.
Today Jackpocket, the #1 lottery app in the U.S.,* announced that a 50-year-old grandmother of ten from Gloucester County, New Jersey won $1 million after using the app to order a $2 Powerball lottery ticket on her phone. This is Jackpocket’s 28th person to win $1 million or more on a single ticket to date and the app’s fourth millionaire so far in 2023.
The lucky individual woke up at 3 a.m. and saw an email alerting her of her win, but at the time, she didn’t think it was real. Then, after a double take, she realized she was a big winner! After that, she couldn’t go back to sleep and was pacing around until around 7 a.m., when she called her friend to tell her the news. “I didn’t believe it at first. But when I realized it was for real, I was pretty happy!”
Her Quick Pick ticket matched all five regular numbers drawn on April 15, 2023, 1-33-34-56-59, just missing the red Powerball number. She “had a feeling to play” before she ordered her tickets and ended up winning big!
She plans to spend the bulk of the winnings on her grandchildren, including the youngest who is turning two next month. She mentioned vacations and trips to Disney are in their future.
To date, she is one of nine New Jersey-specific players to win over a million dollars using Jackpocket. Since the app’s launch in 2021, there have been over 255 thousand Jackpocket winners in New Jersey who have claimed a total of $59.5 million in lottery prizes. Nationwide, more than 1.5 million individuals have won using Jackpocket, totaling over $270 million in prizes.
*According to data from AppFollow. Must be 18 or older to play the lottery. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, residents of NY call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369); NJ call 1-800-GAMBLER. Please visit jackpocket.com/tos for full terms of service.
NJ Grandmother of 10 Wins $1M Powerball Prize With Jackpocket
MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–On Sunday, April 23, 2023, at approximately 3:41 p.m., officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to the area of Pasadena Road near the intersection of Mount Misery Road in the Whiting section of the Township to investigate the report of a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcycle with an unconscious driver with no pulse.
Upon arrival, officers observed a 2012 Yamaha FZ8 motorcycle near the wood-line on the grass portion adjacent to the roadway with heavy damage to the entire vehicle. Witnesses and good Samaritans who were already on scene had begun cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Officers and Manchester Emergency Medical Services personnel began life saving measures on the motorcyclist who had sustained extensive life threatening injuries.
The investigation revealed that the Yamaha was travelling eastbound on Pasadena Road at a high rate of speed when the rider lost control of the vehicle, was ejected, and struck multiple trees before coming to final rest. The sole occupant of the Yamaha, identified as 28 year old Roland Same of Lakewood, NJ, was determined to be wearing a DOT approved helmet at the time of the crash. He was transported via ambulance to Community Medical Center where he was ultimately pronounced deceased.
The roadway was closed in the area of the crash during the investigation. Assisting at the scene were members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Emergency Medical Services, Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics, and Accurate Towing Service. The investigation into this crash is still ongoing, however, speed and driver error appear to be contributing factors. The crash is being investigated by Patrolman Jesse Hoydis and Patrolman Jose Diaz of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
With the warm weather upon us and the increase in motorcycles traffic on the roadways, both riders and motorists are reminded to be aware of the presence of motorcycles. Please obey all traffic laws and arrive alive.
HAMILTON, NJ (MERCER)–On April 22, 2023 at approximately 4:45 p.m., a 2019 Honda Accord sedan, driven by Steven D. Brokowsky, a 39-year-old male from Hamilton, turned left from the driveway of Killarney’s Publick House (located at 1644 Whitehorse Mercerville Rd) onto northbound Whitehorse Mercerville Rd. A second vehicle, a 2015 Land Rover SUV, driven by Joseph J. Celinski, a 35-year-old male from Hamilton, was traveling northbound on Whitehorse Mercerville Rd. The vehicles collided in a side swipe manner, forcing the Land Rover to leave the roadway and strike a utility pole. The Honda came to a controlled stop on Whitehorse Mercerville Road, and the Land Rover returned to the roadway and came to rest.
Brokowsky was transported to RWJ Hospital in Hamilton via ambulance for evaluation. Celinski was pronounced deceased on scene.
Assistance at the scene was provided by the Hamilton Twp Fire Division and EMS personnel.
The crash is being investigated by Sgt. R. Gray, and Officers K. McDonald and P. Micharski from the Hamilton Police Traffic Unit.
Any witnesses are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Traffic Unit at (609)581-4000.
The Robbinsville Township Police Department and Director of Public Safety Dave Fried are happy to report that Patrolman Connor Boyle, 25, was released from the hospital and sent home to begin the healing process.
We want to thank Robbinsville Division of Fire and EMS, Capital Health Medic Unit, As well as the Nurses and Doctors at Capitol Health Regional Trauma Center for taking such great care of Patrolman Boyle. We would like to also thank our community, our elected officials, local business owners, our colleagues in Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS for your outpouring of support, thoughts, prayers and words of encouragement. They mean the world to Patrolman Boyle and all of the Police Officers and Dispatchers of the Robbinsville Police Department.
Patrolman Boyle, who was struck by a hit-and-run driver on April 22, 2023 while assisting a disabled vehicle on Route 130 south near Voelbel Road, is expected to make a full recovery and looks forward to getting back to work in his new position as School Resource Officer at Pond Road Middle School.
April 23, 2023
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–On Saturday April 22, 2023 at approximately 11:32 p.m., Patrolman Connor Boyle, 25 years of age was assisting a disabled vehicle on Rt. 130 Southbound at mile marker 66.1. While the officer was speaking with the driver of the disabled vehicle, outside of his marked Dodge Charger patrol car with Emergency Lights activated, a 2020 Volkswagen Passat, traveling South on Rt. 130 struck the patrol car, then the officer, and subsequently the disabled vehicle before it continued to travel South on Rt. 130.
The driver of this vehicle did not stop to render aid or to report the crash and left the scene. The Police Officer was able to radio for assistance and Robbinsville Police, Robbinsville Station 40, and Robbinsville EMS arrived on scene. Robbinsville EMS transported the injured Police Officer to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment where he remains in stable condition.
The suspect vehicle was later located by our Officers at her residence in East Windsor, NJ. The driver of the vehicle, Rachel Glatt age 52, from East Windsor was subsequently criminally charged with 2nd Degree Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer (2C:12-1B(1)5(a)) and 4th Degree Assault by Auto (2C:12-1C(1)).
In addition, Mrs. Glatt was also charged with Reckless Driving (39:4-96), Careless Driving (39:4-97), Failure to maintain lane (39:4-88), Failure to change lanes for an emergency vehicle (39:4-92.2), Failure to report a motor vehicle crash (39:4-130) and Leaving the scene of a motor vehicle crash involving personal injury (39:4-129A).
Mrs. Glatt was processed and transported to Mercer County Correctional Facility. Anyone with pertinent information related to this case is asked to contact the Robbinsville Township Police Criminal Investigations Unit at 609-259-3900.
Patrolman Connor Boyle, 25, was released from the hospital and sent home to begin the healing process.
If you don’t know about the Slow Down Move Over Law see links below:
In New Jersey in 2022, 44 workers lost their lives. These workers were employed at construction sites and in general industries such as milling operations, warehousing, and manufacturing.
April 21, 2023
By Patricia Jones, Director of OSHA’s Avenel Area Office in honor of Worker Memorial Day.
In May 2022, Armando Ribau, a 53-year-old man employed at a Sayreville, New Jersey, steel mill was pulled in and crushed by a rolling mill machine he was adjusting. He tragically died from his injuries.
A federal safety investigation that followed found the equipment was not shut down using the proper, required procedures to protect employees from hazardous energy, such as the unexpected startup of a machine. Sadly, workplace deaths, like this one, are an all-too-common occurrence in the U.S.
Each year, thousands of workers of all ages die needlessly – leaving their families, friends and communities to grieve – when required safety and health standards are ignored. Each day, 14 people suffer preventable work-related deaths. Tens of thousands more die of preventable work-related diseases.
In New Jersey in 2022, 44 workers lost their lives. These workers were employed at construction sites and in general industries such as milling operations, warehousing, and manufacturing.
These numbers remind us of the dangers many workers face. Behind these numbers, there are people who mourn each loss. For them, these statistics are loved ones: they’re parents, children, siblings, relatives, friends, or co-workers.
For those left behind the day their loved one was lost becomes a sad remembrance. Graduations, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and other special times are forever tainted.
On April 28, we pay tribute to those whose jobs claimed their lives in New Jersey on Workers Memorial Day. An opportunity for us to pause and join those families, friends, and co-workers to recall those who suffered work-related injuries and illnesses. The remembrance also recognizes the grief that their survivors face in the days, months, and years after.
Workers Memorial Day also reminds us that more must be done to prevent workplace deaths, injuries, and illnesses. For those of us at the U.S. Department of Labor and, specifically, its Occupational Safety and Health Administration, this annual commemoration reinforces our commitment to developing and enforcing standards and initiatives to safeguard workers and guide employers as they work to provide safe workplaces.
Remember, we all have a role to play in making sure our nation’s workplaces do not endanger our safety and health. If you see people exposed to workplace dangers, don’t ignore your concerns. Alert the employer or contact your local OSHA office or law enforcement agency. Demand that the stores you frequent, the companies that get your business, and those you hire protect the people they employ. If they won’t, take your business to those who respect their workers’ rights to a safe and healthy workplace, and who don’t put profit ahead of the lives of the people who help them earn it.
On Workers Memorial Day 2023, let’s remember those who didn’t return home after work and commit ourselves to making sure that no one is forced to trade their life for a paycheck.
Patricia Jones is the director of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration Area Office in Avenel, New Jersey
Location: Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, 222 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Time: 1:00 p.m. ET
Description: The NJ Work Environment Council, New Labor and an Intersectional Coalition that calls for action on worker & climate protection for Workers’ Memorial Day 2023.
Host: NJ Work Environment Council, New Labor, United Steelworkers District 4, New Jersey Education Association, Central Jersey Coalition Against Endless War.
Description: The NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the NJ State Industrial Safety Committee is co-sponsoring a memorial program to honor those who have lost their lives during the course of employment in calendar year 2022.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On Thursday April 20, 2023 at approximately 12:45 P.M., Hamilton Police were dispatched to 1710 Kuser Road to assist the Hamilton Township Health Inspector and Hamilton Township Building Inspectors with a spot check of a business in the complex after receiving complaints for unlicensed marijuana and edible sales. The business was identified as Biggie Zaza Tobacco Shop. Upon arrival, the Hamilton Township inspection staff entered the business along with Officers. While the inspectors began their checks, Hamilton Police Officers observed several containers of Cannabis and related contraband that were not permitted for sale or distribution in plain view. The store was occupied by the owner of the business as well as several other patrons. The Officers exited the business, secured it, and contacted the Criminal Investigations Section. Detectives applied for a search warrant of the premises which was granted. During the search of the business Detectives located numerous edibles, vape cartridges and related products that contained suspected marijuana along with several pounds of suspected marijuana the owner was unlicensed to sell. The owner, who was identified as Lewis Bradley-Samuel, 36, of Trenton was placed under arrest.
Bradley-Samuel was charged with Distribution of CDS (Marijuana), Possession of More than Six Ounces of Marijuana, Distributions of CDS (Marijuana) within a 1000 Feet of School Property, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was transported the Mercer County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.
The Hamilton Police Division and Hamilton Township Inspectors are actively investigating any store in the township that may be selling marijuana and marijuana products without a license.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Frank Burger of the Hamilton Police Division Major Crimes Unit at (609) 581-4010. You may also contact the Hamilton Police or the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008 to report any unlicensed stores selling marijuana.
Owner of Biggie Zaza Tobacco Shop, Lewis Bradley-Samuel, 36, of Trenton was placed under arrest. Bradley-Samuel was charged with Distribution of CDS (Marijuana), Possession of More than Six Ounces of Marijuana, Distributions of CDS (Marijuana) within a 1000 Feet of School Property, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was transported the Mercer County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.
FREEHOLD – Additional criminal charges have been filed against the Wall Township Police Department Sergeant accused of stealing more than $75,000 from his local Police Benevolent Association (PBA) chapter, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
James R. Cadigan, 41, is charged with second-degree Official Misconduct, third-degree Theft by Deception, third-degree Theft by Unlawful Taking, and fourth-degree Falsifying Records, in addition to the original charge of second-degree Theft by Unlawful Taking.
An investigation into Cadigan’s activities was initiated last year by the MCPO Professional Responsibility & Bias Crime Bureau, upon receipt of a referral by the Wall Township PBA Local No. 234, which had discovered that a significant amount of cash proceeds was missing following the PBA’s “Pignic,” an annual summertime barbecue fundraiser.Sgt. Cadigan was solely responsible for orchestrating and running the event in 2022 and in many preceding years. The PBA annually donates proceeds from the event to various charitable organizations.
In addition to confirming that a significant amount of cash was missing from the Pignic proceeds, the investigation revealed that starting at least in 2018 and in each year thereafter, Cadigan made numerous unauthorized cash withdrawals from multiple PBA bank accounts and wrote checks to himself and to cash from these accounts. It was determined that Cadigan would make these withdrawals both while on and off duty, sometimes in street clothes and other times in his full police uniform.
As the investigation continued, it revealed that from February 2020 to November 2022, in his capacity as President of the Wall American Youth Football (AYF) nonprofit organization, Cadigan also used a debit card intended for purchases to benefit the organization to purchase approximately $20,000 worth of items for his own personal use. Such items included pool pumps and chemicals, a quilted hammock, a truck hitch, a karaoke machine, a weight sled trainer, a boot warmer, an inflatable movie screen, grill tools and accessories, a pressure washer, backyard and holiday decorations, and accessories for tapping and serving draft beer.
The investigation also revealed facts constituting the basis of two additional criminal charges: first, Cadigan did not apply for a required license for a 50/50 raffle held for the 2022 Pignic, instead falsifying the license number for the raffle tickets; and second, he organized a powderpuff football game involving mothers of AYF football players, with approximately $3,000 in proceeds earmarked for donation to a breast cancer awareness and prevention charity, but instead pocketed the money for himself.
Cadigan was served the new charges against him via summons through his attorney on Wednesday, pending future proceedings to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court.
This case is being prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Falco, Director of the MCPO Professional Responsibility & Bias Crime Bureau. Cadigan is being represented by Mitchell J. Ansell, Esq., with an office in Ocean Township.
Anyone with information about this or related matters is urged to contact MCPO Detective Brian Hammarstrom at 800-533-7443.
Convictions on second-degree criminal charges can be punishable by up to 10 years in state prison, while third-degree charges are commonly punishable by terms of up to 5 years. A conviction for Official Misconduct carries a mandatory five-year period of parole ineligibility. Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced the arrest today of the fourth suspect in the April 9, 2023, shooting homicide on Federal Street in Trenton.
Bayshawn Brown, 22, of Ewing, was taken into custody on Thursday in Florence Township, New Jersey. He is charged along with Joseph Fayson, Justin Malkin and Darrin Eutsey with first- degree murder, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and third-degree theft by receiving stolen property. The prosecutor’s office has filed motions to detain the defendants.
As previously announced, at approximately 6:56 p.m. on Sunday, April 9, 2023, Trenton police responded to a ShotSpotter notification reporting multiple shots fired in the area of Lamberton and Federal streets. Upon arrival, officers located a male gunshot victim in the driver’s seat of his parked gray 2010 Infiniti G37. The vehicle and the victim, later identified as Jhosse Tolentino, 23, of Trenton, were each struck multiple times. Tolentino was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.
Brown was the fourth person seen on video surveillance exiting the Toyota 4Runner and approaching the victim’s vehicle with a firearm. The defendants shot at the victim’s vehicle, then returned to and fled in the 4Runner.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call HTF Detective Karl Johnston or HTF Detective Nicholas Barber at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Bayshawn Brown, 22, of Ewing, was taken into custody on Thursday in Florence Township, New Jersey. He is charged along with Joseph Fayson, Justin Malkin and Darrin Eutsey with first- degree murder, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, and third-degree theft by receiving stolen property. The prosecutor’s office has filed motions to detain the defendants.
Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri wants to warn the public of a telephone scam where a caller falsely claimed to be a law enforcement Officer employed by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
On April 20, 2023, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Cyber Crimes Unit, was contacted by the Cranbury Township Police Department in Middlesex County and advised that a victim reported that they received a call from a number purporting to be the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and the caller falsely claimed to be “Sergeant Whitlock” with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. The scammer claimed the resident had a warrant for their arrest and directed the victim to drive to a drugstore to purchase gift cards.
As a reminder, law enforcement will never ask for payment of any type over the phone, nor will they ask for personal identifying information that could be used for fraudulent purposes. Law enforcement, government agencies, and courts will never ask you to pay by unusual methods, such as gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
Scammers often research their potential victims on the internet and social media. Scammers will call and deceive their victims into thinking the callers are law enforcement officers, prosecutors or police employees. Scammers may spoof a law enforcement telephone number, falsely showing on the victim’s caller ID. Spoofed phone numbers are typically done through a VPN (Virtual Private Network) making it difficult for law enforcement to track the actual caller. The scammers may threaten their victims with arrest for outstanding warrants or other legal issues.
Should you receive a call from a police department within Mercer County and/or the Prosecutor’s Office, please confirm with whom you are speaking. If you believe you received a scam telephone call, hang up and call the main phone number to the police department or Prosecutor’s Office (609-989-6351). If legitimate, you’ll be connected with a Police Dispatcher or receptionist who can verify the caller’s identity. Report any scam calls to your local law enforcement agency.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting that occurred on the 200 block of Hamilton Avenue last night. At approximately 10:28 p.m., Trenton Police were dispatched to 266 Hamilton Avenue on a report of shots fired with multiple people shot. Police officers located three victims suffering from gunshot wounds and learned a fourth victim was transported by personal vehicle to the hospital. The first victim, Ralph Conquest, 43, of Lawrence, was pronounced deceased at Capital Health Regional Medical Center at approximately 1:53 a.m. Another male victim remains in the hospital in critical condition. Two other victims, a male and a female, are being treated for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to the hand and the leg.
The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Around 10:33 p.m. Trenton Police, Trenton EMS, Capital Health Paramedics, and Trenton Fire Department were sent to the 200 Block of Hamilton Avenue near Hudson Street for multiple people shot. Upon arrival police found three victims shot. TEMS, paramedics and firefighters treated the victims. It was reported that one of the victims was shot in the head. All three victims were transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center and all were reported “Trauma Alerts”
Police are actively investigating. No additional details are available at this time. Once official information becomes available the story will be updated.
Sea Girt, NJ (April 20, 2023) – The Borough of Sea Girt Police Department has announced its partnership with a regional drunk driving prevention organization by unveiling a new HERO patrol vehicle to promote the use of safe and sober designated drivers.
A Ford Explorer from the department’s fleet was recently wrapped with the John R. Elliott HERO Campaign’s bright blue and yellow logo and life-saving slogan, “Be a HERO. Be a Designated Driver.” The HERO Campaign’s vehicle wrap program is expanding through a grant from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety (NJDHTS).
The Sea Girt HERO SUV is now a “rolling billboard” for the HERO Campaign to promote the use and important role of designated drivers in preventing drunk and impaired driving. The Campaign is named in memory of Navy Ensign John R. Elliott of Egg Harbor Township, who was killed in a collision with a drunk driver near Woodstown in July 2000.
“We are grateful to Sea Girt’s Police Department and Chief Justin Macko and Mayor Donald Fetzer for participating in our HERO Patrol Car Program,” said Bill Elliott, John’s father. “The HERO cruisers have been well received all over the New Jersey area by both the police and the entire community.”
“Our partnership with the HERO Campaign is an important reminder for motorists to always have a safe ride home whenever they consume alcoholic beverages,” said Police Chief Macko. “We are also excited that the Sea Girt Police Department is the first department in Monmouth County to partner with the HERO Campaign in its HERO Patrol Vehicle Program.”
“Our community is pleased to support this campaign, which in turn will save lives,” said Mayor Donald Fetzer. “The wrap serves as a reminder to have a plan for a designated driver to get everyone home safely after enjoying what Sea Girt has to offer. The vehicle will be highly visible around town, at area schools, and at special events.”
Sea Girt is the 13th city to adopt the HERO Campaign with a DUI prevention vehicle. Atlantic City, Evesham Township, Linwood, Lower Township, Middle Township, North Wildwood, Ocean City, Longport, Sea Isle City, Pleasantville, Ventnor, and Vineland also have HERO cruisers currently in service. New police vehicle wraps will soon be unveiled in Margate and Somers Point; in Egg Harbor Township a new EMS Humvee is also on the road with the new HERO wrap.
Sea Girt’s HERO SUV, like the other police vehicles in the HERO fleet, will be highly visible in the community as officers drive it on traffic duty, to special events, and to area schools. An official dedication ceremony for the Sea Girt HERO vehicle will take place on Friday, May 26, 2023.
The HERO Campaign is now saving lives throughout New Jersey and several neighboring states, including Pennsylvania and Delaware, through its partnerships with law enforcement; schools and colleges; federal and state highway safety organizations; the licensed beverage industry; and professional sports teams. Since its inception in 2000, the HERO Campaign has grown into a major movement to prevent impaired driving that has received national recognition and awards. It has also helped to reduce alcohol-related fatalities and incidents, including a 20 percent reduction in DUI fatalities in New Jersey and other states over the past decade. For more information visit HEROcampaign.org or call 609-626-3880.
The Sea Girt Police Department’s newly wrapped HERO SUV includes the logo for the John R. Elliott HERO Campaign and its slogan, “Be a HERO. Be a Designated Driver.” Part of a 13-car fleet of HERO Campaign patrol vehicles being used by police departments throughout southern New Jersey. The Sea Girt HERO SUV wrap was funded by a grant from the N.J. Division of Highway Traffic Safety. Courtesy Sea Girt PD.
NEWARK, N.J. – Two former residents of Monmouth County, New Jersey, who allegedly obtained approximately $3.75 million in federal pandemic-related loans have been indicted, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Jean Rabbitt, 52, and Kevin Aguilar, 52, both of Sherman, Texas, and both previously of Farmingdale, New Jersey, are each charged by indictment with: one count of conspiracy to engage bank fraud; seven counts of bank fraud; one count of conspiracy to engage in wire fraud; three counts of wire fraud; conspiracy to engage in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity and one count of engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity; and one count of aggravated identity theft. Rabbitt is additionally charged with one count of making a false statement in a loan application.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, to provide emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
Rabbitt and Aguilar submitted seven fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of four businesses that Rabbitt owned or controlled. Rabbitt and Aguilar made multiple false statements in their PPP applications, at least one of which was submitted to a Federal Home Loan Bank member. The lenders approved PPP loans totaling $3.33 million, and transmitted those funds to Rabbitt’s businesses. Rabbitt and Aguilar also submitted fraudulent applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) under the federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. Based on false statements in those applications, the SBA approved EIDLs to three of Rabbitt’s businesses, totaling approximately $447,000.
After receiving the PPP and EIDL funds, Rabbitt and Aguilar transferred those funds to other businesses that Aguilar created to give the false appearance that the PPP and EIDL funds were being used for legitimate purposes. Aguilar and Rabbitt then used the PPP and EIDL funds for personal expenses.
Rabbitt and Aguilar also engaged in identity theft, by submitting an EIDL application using the name and identifying information of an individual who did not authorize the use of that information.
Rabbitt is also charged with making a false statement on a loan application, including with respect to her gross monthly income, in order to obtain financing to purchase a new truck from a Monmouth County car dealership.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patricia Tarasca in New York; special agents of IRS – Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins; special agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Sharon MacDermott; postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark, under the direction of Inspector in Charge is Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division; special agents of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Robert Manchak; and special agents of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Thomas Mahoney.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David V. Simunovich of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Health Care Fraud Unit, in Newark.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
FREEHOLD –On Wednesday April 19, 2023, Herbert Standard, 43, of Eatontown, was sentenced to ten years in a New Jersey State Prison on a first-degree Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute an amount in excess of 5 ounces before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Chad Cagan.
Standard previously entered a plea on August 1, 2022.
On March 24, 2021, police from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Narcotics Strike Force, Keansburg Police Department, Eatontown Police Department, Oceanport Police Department, and the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Department executed search warrants at the Crystal Inn in Eatontown and a residence in Oceanport after conducting a three-month long investigation. Upon executing the warrants, police seized over 300 grams of cocaine, over an ounce of fentanyl, and over 6 ounces of marijuana.
This case was handled by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Emily Cartmell. Standard is being represented by Mitchell J. Ansell of Ocean, New Jersey.
MOUNT LAUREL, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw and Mount Laurel Police Chief Judy Lynn Schiavone announced that an investigation is being conducted into the death of a man whose body was found this morning at the Rodeway Inn on Route 73 in Mount Laurel.
The investigation began after officers from the Mount Laurel Police Department were called to the hotel just before 10 a.m. They found the decedent, whose name is being withheld at this time, outside of a room near a stairwell.
An autopsy will be performed by Burlington County Medical Examiner Dr. Ian Hood to determine the cause and manner of death.
A person of interest has been taken into custody. Additional information will be released tomorrow.
The investigation is being conducted by the Mount Laurel Police Department and the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, with assistance from the Camden County Police Department, the Cherry Hill Police Department and the Evesham Township Police Department.
Nurses were recognized for their exceptional care, expertise and leadership in nursing
ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Several RWJBarnabas Health nurses were recognized with 2023 Professional Development Awards by the New Jersey Emergency Nurses Association (NJ ENA) at the recent NJ ENA Emergency Care Conference in Atlantic City. These awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of emergency nursing in the state and promote NJ ENA’s mission of advocating for patient safety and excellence in nursing practice. Awards received include the Pediatric Readiness Award, the Advance Practice Nurse Award, the Clinical Nurse Leadership Award and the Nursing Practice and Professionalism Award.
“We are extremely proud of the amazing work our Emergency Department nurses do every day and are pleased to congratulate our NJ ENA award recipients on their achievements. This statewide recognition is a testament to the team’s hard work and the commitment our nurses have to their fellow clinicians, patients and the community,” said Christopher Freer, DO, Senior Vice President of Emergency and Hospitalist Medicine at RWJBarnabas Health.
The Pediatric Readiness Award, which recognizes a nurse who has demonstrated outstanding efforts to improve readiness in caring for children in the emergency care setting, was given to Katarzyna Wolan, RN, Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. Partnering with pediatric Emergency Department (ED) physicians, Wolan led code simulations and facilitated restructuring of supplies and equipment. Her skills enable her to work and collaborate with a variety of health care professionals in the ED, transport, and referring hospitals.
Kristen Denaro, MSN, APN, NP-C, Clara Maass Medical Center, won the Advance Practice Nurse Award which recognizes nurses excellence and compassion as an advanced practice nurse in an emergency care setting. With Denaro’s strong clinical knowledge and outstanding bedside care, she is recognized for advancing the development of the ED. Denaro is highly regarded for supporting the development of the Express Care area to expedite patient care and trialing an area for low acuity patients where she acted as both the patients APN and ED RN.
The Clinical Nurse Leadership Award was awarded to Maria Aponte, MPA, BSN, RN, Administrative Director for Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Emergency Department. This award recognizes a nurse who has consistently demonstrated excellence in the profession of emergency nursing and has made significant contributions through an emergency nursing management role. Aponte’s peers recognize her leadership, empathy, compassion, and courage through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. She is a leader of her team as well as an active participant who holds the team accountable to yield impressive results.
Krystal Diaz, RN, BSN, Pediatric Emergency nurse at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, was recognized for the 2023 Nursing Practice and Professionalism Award, which recognizes a nurse who exemplifies outstanding emergency nursing practice as demonstrated through clinical skills, care, and compassion. This nurse consistently performs above and beyond the requirements of the job description in delivering quality care to patients. Diaz, specializing in pediatrics and trauma, focuses on the wellness of patients, families, and the team and approaches challenging situations with a positive and “can do” attitude. She is also highly regarded as a mentor who provides constructive feedback.
“The NJ ENA showcases the best of the best in the state and the recognition of these four individuals is incredibly well-deserved,” said Nancy E. Holecek, Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at RWJBarnabas Health. “Each of these outstanding nurses have made a difference this past year and it’s an honor for them to be acknowledged for their dedication, skill, compassion and contributions to the healthcare industry in New Jersey.”
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