Category: Ewing

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County Executive Hughes Calls For Answers, Changes In Wake Of Election Challenges; Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried Provides Update

November 12, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–In the wake of numerous issues with voting and counting on Election Day, challenges that are still under investigation, Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes is calling for a thorough public review of what went wrong and a comprehensive overhaul of the elections process in Mercer County.

“After issues in the last two elections, I have come to the conclusion that we must fundamentally change the management of the election process in Mercer County because it is clearly not working,” the County Executive said. “There are legal limits to what I can do as County Executive but rest assured that I will do everything within my power to ensure the integrity of elections in Mercer County and will tolerate nothing less.”

In Mercer County, three separate entities, the Board of Elections, the Superintendent of Elections, and the Office of the County Clerk each plays a role in elections. Board of Elections commissioners are appointed by the respective County Chairs of the Republican and Democratic Parties, the Superintendent of Elections is an appointee of the Governor, and the County Clerk is an elected position.

“I am happy that Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami-Covello requested that the County Prosecutor look into the election. But we also need a more thorough and public review. We’ve got too many people in control and the quality of our elections has suffered as a result, undermining peoples’ faith in the democratic process,” Mr. Hughes said.

Moving forward, County Executive Hughes proposes the following:

  • Request a special meeting of the Commissioner Board to bring together the Clerk, Superintendent and Election Board Chair explain to the public what went wrong.
  • Reform and simplify our election process by merging and unifying the Office of the Superintendent and the Board into one, and having an experienced Executive Director oversee our elections.
  • Call on legislators to enact changes that will allow Mercer County to reform our system.
  • Pledge any county resources needed to ensure every vote is counted and help get to the bottom of what went wrong hasten and conclude investigation.

“I pledge to you that we will get to the bottom of this and that every vote will be counted,” Mr. Hughes said. “I have listened to the people of Mercer County and have spoken with election officials, and we are committed to finding out how we can improve the election process and to prevent future incidents as the one on Election Day.”

In Mercer County, the Office of the County Executive does not supervise the Board, their offices, nor does it have jurisdiction. The board is responsible for selecting polling places, training board workers, receiving and counting vote-by-mail ballots, and counting and certifying provisional ballots. The Superintendent of Elections handles voter registration, renews registration records, investigates provisional ballots, and is the custodian of voting machines. The County Clerk designs and prints all election ballots, processes vote by mail applications, and officially certifies the election results.

File photo: Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes

File photo: Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried

Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried said in a Facebook post:

“Regarding the events of Election Day, here is what we know so far.

Either the machine scanners did not work, or the ballots were printed incorrectly and the machines did their jobs and correctly spit them out as invalid. An investigation is reportedly under way, and Robbinsville will join other elected officials across Mercer County to see that the investigation is complete and transparent.

Let me be clear: I am not blaming anyone. Honestly, I do not know how this happened. Pointing fingers without all the facts is not productive. We do know that this is the second straight year the County process did not work as it should have, and I am not happy with much of what I saw.

One of the basic tenets of our democracy is the right to vote, and that every vote will be counted.

As of today, it appears our District 5 ballots (Library) have been found after having been misplaced. That information was given directly to our Municipal Clerk Michele Seigfried from the County.

Just a quick note about our clerk’s office. Michele and her team of Deputy Clerk Kaitlyn Macellaro and Sandy DeLorenzo performed exceptionally under extremely difficult conditions this past week. I cannot thank them enough for their service to our Township. The same goes for our Administration team, led by B.A. Joy Tozzi, each of whom worked all hours of the day and night in the chaotic aftermath of Election Day.

Over in Princeton, it seems they discovered ballots still in their machines. During in-person voting on Election Day, two slots for placing ballots were used. The first was the so-called emergency slot. This was used in the early part of the day because officials had hoped the scanner problems could be fixed before polls closed. As the day went on, that emergency bin became full and the scanners were removed so the main bin could be used. They discovered Princeton’s ballots were still in some of those containers since both sides were not emptied. It also appears that the documentation of the chain of custody regarding our ballots was quite poor, allowing the ballots to be apparently misplaced for a time.

The courts have ordered all the machines returned to the Mercer County Board of Elections for inspection to ensure there are no more ballots in those machines, including the ones deployed in Robbinsville.

I DO NOT believe there was any type of fraud, and I DO NOT believe there are any conspiracies at work here. I do believe mistakes were made at a time in our nation when it can ill-afford to stumble on Election Day.

We have spent millions of dollars on these machines and ballots, and they clearly did not work as advertised. It is time to reassess and come up with a better system. Those of you who voted early did not seem to have any issues. Perhaps we need to consider moving entirely in that direction. I will be attending all upcoming Mercer County Commissioner’s meetings until we have a real and fortified plan. Together, I am hopeful we will come up with a solution. Robbinsville has no intention of paying for this process unless real change is implemented.

I have no reason to believe, even with ballots that may or may not still be out there, that our local results will change.

Thus, I sincerely congratulate our three new Board of Education members – Jeffrey Pierro, Raghu Nandan and Peter Oehlberg. I wish each of you the best of luck, and I am sorry your first election was fraught with so much turmoil.

I have always said putting your name on a ballot is one of the most difficult – but potentially rewarding things – a person can do. Although no candidate should have to wait days for results in 2022, each of you earned your rightful place among your other BOE members.

While Ballot Question #1, which sought to combine our Planning and Zoning Boards into a consolidated Land Use Board, did pass, Ballot Question #2 regarding an increase in our Open Space tax to preserve more land and slow development did not. I know times are tough. That is why we put items such as these questions on the ballot. Sometimes we think we know what the residents want, but this process helps us know for certain.”

Election Problems Reported In Mercer County, NJ
More Mercer County Election Chaos As Robbinsville Ballots Go Missing!
East Windsor, Ewing, Ewing, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hopewell, Lawrence, Mercer County, Pennington, Princeton, Robbinsville, Robbinsville, Trenton, West Windsor, West Windsor

Mercer County Unofficial Results

November 9, 2022

MERCER COUNTY, NJ –See below for unofficial election results at of 11/9/2022 at 4:00 p.m.

https://results.enr.clarityelections.com/NJ/Mercer/116247/web.307039/#/summary

*Results are not official until all votes are counted and certified. This includes ballots cast by mail, provisional, and ballots requiring a signature cure. These first two reports above must be ADDED for a cumulative total (until further notice)! –Note the PDF files below and the above link must be added together to get the most accurate until updated by County Clerk’s Office

See the Mercer County Clerk’s Official Website for latest information here

summary-report-2-column_12Download
district-turnout-canvass_1Download
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Governor Murphy Announces Comprehensive Plan to Combat Auto Theft in New Jersey

Proposed Legislation and Administrative Action Will Work Together to Decrease Auto Theft Across the State

November 7, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Governor Phil Murphy, alongside Senate President Nick Scutari and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, today announced his support for a series of legislative proposals and administrative actions to combat auto theft in New Jersey. Today’s announcement builds upon steps taken earlier this year, which have already proven to have an impact. Auto thefts in September of this year were down 14 percent from September of last year. And in October, auto thefts were down 12 percent from October of last year.

“I am grateful for the collaborative work that has been done across government in partnership with law enforcement at the state and local levels to combat crime in our state,” said Governor Murphy. “Today’s steps, which include increasing penalties for persistent auto theft offenders and criminalizing certain conduct related to auto theft tools and catalytic converters, will strengthen this administration’s efforts to reverse the uptick in vehicle theft we have witnessed over the past few years. However, we also ask that our residents take additional measures to protect themselves from auto theft. If you cannot park your car in a closed and locked garage, make sure that your vehicle is locked and that the key fob is with you.”

The Governor announced his support for a series of legislative measures to combat auto theft. Some versions of these measures have already been introduced, and the Governor looks forward to working with legislative leadership and the sponsors to advance these reforms through the legislative process. The Governor proposed:

  1. Establishing a persistent auto theft offender statute, which would give state and local prosecutors the option to seek more serious criminal consequences for those who have been repeatedly found guilty of stealing cars.
  2. Making possession and distribution of certain auto theft tools a crime.
  3. Imposing criminal penalties for the failure to comply with certain guidelines in the sale and purchase of catalytic converters.
  4. Investing in enhanced pretrial services, which will reduce the risk from individuals who are awaiting trial. This will include:
  5. Pretrial monitoring by law enforcement.
  6. Expansion of the use of house arrest paired with location monitoring.
  7. Providing additional resources related to substance abuse, mental health, and housing insecurity.

The Governor also announced that the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) will start working to add a check box to vehicle registration paperwork allowing residents to “opt in” to a program that automatically permits law enforcement to track participating registered vehicles if a vehicle is ever stolen. Additionally, MVC will focus on messaging the importance to new drivers of safely handling key fobs by not leaving them inside the car or stored in their home too close to the car.

“The Murphy Administration continues to take a comprehensive approach to keeping New Jersey residents safe. Particularly when it comes to combating the rise in auto thefts, we are deploying every tool possible–creative legislation, technological investments, and traditional enforcement. Public safety will always be our top priority,” said New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin.

“Auto theft not only victimizes the owner of the vehicle, but it can also victimize the whole community. Stolen vehicles are often used in the commission of crimes and can be found driving recklessly on our roadways creating a dangerous environment for everyone,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “The support Governor Murphy has provided with the additional resources have proven to be pivotal in our effort to combat this national issue. Those resources added with the new legislative and administrative steps shows this state’s commitment to supporting not only law enforcement but it’s commitment to the safety of all New Jersey residents.”

“I can only commend the all-hands-on-deck approach that Governor Murphy has taken to combat the rise in auto thefts in New Jersey,” said Motor Vehicle Commission Acting Chief Administrator Latrecia Littles-Floyd. “The initiatives announced today will give law enforcement a new tool to help track down stolen vehicles and boost public awareness about the importance of securing key fobs. Working closely with our partners in law enforcement, we will continue to maximize our efforts at MVC to help reduce vehicle thefts.”

“The alarming increase in auto thefts threatens the property and the safety of New Jersey residents in their communities,” said Senate President Scutari. “These crimes are especially disturbing because they’re so close to home. Criminals are stealing cars right out of people’s driveways and garages. It’s crucial we take additional steps to deter car thieves and support police departments throughout the state.” 

“Car thefts are plaguing communities across our state,” said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. “We must protect public safety and ensure justice is delivered for the sake of all New Jersey families and our law enforcement. Every community deserves peace of mind. As we step up our efforts to mitigate, disincentivize and dismantle car theft rings, I applaud the ongoing response of the Attorney General and I remind folks to please stay vigilant.”

“In response to a recent increase in automobile thefts across the state, I am proud to stand with Governor Murphy in taking swift and comprehensive action to combat this issue,” said Senator Linda Greenstein. “As Chairwoman of the Law and Public Safety Committee, safeguarding our residents’ property and upholding community safety and security standards, is of the utmost importance.”

“With support from Governor Murphy, Attorney General Platkin, Speaker Coughlin, Senate President Scutari and law enforcement agencies, the Assembly Law and Public Safety Committee will be holding a public hearing to discuss combatting auto theft. We plan to isolate the problem, hear from our community and stakeholders to find solutions to address this issue. It is our responsibility in the legislature to ensure our communities are safe from crime, and rest easy knowing their representatives are working to solve the problem of automotive theft,” said Assemblyman Bill Spearman.

Earlier this year, Governor Murphy announced a $10 million investment in automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology to reduce violent crime and auto theft in New Jersey through the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) State Fiscal Recovery Fund. 

In addition, Attorney General Platkin announced in March that additional resources would be allocated to grow the Auto Theft Task Force (ATTF). Since then, both the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) have added additional detectives and prosecutors to the ATTF. $125,000 in federal Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) funds were also immediately provided to bolster the resources and capabilities of the ATTF, including law enforcement personnel and equipment purchases.

Attorney General Platkin has also revised the police pursuit policy to explicitly permit the pursuit of stolen cars, among other efforts.

Ewing, Ewing, Hamilton, Hopewell, Lawrence, Mercer County, Trenton

Legionella Found In Homes Served By Trenton Water Works; NJ Department Of Health Investigates

October 15, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–New Jersey Department of Health announced today that more homes within municipalities served by Trenton Water Works just days after the Murphy Administration announced they would launch an initiative to better support and improve TWW

Back on September 22, 2021, four cases of Legionnaires’ disease were reported in Hamilton Township, Mercer County between May-August 2021, along with an additional reported case from November 2020. On August 29, 2022 Two cases of Legionnaires’ disease were reported in August 2022 from the section of Hamilton Township, Mercer County, served by Trenton Water Works (TWW). Two additional cases were reported, respectively in April 2022 and December 2021. Of the four, one individual has died.

Today the NJ Department of Health made this announcement: The presence of Legionella bacteria was identified in water samples collected from more than half of 30 homes within several municipalities served by Trenton Water Works (TWW), the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) announced today. This includes homes from Trenton, Ewing, and parts of Lawrence and Hopewell Township served by TWW.

The testing was conducted in September 2022 following the detection of Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease, in several homes that were voluntarily tested within the Hamilton Township area served by TWW in July 2022. The homes tested in Hamilton Township were part of an ongoing investigation to determine potential causes of Legionnaires’ disease previously detected in Hamilton Township, with five cases including one death reported since December 2021. The most recent case was reported to health in September 2022.

To determine if other municipalities served by TWW were affected, health officials recruited an additional 30 homeowners from across the TWW distribution area, focusing on areas outside of Hamilton Township, to voluntarily have their homes tested for Legionella. NJDOH has notified all volunteer homeowners of the results from this sampling.

Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia that people can get after breathing in aerosolized water (small droplets of water in the air) containing Legionella bacteria. Individuals cannot get Legionnaires’ disease by drinking water that has Legionella. Though uncommon, people can get sick when water containing Legionella is aspirated into the lungs while drinking (“goes down the wrong pipe”). NJDOH receives approximately 250-350 reports of Legionnaires’ disease each year throughout New Jersey.

NJDOH is now urging that all residents and building owners who receive water from TWW to take actions to reduce the risk of Legionella growth in their household and building plumbing. These recommendations are available below.

It is not known if individuals with Legionella detected in their homes are more likely to develop Legionnaires’ disease. While it remains rare for a healthy person who is exposed to Legionella to become sick with Legionnaires’ disease, people who are 50 years or older, especially those who smoke, or those with certain medical conditions, including weakened immune systems, chronic lung disease or other chronic health conditions, are at increased risk.

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches, which are similar to symptoms caused by other respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Legionnaires’ disease can be fatal but is treatable with antibiotics. It is important that anyone who thinks they have symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease contact their health care provider and seek medical evaluation immediately.

Health officials are urging healthcare providers to collect lower respiratory specimens for Legionella PCR and/or culture, in conjunction with use of the urinary antigen test, when suspecting Legionnaires’ disease. This is especially important among residents who receive water from TWW. The urinary antigen test is the most common diagnostic method but can only detect Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1. PCR and culture of lower respiratory specimens can detect all Legionella species and serogroups.

NJDOH continues to partner with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and TWW to investigate factors that may be promoting the growth of Legionella bacteria and to evaluate remedial actions that can be taken to reduce Legionella in the system.

Following NJDEP’s finding of significant concerns with TWW’s operations and management, including intermittent failures to fully maintain treatment processes, monitor water quality, employ adequately trained operating personnel, and invest in required maintenance and capital needs such as upgrades to aging infrastructure, Governor Phil Murphy  NJDEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette issued a Unilateral Administrative Order that will, among other things, facilitate the immediate deployment of a capacity-building force comprised of managerial and technical experts who will focus on improving routine operations and maintenance, as well as resolving immediate capital needs.

More information about this initiative can be found at dep.nj.gov/trentonwater.

How to Decrease Risks of Legionella Exposure

According to NJDOH, individuals, particularly those at high risk, can follow recommended steps to decrease the risk of Legionella exposure and best practices to limit the growth of Legionella in household water systems and devices:

  • Avoid high-risk activities. If you are at an increased risk for Legionnaires’ disease, consider avoiding hot tubs, decorative fountains, power washing, or similar activities, which may generate increased amounts of aerosols or mist. A conversation with your health care provider may help you assess your individual level of risk based on underlying health conditions and co-morbidities. Your health care provider may recommend that you consider installing specialty biological 0.2-micron filters on your showerhead if you are severely immunocompromised and receive water from Trenton Water Works.
  • Maintain in-home medical equipment. If using medical equipment that requires water for use or cleaning such as non-steam generating humidifiers, CPAP or BiPAP machines, nasal irrigation devices such as Neti Pots, and attachments for nebulizers, follow manufacturer’s instructions for use and maintenance. This often includes using sterile water instead of tap water in the device.
  • Clean and/or replace your showerheads and faucet aerators (screens) per manufacturer’s instructions whenever buildup is visible. This is particularly important if you haven’t cleaned your showerheads or faucet aerators recently. Cleaning might require you to remove the showerhead and hose and soak in a solution (such as white vinegar or a bleach solution) to remove buildup. If using chemicals, follow instructions found on the back of the bottle for safe use.
  • Keep your water heater set to a minimum of 120o This temperature will reduce Legionella growth and avoid potential for scalding (hot water burns). Setting the heater to a higher temperature may better control Legionella growth, especially if you have household members at increased risk for Legionnaires’ disease. However, if the temperature is set to greater than 120o F, make sure you take extra precautions to mix cold and hot water at the faucet and shower to avoid scalding. If you have household members at increased risk of scalding, such as young children or older adults, you may consider installing a thermostatic mixing valve. A mixing valve allows your water to be stored at a higher temperature within your water heater to help kill bacteria while eliminating concerns with water being too hot at sinks or showers. If you decide to install a mixing valve, be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions for routine cleaning and maintenance to avoid bacteria growth within the valve. Consider consulting with a licensed plumbing professional and ensure you are following your local codes and ordinances for home plumbing repairs.

    After cleaning showerheads and faucet aerators and increasing the temperature of the water heater, thoroughly flush the water at each tap (e.g., sink, showerhead) for 20 minutes. Try to minimize exposure to splashing and mist generation, for example, by leaving the room while the water is running.
  • Conduct routine flushing. Sinks and shower taps that are not used often can increase the risk of Legionellagrowth in other areas of the home. Let your faucets and showers run for at least three minutes when they have been out of use for more than a week. Minimize exposure to splashing and mist generation, for example, by leaving the room while the water is running. Additionally, you may consider flushing your water following any water disruption to your home, such as low pressure or discoloration, resulting from a water main break or nearby hydrant flushing.
  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining your water heater and expansion tank, including periodic flushing, draining, and removal of sediment. If manufacturer’s instructions are unavailable, seek advice from a licensed professional.
  • Clean and/or replace all water filters per manufacturer’s instructions. All whole-house (e.g., water softeners) and point-of-use filters (e.g., built-in refrigerator filters) must be properly maintained.
  • Drain garden hoses and winterize hose bibs. Detach and drain the hose, shut the water valve off inside the home, and drain the pipe when not in use for the season.
  • Follow manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining your hot tub.Ensure disinfectant levels (e.g., chlorine) and maintenance activities (e.g., cleaning, scrubbing, replacing the filter and water) are followed. For more information, be sure to review CDC’s recommendations for residential hot tub owners.
  • Operate and maintain your indoor and outdoor decorative fountains according to manufacturer’s instructions to limit your exposure to Legionella. Household members at increased risk for Legionnaires’ disease should avoid exposure to decorative fountains. If manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance are not available, minimum cleaning frequency recommendations can be found in CDC’s Legionella Control Toolkit.
  • Remove, shorten, or regularly flush existing dead legs. Plumbing renovations can lead to the creation of dead legs, a section of capped pipe that contains water but has no flow (or is infrequently used). For future renovations, ensure your plumber avoids creating dead legs.

RECOMMENDED ACTIONS FOR BUILDING OWNERS

  • Complete this quick yes/no worksheet to determine if your building, or certain devices in your building, need a Water Management Program. Resources to help you develop a Water Management Program and for Legionella control in common sources of exposure are available at NJDOH’s Legionella website.
  • Store hot water at temperatures above 140°F and ensure hot water in circulation does not fall below 120°F (or at highest temperature allowable by local regulations and codes). Install thermostatic mixing valves as close as possible to fixtures to prevent scalding while permitting circulating hot water temperatures above 120°.
  • Clean and maintain water system components.This includes devices such as thermostatic mixing valves, aerators, showerheads, hoses, filters, water heaters, storage tanks, and expansion tanks, regularly per manufacturer instructions.
  • Flush hot and cold water at all points of use (faucets, showers, drinking fountains) at least weekly to replace the water that has been standing in the pipes. Healthcare settings and facilities that house vulnerable populations should flush at least twice a week.
  • Remove dead legs or, where unavoidable, make them as short as possible. Where a dead leg (a section of pipe capped off with little or no water flow) cannot be avoided, it should be flushed regularly to avoid water stagnation. This may require the installation of a drain valve.
  • Monitor water quality parameters such as temperature, disinfectant residuals, and pH regularly. Adjust the frequency of monitoring based on stability of values. For example, increase frequency of monitoring if there is a high degree of measurement variability. Pay particular attention to water quality parameters following a water disruption event, such as low pressure or discoloration, resulting from a water main break or nearby hydrant flushing.
  • Safely operate and conduct regular maintenance of cooling towers to protect staff, visitors, and the adjacent community from exposure to Legionella. Use a Water Management Program to establish, track, and improve operation and maintenance activities.
  • Follow recommendations from the NJ Department of Health when reopening your facility following a prolonged shutdown or reduced operation due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Recommendations are available at: https://bit.ly/3CG2s8S

ABOUT LEGIONNAIRES’ DISEASE AND LEGIONELLA

Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia (lung infection) caused by Legionella bacteria. Legionella is a type of bacteria found naturally in freshwater environments such as lakes and streams and becomes a health concern when it enters and grows inside human-made water systems. People can get Legionnaires’ disease by breathing in aerosolized (small droplets) water containing Legionella. Aerosolized water can come from plumbing systems and devices such as cooling towers (part of the cooling system for large buildings), hot tubs, cooling misters, and decorative fountains. Less commonly, people can get sick by aspiration of tap water containing Legionella. This happens when water accidently goes into the lungs while drinking (“goes down the wrong pipe”). People at increased risk of aspiration include those with swallowing difficulties. Home A/C units do not use water to cool, so these home units do not aerosolize water and are not a risk for Legionella growth. Legionnaires’ disease is generally not spread person to person. Additional information regarding Legionnaires’ disease and Legionella can be located at NJDOH’s website.

Follow the New Jersey Department of Health on Twitter @njdeptofhealth, Facebook /njdeptofhealth, Instagram @njdeptofhealth and LinkedIn /company/njdeptofhealth.

Health Officials Investigate Cases of Legionnaires’ Disease in Hamilton Township,Urge Precautions to Reduce Risk of Legionella Growth in Homes and Buildings
NJ Department of Health, Hamilton Twp. Officials say Water is Safe to Drink, But Urge Precautions During Ongoing Legionnaires’ Disease Investigation
Murphy Administration Launches Initiative to Support and Improve Trenton Water Works, Ensure Safe Drinking Water
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Several Injured In Ewing Township Crash

October 14, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER) – Several people, including a young child, were injured in a collision between a pickup truck and a sport utility vehicle that occurred along North Olden Avenue this evening (Friday, Oct. 14). Ewing Township police, EMS personnel and firefighters, along with Capital Health System paramedics, were alerted to the crash in front of the Wendy’s restaurant in the 1700 block of North Olden Avenue just minutes before 9 p.m. When emergency crews arrived on scene they found at least three adults trapped in the wreckage of the two vehicles. A child was also inside one of the autos. According to initial radio reports, it appeared that the child – described as an infant – had not been riding in an approved child car seat and, as a result, was unrestrained when the crash occurred. Additional ambulances from Trenton and Lawrence and more paramedics were called in to care for the injured. Ewing firefighters used hydraulic rescue tools to cut apart the vehicles to free the trapped victims. Once extricated from the wreckage, the victims was rushed to the regional trauma center in Trenton. North Olden Avenue was closed between Prospect Street and Parkside Avenue as a result of the crash. At the time of this report, Ewing Township police were still investigating the circumstances of the accident and no additional details were available.  

Ewing, Ewing, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hopewell, Lawrence, Mercer County, Trenton

Murphy Administration Launches Initiative to Support and Improve Trenton Water Works, Ensure Safe Drinking Water

October 12, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Following a months-long compliance evaluation of conditions affecting Trenton Water Works (TWW), Governor Phil Murphy, Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette, and Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora today announced the launch of a new Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) initiative to better support and improve TWW. Through this initiative, the State will work with the City to enhance TWW’s technical and managerial capacity with the goal of improving the operations and maintenance of TWW to ensure that the system reliably produces safe drinking water that meets all requirements of the New Jersey Safe Drinking Water Act.

Despite many recent efforts at the local level to improve operating conditions and advance long-overdue capital improvements at TWW, the system continues to struggle in maintaining compliance with regulatory obligations and requirements. To ensure that maintenance and operational needs crucial to the protection of public health are met, and that long-overdue capital improvements may receive the benefit of new and considerable state and federal funding, DEP has determined that a capacity-building program with direct operational oversight is necessary to ensure TWW’s near- and long-term success in meeting the needs of the 200,000+ residents served by the system in Trenton, as well as portions of Ewing, Hamilton, Hopewell, and Lawrence.

“Since the outset of my Administration, the provision of clean, affordable drinking water and the promotion of healthy communities have remained among our foremost priorities,” said Governor Murphy. “Protecting our children, families, and businesses is a responsibility that all levels of government share, and one that we must leverage every existing partnership to fulfill. Under the leadership of the DEP and in coordination with the City of Trenton, we will work tirelessly to safeguard our residents and return water system quality to the level our communities deserve.”

“The health of the residents is of paramount importance and we want to see Trenton succeed at all levels of government,”  said Lt. Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, who serves as Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs. “Ensuring public health and safety is a core principle of municipal services. The Division of Local Government Services, which has some fiscal oversight of the City, will assist DEP in any way it can to ensure TWW succeeds in providing safe drinking water for its residents.”

“Clean and safe drinking water is a human right but delivering this public good is a far more complex undertaking than one might expect,” said Commissioner LaTourette. “The depth of managerial, technical, and financial expertise required to ensure consistent operation, maintenance, and improvement of a water system is significant. Yet, not all systems are created equal, and we must invest more time, attention, and resources in those that need our help. Through direct operational oversight, DEP will help Trenton Water Works build the capacity necessary to better serve the public. Through this initiative, DEP and the City will more fully assess the system’s needs, meet its challenges, and ensure its long-term success for the benefit of the people of Trenton and the surrounding communities that this system serves.”

“We are committed to strengthening Trenton Water Works, improving its operations, advancing capital projects, and maintaining high water quality in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental,” said Mayor Gusciora. “As we’ve dealt with City Council obstruction, we are resolute and determined in our efforts to build on the substantial progress we’ve made, fulfilling the promise I made to modernize the TWW system to ensure clean and safe drinking water for our customers and service-area residents for generations to come.”

TWW draws water from the Delaware River to provide water to more than 200,000 people in Trenton, as well as portions of Ewing, Hamilton, Hopewell, and Lawrence. The system has intermittently struggled to fully maintain critical treatment processes, monitor water quality, employ adequately trained operating personnel, and invest in required maintenance and capital needs, including significant upgrades to aging infrastructure such as the seven-acre, open-air finished water reservoir that stores and provides already treated water to about 70 percent of TWW’s distribution system. The initiative launched by the Murphy Administration today with the support of the City is intended to remedy these concerns.

This initiative, which will be implemented in accordance with an administrative order issued by DEP, has two primary phases that will be pursued concurrently: (1) immediate retention and deployment of a capacity-building force comprised of managerial and technical experts who will focus on improving routine operations and maintenance, as well as immediate capital needs; and (2) a full-scale assessment and preparation of organizational and operational recommendations.

To effect Phase 1, TWW will facilitate the direct oversight and monitoring of the system by DEP and its consultants, including a third-party adviser that will be embedded in the system for the purposes of monitoring and assessing all system operations and maintenance, adding necessary technical and managerial capacity to the system, and making technical, managerial, and financial recommendations necessary to bring the system into full compliance with applicable law. 

To effect Phase 2, the third-party adviser will undertake a comprehensive technical, managerial, and financial capacity assessment of the system that will result in a report of organizational and operational recommendations, as well as short- and long-term asset management and capital improvement recommendations that will serve the basis of future action and investment.

DEP and the City will collaborate to ensure that the progress and outcomes of this initiative are open and transparent to the public. 

As of October 12, 2022, water quality sample results submitted to DEP by TWW reflect that the water system meets applicable water quality standards. DEP will continue to closely monitor water quality parameters and other indicators of the status of the TWW system.  If TWW exceeds a regulatory standard for drinking water quality, or if DEP otherwise determines that an acute risk to public health exists, the public notification would be issued to all TWW customers.

“First, I want to thank Governor Murphy and NJDEP Commissioner LaTourette for their decision today to bring Trenton Water Works (TWW) under direct oversight of NJDEP,” said Mayor Martin.  “I want to also thank my fellow Mayors, State Legislators, County Officials, and the Hamilton Township Council who have remained steadfast in their focus on ensuring TWW meets their most basic obligations to their customers.” Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin

“Said in a more simple way – today the State is taking over running TWW,” continued Mayor Martin. “This is a major step towards reaching our simple goal: to ensure all TWW customers have reliably clean and safe drinking water.  Further, the Order from NJDEP requires the City Council to approve all items necessary to ensure our goal is reached; guaranteeing a road block to progress is neutralized.” Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin

“Hopewell Township residents, particularly those in Brandon Farms, depend on Trenton Water Works for safe drinking water. We are grateful to the state Department of Environmental Protection for their quick response to our concerns about the facility,” says Hopewell Township Mayor Peters-Manning. “Thanks go to Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin for his leadership on this issue. The staff at Trenton Water Works has been nothing but professional in their dealings with the Township, and we look forward to continuing to work with them and the DEP to safeguard the future of our water supply.”

For more information about DEP’s direct oversight of Trenton Water Works, visit https://dep.nj.gov/trentonwater/

For information on DEP’s regulation and oversight of drinking water systems in New Jersey, visit DEP’s Division of Water Supply & Geoscience website at: https://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/

For information about water infrastructure investment opportunities provided by DEP, visit: https://www.nj.gov/dep/wiip/

Photo by: Brian McCarthy
Mayor Gusciora Dispels Water Department Lies from Council Leadership
Trenton Water Works Responds to State Report on Operations and Compliance
Mercer County Officials Call on State for Major Shakeup of Trenton Water Works 
Trenton Water Works To Make Overnight Repairs at Pennington Avenue Reservoir
Trenton Water Works Issues 2020 Water Quality Report
Attorney General, DEP File Lawsuit Asking Court to Address Violations at Trenton Water Works that Pose Risks to Public Health
After No Vote On Efforts To Replace Lead Service Lines Mayor Releases Statement
NJ Department of Health, Hamilton Twp. Officials say Water is Safe to Drink, But Urge Precautions During Ongoing Legionnaires’ Disease Investigation
Health Officials Investigate Cases of Legionnaires’ Disease in Hamilton Township,Urge Precautions to Reduce Risk of Legionella Growth in Homes and Buildings
NJDEP Requests NJ Attorney General To File Legal Action Against Trenton For Failure To Comply With Safe Drinking Water Act
Trenton Water Saga Continues: Statement From Mayor Gusciora
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Ewing Police Investigate Shots Fired In Front Of Priori’s Deli Near Intersection Of Homan And Hillcrest Avenues

October 3, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Shots rang out this afternoon at Homan and Hillcrest Avenue in front of Priori’s Delicatessen. Ewing Police did confirm that shots were fired and that no one was hit, but no other details were available at this time.

Earlier this year on June 6, 2022, a 17-year-old allegedly shot and killed beloved 54-year-old deli Oscar Palacios and also severely wounded his 57-year-old brother. At approximately 6:00 am that morning, the victims opened the deli and shortly thereafter the juvenile entered the deli, wearing a dark mask covering his face, and ordered food. The juvenile pointed a handgun at the victims and demanded money. The juvenile fired the gun, grazing the 57-year-old victim’s forehead. A physical struggle ensued between the victim and the juvenile, during which the juvenile shot the victim in the abdomen. The juvenile then fired again, striking Oscar Palacios in the chest. The juvenile then fled the area on a bicycle.

The juvenile was identified through surveillance video from the surrounding area from the time of the shooting. On the surveillance video, he could be seen riding a multi-colored mountain bike and wearing a black jacket and white sneakers with the word “AIR” in large letters on the side.

The juvenile was taken into custody on an unrelated warrant on June 21, 2022. At the time of that arrest, Detectives noticed that he was wearing the same sneakers observed in the surveillance video from June 6. They also observed what appeared to be dried blood on the juvenile’s sneakers. On July 29, 2022, Homicide Task Force Detectives received the results of laboratory analysis conducted by the New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences that identified the blood on the juvenile’s shoes to be a DNA match to the 57-year-old victim who was shot inside the deli.

The 17-year-old Trenton male is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, first-degree felony murder, first-degree robbery, and firearms offenses. He is being held in the Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center.

2 Brothers Shot At Priori’s Deli in Ewing; One Deceased, One Remains Hospitalized
17-Year-Old Charged With First Degree Murder, Robbery And Other Charges, After Allegedly Killing Beloved Deli Owner In Ewing Township
Ewing, Ewing, Hamilton, Lawrence, Mercer County, Trenton

Trenton Water Works Responds to State Report on Operations and Compliance

September 30, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER) – Trenton Water Works (TWW) Director Mark Lavenberg today responded to a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) letter and report this week discussing ongoing compliance obligations and TWW’s water quality improvements. 

“First and foremost, Trenton Water Works has acted with full transparency in self-reporting ongoing assessments to NJDEP. Many details in the report come directly from our staff. We speak daily and meet weekly with NJDEP,” Director Lavenberg said. “Given that level of coordination, the letter and report issued this week unnecessarily seem like snapshots from the past. Many areas of concern in this report are currently being or have been addressed. Forward strides made by TWW are not reflected in the least in these documents.”

TWW’s ability to correct some of the deficiencies in the letter has been diminished by City Council decisions regarding dozens of major legislative approvals for project funding and awarding of bids. The NJDEP letter points out City Council’s rejection of a $15 million bond request as a destabilizing decision. 

This decision adversely effected TWW operations and projects, but discussions with NJDEP regarding alternative options or revised timelines have been ongoing. Many of the items declined by Council this year can be presented to a newly-formed body in 2023.

“We are addressing specific requirements from NJDEP. We have been lead-compliant since 2019 and have made major upgrades, for instance the raw water intake which was a recommendation in the 1976 report quoted by NJDEP,” Lavenberg said. “We are being asked to correct nearly 50-year-old problems in four years, which included a global pandemic. Through all of that, we never once had an interruption in service.”

“We want to set the record straight: our drinking water is safe and, day by day, we are working to make it safer. The health of our customers and residents is our primary concern,” he said.

Mercer County Officials Call on State for Major Shakeup of Trenton Water Works 

MidJersey.news file photos:

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

5-Alarm Fire At Ewing Senior And Community Center

September 30, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER) – A multi-alarm inferno destroyed the gymnasium and damaged other parts of the Ewing Senior and Community Center early this morning (Friday, Sept. 30).

Ewing Township firefighters were first dispatched to the township facility at 999 Lower Ferry Road at 2:58 a.m. to check an activated fire alarm system. When firefighters arrived on scene a few minutes later, they found the gymnasium, located in the center of the recreational complex, fully-engulfed in flames. A second alarm, which called in mutual aid from neighboring communities, was immediately ordered. As flames shot from windows and burned through the roof and smoke billowed skyward even more help was called in on the third alarm.

Still more firefighters and apparatus were requested to the scene after that, including water tankers from Pennington, Hopewell and Washington Crossing, Pa., as a precaution in the event that enough water could not be obtained from nearby hydrants. As it was, multiple large diameter hose lines were laid along Lower Ferry Road and Parkway Road to supply water from several hydrants. Four aerial master streams were put in service to flow water on the fire from above, while several smaller hoselines were put to work on the ground. Following several partial collapses of walls and sections of the roof, what was left of the gymnasium roof fully collapsed around 5:30 a.m.

Firefighters worked to prevent the flames from extending into the other connected buildings that make up the facility. While there was some damage sustained, those other areas were saved. The blaze was officially declared under control at 7:13 a.m., however firefighters and investigators were expected to remain on the scene throughout the day.

Assisting Ewing Township firefighters on the scene were mutual aid units from Lawrence, Trenton, Hamilton, Pennington, Hopewell Borough, Hopewell Township, Princeton, and Falls, Pa. Other firefighters from Somerset County responded to stand by in Ewing’s firehouses. During that “cover” assignment, those Somerset County firefighters extinguished a dumpster fire on Whitehead Road Extension.

Ewing Police say, nobody lives at the center. Ewing Police were dispatched to a fire alarm at the Ewing senior and community center (999 Lower Ferry Road) at approximately 2:55 a.m. this morning. First responding officers observed an active fire in the gymnasium portion of the building. There was nobody present in the building at the time. The fire went to five alarms to assist with water supply and firefighting operations. As of this time no injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. 

There are road closures on Parkway Avenue from Scotch Road to Farrell Avenue and also lower Ferry Road From Langford Lane road Fireside Avenue. 

Photos below from NJ Public Safety News Alerts on Facebook

Photos below by: Anthony Greco

Ewing, Ewing, Hamilton, Hamilton, Hopewell, Lawrence, Mercer County, Trenton

Mercer County Officials Call on State for Major Shakeup of Trenton Water Works 

September 28, 2022

HAMILTON – TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Hamilton Mayor Martin, State Senator Greenstein, Assemblymen DeAngelo, and Benson, Mercer County Executive Hughes, Mercer County Board of County Commissioners Chair Nina Melker, Ewing Mayor Steinmann, Hopewell Township Mayor Peters-Manning, and Lawrence Township Mayor John Ryan are joining together to call on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to take over direct supervision and operation of Trenton Water Works (TWW) after years of failure to comply with safe drinking water obligations.

TWW supplies approximately 29 million gallons of drinking water daily to more than 200,000 people, including residents of Trenton and four neighboring municipalities – Ewing, Hamilton, Hopewell, and Lawrence Townships.

In 2020, the Attorney General and DEP filed a lawsuit against TWW, which the municipalities served by the water utility joined, seeking to compel the City of Trenton and the water utility to take the necessary actions after failing to comply with Administrative Consent Orders to provide safe drinking water. These failures include but are not limited to filling vacancies critical to running the treatment plant and the covering of the Pennington Reservoir, which funding for was denied by the Trenton City Council months after the lawsuit was filed. This week, the NJDEP sent the City and TWW a letter again citing failure to comply with these orders and stating that the DEP is “disturbed by the current City Council’s continuing failures or refusals to authorize resolutions necessary to advance critical capital improvements and ensure that ordinary maintenance and operational needs crucial to the protection of public health are met.”

“The residents of Hamilton have suffered far too long due to the failures of Trenton Water Works and left us with absolutely no confidence in their ability to operate the utility,” said Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin. “The Trenton City Council’s refusal to authorize public safety projects is putting people’s lives in danger and has prevented TWW’s ability to provide safe and clean drinking water. I call on the Governor and the State of New Jersey to immediately place TWW under direct state control to end the years of gross incompetence.”

“The most recent inspection report from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection validates the charge that, time and time again, the residents of this region have been failed by the Trenton City Council and Trenton Water Works,” said Senator Linda R. Greenstein. “Despite the actions of some to try and resolve these long-standing issues, it is readily apparent that a change in leadership is desperately needed. I call upon the State of New Jersey and NJDEP to immediately take all steps necessary to establish state control of Trenton Water Works, to ensure the health and safety of our residents remain top priority.”

“We shouldn’t wait for another disaster before taking action, the safety of our residents must come first,” said Assemblyman Dan Benson. “The NJDEP letter shows that the current operation of Trenton Water Works is unacceptable, it’s time for action,” added Benson.

“Trenton City Council has showed us time and again that they are not interested in bringing Trenton Water Works up to the standards set up by the Department of Environmental Protection,” stated Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo. “At this point, the gross negligence that they have shown has led to an increased risk of waterborne pathogens that threaten the safety of not just Trenton but also the neighboring towns that it serves. I cannot, in good conscience, watch as this continues to escalate. That is why I believe that the control and maintenance of Trenton Water Works should be given to the State so that they can properly bring Trenton Water Works up to the standards of the New Jersey Safe Drinking Water Act.

“Access to safe drinking water and a well-functioning water system is not an unreasonable expectation by the Mercer County residents who have no alternative to the city-operated Trenton Water Works,” said Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes. “While I am encouraged by Mayor Reed Gusciora’s determination to address the ongoing compliance issues and substandard water quality noted by the NJDEP, I condemn the irresponsibility and recklessness of the City Council for its egregious neglect of the water system, its disregard for the directives set forth by the NJDEP and the injustices it has placed on communities of color and on all Trenton Water Works customers.”

“The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s latest Compliance Evaluation and Assistance Inspection dated September 27, 2022, of Trenton Water Works, is extremely disturbing and concerning,” stated Mercer County Board of County Commissioners Chair Nina Melker.” It is now evident that an intervention is needed at a state level to ensure that Trenton Water Works can fulfill their obligation to provide safe and clean drinking water to the residents throughout Mercer County in their service designation.”

“The findings in this report confirm why Ewing joined with its neighbors Lawrence and Hamilton to protect its citizens from this failing authority,” said Ewing Township Mayor Bert Steinmann. “ It is time for legislation that will provide a meaningful remedy to the suburban ratepayers being held hostage to the Trenton City Council’s intransigence. On behalf of the citizens of Ewing, we implore DEP to act immediately to compel TWW to correct these deficiencies and ensure the safety of the water provided by TWW to its more than 200,000 consumers.”

“Residents deserve safe drinking water. We are deeply disturbed by DEP’s findings regarding the lack of progress on long-term projects necessary to keep the residents of Hopewell Township and Mercer County safe,” said Hopewell Township Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning. “Hopewell Township has appreciated our working relationship with the professional staff at Trenton Water Works. However, change is necessary,” continued Peters-Manning.

“On behalf of the Trenton Water Works customers within Lawrence Township, it is time for the operations of the water utility to be taken from the City of Trenton,” stated Lawrence Township Mayor John Ryan. “For far too long, the customers of TWW have lived with the fear, and at times reality, that the water they drink and use daily is unsafe. The report from the NJDEP dated September 27, 2022, demonstrates that the City of Trenton cannot meet the needs of its water utility customers by producing clean and safe water. We stand with the other municipalities fighting for their residents’ health and safety. We must do better.”

Mayor Gusciora Responds to State and Local Concerns Regarding TWW

TRENTON, NJ – Mayor Reed Gusciora issued the following statement today regarding progress made at Trenton Water Works (TWW), compliance with State agreements, and attempts by state and local officials to enact a “major shakeup” at the City-owned utility.

“I share the concerns expressed by area officials that we want safe drinking water for our constituents. However, the comments made by those elected officials do not recognize the substantial progress made at Trenton Water Works over the last four years. I wholeheartedly agree that if the Trenton City Council had done their job, we would not find ourselves in this position. They voted down critical projects including decommissioning the reservoir, replacing water mains, lead remediation, heavy equipment, facility upgrades, chemical purchases, and debt service. Council leaders even engaged a court battle to stop executive action in support of various water quality improvements at TWW.

In addition, one of the main items I ran on was improving Trenton Water Works. In 2019, we developed a $405-million, six-year capital plan to undertake critical projects within its central pumping station, water-filtration plant, and distribution system. These projects are designed to maintain high water quality and make the 163-year-old public water system more resilient.

Despite the efforts of City Council to undermine TWW as a utility of the City of Trenton, I welcome working in tandem with the State DEP to resolve any outstanding issues and ensure safe drinking water for our consumers for years to come. In that vein, I will announce shortly our proposed plan to address the issues raised by the DEP and to give comfort to our ratepayers and residents by showing demonstrative improvements in our water delivery system.”

Purchased by the City of Trenton in 1859, Trenton Water Works is one of the oldest and largest publicly owned water systems in the United States. TWW supplies approximately 28 million gallons of water per day to a quarter-million consumers in a five-municipality service area comprised of Trenton, Ewing Township, parts of Hamilton Township, Lawrence Township, and Hopewell Township.

TWW operates a 60-million-gallon water-filtration plant and water-distribution system that consists of a 100-million-gallon reservoir, 683 miles of water mains, three pump stations, nearly 8,000 valves, 3,517 fire hydrants, and six interconnections between TWW and other water suppliers. TWW serves approximately 63,000 metered customers.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County, Trenton

Ewing Township Couple and Business Owners Charged with Insurance Fraud and Failure to Pay and to Remit Taxes

Winnifred Olosunde, 66, and Taiwo “Peter” Olosunde, 55, both of Ewing, NJ, were each charged with one count of third-degree insurance fraud, nine counts of third-degree failure to file personal and employer tax returns, and nine counts of third-degree failure to pay personal and employer taxes, in connection with their business Two Enterprise, Inc. (Two Enterprise), which was also named as a defendant. 

September 27, 2022

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)– Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor (OIFP) announced that a Mercer County couple, and owners of a New Jersey non-emergency medical transportation company, have been charged with an alleged scheme to provide false payroll information in order to obtain lower premiums on workers’ compensation coverage.

Winnifred Olosunde, 66, and Taiwo “Peter” Olosunde, 55, both of Ewing, NJ, were each charged with one count of third-degree insurance fraud, nine counts of third-degree failure to file personal and employer tax returns, and nine counts of third-degree failure to pay personal and employer taxes, in connection with their business Two Enterprise, Inc. (Two Enterprise), which was also named as a defendant. The charges were contained in an indictment handed up by a state grand jury on September 16, 2022.

Winnifred Olosunde is charged with insurance fraud for allegedly knowingly providing false information in connection with applications to renew insurance policies with New Jersey Manufacturer’s Insurance Group (NJM) and Amguard Insurance Company between 2019 and 2021. The indictment alleges that the payroll documents submitted to the insurance providers contained material misrepresentations regarding the number of Two Enterprise medical transportation drivers, and the duties and payroll of several of the drivers. Taiwo Olosunde is charged with insurance fraud in connection with records that were submitted in 2019.

The couple is also charged with failing to file New Jersey personal income tax returns for the years 2016 through 2020 and failing to pay $27,597 in personal income taxes for those years. In addition, together with their company, the couple is also charged with failing to file New Jersey employer payroll tax returns for the years 2017 through 2020, and failing to remit $5,889 in employer payroll taxes to the New Jersey Division of Taxation for those years.

The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Third-degree crimes carry a sentence of three to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000.00.   

Deputy Attorney General Melvina D. Fennell presented the case to the State Grand Jury for the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor. Detective Brian Bunn coordinated the investigation with Investigator Anthony Mihalow.

Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Tracy M. Thompson thanked the Department of Treasury for its assistance with the investigation.

Insurance Fraud Prosecutor Thompson noted that some important cases have started with anonymous tips. People who are concerned about insurance cheating and have information about a fraud can report it anonymously by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-877-55-FRAUD, or visiting the Web site at www.NJInsurancefraud.org. State regulations permit a reward to be paid to an eligible person who provides information that leads to an arrest, prosecution and conviction for insurance fraud.

To report suspected tax fraud, please call the NJ Treasury, Division of Taxation 24-Hour Recorded Tip Line at 609-322-6057.

Defense Attorneys:

For Winnifred Olosunde: Unknown

For Taiwo Olosunde: Unknown

olosunde-indictmentDownload
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Ewing Police Investigate Man Shot In Leg On Stokes Avenue

September 26, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)—Ewing Township Police reported that at 6:07 this morning that Police were detailed to the area or 432 Stokes Avenue for a report of a male struck by gunfire. Upon arrival, it was determined that the victim suffered a single gunshot wound to his leg. Ewing EMS transported the victim to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. Police reported the man is reported to be in stable condition. Police say that there is no reason to believe that there is any active threat to the community.

The in incident is currently under investigation by Ewing Township Police Department Detective Justin Quinlan. If anyone has any information that may assist with the  investigation, please contact Detective Quinlan at 609-882-1313 x7512 or by email at jquinlan@ewingnj.org

Anyone with information may also feel free to contact the Ewing Police Tipline at 609-882-7530 or by email at policetipline@ewingnj.org The tipline should not be used to report crimes in progress or emergencies that require immediate response.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

House Fire Extinguished In Ewing

September 14, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing and Trenton firefighters were dispatched to 75 Main Boulevard for a reported structure fire at 4:37 a.m. Upon arrival firefighters were met with heavy fire on the second floor of a two-story home. Firefighters advanced hose lines and were met with reported “Collyer’s Mansion” type conditions and were able to battle back the flames. The bulk of the flames were quickly knocked down, but firefighters remained on scene most of the morning, investigating, hitting hotspots, and performing overhaul of the structure.

Ewing Police stated that police and firefighters are still on scene this morning. The fire department is still on scene putting out “hot spots”. The road remains closed to assist with fire operations.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County, Trenton

Trenton Man Arrested In Ewing With Drugs And Burglar’s Tools Used In Catalytic Converter Type Thefts

September 14, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township Police report that over the last several weeks, our area has experienced a large increase in the theft of catalytic converters from vehicles. On Sunday, September 11, 2022 at approximately 3:55 a.m., Officer David Massi was on routine patrol on Troy Avenue when he observed a male crouching behind a vehicle that was parked on the street. When Officer Massi attempted to conduct an investigatory stop, the male fled on foot. Officer Massi gave chase and relayed his location to responding officers who were able to set up a perimeter. The male (identified as Anthony Riggins, 49-year-old male from Trenton, NJ) was subsequently located by Officer Massi hiding in tall grass on the lot of 320 Robbins Avenue. After a brief struggle, Riggins was taken into custody. After taking Riggins into custody, a search found him to be in possession of drug paraphernalia as well as a pill bottle containing suspected crack cocaine. Officer Massi then returned to the area where he first encountered Riggins. At that location, officers located a discarded Sawzall cutting tool on the ground by the vehicle where Riggins was initially observed. Officers also located a black backpack which contained an NJ identification card belonging to Riggins, 14 used Sawzall blades, a screwdriver and a Gerber multi-tool.

Riggins was charged with the following offenses: Resisting Arrest by Flight, Resisting Arrest, Obstructing Administration of Law, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of Burglar’s Tools, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Shooting Homicide in Ewing Township Under Investigation

August 24, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Ewing Police Department are investigating an overnight shooting death in Ewing Township, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.

Just after 1:00 a.m. on August 24, 2022, Ewing police were dispatched to an apartment on Mid Way Lane on a report of shots fired. Responding officers searched the area and located the victim, identified as Christopher MacLeod, 30, unresponsive on a grassy patch near his apartment building.  He had been shot multiple times.  MacLeod was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead a few hours later.

Preliminary investigation revealed that MacLeod was home when there was a knock at his door.  He responded and shots were heard moments later. Detectives located shell casings in the common walkway area between buildings.

No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.  Detectives do not believe this was a random shooting and evidence suggests MacLeod was the intended target. 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.

On April 22, 2022, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Christopher MacLeod, 30, of Ewing, was charged with Possession of more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of more than Five Pounds of Hashish with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Conspiracy to Possess more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violations of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of Percocet with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(5); Possession of Percocet in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)(b); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b; Possession of a Firearm during a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a; and Financial Facilitation in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25c. MacLeod is lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

Christopher MacLeod, 30, of Ewing

Christopher MacLeod, 30, of Ewing, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Photo.

Early morning Breaking News story here:

BREAKING: Shooting Under Investigation In Ewing Town Center

PRESS RELEASE-FOUR MERCER COUNTY RESIDENTS AND ONE OCEAN COUNTY RESIDENT CHARGED WITH NARCOTICS AND WEAPONS OFFENSES

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, United States Drug Enforcement Administration – High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Group 5, United States Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Federal Bureau of Investigation – Red Bank Field Office, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Response Team, Lakehurst Borough Police Department Patrol Division, Lakehurst Borough Police Department Detective Bureau, Ewing Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ewing Township Police Department Patrol Division, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, Elizabeth Police Department Narcotics Bureau, and Elizabeth Police Department Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Division, to conduct an investigation into the distribution of cocaine, marijuana, and pain medication laced with fentanyl in the Ocean and Mercer County areas. This cooperative, multi-agency investigation identified three residences in Ewing, one residence in Lakehurst, and a motor vehicle located in Lakewood, as being utilized by Ronald Walker, 37, of Ewing, and Christopher MacLeod, 30, also of Ewing, to store and distribute cocaine, marijuana, and pain pills laced with fentanyl.

On April 14, 2022, Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies executed court-authorized search warrants on the three subject Ewing residences, as well as the subject Lakehurst residence and vehicle located in Lakewood. As a result, Detectives seized approximately three-and-one-half ounces of cocaine, one ounce of Percocet pills laced with fentanyl, one gallon of Promethazine, 600 pounds of Marijuana, a loaded Performance Center M&P .380 Handgun, a loaded Keltec 9mm rifle with high capacity magazine, and approximately $158,000 in United States Currency. Arrested were:

Ronald Walker, 37, of Ewing, charged with Conspiracy to Possess more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of more than One Ounce but less than Five Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(11)b; Possession of more than One-Half Ounce but less than Five Ounces of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Methamphetamine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)(b); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; and Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b. Walker is lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

Christopher MacLeod, 30, of Ewing, charged with Possession of more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of more than Five Pounds of Hashish with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Conspiracy to Possess more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violations of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of Percocet with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(5); Possession of Percocet in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)(b); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b; Possession of a Firearm during a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a; and Financial Facilitation in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25c. MacLeod is lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

Meghan Norton, 33, of Ewing, charged with Possession of More than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of more than Five Pounds of Hashish with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Conspiracy to Possess more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violations of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of Percocet with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(5); Possession of Percocet in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)(b); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; Possession of a Firearm during a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a; and Financial Facilitation in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25c. Norton was transported to the Ocean County Jail; she was subsequently released by the Court as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.

Autumn Hearns, 40, of Ewing, charged with Conspiracy to Possess more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of more than One Ounce but less than Five Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(11)b; Possession of Methamphetamine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Marijuana in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(3)(b); and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a. Hearns was charged on a summons and released pending a future court appearance.

Dana Altieri, 52, of Lakehurst, charged with Conspiracy to Possess more than 25 Pounds of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(10)(a); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; Possession of a Firearm during a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a; Possession of a Large Capacity Firearms Magazine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-3j; and Financial Facilitation in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25c. Altieri was charged on a summons and released pending a future court appearance.

Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, United States Drug Enforcement Administration – HIDTA Group 5, United States Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Federal Bureau of Investigation – Red Bank Field Office, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force, Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Response Team, Lakehurst Borough Police Department Patrol Division, Lakehurst Borough Police Department Detective Bureau, Ewing Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ewing Township Police Department Patrol Division, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, Elizabeth Police Department Narcotics Bureau, and Elizabeth Township Police Department CCTV Division, for their combined and collective efforts in connection with this investigation.

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

R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

BREAKING: Shooting Under Investigation In Ewing Town Center

UPDATE:

Shooting Homicide in Ewing Township Under Investigation

August 24, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–MidJersey.news and OnScene news is at a shooting investigation in Ewing Town Center. From what we know the shooting happened around 1:00 a.m. in the Town Center Development on Midway Lane near Fisher Guide Drive.

Ewing Police, Ewing Township Fire Departments, Ewing EMS were on scene. EMS rushed the victim to the Trauma Center at Captial Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. The condition of the victim is unknown at this time.

This morning Ewing Police are on scene in Town Center.

This is a Breaking News Story please check back for further details as they become available.

See Updated MidJersey.News story here:

Shooting Homicide in Ewing Township Under Investigation

Victim: Christopher MacLeod, 30, of Ewing

Christopher MacLeod, 30, of Ewing, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Photo.

File photos.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

4-Month-Old Infant Death At Private Daycare In Ewing Township Under Investigation

August 17, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Special Victims Unit and the Mercer County Homicide Task Force are investigating the death of Dominic Bowman Jr.  The Special Victims Unit was contacted by Ewing police on Monday, August 8, 2022, in regard to an unresponsive 4-month-old infant who was at a day care being run out of a private home on Theresa Street in Ewing.  The infant was taken to Capital Health Medical Center in Hopewell, then transported to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia where he died as a result of his injuries a few days later.  Dominic’s injuries included skull fractures and brain bleeding.

At this time, no charges have been filed and the investigation is ongoing.  The matter was also reported to the state Division of Child Protection and Permanency as well as the state Institutional Abuse Investigation Unit.

According to the Gofundme for Dominic Bowman Jr. — “DJ” Organizer of the Gofund me is The Bowman Family 

Our hearts are heavy, and we are deeply saddened as our precious Dominic Bowman Jr, affectionately known as DJ, took his place in heaven today, 8/11/2022. DJ was just shy of turning 4 months old and the only child of Diamond Thompson and Dominic Bowman Sr.

DJ was being watched by someone who was trusted with his care when hours later, he was taken to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia unresponsive. Once at the hospital, it was learned that DJ suffered severe brain injuries. DJ was hospitalized for 3 days, and he ultimately succumbed to those injuries. Our family has hired an attorney to investigate exactly what happened to DJ, and we will not stop until we get all the answers.

This is a difficult time, as the family is mourning DJ’s untimely passing. We ask those of you with compassion and love in your heart to help DJ’s parents, Diamond Thompson and Dominic Bowman Sr., with the funeral and attorney expenses. We would like to raise $8000 for his final farewell. However, no amount is too small, and we are grateful for any donation.

Payments and donations will go to Family Funeral Home for DJ’s burial/arrangements. Any money remaining will be used to establish DJ’s Law and/or legal fees.

Burlington, Burlington City, Burlington Twp, Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County, Trenton

Thirteen Individuals Charged With Drug Trafficking And Firearms Offenses In Trenton, NJ

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Thirteen individuals were charged today with various drug trafficking and firearms offenses arising from an investigation targeting unlawful activities in a northeast neighborhood in the city of Trenton, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Jamal Wilson, aka “Vill,” and Theodore Meekins, aka “Meech,” both of Trenton, were among 12 defendants charged in a 16-count criminal complaint unsealed today. Ten of the defendants were arrested this morning as part of a takedown coordinated by federal and local law enforcement authorities. One defendant is currently detained on related charges. One defendant remains at large. A 13th defendant, Alterrick Livingston, 42, of Trenton, was arrested and charged today in a separate one-count complaint following law enforcement’s court-authorized search of his Trenton apartment and the recovery of five privately made firearms (PMFs), two fully drilled frames, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and numerous tools and accessories used for manufacturing and assembling firearms.

Wilson was charged with three counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including 100 grams or more of heroin, 28 grams or more of cocaine base, and additional quantities of cocaine. Meekins was charged in three counts with distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, as well as possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Livingston was charged with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. The remaining defendants were charged with varying counts of distribution or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine. Those arrested today are scheduled to make their initial court appearances this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tonianne J. Bongiovanni in Trenton federal court.

According to the two federal criminal complaints:

Beginning in July 2020, law enforcement agencies investigating drug trafficking in the area of Garfield, Cleveland, and Logan avenues in Trenton executed numerous controlled purchases of narcotics from multiple defendants, including Wilson and Meekins. On multiple occasions, law enforcement officers made multiple seizures of unlawfully trafficked narcotics, including, suspected heroin, cocaine base and a firearm from a vehicle driven by Meekins, a previously convicted felon. Communications that law enforcement intercepted revealed that Wilson was a significant drug trafficker of heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine in the area, specifically in the area of the Grand Court Villas apartment building, East State Street and South Olden Avenue; Garfield Avenue Playground; and other locations. In connection with today’s coordinated operation, law enforcement conducted a court-authorized search of Livingston’s Trenton apartment, and recovered multiple firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and numerous tools and accessories used for manufacturing and assembling firearms.

The charges of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams of heroin and/or 28 grams of cocaine base carry a statutory mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $5 million. The remaining narcotics charges carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $1 million. The firearm and ammunition counts with which Meekins and Livingston are charged each carry a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The charges filed today are the result of an investigation by the Greater Trenton Safe Streets Task Force. Led by the FBI, the Task Force is comprised of various federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, and its mission is to combine the resources and intelligence of the participating agencies to enhance the identification, apprehension, and prosecution of individuals involved in gang-related activities, violent crime, and drug distribution in and around the greater Trenton area.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, Newark Division, Trenton Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy; special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Newark Division, Trenton Satellite Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey L. Matthews; officers of the Trenton Police Department, under the direction of Director Steve Wilson; officers of the Burlington City Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police John Fine; officers of the Burlington Township Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director Bruce Painter; officers of the Willingboro Township Police Department, under the direction of Acting Public Safety Director Ian Bucs; and detectives with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri with the investigation leading to today’s charges.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Super Pitts and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Matthews of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.

The charges and allegations contained in the complaints are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

DefendantAgeResidence
Jamal Wilson, aka “Vill” 46Trenton
Theodore Meekins, aka “Meech” 40Burlington, New Jersey
Louis Williams, aka “Bake” 38Trenton
Clinton Rodriguez, aka “C-Rod” 46Morrisville, Pennsylvania
Kai Bowman Jr. 45Trenton
Glenn Moore 29Levittown, Pennsylvania
*Rashied McKines 48Trenton
Michael Williams, aka “Ice” 45Trenton
Derrick Jiles 59Trenton
Dion Morris 36Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Jerry Farmer 46Trenton
James Edwards 27Ewing, New Jersey
Alterrick Livingston42Trenton 
wilsonetal.complaintDownload
livingston.complaintDownload
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

17-Year-Old Charged With First Degree Murder, Robbery And Other Charges, After Allegedly Killing Beloved Deli Owner In Ewing Township

The juvenile was taken into custody on an unrelated warrant on June 21, 2022. At the time of that arrest, Detectives noticed that he was wearing the same sneakers observed in the surveillance video from June 6. They also observed what appeared to be dried blood on the juvenile’s sneakers. On July 29, 2022, Homicide Task Force Detectives received the results of laboratory analysis conducted by the New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences that identified the blood on the juvenile’s shoes to be a DNA match to the 57-year-old victim who was shot inside the deli.

August 3, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–A Trenton teenager has been arrested and charged for the June 6, 2022, shooting death of Oscar Palacios, of Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today.

The 17-year-old Trenton male is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, first-degree felony murder, first-degree robbery, and firearms offenses. He is being held in the Middlesex County Juvenile Detention Center.

The charges are the result of an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Ewing Police Department. At approximately 6:10 a.m. on Monday, June 6, Ewing police responded to Priori’s Deli, 301 Hillcrest Avenue. Upon arrival, officers located two adult males suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were transported to the hospital where 54-year-old Oscar Palacios was pronounced deceased. The second victim, a 57- year-old Trenton man, was hospitalized and later released. The two men are brothers and employees of the deli.

At approximately 6:00 am that morning, the victims opened the deli and shortly thereafter the juvenile entered the deli, wearing a dark mask covering his face, and ordered food. The juvenile pointed a handgun at the victims and demanded money. The juvenile fired the gun, grazing the 57-year-old victim’s forehead. A physical struggle ensued between the victim and the juvenile, during which the juvenile shot the victim in the abdomen. The juvenile then fired again, striking Oscar Palacios in the chest. The juvenile then fled the area on a bicycle.

The juvenile was identified through surveillance video from the surrounding area from the time of the shooting. On the surveillance video, he could be seen riding a multi-colored mountain bike and wearing a black jacket and white sneakers with the word “AIR” in large letters on the side.

The juvenile was taken into custody on an unrelated warrant on June 21, 2022. At the time of that arrest, Detectives noticed that he was wearing the same sneakers observed in the surveillance video from June 6. They also observed what appeared to be dried blood on the juvenile’s sneakers. On July 29, 2022, Homicide Task Force Detectives received the results of laboratory analysis conducted by the New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences that identified the blood on the juvenile’s shoes to be a DNA match to the 57-year-old victim who was shot inside the deli.

Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

File photos by: Brian McCarthy

2 Brothers Shot At Priori’s Deli in Ewing; One Deceased, One Remains Hospitalized

Friends and relatives left items for a memorial in front of the deli. File photo by: Brian McCarthy

Ewing, Ewing, Hopewell, Mercer County

Unidentified Male Recovered From Delaware River In Ewing Township

July 19, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–According to New Jersey State Park Police (NJDEP), the body of an unidentified man was recovered from the Delaware River on Monday, July 18, 2022, in the vicinity of the D&R Canal State Park and Scudders Fall Bridge in Ewing Township. The New Jersey State Parks Police is leading the investigation. Agencies assisting in the search and recovery efforts included Hopewell Township Police Department, the Upper Makefield Police Department (Pennsylvania), and the State Police Marine Unit. Identification of the victim is pending confirmation.

Numerous fire departments from NJ and PA searched the river Sunday night and a NJ State Police Helicopter was called to assist in the search. The initial search was close to the visitors center on the Pennsylvania side and rescue crews searched north of the Scutters Falls Bridge.

File photo by: Brian McCarthy

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County, Trenton

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

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

2 Brothers Shot At Priori’s Deli in Ewing; One Deceased, One Remains Hospitalized

June 6, 2022

3:25 p.m. UPDATE:

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Ewing Police Department continue to investigate a fatal shooting that occurred Monday morning on Hillcrest Avenue in Ewing, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.

At approximately 6:10 a.m. on Monday, June 6, Ewing police responded to Priori’s Deli, 301 Hillcrest Avenue.  Upon arrival, officers located two adult males suffering from gunshot wounds.  Both victims were transported to the hospital where Oscar Palacios, 54, of Trenton, was pronounced deceased.  The second victim, a 57-year-old Hamilton man, remains hospitalized.  The two men are brothers and employees of the deli.

At this stage of the investigation, detectives are investigating all potential motives and attempting to piece together what led up to the shooting of the men, which occurred inside of the deli.  No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.  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

Friends and relatives left items for a memorial in front of the deli this afternoon.

“REST EASY OSCAR. WE WILL MISS OUR DAILY LUNCH, LAUGHTER, & CONVERSATION WITH YOU, YOUR BROTHER, & STAFF” –Brian McCarthy.

“I am so devastated Oscar was killed. I just moved here a year ago and interacted with him and his brother. Two humble Guatemalan men working for the American dream. He was a great cook sadly to be taken away from the community.” – NatyG.

“It is hard to believe, I was just at Priori’s Deli a couple weeks ago for breakfast and was looking forward to return visit this week. I met Oscar and all the other hard-working employees behind the counter and what an excellent job they were doing with the establishment. You will be missed.” — Dennis Symons – MidJersey.news

Original post from this morning:

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Ewing Police Department are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Monday morning on Hillcrest Avenue in Ewing, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.

At approximately 6:10 a.m. on Monday, June 6, Ewing police responded to Priori’s Deli, 301 Hillcrest Avenue.  Upon arrival, officers located two adult males suffering from gunshot wounds.  Both victims were transported to the hospital where one was pronounced dead.

No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.  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

Photos by: Brian McCarthy, OnScene News

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Ewing Police Officer Suffers Smoke Inhalation In Browning Avenue House Fire While Rescuing Dog

June 2, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Police reported, that on Thursday, June 2, 2022 at approximately 9:01 a.m., Ewing Police Dispatch was notified of a smoke condition coming from a residence on Browning Avenue. Responding officers encountered heavy smoke coming from 109 Browning Avenue. Officers were able to confirm that all residents had evacuated prior to police arrival. The homeowner advised police that there was a dog that was still inside the residence. Assisted by patrol, Detective Julia Caldwell #190 entered the residence and was able to rescue the dog. During the rescue, Detective Caldwell suffered smoke inhalation and was treated on scene by Ewing EMS and Capital Health Paramedics prior to being transported to the hospital for treatment and observation. Ewing Fire Department stations 30, 31, and 33 responded and extinguished the fire with the assistance of Trenton Fire Department Ladder 1 and Hamilton Fire Department Squad 12. Ewing Township Fire Marshal Mike Nelson conducted the initial investigation and has initially deemed the fire non-suspicious. There were no other injuries reported. The displaced residents were offered assistance through the American Red Cross.  

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Vehicle Crash With Entrapment In Ewing Township

May 27, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township Firefighters, EMS and Police responded to a motor vehicle accident with extrication on West Ingham Avenue near Kelsey Avenue at 1:12 p.m. Firefighters were able to extricate the trapped occupants. EMS transported the injured to a local hospital for treatment. Ewing Township Police is investigating the crash. No further details are available at this time.

Photos by: Brian McCarthy, OnScene News

Ewing, Ewing, Jackson, Mercer County, Ocean County

Three Individuals Indicted For Scheme To Defraud U.S. Department Of Defense

Linda Mika, 70, and Paul Mika, 74, both of Jackson, New Jersey, and Kenneth Mika, 50, of Ewing, New Jersey, are charged by indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and five counts of wire fraud in connection with the scheme. Kenneth Mika was additionally charged with two counts of making false statements.

May 26, 2022

TRENTON, N.J. – Three New Jersey, individuals were indicted today for their role in a years-long scheme to defraud the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) by providing military equipment parts that were not authorized under the governing contracts, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Linda Mika, 70, and Paul Mika, 74, both of Jackson, New Jersey, and Kenneth Mika, 50, of Ewing, New Jersey, are charged by indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and five counts of wire fraud in connection with the scheme. Kenneth Mika was additionally charged with two counts of making false statements.

According to documents filed in this case:

From at least March 2016 through April 2020, the Mikas conspired with each other and others to defraud the DoD and one of its combat logistic support arms, the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), by engaging in a pattern of unlawful product substitution. Paul Mika was the founder and owner of Monmouth Marine Engines Inc. (Monmouth Marine), a maritime equipment and servicing facility, which, as an approved federal contractor, also entered into contracts with DLA to supply DoD contracting entities with replacement hardware for DoD’s military branches. Linda Mika, Paul Mika’s wife, and Kenneth Mika, Paul and Linda Mika’s son, were employees of Monmouth Marine.

The Mikas, on behalf of Monmouth Marine, obtained contracts with the DoD by falsely claiming that the military parts they contracted to provide would be exact products furnished by authorized manufacturers or suppliers. Once awarded the contracts, however, the Mikas sourced non-conforming substitute parts at a significantly reduced cost to fill the contracts. They did this to maximize their profit margin while also suppressing fair competition in the bidding of federal contracts. Upon receipt by Monmouth Marine, the non-conforming parts were then shipped to DLA in packaging disguising the parts’ identities in an effort by the Mikas to deceive DLA and its unwitting downstream purchasers.

During an audit of Monmouth Marine conducted in February 2020, Kenneth Mika falsely stated to DLA auditors that Monmouth Marine had been authorized by certain representatives of the Defense Contract Management Agency to substitute parts under DLA contracts. Kenneth Mika repeated these false representations to FBI and Defense Criminal Investigation Service agents in July 2020.

Each count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud is punishable by a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. Each count of making false statements is punishable by a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum $250,00 fine.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of and the U.S. Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty; and special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Messenger with the investigation leading to today’s indictment.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric A. Boden of the U.S. Attorney=s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.

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

22-200 

Defense counsel:

Linda Mika: Dennis C. Carletta Esq., Cedar Grove, New Jersey
Kenneth Mika: Eric W. Moran Esq., New York
Paul Mika: Timothy R. Anderson Esq., Red Bank, New Jersey

mika.indictmentDownload
Owner And Employees Of Monmouth Marine Engines, Inc., Charged For Defrauding US Department of Defense
Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Ewing Police Vehicle Involved In Crash; Other Driver Made Illegal Turn In Path Of Police Vehicle

May 22, 2022

Update to last night’s story:

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township Police say that on Saturday, May 21 at approximately 9:20 p.m., a Ewing Police vehicle was involved in a two car motor vehicle crash in the 1600 block of Olden Avenue. Preliminary investigation has indicated that the driver of the second vehicle made an illegal turn into the path of the Ewing officer. The officer was not responding to an emergency at the time of the crash. Two parties were transported to local hospitals with complaints of pain. The Ewing officer was also transported to a local hospital with minor injuries and was later released. Investigation is still underway at this time and anyone with information regarding the crash is encouraged to contact the investigating officer, Sgt. Vagnozzi at 609-882-1313.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Developing: Crash in Ewing Township Involving Vehicle With MG Plates

UPDATE HERE:

Ewing Police Vehicle Involved In Crash; Other Driver Made Illegal Turn In Path Of Police Vehicle

May 21, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Sometime around 9:30 p.m. a crash occurred in the 1500-1600 Block of N. Olden Avenue (CR-622) in Ewing Township involving a municipal government vehicle and a car. It was unclear if there were any injuries, and the airbags were deployed on the vehicle with MG plates. The car suffered rear end damage and came to rest in the driveway of Pizza City. Ewing Police diverted traffic onto Arctic Parkway until the crash was cleared from the roadway. This is a developing story and when information becomes available the story will be updated. Check back for updates.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

One With Reported Airway Burns and Others Injured in High-Rise Fire in Ewing Township; Building Evacuated, 2 Units Uninhabitable

May 15, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 10:23 a.m. all Ewing Township Fire Departments responded to 1460 Parkside Avenue, an 8-story high-rise for a fire alarm. Around 10:29 a.m. a fire chief on scene upgraded the assignment to a 2nd Alarm with a reported fire on the 5th floor sending multiple departments to the scene. The fire was reported in Apartment 516 and firefighters knocked most of the fire down by 10:44 a.m. Three ambulances were called to the scene for smoke inhalation. One person was transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton with airway burns and a trauma alert was called en route to the hospital. There were reports of fire damage to apartment 516 and the apartment below 416 are uninhabitable due to water damage.

This is the second fire this month at the building. Another fire on the 6th Floor was reported on May 2, 2022. Firefighters reported “Tonight (May 2, 2022, at 10:32 p.m.), Ewing fire companies were dispatched to a local high rise apartment building for an alarm activation. Engine 31 arrived first due. Upon their investigation, a fire was located on the 6th floor. Crews were already standing by at the standpipe and immediately deployed a hand line. Additional crews assisted with ventilation and investigation. Chief 31 had Parkside Avenue Command.”

This is still a developing story check back for further details when they become available.

Ewing, Ewing, Mercer County

Ewing Firefighters Respond to Crane Emergency

May 6, 2022

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township firefighters were dispatched to 1440 Lower Ferry Road for an “investigation” at 6:39 p.m. Shortly after arrival an additional ladder and engine were called to the scene for a problem with a crane at a building under renovation. It was reported that fifty people were evacuated from the building. The Ewing Township Construction Official, Ewing Township Fire Marshal, PSE&G all responded to the scene. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was also contacted. It was unclear what exactly was the cause of the crane emergency. No other details area available at this time.