EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)—Police said, that on July 1, 2021, at 10:25 p.m. Ewing Township police responded to shots fire in the 300 Block of Berwyn Avenue. The first responding officers observed a male victim that appeared to be suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the hospital for treatment of his injuries.
Police using information developed during the investigation, Detective Nicholas Muscente signed a criminal complaint against the alleged shooter, identified as Nydirah L. Leary of Trenton, NJ Leary is charged with Attempted Murder, Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, Possession of a Weapon, and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
With the assistance of the New Jersey State Police, Leary was subsequently arrested on July 24, 2021.
Anyone with any information concerning this incident is asked to contact Detective Nicholas Muscente at (609) 882-1313 x 7596 or Ewing Police Tip Line at (609) 882-7530, police say not to use the tip line for emergencies that require immediate response.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 7:00 p.m. a two vehicle rear end type crash occurred on Route 29 and Lower Ferry Road. Originally reported the next block towards Trenton near Afton Ave, the Trenton Fire Department was already on the road and responded over to the scene. EMS from Ewing Township and Capital Health paramedics were on scene treating a patient from the car that was rear ended at the traffic light. The person was transported to the local hospital but it appeared that there were no life-threatening-injuries in the crash.
The Ewing Township Police Department is investigating the crash. No further information is available at this time.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–This afternoon a tractor trailer on Lower Ferry Road took wires down closing the roadway. Avoid the area until repairs can be made. Ewing Township Police, Ewing Township Fire Department, West Trenton Fire Company on scene.
Avoid Lower Ferry Road between Parkside Avenue and Stuyvesant Avenue.
TRENTON – EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 7:48 a.m. Ewing Police dispatch was notified by NJ Human Services Police that a male walked away from Trenton Psychiatric Hospital (TPH). The investigation revealed that Angel Sariol, 03/30/1972, 6′ 1″ 173 pounds, short hair, last seen wearing a dark blue t-shirt, light blue jeans, and white sneakers, walked away from the facility at approximately 7:32 AM, heading toward Cadwalader Park. Sariol was being held at TPH on a non-criminal hold. Information received from Human Services Police is that Sariol is not considered a danger to the public. Human Services Police have entered Sariol into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) as a missing person. Sariol has ties to Bergen and Union counties. If you see Angel Sariol, please do not approach him, and call 9-1-1
Angel Sariol, 03/30/1972, 6′ 1″ 173 pounds, short hair, last seen wearing a dark blue t-shirt, light blue jeans, and white sneakers, walked away from the facility at approximately 7:32 AM, heading toward Cadwalader Park. Sariol was being held at TPH on a non-criminal hold. Information received from Human Services Police is that Sariol is not considered a danger to the public.
Prior articles found online via Google search:
Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Press Release from March 27, 2018 as found on the Ridgewood Blog website:
Hackensack NJ, Acting Bergen County Prosecutor Dennis Calo announced the arrest of ANGEL SARIOL (DOB: 3/30/1972; single; and employed as a custodian) of 22-24 Ward Street, Apartment 2H, Hackensack, NJ, on charges of Terroristic Threats and False Public Alarm. The arrest is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office under the direction of Chief Robert Anzilotti and members of the Rochelle Park Police Department under the direction of Chief Robert Flannelly.
From Monday, March 19, 2018, through Wednesday, March 21, 2018, members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes Unit received information from no fewer than 19 municipal police departments in Bergen County about a substantially similar series of phone calls that they received during that three-day period from an anonymous caller. During many of these calls, the unknown caller stated that police officers from those towns would be murdered. The ensuing investigation, led by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes Unit and Rochelle Park Police Department, revealed that Angel SARIOL used technology to disguise his calling line identity and placed the phone calls.
As a result of the investigation, Angel SARIOL was arrested in Hackensack on Thursday, March 22, 2018 and charged with one count of False Public Alarm, N.J.S.A. 2C:33-3B, a 2nd degree crime; one count of Terroristic Threats During a State of Emergency, N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3A, a 2nd degree crime; and one count of Terroristic Threats, N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3A, a 3rd degree crime. Angel SARIOL was remanded to the Bergen County Jail pending a hearing in Central Judicial Processing Court on March 23, 2018.
Acting Prosecutor Calo states that the charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and would like to thank the Rochelle Park Police Department, Hackensack Police Department, Hasbrouck Heights Police Department, Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and Union City Police Department for their assistance with this investigation. In addition, Acting Prosecutor Calo would also like to thank all the agencies that provided investigative leads in this matter, including:
Wood-Ridge Police Department Hasbrouck Heights Police Department Paramus Police Department Park Ridge Police Department Wyckoff Police Department Elmwood Park Police Department Maywood Police Department Rochelle Park Police Department Waldwick Police Department Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department Saddle River Police Department Harrington Park Police Department Woodcliff Lake Police Department Hackensack Police Department Oradell Police Department Demarest Police Department Saddle Brook Police Department River Edge Police Department Weehawken Police Department (Hudson County)
Trenton, Hamilton Township, Ewing Township, and Lawrence Township may experience low water pressure during the repair
July 7, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–On Thursday morning, July 8, 2021, between 12 a.m. and 3 a.m., Trenton Water Works will perform emergency repairs on a water main at the Pennington Avenue Reservoir on Pennington Avenue in Trenton. As a result, customers across our service area (except Hopewell Township) in Trenton, Hamilton Township, Ewing Township, and Lawrence Township may experience low water pressure during the repair time horizon. TWW maintains a 24/7 emergency hotline at (609) 989-3222. Questions? Call TWW’s Office of Communications and Community Relations at (609) 989-3033.
JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)—Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on that on July 7, 2021, Michael Mahan, age 38, of Ewing Township, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1); Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1); Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(6); Eluding in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b; Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A.12-1b(2); two counts of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d; Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b; four counts of Assault by Automobile in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(3); two counts of Assault by Automobile in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(2); and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d, in connection with a series of events that transpired in Jackson Township on May 8, 2021.
On May 8, 2021, Jackson Township Police Officers responded to a 911 call for a report of a stabbing incident on Maria Street. Responding Officers discovered a female with a large slash across her face. An investigation conducted by the Jackson Township Police revealed that the female victim had been followed to her residence by Mahan. Mahan held a knife to the victim’s neck, threatened to kill her, and then proceeded to slash her face. As a neighbor intervened and called 911, Mahan fled the area. Mahan’s vehicle was observed by Officers traveling on Toms River Road. A pursuit was initiated, and Mahan fled at a high rate of speed. As Mahan was attempting to navigate a turn onto West Veterans Highway, he struck another vehicle. As he continued travelling at a high rate of speed on West Veterans Highway, Mahan’s vehicle collided with yet another vehicle – forcing it off the road. Mahan’s vehicle traveled approximately 500 more feet before it became disabled; Mahan was subsequently taken into custody without incident. The female victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, and the occupants of the two vehicles were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Further investigation revealed that Mahan had, earlier that day, approached a female homeowner in her driveway brandishing a knife. Mahan retreated after being confronted by the female victim’s husband and their pet dog. Mahan has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his apprehension.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Veni who is handling the case on behalf of the State, as well as Jackson Township Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation leading to Mahan’s indictment.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. R.P.C.3.6(b)(6).
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on that on July 7, 2021, Michael Mahan, age 38, of Ewing Township, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1); Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1); Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(6); Eluding in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b; Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A.12-1b(2); two counts of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d; Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b; four counts of Assault by Automobile in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(3); two counts of Assault by Automobile in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(2); and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d, in connection with a series of events that transpired in Jackson Township on May 8, 2021.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on that on July 7, 2021, Michael Mahan, age 38, of Ewing Township, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1); Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1); Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(6); Eluding in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b; Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A.12-1b(2); two counts of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d; Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b; four counts of Assault by Automobile in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(3); two counts of Assault by Automobile in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1c(2); and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d, in connection with a series of events that transpired in Jackson Township on May 8, 2021.
Trooper Travis performed CPR on a 7 year old child on vacation saving the child’s life. Trooper Waldrop on patrol on I-295 in Hamilton Township saved a woman from jumping from a bridge.
July 6, 2021– Updated July 7, 2021
WEST TRENTON – EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On June 17, 2021 Lt. Colonel Geoffrey Noble, Lt. Colonel Terence Carroll, and Major Brian Polite presented Division awards to troopers from Troop “C” at the historic log cabin at Division Headquarters.
On August 23, 2019, Trooper I Charles Travis was off-duty on a family vacation at a hotel pool in Orlando, FL, when he heard someone calling for help. He immediately ran over and discovered a child unconscious and not breathing in the adjacent pool. Without hesitation, he grabbed the seven-year-old child and began performing life-saving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). After administering several rounds, the child coughed up water and regained consciousness. Trooper I Travis was honored for his quick and decisive actions while off-duty which ultimately saved the child’s life.
On April 14, 2020, Trooper Robert Waldrop was on patrol on Interstate 295 northbound in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, when he observed a vehicle parked under an overpass. As he approached the vehicle, the owner of the vehicle made him aware of a female standing outside of the protective fencing on the ledge of the overpass in an apparent suicide attempt. Trooper Waldrop immediately informed dispatch and ran towards the victim. He spoke calmly to the woman and slowly gained her trust before convincing her to come down from the narrow ledge. He held on to her clothing through the chain link fence until she was safely on the ground. Trooper Waldrop was honored for his life-saving efforts.
During the ceremony, Senior Security Officer Michael Cheeseborough, Guard Richard Allen, Guard Douglas Hoyt, and Guard Ryan Herbert were also honored for their service in the armed forces and presented with Certificates of Military Service.
The actions of the award recipients have brought great pride and distinction to themselves and the Division. Their commitment and dedication embody the core values of the New Jersey State Police: Honor, Duty, and Fidelity.
During the ceremony, Senior Security Officer Michael Cheeseborough, Guard Richard Allen, Guard Douglas Hoyt, and Guard Ryan Herbert were also honored for their service in the armed forces and presented with Certificates of Military Service.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Police say that on July 1, 2021 at 10:25 p.m. Ewing Township Police Officer Cuylotta, who was on Berwyn Avenue, reported that he heard shots being fired. Officer Culotta Immediately went to the 300 block of Berwyn Ave and learned that a 21-year-old male from Trenton, NJ sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was being transported by private vehicle to Capital Health Regional Medical Center. The shooter fled the area prior to police arrival. Police say that the victim is reported to be in stable condition.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Muscente at 609-882-1313 x 7596 Confidential tips can also be given via text or phone call to 609-882-7530.
A TSA officer stopped the Plainfield, New Jersey, man with a 9mm gun and gun magazine loaded with 17 bullets, inside his carry-on bag.
June 29, 2021
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–A Union County, New Jersey, resident was arrested by police after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers caught him with a handgun at the security checkpoint at Trenton-Mercer Airport on Monday, June 28.
A TSA officer stopped the Plainfield, New Jersey, man with a 9mm gun and gun magazine loaded with 17 bullets, inside his carry-on bag. In addition to his arrest, the man also faces a stiff federal financial civil penalty.
A TSA officer spotted the handgun when the carry-on bag entered a checkpoint X-ray unit. A Mercer County Sheriff’s deputy was alerted, confiscated the weapon and arrested the man on weapons charges.
“Trying to bring a gun onto a flight in a carry-on bag is not how to safely transport a firearm,” said Thomas Carter, TSA’s Federal Security Director for New Jersey. “The right way to transport a firearm for a flight is to make sure it is unloaded, packed in a locked hard-sided case and declared at your airline check-in counter. The airline will make sure that the gun case is placed in the belly of the aircraft where nobody has access to it during a flight. It’s a fairly simple process.”
TSA reserves the right to issue a civil penalty to travelers who have guns and gun parts with them at a checkpoint. Civil penalties for bringing a handgun into a checkpoint can stretch into thousands of dollars, depending on mitigating circumstances. This applies to travelers with or without concealed gun carry permits because even though an individual may have a concealed carry permit, it does not allow for a firearm to be carried onto an airplane. The complete list of civil penalties is posted online. If a traveler with a gun is a member of TSA PreCheck®, that individual will lose their TSA PreCheck privileges.
When an individual shows up at a checkpoint with a firearm, the checkpoint lane comes to a standstill until the police resolve the incident. Guns at checkpoints can delay travelers from getting to their gates.
Passengers are permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage if they are properly packaged and declared at their airline ticket counter to be transported in the belly of the plane. Guns are absolutely not permitted to be carried onto planes. Checked firearms must be unloaded, packed in a hard-sided case, locked, and packed separately from ammunition. TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website. Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality and travelers should check into firearm laws before they decide to travel with their guns. Travelers should also contact their airline as they may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.
Nationwide, TSA officers detected 3,257 firearms on passengers or their carry-on bags at checkpoints last year, although the total number of passengers screened at airport checkpoints across the country fell by 500 million compared to 2019 due to the pandemic. The result was that twice as many firearms per million passengers screened were detected at checkpoints in 2020 compared to 2019. In 2020, TSA caught approximately 10 firearms per million passengers as compared to about five firearms per million passengers in 2019. Of the guns caught by TSA in 2020, about 83 percent were loaded.
TSA officers at Trenton-Mercer Airport stopped a man from carrying this handgun onto his flight on June 28. (TSA photo)
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Just after 1:00 p.m. a serious crash occurred on Pennington Road (Route 31) north bound near Glenmore Avenue. It was reported that a vehicle lost control, hit two utility poles and a tree before coming to rest in a front yard of a home. The Ewing Township Fire Department was dispatched for extrication of the driver and Ewing Township EMS and Capital Health Paramedics responded to treat victims of the crash. The victims were transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.
NJ Department of Transportation had the roadway closed north bound at Upper Ferry Road and a detour was set up in the area.
Ewing Township Police are investigating the crash.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 3:20 p.m. a roofing worker fell 50 feet to the ground at the Ewing Town Center near Town Center Drive and Fisher Guide Drive for a new construction project. Ewing Township Police, Ewing Township EMS, and Capital Health Paramedics responded to the scene of the accident. The man was transported to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton for treatment, a “trauma alert” was called.
No further information is available at this time.
This is a “breaking news” report, from radio reports, and on scene reporting, if official information is released the story will be updated and any corrections made if necessary.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On Tuesday, June 22, Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer Counties (Habitat BMC) and Benebone hosted a ground breaking ceremony for a new, affordable home site in Ewing, NJ.
“Through our growing partnership with Benebone, we are not just providing a family with a home – we are providing them with valuable things like safety, stability and opportunity, while fostering long-term success and growth,” explained Habitat BMC CEO Lori Leonard. “We hope this new home can provide hope, safety and security to a family in need – a healthy environment and accepting community for them to plant roots and thrive for generations to come.”
Benebone’s CEO Peter Toolan said: “At Benebone, there’s more to our story than making great dog toys. Doing good is at the core of our company’s value system. We strive to do right by our customers, employees, business partners and the community. We’re a family business, and there is no more universal family need than that of a home. We’re thrilled to join Habitat for this important cause. And yes, we’re eager to build a doghouse, should the family be so inclined!”
The groundbreaking ceremony included brief remarks from Leonard, Benebone’s CEO Peter Toolan and Ewing Township’s Mayor Bert Steinmann, as well as light refreshments for invited guests. Additionally, Habitat BMC and Benebone partnered with a local dog rescue, 4 Paws Dog Rescue, to have adoptable dogs onsite at the event.
“4 Paws Dog Rescue of NJ is so excited to be partnering with these two amazing organizations. We are very passionate about helping the local community and are honored to team up with likeminded organizations,” said Christina Micarelli, co-founder of 4 paws Dog Rescue of NJ.
The new home in Ewing will feature 3 bedrooms and 1 ½ bathrooms, ample living space, spacious dining area and kitchen space featuring energy-efficient appliances and more. The home also boasts lovely outdoor space and is a perfect location within the local Ewing community – close to local schools, shops, entertainment and amenities. The neighborhood where the future Habitat BMC/Benebone home is located is also very close to the longtime home of Peter and Jim Toolan, the father and son pair behind the Benebone company.
Founded in 2012, Benebone has enjoyed explosive growth making high quality dog chew toys in the USA. Benebone has previous ties to Habitat for Humanity through Jim, who has been an avid volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley (Habitat Lehigh Valley) in Allentown, PA for a number of years. The Toolan’s previously sponsored a home build for a family in Bethlehem, PA.
For more than 30 years, Habitat BMC has been offering programs and services for people in need of affordable homeownership opportunities and current homeowners who seek to preserve, repair and improve their homes in Atlantic, Burlington, Mercer and parts of Middlesex counties. The growing partnership between Benebone and Habitat BMC demonstrates both of their steadfast commitment to the communities they serve and a shared vision of building a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
About Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer Counties
Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer Counties (Habitat BMC) is an independent affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, which operates through independent, local affiliates to ensure that all functions of the organization have maximum relevance and impact on individual communities. In the fall of 2020, the Burlington and Mercer Counties affiliate merged with the Atlantic County affiliate to make a greater impact on affordable housing options in New Jersey. Habitat BMC serves families in need in Atlantic, Burlington, Mercer and portions of Middlesex counties, and manages ReStore locations in Egg Harbor Township, Hamilton and Maple Shade. Since its inception, the affiliates have collectively built nearly 300 and repaired over 150 homes for low- and moderate-income families, serving 77 municipalities and over 1.1 million residents. To learn more about Habitat BMC, visit http://www.hfhbmc.org.
About Benebone:
Benebone is a leading brand of USA-made durable chew toys for dogs. The company’s simple mission is to make lives better for dogs and the people who love them. Benebone’s core values center around awesome products, building and serving communities, and a good dose of fun. Learn more at www.benebone.com.
TRENTON – EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 9:08 AM Ewing Police dispatch was notified by NJ Human Services Police that a male walked away from Trenton Psychiatric Hospital (TPH).
Investigation revealed that Angel Sariol, 03/30/1972, 6′ 1″ 173 pounds, bald, last seen wearing a white or green shirt and blue jeans, walked away from the facility at approximately 9:00 AM. Sariol was being held at TPH on a non-criminal hold.
Information received from Human Services Police is that Sariol is not considered a danger to the public.
Human Services Police have entered Sariol into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) as a missing person.
Sariol has ties to Bergen County and his last known address is listed as 2224 East Ward St, Hackensack NJ, with TPH. If you see Angel Sariol, please do not approach him, and call 9-1-1.
Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Press Release from March 27, 2018 as found on the Ridgewood Blog website:
Hackensack NJ, Acting Bergen County Prosecutor Dennis Calo announced the arrest of ANGEL SARIOL (DOB: 3/30/1972; single; and employed as a custodian) of 22-24 Ward Street, Apartment 2H, Hackensack, NJ, on charges of Terroristic Threats and False Public Alarm. The arrest is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office under the direction of Chief Robert Anzilotti and members of the Rochelle Park Police Department under the direction of Chief Robert Flannelly.
From Monday, March 19, 2018, through Wednesday, March 21, 2018, members of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes Unit received information from no fewer than 19 municipal police departments in Bergen County about a substantially similar series of phone calls that they received during that three-day period from an anonymous caller. During many of these calls, the unknown caller stated that police officers from those towns would be murdered. The ensuing investigation, led by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes Unit and Rochelle Park Police Department, revealed that Angel SARIOL used technology to disguise his calling line identity and placed the phone calls.
As a result of the investigation, Angel SARIOL was arrested in Hackensack on Thursday, March 22, 2018 and charged with one count of False Public Alarm, N.J.S.A. 2C:33-3B, a 2nd degree crime; one count of Terroristic Threats During a State of Emergency, N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3A, a 2nd degree crime; and one count of Terroristic Threats, N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3A, a 3rd degree crime. Angel SARIOL was remanded to the Bergen County Jail pending a hearing in Central Judicial Processing Court on March 23, 2018.
Acting Prosecutor Calo states that the charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and would like to thank the Rochelle Park Police Department, Hackensack Police Department, Hasbrouck Heights Police Department, Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and Union City Police Department for their assistance with this investigation. In addition, Acting Prosecutor Calo would also like to thank all the agencies that provided investigative leads in this matter, including:
Wood-Ridge Police Department Hasbrouck Heights Police Department Paramus Police Department Park Ridge Police Department Wyckoff Police Department Elmwood Park Police Department Maywood Police Department Rochelle Park Police Department Waldwick Police Department Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department Saddle River Police Department Harrington Park Police Department Woodcliff Lake Police Department Hackensack Police Department Oradell Police Department Demarest Police Department Saddle Brook Police Department River Edge Police Department Weehawken Police Department (Hudson County)
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal today announced a wave of 35 indictments secured by the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice in just over two months charging numerous defendants with illegal gun trafficking and/or possession of illicit weapons, including untraceable ghost guns, assault rifles, and outlawed large-capacity ammunition magazines. Ghost guns are not registered and do not have serial numbers, making them difficult to trace and making it harder for law enforcement to solve gun crimes.
The indictments charge a total of 81 defendants, a majority of whom face various weapons offenses in connection with the following illegal weapons seized in the investigations:
96 Illegal Guns, including
16 Assault Rifles and
1 Machine Gun;
53 Illegal Large-Capacity Ammunition Magazines.
The illegal guns include a total of 10 Ghost Guns that do not bear federally registered serial numbers. Most of the guns traced in these cases were purchased in various states other than New Jersey, including Pennsylvania, which was the source of at least 18 guns, and South Carolina, which was the source of at least 12 guns, as well as Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia, among others.
Five of the indictments charge defendants with illegally trafficking guns. The others charge possession of illegal weapons by other alleged criminals, including individuals charged with using guns in violent crimes, alleged drug dealers, an alleged human trafficker, and a fugitive charged with credit card fraud. Thirty-four of the indictments stem from investigations conducted between January 2019 and February 2021, with most charging conduct in 2020 and 2021. One case dates to 2018.
Thirty-three indictments were secured by the Division of Criminal Justice Gangs & Organized Crime Bureau. Two indictments were secured by the Division of Criminal Justice Specialized Crimes Bureau.
The Division of Criminal Justice and New Jersey State Police consistently join with other law enforcement partners to conduct strategic investigations focused on disrupting the supply-line of weapons trafficking into violent areas, arresting drug dealers and seizing existing weapons in those areas, and aggressively prosecuting all defendants who traffic, use, or possess guns in connection with criminal activity.
“We are aggressively targeting those responsible for the proliferation of guns and gun violence in our communities, including gun traffickers, drug dealers, and other criminals who arm themselves with illegal weapons,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Assault rifles have long been a weapon of choice for gangs and drug dealers, and more recently there has been an alarming increase in untraceable ghost guns, which often are seized by police after they have been used in a shooting. By focusing on illegal guns, working to shut down the iron pipeline of firearms from other states, and prosecuting offenders under New Jersey’s tough gun laws, we are taking guns and armed criminals off of the street—and undoubtedly saving lives.”
“These 35 indictments are the product of strong collaboration by the Division of Criminal Justice and law enforcement agencies at all levels, all across New Jersey and into states such as Pennsylvania and South Carolina, which were source states for guns allegedly sold by certain defendants,” said Director Veronica Allende of the Division of Criminal Justice. “By cracking down on gun traffickers, armed drug dealers, and others with illegal weapons, we are working to reduce the gun violence and drug dealing that are claiming far too many lives in New Jersey and are undermining the safety and security of our communities. I commend our Gangs and Organized Crime Bureau, Specialized Crimes Bureau, the New Jersey State Police, and all of our law enforcement partners for these outstanding results.”
“Illegal weapons trafficking has unfortunately evolved over time. The proliferation of ghost guns, which can be assembled from parts originating from across the country, has made it more difficult to solve violent crimes and disrupt trafficking networks, but fortunately law enforcement has evolved at a much faster rate by utilizing state-of-art investigative techniques and employing massive multi-jurisdictional collaborations, which are directly responsible for today’s indictments and the seizure of nearly 100 guns,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “We will continue to work with our partners to combat not only the trafficking of illegal weapons, but to also disrupt the assembly and sale of ghost guns both in New Jersey and across the country.”
The 35 state grand jury indictments charge the defendants with offenses ranging from unlawful possession and disposition of handguns, assault weapons, and machine guns to leader of a firearms trafficking network, and also include charges of unlawful transportation of firearms into the state; charges related to the unlawful purchase, manufacture, transportation, and possession of ghost gun parts and ghost guns; unlawful possession of defaced weapons; unlawful possession of weapons during commission of narcotics offenses; unlawful possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines: unlawful possession of illegal hollow-point bullets; and unlawful possession of weapons by convicted felons. Many of the charges carry Graves Act penalties requiring mandatory periods of parole ineligibility of up to five years. As detailed below, two of the guns that were seized have been linked to shootings, including a homicide.
The following cases illustrate the range of the investigations:
Michael Maresca, et al.
Michael Maresca, 32, of Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., allegedly trafficked ghost guns in the area of Paterson, N.J. He was indicted with two other men—Robert Moser, 49, of Depauw, Indiana, and Maken Cornell, 52, of Grove City, Ohio—for allegedly conspiring to purchase assault rifle kits, ghost gun parts, and outlawed large-capacity magazines and have them shipped to New Jersey, where Maresca allegedly assembled the illegal guns and sold them. During the investigation, in October and November 2020, five ghost guns and two assault rifles were seized. Maresca allegedly sold two ghost guns to an undercover officer, including one that was equipped with an illegal 15-round magazine loaded with prohibited hollow-point bullets.
Four defendants, including Robert Crosley III, 34, aka “Zombie,” and Matthew Zoba, 40, both of Philadelphia, were indicted on charges that they conspired to run a major Philadelphia-based gun trafficking ring that illegally trafficked guns and methamphetamine into Camden, N.J. They are charged in connection with 22 illegal firearms seized during the investigation—including four assault rifles—as well as seven illegal large-capacity magazines. Between March 2019 and January 2020, they allegedly sold 16 guns in the Camden area during the investigation, including a 9mm handgun linked to a shooting in Philadelphia in which no one was hit, as well as a semi-automatic rifle linked to the Oct. 20, 2019 murder of 2-year-old Nikolette Rivera, who was shot as her mother held her in her arms in their home in Philadelphia. Crosley and Zoba are both charged with first-degree promoting organized street crime.
Enrique “Neff” Alfonso
Enrique “Neff” Alfonso, 28, of Camden, N.J., allegedly used a popular social networking service to conduct illegal firearms sales in the Camden area. Between February and May 2020, he allegedly sold an assault rifle, five handguns, another rifle, and three illegal large-capacity magazines. He is charged in a 17-count indictment with numerous weapons offenses, including possession of a weapon as a convicted felon, which carries a mandatory minimum prison term of five years without parole upon conviction.
Christopher J. Pespas
Christopher J. Pespas, 74, of Egg Harbor Township, N.J., was indicted on charges that he was purchasing parts for “ghost gun” assault rifles on the internet, along with illegal large-capacity magazines. Investigators executed a search warrant at his residence in August 2019 and seized parts that could be assembled to make three assault rifles—all “ghost guns.”
Isiah Greene and Jamal Bethea
Isiah Greene, 29, and Jamal Bethea, 32, of Trenton, N.J.,alleged members of the Sanhican Drive Boys gang, allegedly engaged in a shootout on Feb. 12, 2020 with two members of the Get Money Boys gang, Shaiquan Hearns and Dion Battle. Greene allegedly fired from a vehicle driven by Bethea. No one on either side of the shootout was hit, but Bethea crashed the vehicle, and Bethea and Greene fled. Greene allegedly hid the gun in the backyard of a residence. Greene and Bethea were indicted on first-degree charges of conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder, among other offenses. Hearns and Battle were previously charged by the Division of Criminal Justice with two counts of attempted murder—one count for firing at Greene and Bethea, and another for firing at a police officer who pursued their vehicle after the shootout.
Peter Santos and Joshua Perez
Peter A. Santos, 22, and Joshua M. Perez, 22, of Trenton, N.J., allegedly pistol-whipped a victim with a handgun and robbed him of his wallet in Trenton on Jan. 24, 2021. A subsequent search of a hotel room rented by Perez revealed a second handgun loaded with illegal hollow-point bullets. Both men were indicted on charges of first-degree robbery, as well as aggravated assault and weapons offenses.
The 35 state grand jury indictments are posted at View Indictments.
The 33 indictments that were presented to the state grand jury for the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) Gangs & Organized Crime Bureau were presented by the following Deputy Attorneys General (DAsG), under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Cassandra Montalto, Deputy Bureau Chief Cynthia Vazquez, Bureau Chief Lauren Scarpa Yfantis, and DCJ Deputy Director Annmarie Taggart: DAG Robert Anstatt, DAG Karen Braciszewski, DAG Brian Carney, DAG John Donovan, DAG Anna Gildea, DAG Heather Hausleben, DAG Angel Hector, DAG Amie Hyde, DAG Sean Lindenau, DAG Mohammad Mahmood, DAG Katherine Morris, DAG Jaclyn Poulton, and DAG Veronica Vizzard. The two indictments presented to the state grand jury for the Division of Criminal Justice Specialized Crimes Bureau were presented by DAG Evgeniya Sitnikova and DAG Kara Webster, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Valerie Butler, Bureau Chief Erik Daab, and DCJ Deputy Director Taggart.
First-degree charges carry a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000, while second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. The sentence for promoting organized street crime must be served consecutively to the sentence for any underlying offense. The second-degree charge of transporting firearms into the state for illegal sale carries a mandatory period of parole ineligibility equal to 85 percent of the sentence imposed. Possession of a weapon as a convicted felon carries a mandatory period of parole ineligibility of five years. The second-degree charge of unlawful possession of a handgun carries a mandatory period of parole ineligibility equal to one-third to one-half of the sentence imposed or 3 ½ years, whichever is greater. Third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000 ($35,000 for drug charges), while fourth-degree charges carry a sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Koi Allen, Tyrik Johnson, Hamilton Township, Mercer County, January 19, 2021, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Conspiracy – Second Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance Within 1,000 Feet of School Property – Third Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of Certain Crimes – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Possession of Hollow Nose Bullets – Fourth Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree (Johnson).
AAREN C. BAILEY, March 10, 2020, Hamilton Township, Mercer, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Second Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Second Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of Certain Crimes – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree.
DAEVON BELL, December 27, 2019, Trenton, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled, Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of Certain Crimes – Second Degree, Possession of Hollow Nose Bullets – Fourth Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity, Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Possession of a Defaced Firearm – Fourth Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree.
ERIC CARR, September 21, 2020, Trenton, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance Within 1000 Feet of School Property – Third Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance Within 500 Feet of Certain Public Property – Second Degree, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Second Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of Certain Crimes – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm without a Serial Number – Third Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree.
JUSTICE CHAMBERS, LAWRENCE BRANTLEY AND VICTOR TORRES, September 20, 2020, Hamilton Township, Mercer, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm – Second Degree – VICTOR TORRES, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm – Second Degree – JUSTICE CHAMBERS and LAWRENCE BRANTLEY, Possession of a Defaced Firearm – Fourth Degree – JUSTICE CHAMBERS and LAWRENCE BRANTLEY, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons– Second Degree -LAWRENCE BRANTLEY.
FELICITA GEE, February 24, 2020, Ewing Township, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession With Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree.
RAJON GLOVER, February 1, 2019, Trenton, NJ, Conspiracy – Third Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Rifle – Third Degree, Manufacture, Transport, Disposition of a Rifle – Fourth Degree, Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition – Third Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree.
RONALD HARRIS, Trenton, NJ July 20, 2020, and on or about July 21, 2020, Human Trafficking – First Degree, Facilitating Human Trafficking – Second Degree, Promoting Prostitution – First Degree, Eluding – Second Degree, Resisting Arrest By Flight – Fourth Degree, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance- Third Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of Large Capacity, Ammunition Magazines – Fourth Degree, Endangering Welfare of Children – Second Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree,
THURMAN JENNINGS, Hamilton Township, NJ, September 4, 2020, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Receiving Stolen Property– Third Degree, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree.
DASHAUN PETERSON and JUSTICE CHAMBERS, Trenton, NJ, September 5, 2020, and September 6, 2020, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled, Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Possession of with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 1,000 Feet of School Property – Third Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous, Substance within 500 Feet of Certain Public Property– Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of an Assault Firearm – Second Degree DASHAUN PETERSON and JUSTICE CHAMBERS, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of Certain Crimes – Second Degree, Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity– Third Degree.
JOY SCOTT, Trenton, NJ, January 3, 2019, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Second Degree, Distribution of A Controlled Dangerous Substance Within 1000 Feet of School Property – Third Degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 500 Feet of Certain Public Property – Second Degree, Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree, Unlawful Possession of an Assault Firearm – Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree, Possession of Hollow Nose Bullets – Fourth Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Endangering Welfare of Children – Second Degree,
KHAZI SPADY and PHILLIP FOSTER, Lawrence Township, September 6, 2020, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree – KHAZI SPADY, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity, Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree – KHAZI SPADY, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance – Third Degree – Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree , Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – Second Degree – PHILLIP FOSTER, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – First Degree – PHILLIP FOSTER.
HASSAN WILSON, VENESHA PINKNEY and DEWAYNE PINKNEY, Trenton, NJ, February 24, 2021, Unlawful Possession of an Assault Firearm – Second Degree, Possession of a Defaced Firearm – Fourth Degree – HASSAN WILSON, Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition Magazine – Fourth Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon – First Degree – DEWAYNE PINKNEY, Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons – Second Degree – DEWAYNE PINKNEY.
The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Attorney General Grewal thanked the following law enforcement agencies that investigated the cases in collaboration with the Division of Criminal Justice:
New Jersey State Police
Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office
Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Philadelphia Gun Violence Task Force
Federal Bureau of Investigation
FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration
U.S. Homeland Security Investigations
U.S. Marshals Service NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force
TRENTON (MERCER)– Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today that an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police has led to the arrest of a Ewing man for aggravated manslaughter.
Justin Wilkes, 21, was arrested and charged Tuesday evening with first-degree aggravated manslaughter and third-degree endangering an injured victim. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Lopez pending trial.
On Saturday, May 29, 2021, at approximately 11:10 p.m., Trenton police officers were detailed to the area of South Clinton and Roebling avenues on a report of a pedestrian struck. While enroute, Trenton police dispatch advised that callers had heard two gunshots. Upon arrival, officers located the victim, an unidentified Hispanic male, laying in the street. He was bleeding from the head and had visible tire marks across his torso. Trenton Emergency Services arrived on scene and attempted to provide aid, however, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Based on information received, the HTF was notified and responded. An initial canvas of the scene did not produce evidence of a shooting. Detectives received witness information that the victim was seen walking in the roadway then observed falling to the ground as a white Honda Civic hit him and drove off in the direction of Beatty Street. Detectives were able to locate the vehicle and identify the driver as Elber Yuman, 24, of Princeton Junction. On Sunday, May 30, 2021, Yuman was charged with knowingly leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death.
A preliminary examination of the victim’s body by the medical examiner’s office suggested the victim had been run over and had significant injuries to the left side of his face, but there was no indication he had been shot.
Area video surveillance was reviewed and witnesses were interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. Detectives established that an individual identified as Justin Wilkes runs up to the victim at approximately 11 p.m. and punches him in the head. Wilkes continued to assault the victim as he tried to get away, stomping and kicking him after he fell to the ground in the middle of South Clinton Avenue. Wilkes fled the area by vehicle as the victim was still lying in the road, beaten unconscious. Shortly thereafter, the white Honda Civic driven by Yuman crossed over Roebling Avenue while traveling on South Clinton Avenue, running over the victim. Yuman continued driving toward Beatty Street without stopping.
The victim remains unidentified. Anyone with information is asked to call HTF Detective Marc Masseroni at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org. Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Years ago, my father would take me for a hair cut at Ralph’s Barbershop in Hamilton Township at the corner of South Broad Street and Maple Shade Avenue near the White Horse Circle. In that barbershop that was later renamed to “Ralph’s Hair Styling,” there was a shelf not too far from the barber chair that held a four channel police and fire radio scanner. It was simple back then– four blinking lights, a couple of knobs, a pull up antenna, and “crystals” were inside the scanner to listen to specific police and fire frequencies. On those Saturday mornings at the barbershop, you could read the two local papers, and hear the police and fire activity on that simple radio scanner. Ralph always knew what was going on in the neighborhood though the local media or what he heard live over the scanner and was a regular conversation of what was going on in the barbershop.
Today, radio systems have turned from a simple two-way system to multimillion-dollar trunking systems where radios cost thousands of dollars each and some have digital “encryption” built in at a more expensive cost.
Some agencies such as Trenton Police, Ewing police have used “encryption” for years to keep scanner listeners and the media from finding out what is going on in their town. Recently Hamilton Township has made a switch to an “encrypted” radio system.
For years prior, most day-to-day dispatch operations were not “encrypted” and special channels such as for SWAT, drug enforcement or Special Operations were always encrypted due to safety of the teams. Lately police have been moving to “encrypt” all communications, and not just the special operations channels.
Encryption becomes a policing transparency and accountability problem by restricting the public’s right to monitor public radio frequencies. The encryption is usually set up in the name of police safety and privacy.
Several years ago, I attended a NJ Division of Fire Safety Class called “Media and the Fire Service” and the instructor was a reporter and NBC 10 news anchor in Philadelphia. He normally taught the class to police organizations but also offered the class to fire department organizations. The news anchor stated, when something happens and there is no information available the media will interview someone or ask someone on the street as a source. He said sometimes they will get it right and sometimes they will get it wrong. As a public agency it is best to respond quickly as possible, so the correct information is sent to the public. The news anchor stated that police reported it was a lot easier to report the factual information soon as possible than fix mistakes that “sources” had given the media.
Last night, there was a fatal accident in Trenton, New Jersey around 11:00 p.m. at the Intersection of South Clinton Avenue and Roebling Avenue. Over the EMS Channel, it was broadcast that this was a pedestrian accident and when EMS and the fire department responded they were advised it was possibly a shooting. One of the EMS supervisors also said it was a shooting over the radio no other communications where heard.
Without the ability to listen and back up information that would be heard on police radio in Trenton, most news media that reported on the incident reported it as a “shooting” though reported “sources.”
MidJersey.news covers “breaking news” and goes to several active accidents, crime scenes, and other kinds of events per week to verify information in person. We also heard the report of “shooting” and also the report of a “pedestrian accident” and worded the article as a “possible shooting” since the preliminary reports were unclear. When information is not verified though an “official” police source, we have the information listed as “breaking” “unofficial” and other descriptions of what might have happened until it confirmed by official sources.
MidJersey.news also works with the local police agencies to post the correct information in a timely manner. There have been times when a police department asked to post something quickly because rumors were getting out of control and wanted to get the right information out to as many as possible to prevent a bigger problem.
Here’s what I’m getting at: In today’s media race to be first to report, two major television news outlets from Philadelphia got it wrong by not backing up the story with official information and reported it as fact in their broadcast. These are supposed to be “trusted” news sources and people take what they report over what the local media who does the fact checking first.
To compound the misinformation there are many “armchair” news outlets that scan the Internet for breaking stories and repost those to their sites to gain hits and popularity. These organizations usually do not go out and do their own reporting but work on the backs of other media from a desk or in today’s pandemic quite possibly their couch.
I believe that the major news outlets got caught up in a perfect storm by one emergency channel reporting a shooting that was thought it was at the time and using that as their source. There was no way to back up that information by the ability to monitor police channels due to encrypted radio systems. They did not verify that information by official police sources most likely due to the late hour and holiday weekend. Instead of reporting as fact they should have reported as a possibility of the two things that might have happened.
Most likely reporting like this will continue to happen in the future with the encryption of public safety radios. The Neighbors application by Ring is sometimes used as a trusted source and sometime also gets information wrong and starts rumors rather than fact. Just a couple weeks ago in Hamilton, the Neighbors application reported a person shot on a playground, unofficial sources told MidJersey.news that it was a shots fired call and bullet casings were found but no person shot. No official public information was released by the police department about the incident. In three communities in Mercer County, you can find out more information from the Neighbors application than what is happening on the police radio scanner.
MidJersey.news supports the encryption of Special Operations, SWAT, Drug Enforcement, and other special radio channels that need to be encrypted for safety of police officers. The encryption of day-to-day dispatch and normal radio traffic, in our opinion, does not do anything except prevent transparency, open government, and accountability of policing. The normal day-to-day radio traffic should not be encrypted to prevent law abiding citizens from listening to public safety radio.
Opinion – Editorial
WPVI Ch 6 Action News in Philadelphia reported a fatal shooting homicide investigation that was really a fatal hit and run accident.
WPVI Ch 6 Action News later corrected the story.
The original CBS 3 news report about the Trenton “shooting” that was really a fatal hit and run.
CBS 3 in Philadephia originally reported the hit and run as a shooting, later they deleted the page and reposted “Trenton Police Investigating Deadly Hit-And-Run”
To compound the problem about putting out wrong information from major “trusted” news sites is that other news websites share that information further spreading misinformation.
Related information non-MidJersey.news links below about encryption:
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 6:30 p.m. Ewing Fire Department, Ewing EMS and NJ State Police responded to an accident on I-295 North around mile marker 75.6 for a car vs tractor trailer. Ewing FD arrived on scene and reported minor inquires in the multi-vehicle accident. Ewing Township ambulance arrived on scene and treated patients. It was unknown if anyone was transported to the hospital.
Traffic on I-295 North Bound was backed up for about 3/4 of a mile due to the accident blocking two lanes of traffic. NJ State Police were investigating the accident.
Benebone Named Recipient of Habitat BMC’s Annual Corporate Philanthropy Award
May 26, 2021
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer Counties (Habitat BMC) and Benebone are proud to announce a new partnership to help make a greater impact on a local New Jersey community. Through the partnership, Benebone and Habitat BMC will work together to build a new, affordable home for an income-qualified family in Ewing, NJ.
“The missions of Benebone and Habitat BMC align perfectly – just like belly rubs and tail wags,” said Lori Leonard, CEO, Habitat for Humanity of Burlington and Mercer Counties. “Through this new, innovative partnership, we will work together to provide a family with a place of their own to call home, while promoting growth and stability in the Ewing community for generations to come.”
For more than 30 years, Habitat BMC has been offering programs and services for people in need of affordable homeownership opportunities and current homeowners who seek to preserve, repair and improve their homes in Atlantic, Burlington, Mercer and parts of Middlesex counties. Habitat BMC relies on the generosity of its partners – organizations and businesses of varying sizes and different industries and sectors – to build a brighter future through home construction, home improvement/repair, and special event sponsorship.
“Habitat BMC partners, like Benebone, restore hope, help break the cycle of poverty, and ensure that more children are raised in a stable, healthy home environment – a place the family may establish roots and truly thrive,” explained Leonard.
The Ewing neighborhood where the future Habitat BMC/Benebone home is located is very close to the longtime home of Peter and Jim Toolan, the father and son pair behind the company. Founded in 2012, Benebone has enjoyed explosive growth making high quality dog chew toys in the USA.
Benebone’s CEO Peter Toolan said: “At Benebone, there’s more to our story than making great dog toys. Doing good is at the core of our company’s value system. We strive to do right by our customers, employees, business partners and the community. We’re a family business, and there is no more universal family need than that of a home. We’re thrilled to join Habitat for this important cause. And yes, we’re eager to build a doghouse, should the family be so inclined!”
Benebone has previous ties to Habitat for Humanity through Jim, who has been an avid volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of the Lehigh Valley (Habitat Lehigh Valley) in Allentown, PA for a number of years. The Toolan’s previously sponsored a home build for a family in Bethlehem, PA. This new partnership with Habitat BMC will further expand Benebone’s commitment to the communities they serve and willingness to support Habitat for Humanity’s vision of building a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
In recognition of the growing partnership with Benebone, Habitat BMC was proud to name Benebone as the 2021 recipient of the Corporate Philanthropy Award at their annual Building Hope Luncheon in late April. This award recognizes extraordinary partnerships that surpass all expectations, which Benebone has done so through the full house sponsorship for the new home build in Ewing.
“Building homes is a costly undertaking – but finding a partner willing to step-up like this is a rare treasure and worthy of recognition,” said Leonard. “We are honored to kick-off our partnership with the Benebone team in 2021 and honor their willingness to support a hard working family in need. Together, we will bring true meaning to the saying ‘Home is where your dog is.’”
Recently Habitat for Humanity and Hamilton Township welcomed the Tarver Family to their new home in Hamilton Township! Ruthann’s homeownership journey led her to Habitat BMC for financial education courses and our Homeownership Program – and the rest is history!
Congratulations again to the Tarver family on your beautiful new home! In case you missed it, you can view the dedication online here:
Recently Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin hands over the keys to the Tarver Family
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today that an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force has led to the arrest of a Ewing man for last week’s murder of Katherine Montenegro at a Hamilton Township 7-Eleven.
Joshua Lopez, 23, was taken into custody in Ewing Township late Monday evening by members of U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force with assistance from the Mercer County Tactical Response Team, Mercer County Homicide Task Force and Mercer County Narcotics Task Force. He is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon and one count of second-degree certain persons not to possess a firearm. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Lopez pending trial.
On Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at approximately 1:50 a.m., Hamilton Police Division Patrol Units responded to a shooting in progress in the parking lot of the 7-Eleven on Lalor Street. Officers arrived on scene and located the victim, identified as 23-year-old Katherine Montenegro of Trenton, lying in the parking lot near the storefront curb suffering a gunshot wound to the abdomen. She was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced dead a short time later.
As part of the investigation conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force, area video surveillance was reviewed, and witnesses were interviewed. Detectives established that Lopez and the victim were acquaintances, and Lopez was identified as the suspected shooter.
The murder remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to call HTF Detective Ahmad Mansur at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Joshua Lopez, 23, was taken into custody in Ewing Township late Monday evening by members of U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force with assistance from the Mercer County Tactical Response Team, Mercer County Homicide Task Force and Mercer County Narcotics Task Force. He is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon and one count of second-degree certain persons not to possess a firearm. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Lopez pending trial.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on May 19, 2021, the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, P.J.Cr.P., ordered that Michael Mahan, 38, of Ewing Township, shall remain detained in the Ocean County Jail pending trial on the charge of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1), relative to an incident that occurred in Jackson Township on May 8, 2021. Mahan has also been charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d; Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d; Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b; and Eluding in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b.
On May 8, 2021, Jackson Township Police Officers responded to a 911 call for a report of a stabbing incident on Maria Street. Responding Officers discovered a female with a large slash across her face who was bleeding heavily. An investigation conducted by the Jackson Township Police revealed that the female victim had been followed to her residence by Mahan as part of an apparent road rage incident. Mahan held a knife to the victim’s neck, threatened to kill her, and then proceeded to slash her face. As a neighbor intervened and called 911, Mahan fled the area. Mahan’s vehicle was observed by Officers traveling on Toms River Road. A pursuit was initiated, and Mahan fled at a high rate of speed. As Mahan was attempting to navigate a turn onto West Veterans Highway, he struck another vehicle. As he continued travelling at a high rate of speed on West Veterans Highway, Mahan’s vehicle collided with yet another vehicle – forcing it off the road. Mahan’s vehicle traveled approximately 500 more feet before it became disabled; Mahan was subsequently taken into custody without incident. The female victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, and the occupants of the two vehicles were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Mahan has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his apprehension. The detention hearing was handled by Assistant Prosecutor Alex Becker.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Jackson Township Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation leading to Mahan’s arrest.
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).
Michael Mahan, 38, of Ewing Township, shall remain detained in the Ocean County Jail pending trial on the charge of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1), relative to an incident that occurred in Jackson Township on May 8, 2021. Mahan has also been charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d; Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d; Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3b; and Eluding in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-2b.
Riders of the 2021 Police Unity Tour Chapter 10 biked hundreds of miles over a period of three days, despite not being able to ride into Washington, DC.
Organized in May 1997, The primary purpose of the Police Unity Tour “We Ride For Those Who Died” is to raise awareness of Law Enforcement Officers who have died in the line of duty. They also raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC.
This years ride began on May 9. Bikers began their first day by riding from Eatontown, NJ to Atlantic City, NJ, totaling 97 miles. During this ride, they made stops at the Ocean County Police Academy for a memorial ceremony, and did a ride-by at the Trooper Castellano Memorial on Route 195 in Howell, before ending their first day in Atlantic City.
The next day, riders began in Atlantic City, and ended their day in Lewes, DE, including the ferry from Cape May, NJ to Lewes. On this day, bikers rode a total of 72 miles.
On day three, the last day of the tour, riders continued from Lewes, DE to Annapolis, MD, totaling 90 miles.
All together, bikers rode nearly 260 miles to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.
The Police Unity Tour usually consists of four days, however this year the fourth day was stolen from them by officials of Washington, DC. Unfortunately, officials would not grant the organization permits for the ride, nor ceremony at the memorial, claiming covid concerns and that it could “incite unrest.”
Despite politics stealing their ride through DC, riders did a great job this year to raise support for the ones who made the ultimate sacrifice when they left their families to protect ours.
Mercer County agencies that participated in the ride are Princeton Township Police, East Windsor Township Police, Robbinsville Township Police, Trenton Police, Ewing Township Police, and New Jersey State Police.
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–On Saturday May 8, 2021 at approximately 4:50 pm, officers were dispatched to respond to a report of a stabbing incident which had occurred on Maria Street.
Police Officer Robert Reiff arrived on scene to discover a female who was suffering from a large slash across her face and bleeding heavily. The investigation would reveal that the female had been followed to her residence by an unknown male who initiated a confrontation with her over an alleged road rage incident. It was reported that the male punched the victim and threatened to kill her as he held a knife to her throat and then slashed her face. As a neighbor intervened and called 911, the suspect fled the area.
A description of the suspect and suspect vehicle was obtained and a short time later as Sgt. Michael Kelly was responding to the scene, he observed the vehicle on Toms River Road. Sgt. Kelly activated the patrol unit’s emergency lights and conducted a motor vehicle stop with the suspect. As the sergeant exited his vehicle, the suspect vehicle pulled away from him. A pursuit was then initiated as the suspect fled at a high rate of speed. As the suspect attempted to make a turn from Toms River Road onto West Veterans Highway, he swerved into the opposite lane of travel and struck a vehicle near the intersection. Other officers responding to the scene stopped to render aid to the occupants of that vehicle. The suspect then continued to operate the 2018 Kia he was driving recklessly and at a high rate of speed at which time the sergeant terminated the pursuit.
As the suspect continued at a high rate of speed, he struck another vehicle in the rear on West Veterans Highway and forced it off the road into the woods across from the Switlik School. The suspect vehicle travelled for approximately another 500 feet before it became disabled on West Veterans Highway and the suspect was taken into custody by P.O. Andy Falzarano who had been responding to the scene. The vehicle was later impounded and the knife used in the incident was recovered as detectives responded to assist with the investigation. Officers from the Ocean County Sheriff’s CSI unit and investigators from the Ocean County Prosecutors Office also responded to process the scenes and collect evidence.
The stabbing victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment and the occupants of the two vehicles struck by the suspect were treated at the scene for minor injuries.
Arrested:
Michael Mahan, age 38 of Ewing Township, NJ. He was charged with: attempted murder, aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, terroristic threats, eluding, aggravated assault (causing bodily injury during a pursuit: 6 counts), driving while intoxicated, refusal to submit to breath testing and multiple other motor vehicle offenses. He was processed and transported to the Ocean County Jail.
As the investigation proceeded during the evening, it was also discovered that Mr. Mahan had been involved with a separate incident with a Lakehurst Avenue resident just before the stabbing where he reportedly threatened the victim after parking in front of his residence. Complaints are pending with that incident.
– The media and the public are reminded that any persons arrested or charged with any offenses or crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Michael Mahan, age 38 of Ewing Township, NJ
Michael Mahan, age 38 of Ewing Township, NJ Photo from Ocean County Jail
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township Fire Department was dispatched to the 1st block of Princess Diana Lane near New Willow Street for a dumpster fire with exposure to a commercial building.
First arriving firefighters found a well involved dumpster fire spreading onto the side of the building and to the roof area. A full first alarm was called for and mutual aid from Trenton Fire Department was also sent to the scene. Firefighters were able knock down the flames and bring the blaze under control in about 20 minutes. Firefighters remained on scene to evacuate smoke from the commercial building and hit hot spots. No further information is available at this time.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At 1619 hours, 10-year-old Devin Broach was reported missing by his family. Devin was last seen walking from his residence on Albemarle Avenue. Devin is described as a black male, 5′ approximately 100 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue and yellow shirt, and red/white/black air max sneakers. Anyone with any information is asked to immediately contact the Ewing Police Department at 609-882-1313.
Ewing Township Fire Department was also called to search and once child was found all fire apparatus returned to their stations.
UPDATE MISSING PERSON HAS BEEN FOUND
10-year-old Devin Broach was reported missing by his family — UPDATE MISSING PERSON HAS BEEN FOUND
Dunkin’ Celebrates Newest Next Gen Restaurant in Ewing with Free Coffee for a Year Giveaways this week from 7 am to 10 am until Friday April 30th.
April 24, 2021
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Dunkin’ located at 1981 North Olden Avenue (near Parkway Ave.) held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony with Ewing Mayor, Bert Steinmann, and other local officials today. The restaurant will surprise 100 randomly selected guests* from 7 AM to 10 AM with free coffee for a year giveaways starting on Saturday, April 24 through Friday, April 30. Guests will be surprised at the drive-thru, carryout, On-The-Go Mobile Ordering, or through their curbside experience throughout the week.
The new 1,800 square-foot restaurant employs approximately 15 crew members and is open daily from 4 AM to 8 PM. Additionally, it features Dunkin’s new restaurant design, with a modern atmosphere and innovative technologies, including:
Modern Design: The openness, colors and materials used in the design help to create an approachable, positive and energetic environment.
Premium Pours: Dunkin’s signature cold beverages are now served through an innovative tap system serving four consistently cold beverages such as coffees, iced teas, cold brew coffee and nitro infused cold brew coffee. Crew members will also use top-quality flavor-maximizing espresso machines to make hand-crafted drinks to order.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Just after 6:00 pm the Ewing Township Fire Departments were sent to the area of Green Lane and Browning Avenue for a mulch fire extending to a home. Upon arrival on Green Lane the fire was behind the home and actually on King Avenue and firefighters quickly responded to the proper location.
Firefighters found a “working fire” involving a garage that was extending to the roof area of the home. An “all hands” and full first alarm was called for sending additional equipment to the scene and a FAST team from Lawrence Township. Within a few minutes firefighters had the fire knocked down and started looking for extension. The fire was placed under control at 6:24 pm. No further information was available.
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Yesterday April 17, 2021 at 1:46 pm, a 9-1-1 call was received from a citizen reporting multiple gun shots on the 200 block of Weber Avenue. A responding patrol officer located the uninjured victim on Homecrest Avenue after the victim ran from Weber Avenue. Other responding patrol units located the victim’s vehicle (on the 200 block of Weber Avenue) with shattered glass and what appeared to be bullet holes on the vehicle. A crime scene was established by the patrol division and the investigation is ongoing by the Ewing Police Department’s Criminal Investigation’s Bureau. There were no reported injuries from this incident. The suspect is described as a tall male, wearing a black face covering, a black head covering, a green jacket and black pants. Anyone with any information concerning this incident is asked to contact Detective Kenneth Vagnozzi at (609) 882-1313 or the tip line at (609) 882-7530 (Please note: this tip line should not be used to report crimes in progress or emergencies that require immediate response).
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At approximately 8 a.m. Wednesday morning, April 14, Ewing police responded to the parking lot of Capitol Plaza, 1500 N. Olden Avenue, for an unresponsive male. The victim was found on the sidewalk in front of 1531 N. Olden Avenue. No identification was found on his person and there were no injuries observed that would have caused his death. The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Middlesex County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene, which was processed by Ewing police.
The victim has been identified as James McQuillar, 86, of Trenton. Investigation into the cause of death is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to call (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org
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April 14, 2021–Updated with Official Information from MCPO
EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–At approximately 8 a.m. Wednesday morning, April 14, Ewing police responded to the parking lot of Capitol Plaza, 1500 N. Olden Avenue, for an unresponsive male. The victim, an adult black male, possibly in his 50s – 60s, was found on the sidewalk in front of 1531 N. Olden Avenue. No identification was found on his person and there were no injuries observed that would have caused his death. The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Middlesex County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene, which was processed by Ewing police. Investigation into the cause of death is ongoing.
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Ewing Police Department continue to investigate the death and authorities are working to identify the victim. Anyone with information is asked to call (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to mchtftips@mercercounty.org.
Witnesses at the scene said a man was running from a home and was gunned down, that is in conflict of what is reported in official police information and the story has been updated to reflect that current information.
Suspicious death investigation on April 14, 2021 in Ewing Township, NJ on North Olden Avenue. Photos by Brian McCarthy, OnScene News witnesses at the scene said they seen a man running from a house and was found in front of this building. As always the story has been updated to reflect official police information. The information obtained by witnesses at the scene is in conflict and the story has been updated official information.
“Viewer discretion advised“ of active suspicious death investigation in Ewing Township Mercer County, NJ on April 14, 2021 witnesses can be heard on the video describing the scene. What witnesses said and what official information has been released is in conflict, the story has been updated to reflect official police information.
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EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Troopers Help Distribute Food to Communities Across the State Recently, several New Jersey State Troopers volunteered at various food pantries to help sort and package food, which will be distributed to communities across Mercer, Passaic, and Salem Counties. Troopers teamed up with volunteers at the Mercer Street Friends Food Bank in Ewing Township, the Father English Food Pantry in Paterson, and St. John’s Pentecostal Church in Salem City. The packaged items will be delivered to other local food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, senior centers, and directly to families in need.
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