Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced today, that thanks to multiple agencies diligent hard work and dedication to public safety, eight men and one juvenile were arrested and charged for their involvement in multiple child pornography investigations, Operation Eagle Eye.
As a result of Operation Eagle Eye led by the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, with assistance from, the New Jersey State Police, East Brunswick Police Department, Edison Police Department, Carteret Police Department, Monroe Police Department, New Brunswick Police Department, Old Bridge Police Department, Perth Amboy Police Department, Piscataway Police Department, Plainsboro Police Department, Sayreville Police Department, and the Spotswood Police Department, a juvenile male was charged on November 1, 2022, and eight men were arrested without incident and charged over the course of two days, November 17, 2022, and November 18, 2022.
Albert Leonardis, 37, of Edison was charged with one count of second- degree Distribution of Child Pornography, one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files), and one count of second- degree Storing and Maintaining Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children Using a File Sharing Program.
Christopher Hernandez, 18, of New Brunswick, was charged with one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files).
Alexander Antoini De Oliveria, 39, of Old Bridge, was charged with one count of second-degree Distribution of Child Pornography, one count of second-degree Storing and Maintaining Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children Using a File Sharing Program, one count of second-degree Possession of Child Pornography (over 1000 files).
Joseph Marino, 40, of Carteret was charged with one count of third- degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files), one count of second-degree Distribution of Child Pornography, and one count of second- degree Storing and Maintaining Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children Using a File Sharing Program.
Paul Rubbe, 62, of Piscataway, was charged with one count of third- degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files).
Edward Gicherman, 81, of Monroe, was charged with one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files) and one count of second-degree Storing and Maintaining Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children Using a File Sharing Program.
Abhishek Pandya, 25, of Edison, was charged with one count of third- degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files) and one count of second-degree Distribution of Child Pornography.
Christopher Nicol, 20, of Plainsboro, was charged with one count of third-degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files).
A juvenile male, 17, of Woodbridge, was charged with an act of juvenile delinquency for offenses which if committed by an adult would constitute as third-degree Possession of Child Pornography (under 1000 files).
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-5924.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Leonardis, Hernandez, Antoini De Oliveria, Marino, Rubbe, Gicherman, Pandya, Nicol, and the juvenile male are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today supplementing yesterday’s press release, involving law enforcement’s response to an apparent murder/suicide involving a husband and wife that occurred yesterday afternoon on Soren Street in the Fords section of the Township.
At approximately 4:37 p.m., Woodbridge Police officers responded to a 911 call regarding an unresponsive female laying on the front lawn in front of a residence. Upon arrival, officers located the female, who was later identified as Lynn Jasper, 69 of Fords. It was determined that she had suffered multiple gunshot wounds. Jasper was pronounced at the scene.
Woodbridge police, along with multiple other law enforcement agencies, then attempted to determine if the anyone was still in the residence. Officers entered and James Jasper, 66, of Fords, was located deceased with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
This investigation is active and being investigated as a murder/suicide. Authorities have determined that there is no threat to the public. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Perry Penna of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 602-7326 or Detective Ryan Tighe of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4335.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today that the Woodbridge Police Department and Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office responded to a shooting on Soren Street.
Today, at 4:37 p.m. Woodbridge Police officers responded to Soren Street after receiving a 911 call about an unresponsive female laying on a front lawn. Upon arrival, it was determined two people were deceased at the scene.
At this stage of the investigation and based upon what is known to law enforcement at this point, the incident is being investigated as a murder/suicide. Authorities have determined that there is no threat to the public.
WOODBRIDGE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MIDDLESEX)– The New Jersey State Police is investigating a two-vehicle crash involving a double-decker Coach bus that resulted in two fatalities and three serious injuries on the New Jersey Turnpike in Woodbridge Township, Middlesex County.
On Tuesday, August 9, at approximately 6:53 p.m., a Van Hool double-decker Coach bus, occupied by the driver and 22 passengers, was traveling southbound in the left lane of the outer roadway and a Ford F-150 was traveling in the left-center lane next to the bus. Based on the preliminary investigation, the bus driver lost directional control of the bus in the area of milepost 93.2 and struck the Ford. After the impact, the bus went off the road to the right, struck the guardrail, and overturned onto the Thomas Edison Service Area entrance ramp.
As a result of the crash, 2 passengers on the bus sustained fatal injuries, 2 passengers sustained serious injuries, 14 passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and 4 passengers sustained no injuries. Cheryl Johnson, 59, of Bronx, N.Y. sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene. Cecilia Kiyanitza, 66, of Woodbury, N.J. was airlifted to an area hospital where she was later pronounced deceased. The driver of the bus, a 56-year-old male of Westville, N.J., sustained serious injuries. No injuries were reported to the driver of the Ford.
The victims were transported to the following area hospitals: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Raritan Bay Medical Center, and Staten Island University Hospital.
The crash remains under investigation and there is no additional information available.
Photos and video provided by: Gary Lee Fortner
New Jersey Turnpike Crash. I ended up being one of the first on the scene. I took these after helping as many as I could get out of the bus. 😔 pic.twitter.com/M1V35WgYtu
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–The New Jersey State Police reported that Troopers responded at 6:53 p.m., to a crash involving an overturned bus on the New Jersey Turnpike. The crash occurred south bound near the Thomas Edison Service Area entrance ramp from the outer roadway. There are multiple injuries with 1 confirmed fatality. The New Jersey Turnpike outer roadway and service area ramp are closed for the investigation. Further details to follow.
Sources tell MidJersey.News that there were eight with moderate to severe injuries and fifteen walking wounded. NJSP confirms the one death and multiple injuries.
At approximately 6:53 p.m., troopers responded to the report of a crash involving a bus carrying approximately 20 passengers and a pickup truck on the New Jersey Turnpike south on the outer roadway at milepost 93.1 in Woodbridge Township.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the bus went off the road to the right and overturned onto the entrance ramp to the Thomas Edison Service Area. There is 1 confirmed fatality and 5 serious injuries. The outer roadway remains closed for the accident investigation.
Photos and video provided by: Gary Lee Fortner
New Jersey Turnpike Crash. I ended up being one of the first on the scene. I took these after helping as many as I could get out of the bus. 😔 pic.twitter.com/M1V35WgYtu
Woodbridge Teen Spared Jail Time by the Court in Case Involving Loaded Handgun Brought School
July 12, 2022
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–A Woodbridge Teen was spared jail time in case involving loaded handgun brought school
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today that Malachi Parcells, 16, of Woodbridge has been sentenced to a two-year term of probation for bringing a loaded handgun to a school.
On March 28, 2022, Woodbridge Police officers responded to JFK High School after receiving a report that a student was in possession of a handgun. Upon arrival, officers were informed that the JFK High School staff received a tip stating that Malachi Parcells was carrying a gun to school in his fanny pack. Parcells was stopped and questioned by school staff upon his arrival that morning. During a search of Parcells, a loaded 9mm handgun was found.
A subsequent investigation conducted by Detective Ryan Hoppock of the Woodbridge Police department resulted in Parcells being charged with acts of juvenile delinquency for offenses which if committed by an adult would constitute third-degree Possession of a Weapon in an Educational Institution, second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, and second degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose.
On June 24, 2022, Parcells pled guilty to Unlawful Possession of a Weapon before the Honorable Deborah Venezia, P.J.F.P. On June 30, 2022, the State argued for a two-year term of incarceration, however Parcells was sentenced instead to two years of probation by the Court.
New Jersey Lottery’s Million Dollar Replay Grand Prize Drawing was held today at Caesars Atlantic City Hotel and Casino, where more than $1,500,000 in prizes were awarded to our lucky players. Today’s top prize winner was Ronald Demura of Lawrenceville in Mercer County. The winner stood up in shock as his name was called out as New Jersey Lottery’s newest millionaire. Fourteen other Lottery players also received prizes ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 as part of the Grand Prize Drawing.
Throughout 2021, New Jersey Lottery players from all over the state submitted their non-winning instant tickets online for a second chance to win big prizes. Each quarter, 100 names were selected and awarded a $250 prize, as well as entry into today’s Grand Prize Drawing. An additional 19 raffle prizes were awarded to Million Dollar Replay finalists in attendance at the event today: seven $1,000 drawings, seven $300 Scratch-Offs drawings, and five gift basket drawings (containing $200 in Scratch-Offs plus Lottery swag). In addition to these drawings, there were 16 prizes drawn for the livestream sweepstakes open to the public, including one gift basket and 15 $200 Scratch-Off prizes. Guests also enjoyed the photo booth and prize wheels that provided many other opportunities to win.
New Jersey Lottery Executive Director James Carey, who assisted in the drawing, said, “I am thrilled to hold our 11th annual Million Dollar Replay. After last year’s event was virtual due to the pandemic, we are excited to be back in-person. Being able to add the excitement of minting a new millionaire makes it even better.”
Master of Ceremonies Steve Trevelise of NJ101.5 entertained the audience with jokes and witty banter throughout the event by interacting with the guests and prizewinners. Host Lauren Berman, conducted the drawing for the semi-finalists with the help of Lottery staff. The entire drawing process was completed under the observation of Mercadien, P.C. Certified Public Accountants.
The excitement of winning was already in the air when after Host Lauren Berman directed attention to the Big Spin wheel located next to the stage. The Big Spin game is New Jersey Lottery’s revolutionary new Scratch-Off that allows players the opportunity to extend their play beyond the paper ticket to online for a chance to spin a large mechanical wheel to win up to $300,000. Two players won an opportunity to spin the wheel. Both contestants won $50,000 each. For information on The Big Spin Scratch-Off ticket and jackpot, visit our website at: https://www.njlottery.com/en-us/scratch-offs/01728.html
Grand Prize Winner Story:
Ronald Demura is a regular Lottery player, who plays consistently at the same two retailers near his home. He came to the Million Dollar Replay hoping to win something and was in shock when his name was called to win the million dollar prize. His wife and the rest of the room cheered as he began walking toward the winners’ table. Saying that he was ecstatic is an understatement. Ronald has been retired for a few years, enjoying life with his family. Now he will get to pay off his house and, hopefully, his wife can join him in retirement.
Scammers were from Sewaren, Middlesex County and Ewing Township Mercer County
August 11, 2021
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Dennis McFadden of the Carteret Police Department announce authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in the investigation of three individuals who have been arrested and charged for their involvement in a fraud scheme that yielded the seizure of over $450,000.
On April 3, 2021, Saurabh Bhambri, 27, of Sewaren was charged and arrested for Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity, Theft by Deception, Identity Theft, and Forgery. Poonam Bhambri, 57, of Sewaren was also charged and arrested for Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity, Identity Theft, and Forgery. Karan Bhambri, 30, of Ewing was also charged with Conspiracy to Commit Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity.
The individuals were charged following an investigation by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office – Special Investigations Unit and the Carteret Police Department with assistance of the Edison Police Department and the Homeland Security Investigation – Newark Field Office.
At present, defendants are alleged to have set up and used several IT businesses to persuade victims to give them remote access to their personal computers in order to obtain their personal identifying and banking information.
Below is a list of businesses with which the defendants are affiliated:
SR Business Services – Woodbridge Township
SKR Communications, LLC – Colonia section of Woodbridge Township
Inciti Intermodal, LLC – Sewaren section of Woodbridge Township
Tradex Indous Corporation – Sewaren section of Woodbridge Township
Business Web, LLC – Ewing Township
SK Communications – Ewing Township
Inspired Networking Services, LLC – Dayton section of South Brunswick Township
Shivoham Partnership, LLC – Ewing Township
Delloid, LLC – Sewaren section of Woodbridge Township
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Christopher Van Eerde of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-3300 or Detective Anthony Ramos of the Carteret Police Department at (732) 541-4181.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Saurabh Bhambri, Poonam Bhambri, and Karan Bhambri are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today that four men have been charged for their involvement in a non-fatal shooting of four victims.
On July 12, 2021, at approximately 2:37 A.M., authorities responded to the Delta Suites hotel in the Iselin section of Woodbridge following the report of a shooting. At nearby hospitals, officers located four males– ages 20, 22, 23, and 25 – who were seeking treatment for apparent gunshot wounds.
An investigation by Detective Thomas Ratajczak of the Woodbridge Police Department and Detective Ryan Tighe of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined Antoine Morgan, 25; Gasim Kromah, 26; Khalil Burns, 27; and Isaiah Gregory, 22, all of Linden, attended a party at a hotel room where the non-fatal shooting of the four males took place.
Although the investigation is continuing and other charges are expected, Morgan, Kromah, Burns, and Gregory were each charged with: Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Hindering, Obstruction, and Tampering with Evidence.
Morgan and Gregory have been arrested and are presently in custody pending a pre-trial detention hearing in Superior Court.
Kromah and Burns have been charged but have not been arrested. Kromah and Burns should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone who see these individuals should not approach them and should immediately call the police.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Ratajczak at (732) 634-7700 or Detective Tighe at (732) 745- 4335.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Morgan, Kromah, Burns, and Gregory are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today that a shooting in Iselin is under investigation.
On July 12, 2021, at approximately 2:45 A.M., authorities responded to the Delta Suites located at 515 Route 1 South following the report of a shooting. An initial investigation resulted in officers locating four individuals who sustained apparent gunshot wounds. The individuals were transported from the scene for medical attention.
Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to call Detective Thomas Ratajczak of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 643-7700 or Detective Ryan Tighe of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745- 4060.
SEABROOK, NH –WOODBRIDGE TWP/COLONIA, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Yesterday, a Woodbridge Township man from the Colonia section of town was killed in a serious motor vehicle crash in Seabrook, New Hampshire according to NH State Police.
On Tuesday, July 06, 2021 at approximately 12:09 p.m., troopers from New Hampshire State Police-Troop-A responded to a report of a serious motor vehicle collision on Interstate 95 South in the Town of Seabrook. Once on scene, troopers were able to determine that a 2020 Subaru Outback, driven by Sue Sargent, age 66 of Eliot Maine was traveling northbound in lane 3 when her vehicle started to drift to the left, departing its lane of travel. The Subaru crossed into lane 4, which was occupied by a 2019 Toyota Sienna, resulting in a sideswipe impact between the two vehicles. The Toyota Sienna was driven by Shannon Geoghegan, age 50 of Franklin, Massachusetts, who had two passengers with her at the time, Lawrence Geoghegan, age 58, and a juvenile male, all of whom were uninjured. After this impact, the Subaru continued drifting to its left and through the center median, crossing over into the southbound lanes of travel. Upon doing so, the Subaru collided with a 2016 Jeep Wrangler, which was driven by Joseph Hoffman, age 29 of Colonia, New Jersey. Hoffman had three passengers with him who are identified as Matthew Santangelo, age 29, of Colonia, NJ, Jamerson Tisch age 27, of Keyport, NJ, and Michael Hoffman, age 27, of Colonia, NJ. The force of this impact caused the Jeep to rollover and come to a position of rest off the western edge of the roadway on its roof. The Subaru was disabled due to the impact and came to a position of rest in the southbound travel lanes. During this post-impact sequence, Michael Hoffman was ejected from the Jeep, resulting in serious, life-threatening injuries. He was transported to the Seabrook Emergency Room of the Portsmouth Regional Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased. Joseph Hoffman, Santangelo, and Tisch were also transported to the Seabrook Emergency Room for treatment of minor injuries.
Due to the nature of the crash and at the request of Troop A, the New Hampshire State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction (C.A.R.) Unit responded to the scene and assumed control of the investigation.
Sue Sargent was transported to the Portsmouth Regional Hospital for treatment of serious injuries sustained in the collision. As a result of the investigation, Sargent was placed under arrest for Aggravated Driving While Under the Influence. She was released on personal recognizance bail and left in the care of the hospital for medical treatment. An arraignment date in the Rockingham Superior Court will be determined pending her medical release.
Due to the collision, three lanes of I-95 South were closed for approximately 5 hours while the scene was documented and the vehicles were recovered. The New Hampshire State Police were assisted on scene by the Seabrook Police Department, Seabrook Fire Department, and the NH Department of Transportation.
Although physical impairment appears to be a contributing factor, all aspects of this crash remain under investigation. Anyone that may have further information related to this crash, please contact Trooper Eric Torrens at 603-223-4381 or email at Eric.M.Torrens@dos.nh.gov.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced today that six County residents have been arrested for their possession of material depicting the sexual exploitation or abuse of children.
On May 13, 2021, officers of the East Brunswick, Edison, Highland Park, Monroe, New Brunswick, North Brunswick, Perth Amboy, and Sayreville Police Departments along with detectives of the New Jersey State Police and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office executed search warrants at six residences across the County.
The investigation resulted in the following arrests:
Edison was arrested and charged for second-degree Using a File-sharing Program to Store Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children, second-degree Possession with the Intent to Distribute Child Pornography, and first-degree Possession of Child Pornography after having been found to be in possession of 100,000 items of material depicting the sexual exploitation or abuse of children.
Hongpeng Zheng, 24, of New Brunswick was arrested and charged for second-degree Distribution of Child Pornography, third-degree Possession of Child Pornography, and second-degree Using a File-sharing Program to Store Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children.
Ali Armas-Iriarte, 58, of Highland Park was arrested and charged for third-degree Possession of Child Pornography, second-degree Possession with the Intent to Distribute Child Pornography, and second-degree Using a File-sharing Program to Store Items Depicting the Sexual Exploitation or Abuse of Children.
Jeff Caramella, 21, of the Parlin section of Sayreville was arrested and charged for third-degree Possession of Child Pornography.
James Walden, 50, of North Brunswick was arrested and charged for third-degree Possession of Child Pornography.
A juvenile, 17, of Monroe was charged for third-degree Possession of Child Pornography.
Additionally, on May 6, 2021, Kenneth Godfrey, 41, of Woodbridge Township was also arrested and charged with third-degree Possession of Child Pornography.
On May 10, 2021, a juvenile, 14, of Edison was also charged for second-degree Possession of Child Pornography.
All of the aforementioned individuals were arrested and charged following separate investigations by Detective Daniel Lojek and Detective Stephanie Redline of the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, which revealed the individuals possessed material depicting the sexual exploitation or abuse of children. Presently, the investigations appear to be unconnected and the individuals are unknown to one another.
Nie is presently lodged at the Middlesex Adult Correction Center pending a pre-trial detention hearing in Superior Court. The remaining defendants individuals are likewise lodged at the Middlesex Adult Correction Center pending their initial appearances in Superior Court this afternoon.
The investigations are active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Lojek at (732) 745-5924 or Detective Redline at (732) 867-1496 .
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Zheng, Nie, Armas-Iriarte, Caramella, Walden, Godfrey, and the juveniles are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty or, as in the case of the juveniles, adjudicated delinquent.
Move slider to 3:41 for President Joe Biden’s remarks on the Colonial Pipeline.
May 10, 2021
Update — Monday, May 10, 12:25 p.m.
Colonial Pipeline continues to dedicate vast resources to restoring pipeline operations quickly and safely. Segments of our pipeline are being brought back online in a stepwise fashion, in compliance with relevant federal regulations and in close consultation with the Department of Energy, which is leading and coordinating the Federal Government’s response.
Restoring our network to normal operations is a process that requires the diligent remediation of our systems, and this takes time. In response to the cybersecurity attack on our system, we proactively took certain systems offline to contain the threat, which temporarily halted all pipeline operations, and affected some of our IT systems. To restore service, we must work to ensure that each of these systems can be brought back online safely.
While this situation remains fluid and continues to evolve, the Colonial operations team is executing a plan that involves an incremental process that will facilitate a return to service in a phased approach. This plan is based on a number of factors with safety and compliance driving our operational decisions, and the goal of substantially restoring operational service by the end of the week. The Company will provide updates as restoration efforts progress.
We continue to evaluate product inventory in storage tanks at our facilities and others along our system and are working with our shippers to move this product to terminals for local delivery. Actions taken by the Federal Government to issue a temporary hours of service exemption for motor carriers and drivers transporting refined products across Colonial’s footprint should help alleviate local supply disruptions and we thank our government partners for their assistance in resolving this matter.
Our primary focus continues to be the safe and efficient restoration of service to our pipeline system, while minimizing disruption to our customers and all those who rely on Colonial Pipeline. We appreciate the patience of the traveling public and the support we have received from the Federal Government and our peers throughout the industry.
The FBI confirms that the Darkside ransomware is responsible for the compromise of the Colonial Pipeline networks. We continue to work with the company and our government partners on the investigation.
REGIONAL EMERGENCY DECLARATION UNDER 49 CFR § 390.23 No. 2021-002
ALABAMA, ARKANSAS, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, DELAWARE, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, KENTUCKY, LOUISIANA, MARYLAND, MISSISSIPPI, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH CAROLINA, PENNSYLVANIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS, AND VIRGINIA
In accordance with the provisions of 49 CFR § 390.23, the Regional Field Administrators for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Eastern, Southern, and Western Service Centers hereby declares that an emergency exists that warrants issuance of a Regional Emergency Declaration and an exemption from Parts 390 through 399 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety (FMCSRs), except as otherwise restricted in this Emergency Declaration. Such emergency is in response to the unanticipated shutdown of the Colonial pipeline system due to network issues that affect the supply of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products throughout the Affected States. This Declaration addresses the emergency conditions creating a need for immediate transportation of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products and provides necessary relief. Affected States and jurisdictions included in this Emergency Declaration (“Affected States”) are: Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
By execution of this Emergency Declaration, motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance to the emergency in the Affected States in direct support of relief efforts related to the shortages of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products due to the shutdown, partial shutdown, and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system are granted relief from Parts 390 through 399 of Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations except as restricted herein.
This Emergency Declaration provides for regulatory relief for commercial motor vehicle operations while providing direct assistance supporting emergency relief efforts transporting gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products into the Affected States during the emergency from shortages due to the shutdown, partial shutdown, and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system. Direct assistance terminates when a driver or commercial motor vehicle is used in interstate commerce to transport cargo or provide services not in support of emergency relief efforts related to the shortages of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products due to the shutdown, partial shutdown, and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system in the Affected States, or when the motor carrier dispatches a driver or commercial motor vehicle to another location to begin operations in commerce. (49 CFR § 390.23(b)). Upon termination of direct assistance to emergency relief efforts related to the shortages of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products due to the shutdown, partial shutdown and/or manual operation of the Colonial pipeline system in the Affected States, the motor carrier and driver are subject to the requirements of 49 CFR Parts 390 through 399, except that a driver may return empty to the motor carrier’s terminal or the driver’s normal work reporting location without complying with Parts 390 through 399. When a driver is moving from emergency relief efforts to normal operations a 10-hour break is required when the total time a driver operates conducting emergency relief efforts, or a combination of emergency relief and normal operation, equals 14 hours.
All other applicable safety requirements remain in place and will be enforced by the FMCSA. Specifically, nothing contained in this Emergency Declaration shall be construed as an exemption from the controlled substances and alcohol use and testing requirements (49 CFR Part 382), the commercial driver’s license requirements (49 CFR Part 383), the financial responsibility (insurance) requirements (49 CFR Part 387), the hazardous material regulations (49 CFR Parts 100-180), applicable size and weight requirements, or any other portion of the regulations not specifically authorized pursuant to 49 CFR § 390.23.
Motor carriers or drivers currently subject to an out-of-service order are not eligible for the relief granted by this declaration until they have met the applicable conditions for its rescission and the order has been rescinded by FMCSA.
In accordance with 49 CFR § 390.23, this declaration is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until the end of the emergency (as defined in 49 CFR § 390.5) or until 11:59 P.M. (ET), June 8, 2021, whichever is earlier. FMCSA intends to continually review the status of this Emergency Declaration and may take action to modify or terminate the Emergency Declaration sooner if conditions warrant.
Taft Kelly, Regional Field Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Eastern Service Center
Darrell L. Ruban, Regional Field Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Southern Service Center
Scott G. Hernandez, Regional Field Administrator Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Western Service Center
Related MidJersey.news coverage on Colonial Pipeline incident here:
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced that a Township man has been charged and arrested for the aggravated sexual assault of an adult female and armed robbery of an adult male, which occurred on April 16, 2021.
On April 27, 2021, Razzell Austin, 21, of Avenel was arrested in the Avenel section of Woodbridge by members of the Woodbridge Police Department, the Carteret Police Department, and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
Austin was charged with two counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, one count of third-degree aggravated criminal sexual contact, two counts of first-degree armed robbery, one count of first-degree kidnapping, one count of third-degree criminal restraint, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, two counts of fourth-degree endangering, one count of fourth-degree obstruction, and one count of fourth-degree resisting arrest.
An investigation by Officer Robert Montalvo of the Woodbridge Police Department and Detective Linda Infusino of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined that on April 16, 2021 in the 9 o’clock evening hour, an adult female and an adult male were approached in the area of Lee Street and Scott Place by Austin and another suspect and then held at gunpoint. The investigation further determined the female victim was sexually assaulted and the personal effects of both were taken at gunpoint.
Austin is presently lodged at the Middlesex County Adult Correction Center where he is being held pending a pre-trial detention hearing in Superior Court.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to contact Officer Montalvo of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 634-7700 or Detective Infusino of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4340. Tips may also be submitted to www.middlesextips.com.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Austin are merely accusations and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
On April 27, 2021, Razzell Austin, 21, of Avenel was arrested in the Avenel section of Woodbridge by members of the Woodbridge Police Department, the Carteret Police Department, and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced that authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals believed to be involved in an aggravated sexual assault and armed robbery in the Port Reading section of Woodbridge, which occurred on Friday, April 16th.
An initial investigation by Officer Robert Montalvo of the Woodbridge Police Department and Detective Linda Infusino of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined that on April 16, 2021 in the 9 o’clock hour, an adult female and an adult male were approached in the area of Lee Street and Scott Place by two individuals and held at gunpoint. The investigation further determined the female victim was sexually assaulted.
Authorities are searching for a slim, black male who is between 5 foot 8 inches and 5 foot 9 inches tall. This suspect is believed to have worn a cream or gray hoodie and sweatpants or jeans at the time of the assault. Authorities are also searching for a slim white or Hispanic male with brown hair and brown eyes who is between 5 foot 5 inches and 5 foot 9 inches tall. This suspect is believed to have worn a gray Nike hoodie and white Nike sneakers at the time of the assault.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to contact Officer Montalvo of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 634-7700 or Detective Infusino of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4340. Tips may also be submitted to www.middlesextips.com
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced that a New Jersey state trooper was indicted today for allegedly stalking a female motorist in his patrol vehicle while on duty.
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) today obtained a state grand jury indictment charging Trooper Michael Patterson, 29, of Bayonne, N.J., with the following offenses:
Official Misconduct (2nd Degree)
Stalking (4th degree)
Tampering with Public Records (4th degree)
The New Jersey State Police Office of Professional Standards initially investigated this matter and referred it to the OPIA Corruption Bureau.
The investigation revealed that on January 28, 2020, Trooper Patterson conducted a motor vehicle stop of a female motorist on the New Jersey Turnpike at approximately 9:30 p.m. Patterson let the woman go with a warning, but he allegedly conducted a second, unwarranted stop of her vehicle a few minutes later when she exited the Turnpike at Exit 11.
Patterson allegedly conducted the second motor vehicle stop in order to make advances on the woman. Patterson allegedly disabled the Digital In-Vehicle Recorder (DIVR) in his vehicle to prevent his conduct from being recorded during this second stop. It is further alleged that Patterson subsequently put the victim in fear by following her to her home in his patrol vehicle.
“The New Jersey State Police maintain the highest standards of conduct for their state troopers, standards which the vast majority uphold as faithful and honorable guardians of the public,” said Attorney General Grewal. “Trooper Patterson allegedly violated those standards and the law, using his authority not to act as a guardian, but to put a female motorist in fear. This indictment reflects our resolve to hold officers accountable if they betray the public’s trust with this type of conduct.”
“One of the primary missions of OPIA is to root out official misconduct that undermines faith in law enforcement and government,” said OPIA Director Thomas Eicher. “This is not the first time we have encountered conduct of the type alleged in this indictment involving a law enforcement officer, but we hope that our criminal prosecutions will deter such conduct going forward.”
“The New Jersey State Police holds its troopers to the highest level of professional standards of any law enforcement agency in the country through a robust system of checks and balances that is designed to not only hold its members accountable, but to serve as a tool to provide training and counseling through early intervention,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “The alleged conduct revealed in this investigation stands in stark contrast to the core values of the New Jersey State Police and is a betrayal to the public and to the entire law enforcement community.”
Second-degree official misconduct carries a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison, including a mandatory minimum term of five years parole ineligibility, and a fine of up to $150,000. Fourth-degree charges carry a sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The fourth-degree charge of tampering with public records carries a mandatory minimum term of one year of parole ineligibility.
The charges are merely accusations and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Deputy Attorneys General Adam Gerken and Jonathan Gilmore are prosecuting the case for the OPIA Corruption Bureau, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Peter Lee and OPIA Deputy Director Anthony Picione. Attorney General Grewal thanked the New Jersey State Police Office of Professional Standards for their investigation and referral.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today that authorities are investigating a fire in which one person perished.
This morning, at approximately 9:12 A.M., authorities responded to 88 South Inman Avenue in the Avenel section of Woodbridge following a report of a structure fire. The victim, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, was discovered after personnel arrived on scene.
The cause of death remains undetermined pending the completion of an autopsy by the Middlesex County Regional Medical Examiner’s Office. No firefighters or police officers were injured.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is active and is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Jorge Quesada of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 634-7700 or Detective Kevin Schroeck of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4194 or Avenel Fire Official Cory Spillar of the Avenel Fire Prevention Bureau at (732) 855-974.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)– Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced that a pedestrian was killed yesterday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle.
The initial investigation conducted by Officer Bryan Dorward of the Woodbridge Police Department and Detective Jonathan Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined that, at approximately 1:36 P.M., a Toyota Tundra travelling southbound on Hoy Avenue crossed over the curb at the intersection of New Brunswick Avenue and Hoy Avenue. The Tundra then passed into an adjacent parking lot where it struck Mary Ann Logozio, 61, of Fords. Logozio was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Officer Dorward of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 634-7700 ext. 2153 or Detective Berman of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745-4328.
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department announced today that authorities are investigating a shooting which took place earlier today in the Avenel section of Woodbridge.
At approximately 1:17 p.m., Woodbridge Police officers responded to the vicinity of Forest View Drive, located at the Forest View Apartments in response to shots fired. Following the arrival of the authorities, a victim was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.
The investigation is active and is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Santiago Tapia of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 602-7394, or Detective Paul Kelley of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at (732) 745- 3330.
O’Scanlon and DiMaso requested legislation Monday to ensure that NJAC 19.9-1.13 undeniably permits the American flag to be attached to a highway overpass or any other state-owned property so long as it is safely secure and respectfully maintained.
Don’t forget the Robbinsville Township Police PBA will be replacing flags in Robbinsville on Friday, September 11, 2020 at noon. Please bring your flags to show support.
For all those attending the event this Friday, remember to bring your American Flags and patriotic spirit! We are hoping for a field of red, white, and blue!
We will be meeting at Community Park, where I invite anyone who wishes to speak to say what the American flag means to them. After that, we will all take a short walk up the West Manor Way overpass together and re-post the flags.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Governor Phil Murphy said Tuesday he’s asked the Turnpike Authority to suspend taking down the flags. “I didn’t like what I heard. We are the greatest nation on earth even though we are far from perfect, and our flag represents that nation,” Murphy said. “At least for the time being the Turnpike Authority has suspended doing that until we can find a good way forward.” The governor didn’t say under what conditions or when the practice might resume.
“We are deeply saddened to learn that the Turnpike Authority would choose to remove dozens of American flags under the guise of a regulation for advertising material — it is unpatriotic and completely unacceptable,” said O’Scanlon. “While the NJTA claims they are unable to monitor all of the flags affixed to bridges, we clearly have a massive group of private citizens, veterans and police officers dedicated to ensuring that those flags are safely and securely hung, and respectfully maintained. This is an instance where government oversight obviously is not needed. We have requested legislation to undo this arbitrary, unnecessary, offensively unpatriotic action immediately.”
O’Scanlon and DiMaso requested legislation Monday to ensure that NJAC 19.9-1.13 undeniably permits the American flag to be attached to a highway overpass or any other state-owned property so long as it is safely secure and respectfully maintained.
“It Is unfortunate, actually ridiculous, that we even need to pass legislation to allow for the display of the American flag, the symbol of freedom and democracy, at these locations,” DiMaso continued. “Our local police, residents, and veterans will not simply drive by tattered and unsecured flags. They already make efforts to ensure the flags are respectfully maintained and regularly replaced. Sadly, this is what our state has evolved into. We hope that the Governor will override the NJTA’s faulty logic and decision here. If not, we call on our colleagues in the legislature to stand behind our bill and prove that we as New Jerseyans love and respect our country.”
American Flags on overpasses in Hamilton Township New Jersey over the NJ Turnpike, and in Robbinsville over Interstate 195 on Tuesday September 8, 2020
Signs on NJ Turnpike overpasses in Robbinsville and East Windsor stating that “Placement of signage or items of any nature on this structure is strictly prohibited”
After 19 years the NJ Turnpike Authority has a sudden change of heart and ripped American Flags from the bridges. Robbinsville PBA releases statement. Protest held in Searen, NJ Woodbridge Township over removed flags
UPDATE Robbinsville Township PBA is hosting a replace the flags event at 12 noon September 11, 2020 see link below. The NJ Turnpike Authority has been removing flags placed and replaced on bridges by the local PBA
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)- WOODBRIDGE – SEWAREN, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–The New Jersey Turnpike Authority has removed American Flags from bridges along the highway recently. The flags were replaced with signage that reads, “Placement of signage or items of any nature on this structure is strictly prohibited.” Many American Flags have been placed on bridges after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States. Many people including veterans, police and other organizations have been maintaining these flags on bridges since the attacks.
After 19 years the NJ Turnpike Authority has a sudden change of heart and ripped American Flags from the bridges citing a “distraction”
Statement by the NJ Turnpike Authority on the flags:
Turnpike Authority Statement on Posting of Flags, Posters, and Signs on Turnpike and Parkway Bridges:
The New Jersey Turnpike Authority appreciates and applauds patriotism. We try to express patriotism ourselves every day by maintaining dozens of American flags at properties in our right of way — office buildings, toll plazas, service areas, maintenance facilities, State Police buildings, warehouses. Those flags are treated with the utmost respect by Turnpike Authority personnel. They are flown on suitable staffs. They are illuminated at night. They are lowered to half-staff when the state is in mourning. They are removed, properly destroyed, and promptly replaced when they become faded or worn and are no longer suitable symbols of our national ideals.
The long-standing policy of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority has been to prohibit the display of any flags, signs, or banners by private parties on Turnpike Authority property. While we appreciate the desire of some New Jersey residents to express their patriotism in these turbulent times by displaying flags on Turnpike and Parkway overpasses, Turnpike Authority regulations do not allow it, and for good reason. The Turnpike and Parkway run through more than 100 municipalities and include more than 1,100 bridges and other structures. The NJTA cannot adequately monitor flags mounted by private citizens to make sure they are safely and securely hung, properly displayed, and respectfully maintained. While we hope that everyone who wants to display the American flag finds a suitable location to do so, we believe that limiting the flags displayed on Turnpike Authority property to ones hung and maintained by Turnpike Authority staff is the best way to assure that all flags in the Turnpike and Parkway right of way are treated with the respect they deserve.
Several Facebook users have posted their dissatisfaction with the removal of the flags on the NJ Turnpike Facebook Page below:
American Flags on the overpasses have been removed by the NJ Turnpike Authority and replaced with this signage.
Statement from Robbinsville PBA Local #344:
Last month, Robbinsville P.B.A. Local 344 purchased over a dozen American flags to replace those that were either missing or tattered on the overpasses covering the New Jersey Turnpike and I-195. The amount of support we received via social media and throughout town was incredible, and our post reached nearly 8,000 viewers. The reason we decided to replace the flags was to continue the tradition of honoring our veterans and those lost in service for our country. American flags have been flown on overpasses throughout the state and throughout the nation since 9/11.
Now, as we approach the anniversary of that horrific day, we are extremely disappointed to announce that the NJ Turnpike Authority saw fit to remove all flags on overpasses covering the N.J.T.P. last week, replacing them with signs citing N.J.A.C. 19:9-1.13. This is a code which is meant to apply to advertisement material or improper road signage. We cannot understand why the N.J.T.P.A. has suddenly decided to abandon a tradition of patriotism and respect for our veterans. It is not known what happened to the brand new flags that we put up, but we truly hope they were respectfully disposed of, if not displayed elsewhere.
The flags that we placed on the overpasses were firmly secured, and it was the P.B.A.’s full intention to continue maintaining them, to ensure proper respect was given. They did not impede traffic and did not obstruct visibility for passing motorists. The placement of the flags was done in the same manner that has been done for nearly twenty years.
I have written to the Director of Relations at the N.J.T.P.A. and hope to have a reason for the unexplained action soon. If any share in our disappointment at the removal of the flags, please feel free to write/call their office (info@njta.com / (732)750-5300).
We hope this matter is resolved soon, and we will continue to fly the American flag proudly. Have a great Labor Day.
Thank you,
Michael Slininger
President – Robbinsville P.B.A. Local #344
Robbinsville Township Police PBA members have been maintaining American Flags on bridges in Robbinsville and recently replace many worn flags in August for September 11 coming up this week.
A peaceful protest was held in Sewaren, Woodbridge Township, NJ today protesting the removal of American Flags from bridges on the New Jersey Turnpike.
A peaceful protest was held today in Sewaren, Woodbridge Township today on a NJ Turnpike overpass, Photos courtesy of: Sewaren, NJ History Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Sewaren.NJ/
Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control Imposes Record-High $4 Million Penalties on Wholesalers Allied Beverage Group & Fedway Associates Following Two-Year Investigation into Their Misuse of Rebate Programs.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal and the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (“ABC”) today announced that New Jersey’s two largest wine and spirits wholesalers will pay $4 million each to resolve findings that they engaged in discriminatory trade practices that unfairly favored their largest retail customers. In addition, twenty retailers statewide will pay a total of $2.3 million for their part in the unlawful scheme.
In separate Consent Orders with ABC, wholesalers Allied Beverage Group and Fedway Associates agreed to pay record-high monetary penalties and change their business practices to resolve trade violations uncovered during a sweeping two-year investigation by ABC’s Enforcement and Investigations Bureaus.
The investigation found that the wholesalers – which together account for approximately 70% of all wine and 80% of all spirits sold at wholesale in the State – unfairly favored 20 of the State’s largest wine and spirits retailers and put smaller retailers at a competitive disadvantage by manipulating the retailer incentive program (RIP), granting credit extensions and interest-free loans, and engaging in other discriminatory practices.
“Simply put, Allied Beverage Group and Fedway Associates rigged the market in favor of a handpicked group of powerful retailers, leaving smaller businesses struggling to compete. The unprecedented monetary penalties imposed reflect the egregiousness of this conduct and the widespread negative impact it had on New Jersey consumers and retailers,” said Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal. “This settlement sends a clear message that we will not tolerate this manipulative and anticompetitive behavior.”
The RIPs provide cash rebates payed to retailers by wholesalers for purchasing certain quantities of alcoholic beverages. ABC regulations control the program by making RIPs available to all retailers on a non-discriminatory basis, by keeping the RIP payments to retailers relatively small, and by not allowing wholesalers to substitute RIPs for interest-free loans.
The investigation found that Allied Beverage Group and Fedway Associates were giving chosen retailers a financial advantage by issuing rebates more often and in greater amounts than allowed. They also failed to wait the required 30 days before issuing rebates, thus allowing those retailers to use that money to pay for the orders for which the rebates were issued, which is against ABC regulations. Retailers who do not pay for orders within 30 days are put on an industry-wide cash-only delivery status, so the early rebates ensured that the larger retailers would have a ready cash flow to pay for their orders on time, giving them an unfair edge over smaller retailers who had to use their own money to pay for their wine and spirits orders within the required 30-day window. The investigation also found that Allied Beverage Group and Fedway Associates falsified records related to RIPs and/or used undocumented gift cards to make cash payments to chosen retailers that were not accounted for.
“Retail incentives are a legitimate marketing tool as long they are above board and available equally to all retailers. Discriminatory practices like these foster instability in the market by harming smaller retailers,” said James Graziano, Acting Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control. “If left unchecked, the ability of small retailers to remain in business may have been jeopardized and consumers would have less access to retail stores and the specialized product selections that they offer. We will continue to monitor industry practices to ensure an equal playing field in New Jersey’s alcoholic beverage retail industry and hold violators accountable for noncompliance.”
The monetary payments from Allied and Fedway are the largest in ABC’s history, and in addition, both entities each agreed to adopt a corrective action plan; employ a compliance monitor for two years; make upgrades to their computer systems; and facilitate the retirement, resignation and/or termination of certain employees.
The following retailers were charged with ABC violations that included accepting the delivery of alcoholic beverages from Allied and/or Fenway upon terms that violated ABC regulations; accepting a loan from a wholesaler to pay a wholesaler and/or avoid being placed on cash-on-delivery status; receiving a RIP before paying the invoice, receiving a RIP in excess of allowed maximum on a product. Each retailer entered a Consent Order with ABC to resolve the charges, with the following settlement terms:
Leiham Corp., t/a Bayway World of Liquors: $375,000 monetary offer in compromise in lieu of suspension plus phased-in retirement of manager and other corrective action. (ELIZABETH)
SVGS Inc., t/a Vingo Wine and Spirits: $90,000 (including $62,500 unaccounted for cash seized from the store) monetary offer in compromise in lieu of suspension plus corrective action. (EATONTOWN)
Currently at 9:15 am the traffic is backed up from the accident scene to well past Newark Airport and at least 12 miles according to a Google Traffic measurement. The South Bound traffic backup starts in the area of Exit 15E as the outer roadway is closed for the investigation. Google traffic map shows dark red delays. Seek alternate routes if possible.
August 31, 2020
WOODBRIDGE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–The New Jersey State Police report, a crash occurred this morning at approximately 5:51 a.m. southbound on the New Jersey Turnpike outer roadway in Woodbridge Township, Middlesex County. Preliminary information indicates that in the area of milepost 94.6, a Mercedes and a Ford van were involved in a crash. A female occupant of the Merecedes was pronounced dead at the scene, and a male occupant was airlifted to Robert Wood Johnson in New Brunswick. Outer roadway remains closed and cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Crash and Crash investigation on New Jersey Turnpike outer roadway southbound South of Inter https://t.co/L3yAo2dv36
BREAKING NEWS REPORT: This if from unofficial radio reports, on scene reporting, witnesses and other sourced information, once official information is released story will be updated and any corrections made.
ROBBINSVILLE-HAMILTON TOWNSHIP-PRINCETON-HOPEWELL, NJ (MERCER)–From New York though New Jersey and even into Pennsylvania numerous suspects are under arrest for robbing ATM machines.
This morning in Robbinsville several were arrested at the Santander Bank ATM and taken into custody.
In Hamilton Township this afternoon a vehicle with NY plates was stopped and several were under arrest on Yardville-Hamilton Square Road by the 195 overpass. Sources tell MidJersey.News that this is related but MidJersey.News has not been able to confirm the arrests and if it is related.
Hopewell Township on Route 31 there is police activity at a Santander Bank and a foot chase, with reported four in custody. One of the suspects has reportedly assaulted a Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Detective.
On Princeton Pike a black sedan bearing a NY registration was being sought after.
Unofficial radio reports that so far $76,000. have been stolen from ATM machines, from Princeton, Hopewell, Hamilton and Robbinsville.
In Woodbridge Township, Middlesex County at least one Santander Bank ATM was hit in that township and one vehicle was stopped in Randolph, NJ and a firearm was recovered.
This is still a very fluid situation, the investigation is very active and arrests are continuing to be made at the time of this report. Further details to follow.
MidJersey.News has reached out to several police departments and county prosecutor’s offices and has been told to reach out to the FBI for comment. MidJersey.news has reached out to contacts at the Newark FBI office and waiting for a reply with official information. Once updated MidJersey.News will update the story.
Police activity sources say that is related to the multi-state ATM robberies, several are under arrest at Yardville-Hamilton Square Road and the I-195 overpass. Faces are blacked out since we can not confirm with any official sources that these are suspects in the ATM robberies.
Police activity sources say that is related to the multi-state ATM robberies, several are under arrest at Yardville-Hamilton Square Road and the I-195 overpass. Faces are blacked out since we can not confirm with any official sources that these are suspects in the ATM robberies.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The New Jersey State Police have arrested Osmar Terron, 37, of Trenton, N.J. and Marquis Dixon, 25, of Willingboro, N.J., for allegedly attempting to purchase a 2019 Mercedes GLS450 ,valued at $70,150, with fraudulent documents.
On Thursday, May 21, detectives from the New Jersey State Police Motor Vehicle Crimes North Unit were made aware of a suspicious transaction at a car dealership in Woodbridge Township, Middlesex County.
State Police detectives, along with Woodbridge Township Police Department, responded to the dealership and discovered Terron and Dixon attempting to purchase the Mercedes with a fraudulent Pennsylvannia driver’s license.
During the investigation, detectives also discovered that Terron and Dixon were in possession of multiple fraudulent documents. They were arrested without incident.
Marquis Dixon and Osmar Terron were charged with conspiracy to commit theft by deception. Terron was also charged with theft by deception and possession of fraudulent documents. They were lodged in Middlesex County Jail pending a bail detention hearing.
Charges are mere accusations and the accused are considered innocent until proven guilty.
Marquis Dixon, 25, of Willingboro, NJ
Osmar Terron, 37, of Trenton, NJ
The New Jersey State Police have arrested Osmar Terron, 37, of Trenton, N.J. and Marquis Dixon, 25, of Willingboro, N.J., for allegedly attempting to purchase a 2019 Mercedes GLS450 ,valued at $70,150, with fraudulent documents.
New Jersey First Responders Who Passed From COVID-19
As of 4/19/2020 not all families make COVID-19 deaths public. I know of a few that did not want public and are not listed. If you know of any that need to be included use contact link above and send in information with verification.
Firefighters:
March 2020
March 31, 2020 Israel Tolentino, Passaic Fire Department/St. Claire’s EMS**Also listed under EMS has 2 jobs.
April 2020
April 14, 2020 John Ferrarella, NJSEA EMS, retired Paterson Fire Captain and member of Wayne Fire Company No. 3 Listed 2 times multiple positions Fire and EMS.***
April 15, 2020 Michael Burke, Singac Fire Company #3, Little Falls Fire Department
April 16, 2020 Richard Campbell, Edison Fire Department
April 16, 2020 Robert Weber, Middletown, Port Monmouth Fire Company and Middletown First Aid Squad**Also listed under EMS has 2 jobs.
April 18, 2020 David Clark, Bay Head Fire Company
Police:
April 2020
April 1, 2020 Bernard Waddell, Sr., Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, Correction Officer.
April 3, 2020 Tolbert A. Furr, Newark Police Department.
April 10, 2020 Nelson Perdomo, NJ Department of Corrections, East Jersey State Prison, Avenel, Woodbridge.
April 12, 2020 AlTerek Patterson, Sergeant, Bedminster Police Department.
April 12, 2020 Francesco Scorpo, Sergeant, Paterson Police Department.
April 14, 2020 Daniel Francis, Newark Police Department.
April 16, 2020 Alex Ruperto, Union City Police Department
April 17, 2020 John Careccia, Chief, Woodbridge Township Ambulance & Rescue Squad
EMS:
March 2020:
March 31, 2020 Israel Tolentino, Passaic Fire Department/St. Claire’s EMS** Also listed under fire department works 2 jobs.
April 2020:
April 1, 2020 Reuven Maroth, Hackensack Volunteer Ambulance
April 5, 2020 Liana Sá, EMT, Watchung Rescue Squad
April 8, 2020 Kevin Leiva, EMT, North Bergen, Prime Healthcare EMS, Saint Clare’s Hospital.
April 9, 2020 Robert Tarrant, EMS Educator, Robert Wood Johnson Barnabas Health
April 9, Frank Molinari, MD, NJSEA EMS
April 10, 2020 Terry Billington, MONOC EMS (Retired)
April 10, 2020 Solomon Donald, Trinitas EMS
April 13, 2020 Scott Geiger, Atlantic Ambulance Corp.
April 14, 2020 John Ferrarella, NJSEA EMS, retired Paterson Fire Captain and member of Wayne Fire Company No. 3 Listed 2 times multiple positions Fire and EMS.***
April 15, 2020 Robert Weber, Middletown Township First Aid & Rescue, Port Monmouth Fire Company**Also listed under Fire since having 2 jobs.
April 17, 2020 John Carrecia, Woodbridge Township Ambulance & Rescue
Medical:
March 31, 2020 Doctor Frank Gabrin, East Orange General Hospital, and NYC.
March 31, 2020 Kim King-Smith, EKG Technician, Newark University Hospital.
Military:
March 30, 2020 Captain, Douglas Linn Hickok, NJ Army National Guard, Physician’s Assistant
Middlesex County Acting Prosecutor Christopher L.C. Kuberiet and Director Robert Hubner of the Woodbridge Police Department said an Ocean County man was arrested today and charged with the theft of N95 Respirator masks from a business in Woodbridge.
Kevin Brady, 49, of Point Pleasant Beach was arrested today on one count of theft by unlawful taking in the third degree, and one count of conspiracy to commit theft in the third degree.
He was charged as a result of a joint investigation by the New Jersey State Police – Cargo Theft Task Force, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, the Woodbridge Police Department, and the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, based on a referral from the National Hoarding & Price-Gouging Task Force headed by New Jersey U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito.
During the investigation it was determined that between March 27 to April 1, 2020, Brady, was employed as an on-site electrician and was working at Prudential Financial in Iselin. During his course of employment, he had unrestricted access to the Prudential Offices and entered a caged storage area in the basement and stole 7-8 cases of N95 Respirator Masks; each case contained 200 masks.
Prudential Financial had intended to donate the masks to a local hospital at the time the theft was discovered.
The investigation is active and is continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Brian Vella of the Woodbridge Police Department at (732) 634-7700.
Please report COVID-19 fraud, hoarding, or price-gouging to the National Center for Disaster Fraud’s National Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or email disaster@leo.gov.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Brady are merely accusations and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
MidJersey.News 
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