Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Daniel Plumacker of the Sayreville Police Department announced today that John Denuto, 46, of Spotswood pled guilty to Endangering the Welfare of a Child and other offenses on Friday, April 14, 2023.
Denuto, a former special education teacher at the Sayreville Middle School and former wrestling coach at numerous other schools and organizations who exploited his position as both a teacher and a wrestling coach to meet and abuse his victims was initially arrested on February 15, 2020. An investigation by the Sayreville Police Department and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined Denuto had criminal sexual contact with a juvenile and he possessed child sexual exploitive materials that he had created by filming and photographing the previous mentioned juvenile. Further investigation revealed Denuto was in possession of additional sexual exploitive material of unidentified individuals.
On April 22, 2021, Denuto was indicted on one count of first-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, one count of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, three counts of third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, eight counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy, six counts of third-degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact, six counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact, two counts of third-degree Witness Tampering, and one count of third-degree Hindering His Own Apprehension.
On Friday April 14, 2023, Denuto pled before the Honorable Benjamin
S. Bucca, J.S.C., to one count of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, one count of third-degree Endangering and one count of fourth-degree Invasion of Privacy. He is subject to a sentence of seven years and will be on parole supervision for life and must register under Megan’s Law. Denuto is scheduled to be sentenced by the Honorable Benjamin S. Bucca, J.S.C., on September 8, 2023.
Below is a list of schools, organizations, and clubs that the investigation revealed Denuto to be associated with:
Rhino’s Wrestling Club – Morganville
CJA Wrestling Club – East Brunswick
Pennsville High School – Pennsville
Raritan High School – Hazlet Township
Saint John Vianney – Holmdel
Sayreville Middle School – Sayreville
Sayreville High School – Sayreville
Middletown North High School – Middletown Township
Monroe High School – Monroe
Peddie High School – Hightstown
South Brunswick High School – South Brunswick Saint Joseph High School – Montvale
Union County College – Cranford
Camden Catholic High School – Cherry Hill Johnson High School – Clark
St. Thomas Aquinas High School (formerly Bishop Ahr HS) – Edison
Woodbridge High School – Woodbridge
7th & 8th Woodbridge Recreation Program – Woodbridge
7th & 8th Grade Old Bridge Recreation Program – Old Bridge Piscataway High School – Piscataway
Spotswood High School – Spotswood
Freehold Boro High School – Freehold Borough
In a separate prosecution, Denuto was adjudicated delinquent on May 20, 2022, for crimes which, if committed by an adult, would constitute two counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault. Denuto was the subject of a dispositional hearing on October 21, 2022, which resulted in his commitment by the Honorable Deborah J. Venezia to the care and control of the Acting Director of the Juvenile Justice Commission for an aggregate term of four years.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH) – A local man charged late last year with taking “upskirting” photos of two women in a Shrewsbury Borough supermarket has been rearrested and charged with numerous similar additional offenses, including eight involving victims who are believed to be juveniles, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Tuesday.
Christopher W. Cox, 33, of Red Bank is charged with eight counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, nine counts of third-degree Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, nine counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy, two counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact, and a single count of fourth-degree Possession of a Large-Capacity Gun Magazine.
An investigation involving members of the MCPO Special Victims Bureau and the Shrewsbury Borough Police Department has revealed the following facts:
Shortly before 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 20, 2022, a man later identified as Cox was seen entering the ShopRite of Shrewsbury on Shrewsbury Avenue, and shortly thereafter he began following female shoppers around the store, using his cell phone in a manner indicating that he was surreptitiously taking photos of them from behind. Cox was then seen exiting the store and leaving the area in a white Dodge Durango.
About a week later, shortly after 9 a.m. on Thursday, October 27, 2022, Cox was pulled over on Newman Springs Road in Red Bank. After initially obeying a command from an officer to exit his vehicle, Cox then quickly reentered the SUV and sped away from the scene, with the officer releasing his grip on him in order to avoid getting dragged by the vehicle. Cox was located in Little Silver shortly thereafter and taken into custody without incident.
The investigation ultimately led to the seizure of the aforementioned large-capacity gun magazine and numerous digital video files in Cox’s possession, most depicting girls and women being surreptitiously filmed from below using a cell phone placed in a grocery basket, duffel bag, or other means of conveyance. The incidents took place at the following times and locations:
Shortly before 4 p.m. on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at the ShopRite Wines & Spirits on South Avenue East in Westfield (Union County);
Shortly before 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at the ShopRite supermarket on West Grand Street in Elizabeth (Union County);
Shortly before 1:15 p.m. on Monday, May 30, 2022 at the ShopRite of Shrewsbury;
Shortly before 4 p.m. on Friday, July 1, 2022 at an unspecified Walmart;
Shortly after 12:30 p.m. on Monday, July 4, 2022 at the ShopRite supermarket at the intersection of routes 36 and 71 in West Long Branch;
Shortly after 2:45 p.m. on Monday, July 4, 2022 at an unspecified Foodtown supermarket;
Shortly before 1:45 p.m. on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Whole Foods supermarket on Route 35 in Middletown; and
Shortly before 1:45 p.m. on Sunday, September 18, 2022 at the ShopRite of Shrewsbury.
The investigation further determined that Cox has recently been employed as a plumber. The Criminal Sexual Contact charges against him are connected to incidents taking place on Friday, November 11, 2022 and Monday, January 2, 2023 in which he surreptitiously videotaped himself rubbing his pelvic area on clients while in their homes, in one case exposing himself and performing a lewd act.
This case has been assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Ryan Lavender of the Special Victims Bureau. Cox is being represented by Christian Fleming, Esq., with an office in East Brunswick.
Cox was last arrested during a traffic stop in Shrewsbury Borough on Thursday, January 12. A detention hearing in this case has been tentatively scheduled to take place on Thursday, January 19. The State has filed a motion to keep Cox detained as the case against him proceeds.
“The conduct being alleged and the frequency of the incidents associated with the charges announced today are equally concerning and disturbing,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “We are urging anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Mr. Cox to please come forward and tell us what they know.”
A recent photo of Cox is being released along with this press release. Anyone with information about this matter is urged to contact MCPO Detective Sgt. Shawn Murphy at 800-533-7443 or Shrewsbury Borough Police Department Detective Daniel DeCristofaro at 732-741-2500, Ext. 230.
Anyone who feels the need to remain anonymous but has information about this or any crime can submit a tip to Monmouth County Crime Stoppers by calling their confidential telephone tip-line at 1-800-671-4400; by downloading and using the free P3 Tips mobile app (available on iOS and Android – https://www.p3tips.com/1182), by calling 800-671-4400, or by going to the website at www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com.
Convictions on second-degree criminal charges are punishable by up to 10 years in state prison.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
Christopher W. Cox, 33, of Red Bank is charged with eight counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, nine counts of third-degree Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, nine counts of third-degree Invasion of Privacy, two counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact, and a single count of fourth-degree Possession of a Large-Capacity Gun Magazine.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An investigation has been launched into a bank robbery from earlier this morning in Middletown Township, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced on Wednesday.
On Wednesday December 28, 2022, at approximately 10:40 a.m., the Middletown Township Police responded to a report of a bank robbery at the Valley National Bank on Rt. 35 in the Kohl’s Plaza.
The investigation revealed the suspect to be a white male, possibly Hispanic, wearing a dark North Face winter coat, blue face mask and a light colored winter hat. The suspect may be operating a silver vehicle, possibly a Honda Accord. Details on a license plate are not available at this time.
The investigation is being handled in conjunction by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, the Middletown Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations’ Red Bank Office.
Anyone with information regarding this robbery is urged to contact Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Nicolas Logothetis at 800-533-7443 or Middletown Police Detective Keith Hirschbein at (732) 615-2120.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–New Jersey State Police confirmed one person has died in a serious wrong way motor vehicle crash yesterday June 27, 2022, on the Garden State Parkway last evening.
Troopers say they responded to a two vehicle crash on Garden State Parkway northbound on the express roadway at milepost 112 in Middletown Township, Monmouth County at 7:27 p.m. The preliminary investigation revealed that an Acura TL was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes on Garden State Parkway express roadway and a Chevrolet Colorado was traveling north in the northbound express roadway lanes. In the area of milepost 112, the front of the Acura collided with the front of the Chevrolet causing the Chevrolet to subsequently overturn. As a result of the crash, the driver of the Acura, identified as Hamilton W. Smith 3rd, 29, of Lincoln Park sustained fatal injuries. The driver of the Chevy sustained minor injuries and the passenger of the Chevy sustained no injuries. And Mr. Smith was the only occupant of the Acura. New Jersey State Police report that this is still an active investigation.
HONOLULU — The Coast Guard suspended the active search for Matthew Preziose off Lumaha’i Beach, Tuesday.
Preziose, 26-years-old, remains missing. The active search has been suspended pending further information.
“During this case our crews have worked closely with the Kauai Fire Department, Kauai Ocean Safety, Kauai Police Department and Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources conducted 35 searches over 61 search hours and covered 652 square miles with no sign of Mr. Preziose,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Jonathan Lackey, a Sector Honolulu watchstander. “These are always the most difficult decisions to make in our line of work and our condolences go to Mr. Preziose’s family and friends.”
Preziose is described as wearing dark-blue shorts, no shirt, and 3 gold chains. Waterway users are requested to keep a sharp lookout for signs of distress and anyone with information is requested to contact the Sector Honolulu command center at 808-842-2600.
At 1:07 p.m., Saturday, Kauai County Dispatch received a report from a good Samaritan at Lumaha’i beach who witnessed two swimmers in distress 200-yards off shore. One of the swimmers was able to make it back to the beach while the other remained missing.
Coast Guard Station Kauai launched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew in response and notified Coast Guard Sector Honolulu watchstanders who issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast notice to mariners and deployed an Air Station Barbers Point MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew and the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry.
First responders from the Kauai Fire Department, Kauai Ocean Safety, Kauai Police Department, and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources were also deployed to search and an incident command post was established.
Involved in the search: Crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry Station Kauai 45-foot response boat medium crews Air Station Barbers Point MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crews Kauai Fire Department Air 1 Helicopter crew Ocean Safety Jet Ski operators Kauai Fire Department ground crews Kauai Police Department officers Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources responders.
U.S. Coast Guard story and photos:
Kauai Ocean Safety Jet Ski operators search for a missing swimmer off Lumaha’i Beach, Kauai, March 7, 2022. Coast Guard and Kauai County first responders began searching for the missing swimmer March 5, 2022. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Coast Guard Sector Honolulu)The Coast Guard and Kauai County first responders continue to search for a 26-year-old missing swimmer off Lumaha’i Beach, Kauai, March 7, 2022. First responders established an Incident Command Post to coordinate the search between the partner agencies. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Coast Guard Station Kauai/Released)The Coast Guard and Kauai County first responders continue to search for a 26-year-old missing swimmer off Lumaha’i Beach, Kauai, March 6, 2022. First responders established an Incident Command Post to coordinate the search between the partner agencies. (U.S. Coast Guard photo courtesy of Coast Guard Station Kauai/Released)
HONOLULU — The Coast Guard and Kauai County first responders continue to search for a 26-year-old missing swimmer off Lumaha’i Beach, Monday.
The male swimmer is described as wearing dark-blue shorts, no shirt, and 3 gold chains. Waterway users are requested to keep a sharp lookout for signs of distress and anyone with information is requested to contact the Sector Honolulu command center at 808-842-2600.
At 1:07 p.m., Saturday, Kauai County Dispatch received a report from a good Samaritan at Lumaha’i beach who witnessed two swimmers in distress 200-yards off shore. One of the swimmers was able to make it back to the beach while the other remained missing.
Coast Guard Station Kauai launched a 45-foot Response Boat-Medium crew in response and notified Coast Guard Sector Honolulu watchstanders who issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast notice to mariners and deployed an Air Station Barbers Point MH-65 Dolphin helicopter aircrew and the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry.
First responders from the Kauai Fire Department, Kauai Ocean Safety, Kauai Police Department, and the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources were also deployed to search and an incident command post was established.
Involved in the search so far:
Crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Oliver Berry Station Kauai 45-foot response boat medium crews Air Station Barbers Point MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crews Kauai Fire Department Air 1 Helicopter crew Ocean Safety Jet Ski operators Kauai Fire Department ground crews Kauai Police Department officers Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources responders
The weather on scene is winds of 7 mph and seas up to 4 feet.
LUMAHA‘I – Multiple agencies resumed search operations Sunday for a 25-year-old man of New Jersey who was swept out to sea Saturday in waters off Lumaha‘i on the North Shore.
The Kaua‘i Police Department has identified the man as Matthew Preziose.
According to a preliminary report, rescuers were dispatched shortly after 1 p.m., when two swimmers were in distress in waters off Lumaha‘i Beach, near Lumaha‘i River.
Lifeguards with the North Roving Patrol Unit were first on scene, where bystanders reported that one swimmer made it safely to shore while the second swimmer, Preziose, was last seen being swept out to sea.
Hanalei firefighters, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1, East Roving Patrol lifeguards on Jet Ski, and the on-duty Battalion Chief also responded to the scene and began an extensive search for the missing man – focusing from the reefs off Hā‘ena point to Hanalei Bay, with an emphasis on the Lumaha‘i Beach area. Officials from the U.S. Coast Guard also joined the search, utilizing their water and air assets.
Due to darkness, firefighters and lifeguards suspended their search Saturday evening at approximately 6 p.m. U.S. Coast Guard personnel continued to search through the night, with no sign of the missing swimmer.
The search was resumed Sunday morning with lifeguards and firefighters on Jet Ski, Rescue 3 aboard Air 1, Jet Ski assets from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), along with air and water assets from the U.S. Coast Guard. Shoreline searches are also being conducted Sunday by the Kaua‘i Police Department and DLNR.
Updates on the search will be given as information becomes available.
Preziose is 5 feet, 11 inches tall and was last seen wearing blue swim shorts. Anyone with information about the missing swimmer is urged to call KPD Dispatch at 241-1711.
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Photo of missing swimmer, Matthew Preziose, courtesy of Kaua‘i Police Department.
Earlier today, First Lady Tammy Murphy tested positive for COVID-19 on a rapid antigen test. She is asymptomatic. Governor Murphy and the rest of the family have tested negative, and they will continue to test regularly in the coming days. The Governor and First Lady tested themselves due to a recent known non-family contact in their home. Required procedures for reporting, case investigation, and contact tracing have been followed. Tomorrow’s regularly scheduled COVID-19 briefing will shift to a virtual format and stream online. As the Governor is vaccinated and boosted, he is not required to quarantine per CDC guidance. He will continue to wear a mask in all public settings. Both the Governor and First Lady are vaccinated and boosted, and have exercised caution whenever possible, including double masking. They urge all New Jerseyans to get vaccinated, get boosted, wear a mask, and keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A Colts Neck man has been arrested and charged with committing a series of three bank robberies in various local municipalities over the course of a little more than a month, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced Monday.
Conor Kavanagh, 29, is charged with three counts of first-degree Armed Robbery.
An investigation was initiated immediately after the first bank robbery, which took place shortly after 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, November 13 at the PNC Bank inside the Stop & Shop supermarket on Route 36 in Keyport. At that time, a man later identified as Kavanagh approached a teller window, passed over a note indicating he was in possession of a weapon, and made off with a quantity of cash, leaving the scene in a green Toyota pickup truck.
At approximately 4 p.m. on Tuesday, December 14, a bank robbery occurred at the Wells Fargo branch on Newman Springs Road in the Lincroft section of Middletown. The bank robbery was committed in identical fashion to the earlier one in Keyport, with the suspect wearing similar clothing, and he left the scene in a green Toyota pickup truck.
Three days later, on Friday, December 17, the Wells Fargo branch on Route 36 in Eatontown was robbed. Again, a suspect passed a note demanding money, indicating that he was in possession of a weapon.
Following the bank robbery in Middletown, Detectives from the Middletown Police Department developed information that led to Kavanagh to being identified as a potential suspect. After the bank robbery in Eatontown, Middletown Detectives and assisting members of the FBI observed Kavanagh driving a green pickup truck that matched the description of the vehicle used in the earlier bank robberies, and placed him under arrest for unrelated charges.
Detectives searched the pickup truck and located proceeds from the Eatontown bank robbery and the clothing the suspect was seen wearing on surveillance footage. They also located information pertaining to a storage unit in Shrewsbury, and a search of that location revealed proceeds from the Keyport and Middletown bank robberies.
Additionally, a search of the cell phone Kavanagh was using contained evidence of online searches for local bank branches.
Kavanagh was lodged in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) pending a first appearance and detention hearing, to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court.
The Prosecutor’s Office would like to thank its partners with the Eatontown, Keyport, and Middletown police departments, as well as members of the FBI’s Newark office, for their invaluable assistance in this investigation.
This case is being prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan. Information regarding Kavanagh’s legal representation was not immediately available.
Convictions on first-degree criminal charges are commonly punishable by terms of 10 to 20 years in state prison.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A Monmouth County grand jury this week returned indictments against two defendants charged with crimes involving distribution and/or possession of child sexual abuse materials, bringing the total number of indictments of this kind over approximately the last month to eight, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced Thursday.
Two of the eight defendants have been charged with first-degree crimes, the most serious applicable offenses under state law.
Indicted on Tuesday were:
Jonathan W. Cruz, 38, of Aberdeen, arrested January 2020 and indicted on charges of first-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials using a File-Sharing Program Available to Others and first-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials; and
Neil Ridgway, 58, of Howell, arrested April 2019 and indicted on charges of third-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials.
Indicted earlier this fall were:
Michael Pipitone, 39, of Middletown, arrested in September 2020 and indicted on charges of first-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials using a File-Sharing Program Available to Others and second-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials;
Charles Hoagland, 57, of Hazlet, arrested in November 2020 and indicted on three counts of second-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and one count of second-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials;
David Eidman, 53, of Long Branch, arrested in November 2020 and indicted on two counts of second-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and single counts of third-degree Endangering via Possession and third-degree Attempted Endangering;
Carl Aliwalas, 29, of Neptune Township, arrested in May 2021 and indicted for second-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and second-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials; and
John Coluzzi, 33, of Manalapan, arrested in May 2021; and Marvin Diaz, 35, of Howell, arrested in November 2019; both were indicted for second-degree Endangering via Distribution and third-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials.
Additionally, earlier this fall, 40-year-old Kenneth Megill of Wall Township, arrested in January 2020, was indicted on charges of third-degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child and third-degree Attempted Obscenity to a Minor for allegedly engaging in inappropriate conversations with and attempting to show inappropriate materials to a juvenile.
Investigations into the actions of these defendants were conducted by members of the Prosecutor’s Office’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, working in tandem with representatives of local police departments in the jurisdictions in which the crimes took place. The cases are assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan.
The Monmouth County ICAC Task Force includes members of the following police departments: Bradley Beach, Eatontown, Howell, Long Branch, Manalapan, Marlboro, Middletown, Neptune Township, Spring Lake, Spring Lake Heights, Tinton Falls, Keyport, Keansburg, Belmar, Holmdel, and Red Bank; the Task Force also receives investigative support from the New Jersey State Police (High Tech Crime Bureau).
Convictions on first-degree criminal charges are commonly punishable by terms of 10 to 20 years in state prison. Second-degree convictions can result in terms of 5 to 10 years; third-degree convictions can result in terms of 3 to 5 years.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Separate investigations have netted fifteen Monmouth County individuals for possessing and or trafficking child sexual abuse materials, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.
Between July 21, 2020 and October 15, 2020, the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Computer Crimes Unit and Monmouth County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force arrested individuals. Assisting in this Operation were members of the New Jersey State Police Digital Technology Investigations Unit (DTIU), the New Jersey ICAC Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Monmouth County Sherriff’s Office, The Monmouth County Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, which includes members from the following police departments: Eatontown, Howell Township, Long Branch, Manalapan, Marlboro, Neptune Twp., Spring Lake, Tinton Falls, and Holmdel; and support from the following Monmouth County Police Departments: Asbury Park, Aberdeen, Middletown, Highlands, Freehold Township and Freehold Borough.
These arrests were designed to reduce online threats to Monmouth County to decrease the market for child sexual exploitation by focusing on those individuals seeking out and trafficking in child pornographic-materials.
The following individuals were arrested:
Antonio Mejia, 38, of 806 5th Avenue, Asbury Park. Mejia was arrested on July 21, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he transmitted numerous images of child sexual abuse materials and engaged in sexual conversations with 3 males under the age of 16. Mejia was charged with one count second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of Child Sexual abuse materials, contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(i), one count of Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Manufacturing an Image of Child Exploitation Material), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(3), one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to 2C:24-4b(5)(b)iii, three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, N.J.S.A 2C:24-4a(1) and three counts of Attempted Obscenity to Minors, 2C:34-3. On July 30, 2020, defendant appeared for a detention hearing before the Honorable Paul X. Escandon, J.S.C. was released on the condition that he have no contact with the victims, no access to social media and no contact with anyone under 18. Mejia is represented by Joy Anderson, Esq. of Eatontown.
Brody Sullivan, 20, of 2 Ithaca Court, Aberdeen was arrested on July 22, 2020 following an investigation that revealed that he was in possession of child sexual abuse materials. Sullivan was charged with one count of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexaul Abuse Material), contrary to 2C:24-4b(5)(b)ii and released on the condition that he have no contact with anyone under 18 and no internet access. Sullivan is represented by Anthony Palumbo, Esq. of Cranford.
Anthony Lichtenau, 36, of 72 Brentwood Road, Eatontown was arrested on July 24, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he was in possession of child sexual abuse materials. Lichtenau was charged with one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material), contrary to 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii) and released on the condition that he have no contact with anyone under 18 and no internet access. Lichtenau is represented by Mitchell Ansell, Esq. of Ocean Township.
Matthew Fahmie, 33, of 30 Northover Place, Middletown, was arrested on September 10, 2020 following an investigation which revealed that he possessed over 1,000 images of child sexual exploitation material. Fahmie was charged with one count of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(ii) and was released on the condition that he have no contact with anyone under 18 and restricted internet access. Fahmie is represented by Richard Incremona, Esq. of Freehold Township.
Valentin Valdetano, 20, of 359 North Bath Avenue, Long Branch, was arrested on July 31, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he possessed and traded images of child sexual abuse materials using a chat platform. Valdetano was charged with second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(i) and third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii). Valdetano was released on the condition that he have no contact with anyone under 18 and that he not use the internet. Valdetano is represented by Charles Moriarty, Esq. of Long Branch.
Zachary Barnett, 24, 984 Twilight Way, Aberdeen, was arrested on August 7, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he possessed images of child sexual abuse materials. Barnett was charged with one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii). Barnett was released on a summons. Barnett is represented by Allison Friedman, Esq. of Freehold.
Brian Wioncek, 62 of 317 Shore Drive, Apartment C, Highlands, was arrested on September 9, 2020 following an investigation that he possessed child sexual abuse materials. Wioncek was charged with one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii). Wioncek was released on the condition that he have no contact with anyone under 18 and that his internet usage is restricted.
John Hynes, 21, of 90 Bannard Street, Freehold, was arrested on August 21, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he possessed images of child sexual abuse materials. Hynes was charged with one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii) and one count of disorderly persons possession of a controlled dangerous substance contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(a)(4). Hynes was released on a summons. Hynes is represented by Charles Clark, Esq. of Freehold.
Michael Townend, 19, 203 Colts Neck Road, Howell, was arrested on August 25, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he possessed images of child sexual abuse materials. Townend was charged with one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii). Townend was released on a summons. Townend is represented by Steven Nelson, Esq. of Neptune.
Robert Sherman, 62, of 112 Route 36, Highlands, was arrested on September 1, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he possessed images of child sexual abuse materials. Sherman was charged with one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4B(5)(b(iii). Sherman was released on a summons. Sherman is represented by Michael Polloway, Esq. of Red Bank.
Michael Pipitone, 38, of 157 Rutledge Drive, Middletown, was arrested on September 2, 2020 following a proactive investigation which revealed he shared over 1,000 images and/or videos of child sexual abuse material. Pipitone was charged with one count of first degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(iii) and second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(ii). Pipitone was released on the condition of home detention, no internet usage and no contact with anyone under 18. Pipitone is represented by John Hogan, Esq. of Woodbridge.
George Ichkitidze, 39, of 27-08 Whistler Drive, Freehold Township, was arrested on September 25, 2020 following a proactive investigation which revealed he shared over 1,000 images and/or videos of child sexual abuse material. Ichkitidze was charged with one count of first degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(iii) and second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(ii). Ichkitidze was released on the condition of home detention, no internet usage and no contact with anyone under 18. Pipitone is represented by Kevin Clark, Esq. of Ocean Township.
Juvenile, of Freehold Borough, was arrested on September 11, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he possessed images of child sexual abuse materials. The juvenile was charged with one count of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(ii).
Thomas Vilanova, 49, of 133 Newbury Road, Howell, was charged on October 13, 2020 following an investigation that revealed that he possessed images of child sexual abuse material. Vilanova was charged with one Count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii). Vilanova is currently on probation for a 2017 conviction for third Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii). Vilanova is scheduled to appear in court before the Honorable Paul X. Escandon, J.S.C. for a detention hearing on October 22, 2020. Vilanova is represented by Michael Wenning, Esq. of Bradley Beach.
Jamie Khan, 43 of 19 Oxford Drive, East Windsor, was charged on October 15, 2020 following an investigation that revealed he was viewing and sending child sexual abuse material while working for his employer in Freehold Township. The investigation further revealed that he was also in possession of child sexual abuse material at his home in East Windsor. Khan was charged with one Count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(b)(iii) and one count of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material), contrary to N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4b(5)(a)(i). Khan was released on the condition of no internet usage and no unsupervised contact with anyone under 18.
If convicted of the first degree Endangering charge, a defendant will face a maximum sentence of 20 years in New Jersey State Prison, Megan’s Law, and Parole Supervision for Life. If convicted of the second degree Endangering charge, a defendant will face a maximum sentence of ten years in New Jersey State Prison Megan’s Law and Parole Supervision for Life. If convicted of the third degree Endangering charge, a defendant will face a maximum sentence of five years in New Jersey State Prison and Parole Supervision for Life. A conviction for disorderly persons Possession of Less than 50 Grams of Marijuana exposes a defendant to a maximum sentence of six months incarceration.
Ichkitidze’s case is assigned to Assistant Prosecutor Diane Aifer, Financial Crimes and Public Corruption Unit; the remaining cases are assigned to Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan, Computer Crimes Unit.
Anyone who feels the need to remain anonymous but has information about a crime can submit a tip to Monmouth County Crime Stoppers by calling their confidential telephone tip-line at 1-800-671-4400; by downloading and using the free P3 Tips mobile app (available on iOS and Android – https://www.p3tips.com/1182), by calling 800-671-4400 or by going to the website at www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–As you may be aware, this year’s November General Election in New Jersey is being conducted primarily by mail-in ballots, per State mandate. On November 3, 2020, Election Day, limited polling locations will be open for voting on paper provisional ballots only, except for disabled voters.
Voters across Monmouth County are receiving their mail-in ballots this week and are encouraged to contact the County Clerk’s Election Office at 732-431-7790, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with any questions about the delivery of their ballots.
Due to this unprecedented change in our election process, Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon has provided a comprehensive webpage on MonmouthCountyVotes.com, explaining this year’s election process.
In addition, our office has provided video tutorials, including an animated step-by-step video informing Monmouth County voters of how to properly complete and return their mail-in ballots. The tutorial also explains how the paper ballots are reviewed and verified by the Monmouth County Board of Elections.
The video can be viewed on our Facebook and YouTube pages. We encourage you to share this important information with your friends and neighbors.
Election Hotline Established to Secure Election Integrity
To help ensure free and fair elections in Monmouth County, the County Election Offices and Prosecutor’s Office have established an election hotline. To report any issues of voter fraud or misconduct in Monmouth County, residents can call the County Prosecutor’s Office hotline at 855-786-5878.
“Our democratic system of government depends on free and fair elections and, as such, election integrity and security is important to all of us,” said County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni and County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon. “For these reasons, our offices are working together to further safeguard the electoral process.”
Upcoming Dates and Voter Deadlines
Monday, October 12th: All County Offices closed in observance of Columbus Day
Tuesday, October 13th:Voter Registration Deadline for the November General Election
Friday, October 30th: Application Deadline for General Election Mail-In Ballots by Electronic Means for Qualified Overseas Civilian and Military Voters
Tuesday, November 3rd at 8 p.m.: Close of the polls; Deadline to deliver mail-in ballot by U.S. Postal Service mail, Drop Box, or in-person to the County Board of Elections at 300 Halls Mill Road in Freehold or at assigned Polling Place.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–New Jersey State Police Seeking Public’s Assistance with Locating Missing Endangered Woman The New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit and Middletown Township Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance with locating Mary Silengo, 62, of Middletown Township, N.J.Ms. Silengo was last seen on Tuesday, September 22, at approximately 11:00 p.m. at her residence in the area of Concord Court , Middletown Township, Monmouth County. Ms. Silengo is described as a white female, 5’2″, 121 pounds, with blonde-grey hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a bright pink pajama shirt, grey sweatpants, a dark-colored jacket and black boots. She left without her vehicle and cell phone. Ms. Silengo suffers from a mental illness and is in need of her medications. Anyone with information is asked to call the New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit at (609) 882-2000 ext. 2554 or Middletown Police Department at (732) 615-2100. Anonymous tips are welcome.
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An Allentown resident told MidJersey.News that around 11 pm last night a delivery crew installed a Vote-By-Mail Drop Box in front of Allentown at Borough Hall on Main Street. There are currently 17 Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County, this is the furthest west serving Western Monmouth County.
Pursuant to State law, the November 3, 2020 General Election will be conducted primarily by Mail-In Ballot in New Jersey.
If you wish to place your Mail-In Ballot in a secure drop box, below are the locations throughout the County which will be available starting the week of September 15. Addresses in the list below are clickable and will bring up Google Maps.
Voters can drop their voted Mail-In Ballot into these Board of Elections Drop Boxes anywhere in the County up until 8 p.m. on November 3, 2020. You do not have to be a resident of the town where the drop box is located. Be advised that these drop boxes are under video surveillance and are monitored by the Monmouth County Board of Elections, which can be reached at 732-431-7802.
For more information about the General Election process, click here.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The National Weather Service Burlington-Mount Holly has confirmed an EF0 tornado that touched down yesterday in Middletown Township, Monmouth County in the Lincroft section of town. The tornado touched down at Brookdale Community College at the baseball field, a set of bleachers were tossed. The tornado then crossed Phalanx Road and into a residential area damaging trees that fell on homes and causing damage. See full NWS statement below:
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MOUNT HOLLY NJ
1108 AM EDT THU AUG 20 2020
...NWS DAMAGE SURVEY FOR 08/19/20 TORNADO EVENT...
.LINCROFT TORNADO...
START LOCATION...LINCROFT IN MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ
END LOCATION...LINCROFT IN MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ
DATE...AUGUST 19, 2020
ESTIMATED TIME...9:57 TO 9:59 AM EDT
MAXIMUM EF-SCALE RATING...EF0
ESTIMATED MAXIMUM WIND SPEED...80 MPH
MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH...70 YARDS
PATH LENGTH...1.21 MILES
BEGINNING LAT/LON...40.3220/-74.1283
ENDING LAT/LON...40.3179/-74.1061
* FATALITIES...0
* INJURIES...0
...SUMMARY...
A TORNADO TOUCHED DOWN ON A BASEBALL FIELD ON THE CAMPUS OF
BROOKDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN THE LINCROFT SECTION OF MIDDLETOWN
TOWNSHIP IN MONMOUTH COUNTY, NEW JERSEY. IT TOSSED A SET OF METAL
BLEACHERS ADJACENT TO THE FIELD, THEN CROSSED OVER PHALANX ROAD INTO
A RESIDENTIAL AREA, WITH NUMEROUS TREES SUSTAINING DAMAGE ON AND
AROUND HICKORY LANE. TREE DAMAGE MAINLY CONSISTED OF BROKEN LIMBS
AND THE SNAPPING OF SOME TREES NEAR THEIR TOPS. AT LEAST ONE TREE
WAS ALSO UPROOTED IN THIS AREA. THE TORNADO CONTINUED A LITTLE SOUTH
OF DUE EAST AND PASSED NEAR THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE SWIMMING
RIVER RESERVOIR, CAUSING ADDITIONAL TREE DAMAGE. THE TORNADO THEN
ENTERED ANOTHER RESIDENTIAL AREA NEAR SWIMMING RIVER ROAD AND
NORMANDY ROAD, PRODUCING A CONTINUED PATH OF DAMAGED TREES. THE
TORNADO LIFTED AS IT ENTERED THE RIVERDALE WEST PARK, WHERE TREE
DAMAGE WAS NO LONGER OBSERVED. THE TORNADO DID NOT APPEAR TO CAUSE
ANY DIRECT STRUCTURAL DAMAGE, THOUGH A COUPLE OF HOMES SUSTAINED
DAMAGE FROM FALLING TREE DEBRIS. THE DEGREE OF DAMAGE IS CONSISTENT
WITH AN EF0 TORNADO WITH ESTIMATED MAXIMUM WINDS OF 80 MPH AND A
CONTINUOUS, RELATIVELY NARROW PATH OF AROUND 70 YARDS IN WIDTH.
THANKFULLY, NO INJURIES OCCURRED AS A RESULT OF THIS TORNADO.
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE MONMOUTH COUNTY
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, NEW JERSEY STATE POLICE, AND LOCAL
OFFICIALS WITH MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP FOR THEIR ASSISTANCE IN THIS
SURVEY. THESE CONCLUSIONS ARE PRELIMINARY AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE
SHOULD ADDITIONAL INFORMATION COME TO OUR ATTENTION.
EF SCALE: THE ENHANCED FUJITA SCALE CLASSIFIES TORNADOES INTO THE
FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:
EF0...WEAK......65 TO 85 MPH
EF1...WEAK......86 TO 110 MPH
EF2...STRONG....111 TO 135 MPH
EF3...STRONG....136 TO 165 MPH
EF4...VIOLENT...166 TO 200 MPH
EF5...VIOLENT...>200 MPH
* THE INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT IS PRELIMINARY AND SUBJECT TO
CHANGE PENDING FINAL REVIEW OF THE EVENT AND PUBLICATION IN NWS
STORM DATA.
As noted in the original post the SBA Sergeants Benevolent Association will be organizing the “Tribute In Light” this year: (bumped to the top so you can find it easier)
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Mayor of Middletown sent a letter to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum to express deep disappointment and outrage against the decision not to have the “Tribute in Light” in New York City this year. Middletown Township lost 37 members of the community on 9/11. The mayor called not having the lights a disgrace and is disgusted that the National September 11 Memorial & Museum Board has cancelled the largest visible tribute to those who made the greatest sacrifice for our country.
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry states that Middletown, NJ would host the lights if New York City does not want to.
Union Beach, NJ has also stated they will host beams of light from their waterfront.
Personal Facebook statement from Al Lewandowski Borough of Union Beach Councilman: Ok so NYC can’t do the lights because it’s not safe… So starting on Friday September 11 at 7pm till 10 pm and Saturday the 12th same time Union Beach will keep their PROMISE. We’ll have the beams in the air from our waterfront. More to follow on this event. We would like to thank our Union Beach Recreation with this tribute. Never Forget!
NYC Sergeants Benevolent Association
NYC Belongs to the People, The Lights Will Go On…
Ed Mullins, the President of the 13,000 member NYC Sergeants Benevolent Association, announced today that the SBA will host a Tribute in Light on the evening of September 11, 2020. This is in response to the city canceling the annual commemoration of the 9/11 terrorist attacks because of COVID-19 concerns.
“Mayor de Blasio has once again failed to represent the people of this city with his inability to provide a viable alternative to this sacred annual event,” said Mullins.
“He allowed mass protests and riots in the city with no concerns whatsoever about the pandemic. He has shown time and again that he has no allegiance to crime victims in this city, whether they are killed in street encounters or by terrorists.
“The 9/11 attacks was an act of war on our nation, and the Tribute in Light remembrance paid tribute to the nearly 3,000 innocent victims who were murdered that day, as well as all of the people that continue to die from 9/11 related ailments and illnesses. These victims include members of the NYPD, PAPD, FDNY and other First Responders, as well as all of the people who went to work that day and died for our country.
“The mayor won’t find a way to honor these heroes, but the SBA will pay tribute to all of the fallen victims by arranging for a Tribute in Light. A twin beam of light will shine on the evening of 9/11. The men and women of the Sergeants Benevolent Association will make sure of that.
“The mayor might have a short and selective memory, but the members of the NYPD will NEVER FORGET the sacrifice of every person who lost their life that fateful day.”
NEW YORK CITY FIREFIGHTERS SLAM CANCELLATION OF 9/11 LIGHT OBSERVANCE
9/11 Survivors Call for Reversal of Decision to Cancel Towers of Light
NEW YORK, NY: FDNY-Uniformed Firefighters Association President Andrew Ansbro released the following statement slamming the decision by the 9/11 Museum to cancel the 9/11 Tribute Lights that have brightened the sky above downtown Manhattan for 18 consecutive years in memorial of the lives lost on September 11, 2001:
“New York City Firefighters stand united in opposition to the cancellation of the annual Towers of Light. The first responders and New Yorkers who have lived through September 11, 2001, and now persevered through the coronavirus pandemic, are feeling betrayed. I haven’t spoken to a single tradesman that isn’t ready and willing to work — especially, to complete the honor of lighting the sky on the anniversary of the darkest day in American history. These are more than light beams displayed once a year — they are beams of solace for a still-grieving nation and the literal embodiment of ‘never forget.’
“The Towers of Light have been, and will always be, a symbol showing that New York City and this country can not be kept down, and will stand strong and proud in the face of any tragedy or disaster. It shines to the heavens as a reminder of those we have lost. There has been no time where this message is more relevant and poignant.
“To remove this display this year, of all years, is an indication that the museum does not understand the value, or the importance, of the sacred duties in which they have been entrusted. These lights are a symbol that brings about raw emotion from all New Yorkers, especially those who lost loved ones and responded that day. I call upon the museum to reverse their decision, or risk becoming a new source of loss as New Yorkers look above to an empty sky as we hope to emerge from these dark times. The Uniformed Firefighters Association is an organization of action and we will not stand by. We are prepared to take action if the decision is not reversed,” said Andrew Ansbro, President, Uniformed Firefighters Association.
The ceremonial “Towers of Light” that shine from NYC in tribute to those lost on 9/11 are an iconic symbol of hope. Because Tunnel to Towers is fully committed to the idea that we must NEVER FORGET, the Foundation is doing everything in its power to make sure that the Towers of Light will once again be illuminated. Read more: https://tunnel2towers.org/911-reading-names/
MidJersey.News was in Middletown and Atlantic Highlands on 9/11/2001 below are scenes from the Monmouth County shoreline. 37 Middletown residents and thousands of others never returned.
Never Forget:
MidJersey.News file photos from Atlantic Highlands and Middletown Township ambulances waited for survivors to be brought to the docks and a view of the smoke plume from the WTC site as seen from Monmouth County, NJ. MidJersey.News was there that day and will never forget.
MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–At 4:38 pm on Friday, August 7, 2020 the Middletown Township Fire Department was dispatched to a back deck fire on a one story structure fire at 97 Stavola Road in the Middletown section of the Township.
Upon arrival MTFD Second Assistant Chief John Waltz declared a reported working structure fire with heavy fire on the back deck with extension into the main structure and requested and additional companies be dispatched for additional firefighters and Rapid Intervention Team support to protect firefighters as they fight the fire.
Chief Waltz directed the first engine to deploy an initial 1 3/4” attack lines to the front door. Search and rescue teams confirmed the structure was unoccupied. The initial attack line was then backed up by two additional 1 ¾” lines which extinguished the fire. 400’ of 5” Large Diameter Hose (LDH) was deployed from the nearest hydrant to deliver water to scene. Thermal imaging cameras were employed to ensure all fire was found and extinguished. Ventilation fans were employed to remove the smoke from the structure.
The building utilities were secured by New Jersey Natural Gas, Jersey Central Power and Light and New Jersey American Water. The fire was called under control by Chief Russell Mount III at 5:10 p.m. All units were cleared from the scene at 7:40 p.m. Approximately 40 members from 5 companies of the Middletown Township Fire Department responded to the call from Navesink, Belford Engine, Community, Middletown Number 1 and River Plaza Hose Fire Companies. The MTFD Air Unit and the Safety Unit responded. Six Emergency Medical Service members from Fairview, Leonardo and Port Monmouth First Aid Squads responded with three ambulances and a rehabilitation unit to provide firefighter rehabilitation and medical services to all firefighters. No firefighter or civilian injuries were reported.
All units operated safely under the supervision of Middletown Township Fire Department Chief Russell Mount III. The fire is being investigated by the Middletown Township Fire Marshall’s office.
Photos by Laurie Kegley, MTFD Public Information Officer Photographer
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Middletown, NJ –Middletown Twp. Chief of Police R. Craig Weber announced an arrest in connection to a series of incidents of vandalism to a number of houses of worship within the township. Arrested on this date is Natalee A. Hamilton, 34, of Middletown. Hamilton is charged with four counts of Criminal Mischief, three counts of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, and one count of Resisting Arrest.
“This series of crimes committed against houses of worship is deeply disturbing, especially as it occurred during the pandemic when so many people have relied upon their faith for comfort and support in these very difficult times.” stated Chief Weber. “I would like to acknowledge and commend our Detective Bureau for their dedication and outstanding investigative efforts in identifying and apprehending the individual responsible for these crimes.”
The locations victimized include Westminster Presbyterian Church located at 94 Tindall Road, New Monmouth Baptist Church at 4 Cherry Tree Farm Road, and Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 743 Leonardville Road. In each case of vandalism, the suspect smashed out the building windows with rocks. The vandalism first occurred at Westminster Presbyterian Church on June 1st. New Monmouth Baptist was vandalized on July 14th. All three houses of worship were attacked on July 19th, 2020. On Sunday July 26th, Westminster Presbyterian church was victimized a third time. The initial incidents occurred during overnight hours. However, the July 26th incident at Westminster Presbyterian Church happened during broad daylight, occurring at approximately 11:05a.m, while parishioners were still present at the church.
The charges stem from the attacks that occurred at the three locations on July 19th and the July 26th attack at Westminster Presbyterian Church. The defendant was processed and subsequently lodged in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution in Freehold.
The matter is being treated as a possible bias crime and is still under investigation by Detective First Class Darrin Simon. Any additional organization that may have been the victim of vandalism or anyone with information pertinent to this investigation is asked to call the Middletown Police Detective Bureau at (732) 615-2120.
Any persons arrested or charged with offenses are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Additionally, except in specific circumstances, arrest and complaint information and names of those charged may be released.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Middletown Twp. Police Department is currently investigating a series of incidents of vandalism to a number of houses of worship within the township.
The locations victimized include Westminster Presbyterian Church located at 94 Tindall Road, New Monmouth Baptist Church at 4 Cherry Tree Farm Road, and Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 743 Leonardville Road. In each case of vandalism, the suspect smashed out the building windows with rocks.
The vandalism first occurred at Westminster Presbyterian Church on June 1, 2020. New Monmouth Baptist was vandalized on July 14, 2020. All three houses of worship were attacked on July 19th, 2020. On Sunday July 26, 2020, Westminster Presbyterian church was victimized a third time. The initial incidents occurred during overnight hours. However, the July 26th incident at Westminster Presbyterian Church happened during broad daylight, occurring at approximately 11:05 a.m, while parishioners were still present at the church.
The suspect is an African American female, mid 20’s to mid 30’s, driving a silver or gray Chevy Malibu. Although there is no information regarding the vehicle registration, the vehicle does have a trailer hitch and there is a noticeable dent in the rear passenger side bumper.
The matter is being treated as a possible bias crime and is currently under investigation by Detective First Class Darrin Simon. Anyone with information is asked to call the Middletown Police Detective Bureau at (732) 615-2120
The Middletown Twp. Police take these crimes very seriously and do everything we can to protect the residents of Middletown and their property.
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Sunday was busy day all along the shore with boat issues and fires. At Sandy Hook the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit, US Coast Guard, FDNY Marine Unit and NYPD Air Sea Rescue were on scene and rescued four people from a sinking boat at Sandy Hook. See photos released by the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office below:
A busy day in water on Sun as #MCSONJ’s Marine 1 @NYPDnews Air Sea Rescue, @FDNY Marine Unit & @USCG rescued 4 from sinking boat off Sandy Hook. One was air lifted to hospital. All are safe as a result of quick response& decisive actions. @SheriffGolden commends all for gr8 work.
A busy day in water on Sun as #MCSONJ’s Marine 1 @NYPDnews Air Sea Rescue, @FDNY Marine Unit & @USCG rescued 4 from sinking boat off Sandy Hook. One was air lifted to hospital. All are safe as a result of quick response&desicive actions. @SheriffGolden commends all for gr8 work. pic.twitter.com/MAG886OfqE
— Monmouth County Sheriff's Office (@MonmouthSheriff) July 13, 2020
MIDDLETOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)—The Reopen New Jersey, “March For Unity, Peace & Prosperity” was held today at Bodman Park then marched to Governor Phil Murphy’s residence about 2/3 of a mile away.
A crowd of a couple hundred gathered at the park and listened to several speakers that included business owners, gym owners, clergy and politicians stressing the importance to reopen businesses in NJ. Speakers also complained of Phil Murphy violating his own executive orders after attending protests last week, while Reopen NJ protesters received summonses for organizing similar protests. After about an hour of speakers the crowd decided to start marching towards the Murphy residence.
The route along Market Street, Navesink River Road and Blossom Cove Road was well patrolled by the professional staff of the Middletown Township Police Department who stopped traffic and set cones along the route to protect the marchers from traffic. Protesters thanked the police for their service during the march to and from the Murphy home.
Protesters gathered in front of the well-manicured landscape and security gate and protested for over an hour. During the protest Middletown Police asked the protesters to make way for a car with NY plates with a Murphy bumper sticker going into the Murphy compound and two other vehicles believed to be driven by Phil Murphy’s sons. The one Murphy son leaving seemed to be startled by the amount of protesters that he drove up and onto the cobblestone curb of the front landscaping before speeding off toward Navisink River Road.
The affluent neighborhood is well known to past and present celebrities living in the area such as Jon Bon Jovi, Debbie Harry, Geraldo Rivera, Jon Stewart and more.
According to the Monmouth County Clerk Open Public Records Search System (OPRS), the swanky property in the upper crust neighborhood of 45 Blossom Cove Road is owned by Philip and Tammy Murphy. The lavish property is currently assessed at a mere $9,728,100.00 and contains 14,920 square feet of livable space. From satellite views it features an approximately 225-foot private dock on the Navasink River, private tennis courts, gardens, what appears to be a soccer field, pool, pool house, gazebo and more. The Murphy’s pay three times the median home income in NJ in property taxes alone, current taxes on the property are $209,225 the median yearly average income in New Jersey pales in comparison at only $72,062.
Coming in at just shy of 15k square feet a property of such size must create a large carbon footprint, much more than the average home in NJ. From satellite views there does not seem to be any renewable energy sources on the Murphy property such as solar panels, windmills or the like. The property does not seem to be a champion for the environment.
MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Yesterday, troopers from the Marine Services Bureau Carteret Station rescued three kayakers who were stranded on Spermaceti Cove after one of their kayaks capsized in Sandy Hook Bay.
At approximately 5:56 p.m., Sergeant Satsay Thongvichith, Trooper I John Oliveira, and Trooper I Tamas Antal were dispatched to the report of three distressed kayakers half a mile off the coast of Sandy Hook. When troopers arrived, they observed the victims stranded on the sandbar, unable to return to shore due to the rough conditions.
The victims were beginning to show signs of hypothermia, so the troopers knew they had to get to them as quickly as possible.
Trooper I Oliveira donned a wetsuit and entered the water in order to render aid to the victims. The troopers immediately pulled the kayakers onto their vessel and provided them with thermal blankets to prevent the onset of hypothermia.
The victims were transported to the State Police Atlantic Highlands Sub-Station, where they were met by medical personnel. They were treated on scene and released.
Outstanding job by Sgt. Thongvichith, Tpr. I Oliveira, and Tpr. I Antal for their lifesaving rescue.
MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Yesterday, troopers from the Marine Services Bureau Carteret Station rescued three kayakers who were stranded on Spermaceti Cove after one of their kayaks capsized in Sandy Hook Bay.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER) – For the first time ever, the annual Congressional Art Competition held by Rep. Chris Smith as part of a national competition for his district’s high school students, will be a “virtual” online show to ensure the safety of students, parents, teachers and the interested public.
In response to the coronavirus national emergency, the artwork, which is normally displayed for a month at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton’s Lakefront Gallery, will be posted on Smith’s congressional website ensuring that the students who have worked for many months can still take part in the national competition.
“For these young student artists whose school year has been turned upside down by coronavirus, I am happy we found a way forward and I am grateful to the parents, judges and teachers for making needed adjustments,” Smith said.
“We received strong support for a virtual art competition rather than cancel the show outright due to COVID-19 restrictions,” Smith said. “Safety is paramount, and a virtual gallery enables us to proceed safely not only for the students and parents, but for the patients and workers at RWJ-Hamilton, which has in the past, graciously hosted the show,” he said.
“I am delighted that this year’s show wasn’t canceled, but continued as an online competition,” said Wall High School art teacher, Jill Alexander, who has been preparing her students to enter the show every year for the past six years. “Students in the 4th district are thankful for the great show that Congressman Chris Smith puts on each year, but especially this year because of the challenges everyone is facing.”
“We love going to Robert Wood Johnson’s impressive gallery, and unfortunately that just wasn’t possible this year. My students start working in September preparing their best artwork to submit, and this show is the highlight of the year for us.
“High school students across the country will miss the opportunity to participate in many events this year, including proms, sporting events and even graduation,” Alexander said. “We are really pleased the art competition survives.”
The 2020 show will be exhibited in a virtual art gallery, will use online judging, with winners to be announced in May. Smith’s three-member team of professional judges, whose works are also normally displayed at the show, will also have artwork posted in an online gallery.
This year, students who place in the competition—as best-of-show, and first, second and third runners-up and honorable mentions—will receive ribbons and all participants will be mailed Congressional Certificates, instead of being presented them in person.
The best-in-show winner will be displayed in the Capitol Building in Washington along the busy public corridor/tunnel between the Cannon House Office Building and the Capitol Building for one year with other winners from across the nation. All the artwork entered into Smith’s competition this year will be displayed in his online gallery for one year.
Every year the Congressional Institute sponsors this national high school art competition to recognize and foster artistic talent in each congressional district. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Participation in the contest is at the discretion of each Member office. Currently, the Institute plans to accept the top winning artwork from every congressional show in America by June 18 and hold a reception in Washington on July 22.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students.
Local coverage area semifinalists:
Vineeth Duggirala, East Windsor – Mercer County Technical Schools – Health Science Academy
Jonathan Li Lin, Cranbury – Princeton High School
Lucy Zou, East Brunswick – East Brunswick High School
Laura Futamura, Middletown – High Technology High School
New Jersey Full List: NJ – Rohan Amin, Denville – Delbarton School **NJ – Grace Elizabeth Brokenshire, Woodbury Heights – Gateway Regional High School **NJ – Alicia Caichen, Paramus – Bergen County Technical Hs NJ – Elizabeth Angelina Caso, High Bridge – North Hunterdon High School *NJ – Elli Choi, Tenafly – Tenafly High School NJ – Eunice Y. Chong, Demarest – Northern Valley Regional High School NJ – Shawnak Deb, New Providence – Union County Magnet High School NJ – Vineeth Duggirala, East Windsor – Mercer County Technical Schools – Health Science Academy *NJ – Laura Futamura, Middletown – High Technology High School *NJ – Felicia He, Saddle River – The Brearley School NJ – Kevin Huang, Bellmawr – Triton Regional High School NJ – Jonathan Koa, Mahwah – Mahwah High School **NJ – Dong Jun Lee, Fort Lee – Bergen County Technical High School NJ – YoungEun Lee, Demarest – Northern Valley Regional High School *NJ – Jeffrey Xiang Liao, Livingston – Livingston High School NJ – Jonathan Li Lin, Cranbury – Princeton High School NJ – Shreya Nuli, Bridgewater – Bridgewater-Raritan Regional High School NJ – Ojas Parmar, Edison – Rutgers Preparatory School NJ – Jason Ping, Fort Lee – Academy for the Advancement of Science & Technology NJ – Katie Volpert, Highland Park – Highland Park High School **NJ – Alan Yeung, Sparta – Sparta High School NJ – Ethan Zhang, Short Hills – Millburn High School NJ – Kathryn Shao Zheng, Tenafly – Tenafly High School NJ – Lucy Zou, East Brunswick – East Brunswick High School
3 NJ Firefighters we know of have been lost to COVID-19 as reported within the past 24 hours, if you know of other NJ first responder, police, fire, EMS passings please use contact tab on top of page.
Michael Burke was a 48-year member of Singac Fire Company #3,
Captain Richard P Campbell, Edison Fire Department
Robert Weber, was a member of Middletown, New Jersey’s First Aid and Rescue Squad, a member of Port Monmouth Fire Company and the Middletown Fire Department’s Air Unit.
Michael Burke was a 48-year member of Singac Fire Company #3, and for 26 of those years, he served as the Company’s president. He also served for 14 years as president of the Little Falls Fire Department. We mourn his passing alongside his family and the Little Falls community.
Michael Burke was a 48-year member of Singac Fire Company #3, and for 26 of those years, he served as the Company’s president. He also served for 14 years as president of the Little Falls Fire Department. We mourn his passing alongside his family and the Little Falls community.
Alex Ruperto, Union City Police Department
It is with great sadness that the City of Union City in conjunction with the Union City Police Department notify you of the passing of Police Officer, Alex Ruperto.
Officer Ruperto grew up in Union City and graduated from Emerson High School in 1986. In 1999, he graduated from the Bergen County Police Academy, Class #82. Officer Ruperto was one of the original members of the Emergency Services Unit (“ESU”) and was most recently assigned as a Detective in the Training Division.
Officer Ruperto, 52, resided in Glen Ridge and leaves behind two adult children, Juliana and Alex, Jr. Juliana is an employed by the Union City Police Department as a Public Safety Telecommunicator.
“Alex was kind, patient, soft-spoken and genuine. My heart breaks for his family and his UCPD family, especially in ESU as they knew him best.” said Chief Nichelle Luster. “It is devastating that his family and co-workers who could not be by his side when he passed. Alex was a good person and an exceptional officer and I know we will all remember him fondly.”
“My heart is heavy today after learning of Alex’s passing,” said Mayor Brian P.Stack. “I have always known Alex to be a consummate professional who is competent and compassionate. My thoughts and prayers are with Alex’s family, friends and his fellow officers in the police department. I ask at this time that all residents of Union City keep Alex’s family and the Union City Police Department in your thoughts and prayers.”
#SheriffGolden and the #MCSONJ are deeply saddened over the loss of Robert Weber. Weber was a member of Middletown, New Jersey’s First Aid and Rescue Squad, a member of Port Monmouth Fire Company and the Middletown Fire Department’s Air Unit. This dedicated first responder is another hero who we lost in the fight against #COVID19. In an effort to honor Weber and his family, as we adhere to social distancing, a procession of cars driven by first responders, is being coordinated tonight at 6pm, through emergency services, starting at the Port Monmouth Fire Department, Main Street and Wilson Ave, for those interested in attending. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of our heroes on the front lines who have succumbed to COVID19.
Monmouth County has 4,299 positive cases of COVID-19
FREEHOLD, NJ – Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley have announced that, as of April 16, the State is reporting 177 new positive cases of COVID-19 in Monmouth County, bringing the total to 4,299.
The breakdown by municipality is as follows:
Aberdeen: 121
Allenhurst: 2
Allentown: 3
Asbury Park: 79
Atlantic Highlands: 16
Avon-by-the-Sea: 9
Belmar: 8
Bradley Beach: 17
Brielle: 22
Colts Neck: 50
Deal: 23
Eatontown: 126
Englishtown: 16
Fair Haven: 17
Farmingdale: 10
Freehold Borough: 135
Freehold Township: 357
Hazlet: 161
Highlands: 19
Holmdel: 145
Howell: 386
Interlaken: 1
Keansburg: 70
Keyport: 53
Lake Como: 12
Little Silver: 26
Loch Arbour: 1
Long Branch: 236
Manalapan: 319
Manasquan: 23
Marlboro: 303
Matawan: 112
Middletown: 336
Millstone: 51
Monmouth Beach: 14
Neptune City: 23
Neptune Township: 223
Ocean: 178
Oceanport: 39
Red Bank: 85
Roosevelt: 2
Rumson: 24
Sea Bright: 7
Sea Girt: 9
Shrewsbury Borough: 25
Shrewsbury Township: 7
Spring Lake: 6
Spring Lake Heights: 15
Tinton Falls: 82
Union Beach: 29
Upper Freehold: 28
Wall: 151
West Long Branch: 48
Unknown: 39
Monmouth County news updates and information regarding the COVID-19 situation are posted at www.visitmonmouth.com.
Covid-19 Total Cases (4254) In Ocean County:
Total as of Thursday, 4/16/2020 at 11:30 am
Effective as of March 28, 2020, the data represented below identifies the municipality or mailing address which was self-reported by the resident at the time of testing. It may not necessarily represent the municipality of residence.
FREEHOLD, NJ – On behalf of the Board of Chosen Freeholders, Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley held a press conference today to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation and additional support that the County will supply the business community.
“Since the start of the Take Out in Monmouth initiative last week, we have complied well over 750 businesses, which can be found at www.takeoutinmonmouth.com,” said Freeholder Director Arnone, liaison to the Divisions of Economic Development and Tourism. “Today, we are now adding breweries and wineries to this online list to further boost the local economy. These business owners are our friends, neighbors and community leaders and we owe our support to these individuals and their employees during this difficult time.”
Visit the Screaming Hill Brewery page for barnside pickup. Orders placed the day before will be ready the next day for pickup. Try the “Blood Orange” a midjersey.news favorite.
Visit Screamin Hill our local farm fresh brewery for barn side pickup. Remember to place order the day before for pickup the next day.
Heavenly Havens Has Ice Cream Takeout Window:
LaPiazza Delivers now, you might be lucky enough to have DJ Nebbs deliver for you:
Together, Monmouth County municipalities, local chambers as well as the County Divisions of Economic Development and Tourism continue to research and identify all food grocers, breweries, wineries and restaurants open. While the County works to maintain an updated list, email TakeOutInMonmouth@visitmonmouth.com to be listed or request a change in listing.
“As a result of mounting cases and more and more residents becoming increasingly frightened to leave their own home, the Monmouth County Aging Disability Resource Center has prepared the COVID-19 Resource Guide to assist seniors and residents with disabilities who may be struggling to acquire basic needs during this health pandemic,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Kiley, liaison to the Department of Human Services. “The County has been extensively collaborating with local officials and the guide will be frequently updated to reflect the most current services and resources offered by municipality.”
In addition to Monmouth County ADRC (Aging Disability Resource Center), Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Communities Through Services) has been directing residents to Monmouth Resource Net, an online directory of community and health resources and services, information about residential mortgage relief as well as mental health support.
The Freeholders also discussed the Executive Order signed on Thursday, April 7 by the Governor, closing all Monmouth County parks indefinitely.
“I would like to publicly state that I do not support the indefinite closure of all county parks in New Jersey. I also find it unacceptable that we have no input as to when they will reopen. There are a number of options that could have been considered as an alternative to completely closing county parks, including limiting hours, days, et cetera,” said Freeholder Director Arnone. “The Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders has felt, throughout this entire pandemic, that our County parks are essential for our residents’ mental health and a great choice for passive recreation.I promise that we will open our parks immediately as soon as the Executive Order is lifted.”
All public is restricted from parks and golf courses. Park and golf course entrances and parking lots are gated or barricaded and visitors who gain park access by foot or bike will be directed to leave, as the parks will still be patrolled. Marina services are suspended but owners will have access to their boats.
Monmouth County news updates and information regarding the COVID-19 situation are posted at www.visitmonmouth.com.
All State and County Parks are closed in NJ. Some local parks are closed and some local parks are open, check with each town because status changes daily.
FREEHOLD – Three men are facing charges related to the shooting of a 20-year-old Eatontown man last month, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.
John Carozza, 18, of the 400 block of South Laurel Avenue in Middletown; Rashahn Tucker, 19, of the 100 block of Seabreeze Avenue in Middletown; and Leo Morabito, of the first block of North Shore Street in Keansburg, are each charged with two counts of first degree attempted murder, one count of second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and one count of second degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. All three men are being held in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution pending a future court date.
Eatontown Police were dispatched to 174 Main Street on Friday, March 13, 2020 at 4:54 p.m., in response to a 911 call for a man shot. Upon arrival police found a 20-year-old Eatontown man with gunshot wounds. He was transported to an area hospital where he was treated for a serious injury.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to call Detective Stephen Cavendish of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office at 1-800-533-7443, or Detective Brett Paulus of the Eatontown Police Department at 732-542-0100
If convicted of Attempted Murder, each of the men faces a minimum sentence of 20 years in a New Jersey state prison, subject to the provisions of the “No Early Release Act” (NERA) requiring them to serve 85 percent of the sentence imposed before becoming eligible for release on parole. Each would also be under parole supervision for five years following release from state prison.
If convicted of the second degree crimes, they each face a sentence of five to ten years in prison. Each of these crimes is subject to the Graves Act, which requires a mandatory period of parole ineligibility of one half of the custodial sentence imposed, or 42 months, whichever is greater.
The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Decker, Director of the Office’s Major Crimes Bureau.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
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