NEWARK, N.J. – A Virginia man was convicted for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger announced today.
Djavon Holland, 37, of Virginia, was convicted on April 15, 2024, by a federal jury of two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl following trial before U.S. District Judge Peter G. Sheridan in Trenton federal court.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial:
In August 2021, law enforcement officials received information that Holland was engaged in narcotics trafficking in or around the Virginia area and New Jersey. On Aug. 12, 2021, a confidential source working with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office contacted Holland to arrange a meeting with a confidential source working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). On several occasions, Holland drove to New Jersey and sold fentanyl to ATF’s confidential source.
The narcotics offenses each carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison, and a fine of $5 million. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the ATF, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller, and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, with the investigation leading to the conviction.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan N. Linares and Jenny Chung of the Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An Ocean County man has been convicted of fatally strangling his wife following an argument and leaving her body on the side of a road in Ocean Township about a year and a half ago, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
A jury returned a guilty verdict against 53-year-old Jeremy B. Cruz of Forked River following a trial before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Jill G. O’Malley.
Just after 1 a.m. on Sunday, October 30, 2022, a woman who appeared to have sustained severe injuries was observed by a concerned motorist on Colonial Avenue, near the intersection with Asbury Avenue. Upon responding, Ocean Township Police Department officers located the victim, identified as 51-year-old Dawn C. Cruz, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
At approximately the same time, Jeremy Cruz turned himself in to authorities at Berkeley Township Police Department headquarters in Ocean County. A joint investigation by members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean Township Police Department, Asbury Park Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and Berkeley Township Police Department led to a charge of first-degree Murder.
Cruz was indicted in January 2023. At trial, which began last week, the State disproved the defendant’s intoxication defense, leading to the conviction.
This case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Caitlin J. Sidley and Carey J. Huff. Cruz was represented by Adam Mitchell, Esq., and Deven Ferrara, Esq.
“This conviction happened to coincide with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and it’s difficult to conceive of a crime more senseless, or a victim more deserving of justice, than a person killed by their spouse over nothing more than a simple argument,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “We sincerely thank the jury for their service in this matter and hope that the verdict delivers some small measure of solace to Dawn’s friends, family, and loved ones.”
Sentencing in the case has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 14 before Judge O’Malley, at which time Cruz will face a term of up to life in state prison.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 22, 2024, Olivia Paige, 35, of Toms River, pled guilty to Robbery before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., in connection with an incident that occurred on August 29, 2023, in Lakewood Township. Additionally, Paige pled guilty to Possession of Cocaine in connection with an incident that occurred on January 11, 2023, also in Brick Township. Finally, Paige pled guilty to Aggravated Assault in connection with an incident that occurred on April 14, 2023, likewise in Lakewood. At the time of her sentencing on June 28, 2024, the State will be seeking a term of eight years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) – subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act – as to the Robbery charge, three years NJSP as to the narcotics offense, and 18 months NJSP as to the Aggravated Assault charge. The sentences are to run concurrently.
On August 29, 2023, Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department were summoned to the area of Clifton Avenue for a reported robbery. Responding Officers determined that a female was sitting in her car on Clifton Avenue, when she was approached by a female suspect who brandished a knife and demanded money. The victim handed the suspect money, at which time the suspect fled the area. The Officers were able to ascertain a detailed description of the suspect. A short time later, the Officers located the suspect – later identified as Paige – at a nearby eatery. Paige was taken into custody without incident; she was searched incident to arrest, and found to be in possession of a five-inch utility knife. Paige was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where she has been detained since August 29, 2023.
On January 11, 2023, Officers from the Brick Township Police Department were summoned to a convenience store on Maple Avenue for a reported shoplifting. An investigation by responding Officers determined that Paige was responsible for taking items from the store without paying for them. Paige was located behind the store with the missing items, and taken into custody without incident. Paige was searched incident to arrest, and found to be in possession of cocaine. Paige was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
On April 14, 2023, Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department were dispatched to the area of First Street for a report of a disorderly female. Responding Officers found that the female – later identified as Paige – was shouting profanities and acting in an erratic manner. As Officers attempted to subdue Paige, she spit in their faces. Paige was taken into custody, transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Shanon Chant-Berry who handled these cases on behalf of the State, and commends the Lakewood Township Police Department and Brick Township Police Department for their efforts in connection with these investigations – leading to Paige’s guilty pleas, and soon her state prison sentence.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 20, 2024, Erick Perez-Ramirez, 40, of Jackson, was charged with two counts of Assault by Auto, in connection with an automobile crash that occurred in Toms River during the early morning hours of April 20, 2024.
On April 20, 2024, at approximately 4:45 a.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department responded to the area of Bay Avenue and Ethan Court for a report of a serious motor vehicle crash. An initial investigation by responding Officers determined that a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado operated by Perez-Ramirez and containing front seat passenger Viviana Arciniegas-Diaz, 33, of Toms River, and rear seat passengers William Rubiano, 31, and Maria Vega-Diaz, 33, both of Toms River, was traveling eastbound on Bay Avenue when it failed to negotiate a right hand turn in the roadway. The Silverado then left the roadway and struck a tree. As a result of the crash, Ms. Arciniegas and Ms. Vega-Diaz were transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of their injuries. They are both listed in stable condition. Mr. Rubiano and Perez-Ramirez were uninjured and remained at the scene.
Responding Officers observed that Perez-Ramirez appeared to be intoxicated at the scene of the crash. Based upon those observations, Officers attempted to administer the standardized field sobriety tests (FSTs) to Perez-Ramirez. Perez-Ramirez was unable to successfully perform the FSTs; as such, he was charged with Driving Under the Influence and placed under arrest. Perez-Ramirez was thereafter transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where a draw of his blood was obtained pursuant to a court-authorized warrant. The results of the blood draw remain pending. Perez-Ramirez was subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad, Toms River Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on April 21, 2024, Edward Lynch, 52, of Toms River, was charged with Distribution of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography.
This investigation was the result of a referral from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC received cyber-tips that an individual was downloading images of child pornography from the internet; an investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit identified an IP address associated with a residence in Toms River as the location from which the individual was downloading these images.
On August 24, 2023, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, and Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit, executed a court-authorized search warrant on the subject residence. As a result, Detectives seized multiple electronic devices from the residence. An initial forensic examination of the devices by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit led to the discovery of more than 1000 items of child pornography. Further investigation revealed that Lynch was the individual responsible for downloading the child pornography in question. On August 24, 2023, Lynch was charged with Possession of Child Pornography. Lynch was taken into custody at his residence without incident; he was thereafter transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
In furtherance of the investigation, a full forensic examination on all seized electronic devices by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit revealed that Lynch knowingly distributed more than 1000 items of Child Pornography by using the internet applications of Telegram, Session, and Wickr Me. As a consequence, Lynch was additionally charged on April 21, 2024 with Distribution of Child Pornography, along with a second count of Possession of Child Pornography. On that date, Lynch surrendered himself to Toms River Township Police Headquarters. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit, and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Manchester Township NJ (OCEAN) – On Thursday, April 18, 2024, at approximately 06:40 a.m. officers of the Manchester Township Police Department were dispatched to the intersection of State Highway 70 and County Road 571 for the report of a school bus and commercial van crash.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed a yellow 2015 Thomas School Bus facing north on County Road 571 with extensive front-end damage and a green 2005 Honda Odyssey facing north on County Road 571 with extensive passenger side front damage. Both vehicles were blocking the northbound travel lanes of County Road 571. The investigation revealed that the school bus was traveling northbound in the left travel lane of County Road 571. The Honda was in the left turn lane of southbound County Road 571 waiting to make a left turn onto State Highway 70 east. At that time, the Honda made a left turn in front of the school bus. The school bus impacted the Honda on the front passenger side. The school bus after initial impact continued straight and came to final rest facing north in the right northbound travel lane of County Road 571. The Honda after initial impact rotated approximately ninety degrees and came to final rest facing north in the left northbound travel lane of County Road 571.
The driver of the school bus, identified as 54-year-old, Karen Hurley of Whiting, NJ, suffered facial lacerations. She was transported by ambulance to Community Medical Center in Toms River, NJ. The school bus was occupied by two juvenile students from Manchester Township High School and a school bus aide, identified as 60-year-old, Gloria Lecompte of Lakehurst, NJ, who suffered injuries to her hip. She was transported by ambulance to Community Medical Center, in Toms River, NJ. One juvenile student was transported to Community Medical Center for a complaint of chest pain. The remaining student did not suffer any injuries as a result of the crash. The driver of the Honda, identified as 27-year-old, Christian Little of Jackson, NJ, suffered injuries to his hip and hands. He was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, NJ. All individuals involved in the accident are listed in stable condition.
Assisting at the scene were EMTs from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Services, and firefighters from Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department. The investigation into this crash is still on going, however, failure to yield right of way at an intersection appears to be the primary contributing factor. This crash is being investigated by Ptl. Conner Yatauro of the department’s Traffic Safety Section.
Manchester Township NJ (OCEAN)– On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at approximately 08:30 a.m. officers of the Manchester Township Police Department were dispatched to the intersection of County Route 571 and County Route 547 for the report of a two-car motor vehicle crash, involving a Transit Van carrying students to school.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed a white 2020 Acura TLX located facing north on the property of 3875 Ridgeway Road (CR 571) with extensive passenger side damage and a black 2023 Ford Transit Passenger Van facing west, with the front end of the vehicle on the property of 3875 Ridgeway Road (CR 571). The black 2023 Ford Transit Passenger Van had extensive front-end damage. The investigation revealed that the Ford was traveling southbound on County Road 547 through the traffic signal at the intersection of County Road 571. The Acura was attempting to make a left turn onto County Road 571 northbound. At that time, the Acura made a left turn from the center travel lane in front of the Ford. The Ford impacted the Acura on the passenger side with the front end. The Acura was pushed off the roadway by the Ford, the front end of the Acura impacted a black 2024 Mini Cooper which was parked in the parking lot of 3875 Ridgeway Road.
The driver of the Acura, identified as 53-year-old, Tracey Kahn of Forked River, NJ, sustained facial lacerations. She was transported by Ambulance to Community Medical Center in Toms River, NJ. The driver of the ford, identified as 20-year-old, Dvora Katz of Jackson, NJ, also sustained facial lacerations. She was transported to Jersey Shore University Hospital in Neptune, NJ. The Ford was carrying eleven juvenile students to school. The juvenile students ranged in age and four juveniles were transported to Jersey Shore University Hospital in Neptune, NJ via ambulance to be further evaluated for their injuries. The remaining seven juveniles were transported to Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus for treatment of minor injuries via ambulance. All involved individuals are currently listed in stable condition.
Assisting at the scene were EMTs and firefighters from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Services, firefighters from Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department, Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics, and EMTs from Hatzolah of Central Jersey. The investigation into this crash is still on going, however, failure to yield the right of way at an intersection and improper turning appear to be the primary contributing factors. This crash is being investigated by Ptl. Conner Yatauro of the department’s Traffic Safety Section.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 8, 2024, the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C., sentenced William Andujar, 52, of Whiting, to four years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) as a result of his previously entered guilty plea to Aggravated Assault in connection with an incident that occurred in Berkeley Township on November 2, 2020. The sentence is subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act (NERA), meaning that Andujar will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Additionally, Judge Rahill imposed a consecutive sentence of one year NJSP relative to a violation of probation. Andujar pled guilty to both charges before Judge Rahill on December 18, 2023.
On November 2, 2020, at approximately 7:00 pm., Berkeley Township Police responded to a report of crash involving two motor vehicles in the area of West Pinewald Keswick Road. An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad and Berkeley Township Police Department revealed that Andujar, who was traveling westbound in a 2010 Honda CRV, crashed into a 2003 Hyundai Elantra operated by Susan Ewing, 44, of South Toms River, from behind. The impact forced both vehicles off the roadway into a wooded area. The victim, Ms. Ewing, sustained serious bodily injuries as a consequence of Andujar crashing into her vehicle. Ms. Ewing was flown to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of those injuries. Ms. Ewing was subsequently discharged and is still recovering from those injuries.
Andujar was likewise transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center following the crash, and a search warrant was obtained for a draw of his blood. Laboratory results from the blood draw – received by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office on November 23, 2020 – indicated that Andujar had a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .18 percent at the time his blood was drawn. In the State of New Jersey, an operator of a motor vehicle is presumed to be over the legal limit for purposes of alcohol consumption where his/her BAC is .08 or greater. The laboratory results also revealed a significant quantity of methadone in Andujar’s system.
On November 24, 2020, Andujar was arrested by Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad and South Toms River Police Department, and charged with Assault by Automobile. The additional charge of Aggravated Assault was filed on December 8, 2020, as a result of further developments in the investigation. Andujar has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his arrest on November 24, 2020.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Robert Cassidy who handled the case on behalf of the State, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit -Vehicular Homicide Squad, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Advocacy Unit, Berkeley Township Police Department, South Toms River Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation leading to Andujar’s guilty plea, and now his state prison sentence.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 4, 2024, Ryan Thompson, 35, of Trenton, pled guilty to Manslaughter before the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C., in connection with the death of a 55-year-old male in Berkeley Township on September 29, 2023. At the time of Thompson’s sentencing on May 3, 2024, the State will seek a term of seven years New Jersey State Prison – subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act.
On September 29, 2023, Officers from the Berkeley Township Police Department responded to a residence on Torrey Pines Drive for a report of an unresponsive male. Upon arrival, Officers discovered the body of the victim – already deceased from an apparent drug overdose.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, and Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, revealed that Thompson and his co-defendants, Michael Wormann, 38, of Toms River, and Tina Martinez, 61, of Trenton, were involved in the distribution of fentanyl to the victim on September 28, 2023.
On September 30, 2023, Wormann was initially charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of Fentanyl. He was taken into custody without incident at his residence by Berkeley Township Police Officers, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On October 17, 2023, Martinez was initially charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. She was taken into custody without incident at her residence in Trenton, transported to New Jersey State Police Headquarters in Trenton, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On October 20, 2023, Thompson was likewise charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. He turned himself in to Berkeley Township Police Headquarters on that date, and was subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail where he has remained since.
Further investigation and toxicology analysis received by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the presence of fentanyl in the victim’s system. Based upon the toxicology analysis, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office opined that the fentanyl found in the victim’s system was the cause of his death. As a consequence, Thompson, Wormann, and Martinez were all charged in connection with the victim’s death on November 14, 2023.
Thompson is presently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending his sentencing on May 3, 2024. The charges against Wormann and Martinez- who were previously released from the Ocean County Jail as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform – remain pending; the public and press are reminded that at this time, the charges against Wormann and Martinez are merely accusations, and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Prosecutor Billhimer commends Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke who is handling the case on behalf of the State, and acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Berkeley Township Police Department, Berkeley Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Trenton City Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office’s Victim Witness Unit, for their combined and collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, ultimately resulting in Thompson’s guilty plea.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced yesterday, that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with the Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, United States Drug Enforcement Agency-Atlantic City Resident Office, Toms River Township Police Department Patrol Division and Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department Patrol Division and Street Crimes Unit, South Toms River Patrol Division and Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, to conduct a two month-long investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Ocean County area. This cooperative, multi-agency investigation identified three residences in Brick, Toms River, and South Toms River, as being utilized by Orthis Allen, 33 of Bayville, Lauren Torres and Anthony Martinez, both 23 and of Toms River, and Ashley Banks, 33, of Brick, for the purpose of distributing ecstasy, cocaine, and heroin/fentanyl in Ocean County.
On February 27, 2024, Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies established stationary and mobile surveillance on the subject residences. On that date, surveillance units observed Allen and Banks exit the Brick Township residence, enter a 2020 Dodge Durango, and leave the area. A motor vehicle stop was thereafter executed by Officers assigned to the Brick Township Police Department Special Emergency Response Team; Allen and Banks were detained without incident, and ultimately transported to Brick Township Police Headquarters for processing.
Court-authorized search warrants were subsequently executed at the subject residences in Brick, Toms River, and South Toms River. As a result, law enforcement seized 150 suspect ecstasy pills and approximately 41 grams of suspect cocaine from the Brick Township residence. Execution of the search warrant at the Toms River residence resulted in the seizure of 100 wax folds of suspect heroin/fentanyl, 15 suspect ecstasy pills, a digital scale, paraphernalia indicative of drug distribution, and two loaded 9mm firearms – one with a high capacity magazine. Torres and Martinez – who were present at the Toms River residence at the time the search warrant was executed – were transported without incident to Toms River Police Headquarters for processing. The execution of the search warrant at the South Toms River address revealed nothing of evidentiary value.
Allen was charged with Distribution of MDMA, Distribution of Cocaine, Possession of MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Possession of MDMA, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Firearm During the Commission of a Narcotics Offense, Being a Certain Person not to Possess a Weapon, and Possession of High Capacity Magazine. Allen is presently lodged in Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Torres was charged with Possession of MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Possession of MDMA, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Heroin. Torres was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Anthony Martinez was charged with Conspiracy to Possess MDMA with Intent to Distribute. Martinez was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Banks was charged with Possession of MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess MDMA with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of MDMA, and Possession of Cocaine. Banks was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Patrol Division, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Brick Township Police Department Patrol Division, Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Brick Township Police Department Special Emergency Response Team, South Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Police Department Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team, Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit, Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, United States Drug Enforcement Agency-Atlantic City Resident Office, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 1, 2024, Sherry Lee Heffernan, 57, of Landenberg, Pennsylvania, was found guilty of two counts of Murder in connection with the deaths of John Enders and Francoise Pitoy, following a nearly four week-long jury trial before the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C. The murders occurred in Surf City on or about September 29, 2021. In rendering its verdict, the jury concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that Heffernan purposely or knowingly caused the deaths of Mr. Enders and Ms. Pitoy. The jury also found Heffernan guilty of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose – specifically, a handgun, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (handgun), Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose – specifically, a knife, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (knife). The jury determined beyond a reasonable doubt that Heffernan was guilty of utilizing a handgun and a knife in the commission of the murders of Mr. Enders and Ms. Pitoy. Heffernan is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Rahill on May 10, 2024, at which time she faces life in prison.
On October 3, 2021, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Officers from the Surf City Police Department responded to a residence on North 7th Street to conduct a welfare check upon the residents. When they arrived, Officers located the bodies of John Enders, 87, of Surf City, and Francoise Pitoy, 75, of Manchester; it was readily apparent that both victims were already deceased. On October 4, 2021, the Ocean County Medical Examiner performed a post-mortem examination of Mr. Enders and determined the cause of his death to be multiple stab wounds with severance of the right carotid artery and blunt force trauma; the manner of death was ruled to be a homicide. A post-mortem examination of Ms. Pitoy performed on October 5, 2021 determined the cause of her death to be multiple stab wounds as well as a gunshot wound to the face; the manner of her death was likewise ruled a homicide. Based upon the gunshot wound to Ms. Pitoy, the Medical Examiner performed an additional examination of Mr. Enders and found that he had also suffered a gunshot wound to the face.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Surf City Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, revealed that the victims were involved in a dating relationship, and that Mr. Enders was the primary owner of the residence. Ms. Pitoy stayed with him at the residence regularly. The cooperative investigation ultimately determined that Heffernan – Mr. Enders’ daughter – was responsible for the deaths of both Mr. Enders and Ms. Pitoy.
On October 4, 2021, Heffernan was taken into custody by the Pennsylvania State Police at her residence in Landenberg, Pennsylvania. On October 20, 2021, Heffernan was returned to New Jersey, and has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since that date.
Prosecutor Billhimer applauds the outstanding efforts of Chief Trial Attorney Michael Weatherstone and Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Kristin Pressman, who ably and skillfully tried the case on behalf of the State. The Prosecutor likewise extends his gratitude to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Squad, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Surf City Police Department, Long Beach Township Police Department, Stafford Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, Ocean County Motor Vehicle Services, Pennsylvania State Police, Collegeville (Pennsylvania) Police Department, Horsham Township (Pennsylvania) Police Department, Montgomery County (Pennsylvania) District Attorney’s Office, Chester County (Pennsylvania) District Attorney’s Office, Maryland State Police, and North East (Maryland) Police Department, for their combined and collective efforts investigating and solving these heinous and senseless crimes – ultimately resulting in today’s guilty verdicts.
Sherry Lee Heffernan, 57, of Landenberg, Pennsylvania, was found guilty of two counts of Murder in connection with the deaths of John Enders and Francoise Pitoy, following a nearly four week-long jury trial before the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C. The murders occurred in Surf City on or about September 29, 2021. In rendering its verdict, the jury concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that Heffernan purposely or knowingly caused the deaths of Mr. Enders and Ms. Pitoy. The jury also found Heffernan guilty of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose – specifically, a handgun, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (handgun), Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose – specifically, a knife, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (knife). The jury determined beyond a reasonable doubt that Heffernan was guilty of utilizing a handgun and a knife in the commission of the murders of Mr. Enders and Ms. Pitoy. Heffernan is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Rahill on May 10, 2024, at which time she faces life in prison.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 1, 2024, Raphael Powell, 38, of Toms River, was sentenced by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., to an aggregate term of 25 years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP), having previously been found guilty of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm, Unlawful Possession of a Handgun with a prior conviction for a No Early Release Act (NERA) Offense, Terroristic Threats, Possession of Hollow Nose Bullets, Possession of a Large Capacity Magazine, and Possession of Fentanyl, all in connection with an incident that occurred in Toms River Township on July 2, 2022. Specifically, Judge Ryan sentenced Powell to 20 years NJSP with a 10-year period of parole ineligibility as to the Handgun Possession charge, and an additional five years NJSP with a 42-month period of parole ineligibility relative to the Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose offense – to run consecutive to the Handgun Possession charge. Additionally, Judge Ryan sentenced Powell to a concurrent five years NJSP with a five-year period of parole ineligibility as to the Certain Person Not to Possess a Firearm charge, concurrent to five years NJSP as to the Terroristic Threats charge, concurrent to 18 months NJSP as to the Possession of Hollow Nose Bullets charge, concurrent to 18 months NJSP as to the Possession of a Large Capacity Magazine charge, concurrent to five years NJSP as to the Possession of Fentanyl charge. In total, Powell will be required to serve at least 13.5 years of his 25-year state prison sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility.
Powell was found guilty of all offenses on January 11, 2023, after a week-long jury trial before Judge Ryan.
On July 2, 2022, at approximately 11:00 p.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department were dispatched to assist a male victim who had just been assaulted. Responding Officers met with the victim, who advised that he was entering a residence on Rory Road when a male approached him and asked him what he was doing in the area. The male suspect then punched the victim in the face and removed a handgun from his waistband. The male suspect brandished the handgun and then threatened to shoot and kill the victim. Another male then appeared at the scene and the victim was able to leave the area.
An investigation conducted by the Toms River Township Police Department determined that Powell was the individual who struck and threatened the victim with the handgun on July 2, 2022. Toms River Township Police Officers located Powell outside of his residence in Toms River in the early morning hours of July 3, 2022, and he was taken into custody without incident. Powell was searched incident to his arrest, and found to be in possession of a stolen handgun loaded with 17 rounds of hollow nose bullets. Powell was also found to be in possession of 30 wax folds of Fentanyl at the time of his arrest. Powell was arrested and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has remained lodged since July 3, 2022.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the diligence and dedication of Assistant Prosecutor Kimberly Carr who ably and skillfully tried the case on behalf of the State. The Prosecutor likewise extends his gratitude to the Toms River Township Police Department and Berkeley Township Police Department for their combined and collective efforts in connection with this matter, ultimately leading to Powell’s lengthy state prison sentence.
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced that the decedent at the center of an investigation originating out of Lakewood Township has been identified as David Koscuik, 57, of Lakewood.
On February 28, 2024, at approximately 12:13 p.m., the Lakewood Township Police Department received notification concerning an unconscious male located inside the trunk of a vehicle, parked in the area of Fairway Court in Lakewood Township. Upon responding to the area, Officers located the body of a deceased male.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit are currently investigating this matter.
This investigation remains active and ongoing; there is no known danger to the public, and additional information will be released when it becomes available.
Anyone in possession of information regarding this investigation is urged to contact Detective Olga Brylevskaya of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extension 4105, or Detective Austin Letts of the Lakewood Township Police Department at 732-363-0200.
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with the Lakewood Township Police Department, Lakewood Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Jackson Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team, Manchester Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, New Jersey State Police Drug Trafficking Central Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, to conduct a two month-long investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in Ocean County. This cooperative, multi-agency investigation identified Justin Love, 25, of Jackson Township, as being involved in the distribution of crack cocaine in Ocean County.
In December 2023, Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies established stationary and mobile surveillance on Love. Detectives were able to determine that Love was utilizing a residence on Deer Path in Lakewood to store and distribute crack cocaine. On February 14, 2024, the Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team executed a court-authorized search warrant on the subject residence and Love’s motor vehicle. As a result, Detectives seized approximately 15 grams of crack cocaine, a semi-automatic handgun, drug paraphernalia, and approximately $5,000 in United States Currency. A search of Love’s motor vehicle resulted in the seizure of an additional quantity of crack cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and United States currency. Love was taken into custody at the residence without incident.
Justin Love was charged with Possession of Less than One Half Ounce of Crack Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Oxycodone Without a Valid Prescription, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, and Possession of a Weapon During a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense. Love is presently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department, Lakewood Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team, Jackson Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team, Manchester Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, New Jersey State Police Drug Trafficking Central Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration – High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas-Monmouth/Ocean Post of Duty (HIDTA/MOPOD) Group 5, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey State Police Crime Suppression Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Unit, Toms River Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, to conduct a two month-long investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in the Ocean County area. This cooperative, multi-agency investigation identified Jireh Mathis, 27, and Tashawn McDonald, 23, both of Trenton, as being involved in the distribution of Heroin/Fentanyl and Cocaine in Ocean County.
In early December 2023, Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies established stationary and mobile surveillance on both Mathis and McDonald. On January 22, 2024, Detectives observed Mathis and McDonald arriving at the Green Meadow Apartment Complex in Toms River in a vehicle operated by Mathis. Mathis and McDonald both exited the vehicle, and they were approached by Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force. As Detectives made contact with Mathis, he attempted to flee the scene but was subsequently apprehended and taken into custody. McDonald was taken into custody without incident. In a subsequent search incident to his arrest, Mathis was found to be in possession of approximately 500 wax folds of Heroin/Fentanyl and ten grams of Cocaine. In total, law enforcement seized approximately 1,500 wax folds of Heroin/Fentanyl and 25 grams of Cocaine throughout the course of the investigation.
Mathis was charged with Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Distribute More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin, Conspiracy to Distribute More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Cocaine, and Resisting Arrest. Mathis is presently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending trial.
McDonald was charged with Conspiracy to Distribute More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin, and Conspiracy to Distribute More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine. McDonald was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, United States Drug Enforcement Administration – High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas-Monmouth/Ocean Post of Duty (HIDTA/MOPOD) Group 5, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey State Police Crime Suppression Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Unit, Toms River Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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