Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 24, 2023, Gregory Fullman, Jr., 33, of Manchester Township, pled guilty to three counts of Aggravated Arson before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P. At the time of his sentencing on May 19, 2023, the State will be seeking a term of twelve years New Jersey State Prison. Fullman will also be responsible for making restitution in connection with fire suppression services.
On January 31, 2022, a multi-jurisdictional investigation into numerous forest fires intentionally set in Ocean County culminated with Fullman’s arrest. The investigation revealed that Fullman was responsible for setting fires and destroying or damaging wooded areas in Little Egg Harbor Township, Manchester Township, and Lakewood Township between the dates of May 2021 and January 2022. Fullman was taken into custody on January 31, 2022, and has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his apprehension.
Prosecutor Billhimer Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Meghan O’Neill who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Unit, Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department, Lakewood Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigations Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Field Services Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Administrative Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, Ocean County Vehicle Services Department, New Jersey State Forest Fire Service, New Jersey State Police Office of Forensic Sciences, New Jersey State Police Regional Operations Intelligence Center, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office, Wall Township Police Department, and City of Bridgeton Fire Department Bureau of Fire Prevention K-9 Unit, for their combined and collective efforts relative to this extensive investigation, resulting in Fullman’s guilty pleas, and soon, his state prison sentence.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced on March 24, 2023, Charles Sharkey, Jr., 33, of Jackson Township, was charged with four counts of Aggravated Assault, four counts of Assault by Auto, Unlawful Taking of a Means of Conveyance, Causing Death or Injury While Driving with a Suspended or Revoked Driver’s License, and multiple motor vehicle summons, in connection with a serious motor vehicle crash that occurred on March 23, 2023, in Toms River.
On Thursday, March 23, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Officers from the Toms River Police Department responded to the area of Route 70 and Massachusetts Avenue for a report of a serious motor vehicle crash. Initial investigation by responding officers revealed that a 2022 Dodge Ram 1500, operated by Sharkey, was traveling eastbound on Route 70 approaching the cross street of Massachusetts Avenue. Sharkey failed to stop at the red light at the intersection, and grazed the rear of a 2016 Honda CRV which had been travelling westbound on Route 70 and turning left onto Massachusetts Avenue. Sharkey then struck a 2017 Subaru Impreza – also attempting to make a left-hand turn onto Massachusetts Avenue from Route 70 westbound – which contained a male adult driver and three juvenile passengers. As a result, the Impreza was pushed backward and rotated in a clockwise manner. The Dodge Ram operated by Sharkey overturned and came to final rest on the driver-side; the vehicle caught fire and sustained heavy fire damage. In the process of the vehicle overturning, a 2021 Lexus RX 350 was grazed and sustained minor damage.
As a consequence of the crash, the adult driver of the Impreza and two of the juvenile passengers were taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC) in Neptune Township for treatment of minor injuries; they were subsequently released. The third juvenile passenger of the Impreza was also taken to JSUMC with serious injuries, and is presently listed in critical condition.
Further investigation revealed that Sharkey had been driving erratically and was utilizing a cellular device just prior to the crash. Additionally, it was learned that Sharkey had a suspended driver’s license at the time of the crash, as well as two active warrants for his arrest. It was also determined that the Dodge Ram was a rental vehicle – taken by Sharkey without the renter’s consent. Sharkey was placed under arrest at the scene. He was transported to Monmouth Medical Center-Southern Campus in Lakewood for treatment of his injuries. While at the hospital, Detectives obtained a warrant for a draw of Sharkey’s blood; the laboratory results relative to the blood draw remain pending. Sharkey was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing. Further charges may be forthcoming.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Squad, Toms River Township Police Department, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their combined and collective effort 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.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced that effective today, March 24, 2023, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office is restoring full command and control of the Lavallette Police Department to Lavallette Chief of Police Christian LaCicero.
On May 19, 2022, Prosecutor· Billhimer, pursuant to his authority as Chief Law Enforcement Officer of Ocean County, announced that the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office assumed full command and control of the Lavallette Police Department based upon te1minal leave of then-Police Chief Colin Grant. To that end, Prosecutor Billhimer designated Anthony U. Carrington, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives, as the Officer-in-Charge, and Joseph F. Mitchell, retired Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives, to handle the day-to-day operations of the Lavallette Police Department
Since assuming full command and control of the Lavallette Police Department, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office conducted a thorough evaluation of the department, highlighting areas in need of improvement and implementing plans and procedures to further the goal of meeting the necessary standards of a professional law enforcement agency. The Supervisory Rep01i of the Lavallette Police Department is attached to this press release. The Report itemizes deficiencies that the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office addressed and corrected, as well as deficiencies that remain.
“I am proud of the work we have done to assist the Lavallette Police Department. The police officers – the men and women that wear the unif01m in Lavallette – have been very receptive to our implementation of formal procedures, practices and policies. I’m optimistic that Chief LaCicero will lead these men and women effectively moving forward,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
“I’d like to thank Chief Carrington, Chief Mitchell, and Lt. Brian Hagge1iy for their dedicated service to the Borough of Lavallette. They conducted themselves professionally at all times and were tremendous representatives of this office,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. “I’d also like to thank Chief Assistant Prosecutor – Professional Standards Unit, William Scharfenberg for the work he’s done on behalf of this office in Lavallette. Collectively, we are leaving this Police Department in a better position to succeed – which was really the goal all along,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. ·
“At this point in time, Chief LaCicero has completed Chiefs training with the New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police, Internal Affairs Training provided by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and has benefitted from the leadership provided by this office – specifically Chief Carrington, Chief Mitchell, and Lt. Hagge1iy for the past ten months. He is ready to lead the Lavallette Police Department,” Prosecutor Billhimer added.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, by and through the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Professional Standards Unit, had previously assumed command and control of the Internal Affairs functions of the Lavallette Police Department on December 16, 2021, after an audit of the Department’s records. Earlier this month, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office provided the required Office of Attorney General Internal Affairs training to all Ocean County Law Enforcement. Chief LaCicero and two Lavallette Sergeants attended and successfully completed the training. “Now that the Chief and two Sergeants have been properly trained in conducting Internal Affairs investigations, the Internal Affairs function will also be returned to the Lavallette Police Department,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
“While the Borough has indicated that it is unable to afford the cost associated with getting the Lavallette Police Department accredited by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, it is my hope that they will, in time, be able to join the 26 other law enforcement agencies in Ocean County that are already accredited. Accreditation ensures that a law enforcement agency is operating at maximum efficiency and reduces risk and liability exposure,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
“I commend the officers of the Lavallette Police Department that stepped up and met the high standards that my office required of them. It is imp01iant to me, as well as the residents of the Borough, that the officers are properly trained and committed to keeping their community safe and secure,” Prosecutor Billhimer added.
“I wish Chief LaCicero the best of luck in his position as Chief of the Lavallette Police Department and thank him for his service to the community,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that the victim who perished in the residential fire on Heron Street in Manchester Township on Sunday, March 19, 2023, has been identified as Katarina Seboova, 73, an occupant of the residence. On March 20, 2023, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office performed a post-mortem examination of Ms. Seboova. The examination concluded that Ms. Seboova’s cause of death was asphyxia due to smoke inhalation and her manner of death is accidental.
On March 19, 2023, at approximately 6:50 p.m., Officers from the Manchester Township Police Department and Manchester Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Heron Street. First Responders were able to rescue a female victim from the fire. The victim was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, and is currently listed in critical but stable condition. During the primary search of the residence, Ms. Seboova’s body was discovered.
A thorough and extensive investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, determined that the fire originated in a garbage can at the northwest corner of a patio, and the cause of the fire was deemed to be accidental due to discarded smoking material.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and cooperative efforts in connection with this investigation.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 22, 2023, Harry Bray, 35, of Manchester, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on the charges of Attempted Murder, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, in connection with an incident that occurred in Brick Township during the evening hours of January 5, 2023, resulting in serious bodily injuries to a female victim.
On January 5, 2023, at approximately 5:30 p.m., an Officer from the Brick Township Police Department was conducting a routine area check off of Cherry Quay Road when the Officer observed a vehicle with two flat tires in a parking lot area. Upon further examination, the Officer found a female victim on the ground near the vehicle suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim was transported to a local area hospital; although she was initially treated for her injuries and released, complications from her injuries have resulted in the victim being readmitted to the hospital. An investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Brick Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, determined that Bray was responsible for the victim’s injuries.
Later in the evening on January 5, 2023, Bray was taken into custody, without incident, in Manchester Township by Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Brick Township Police Department. Bray was thereafter transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has been lodged since his apprehension.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Ashley Angelo who presented the case to the Grand Jury on behalf of the State, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Brick Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation leading to Bray’s swift apprehension and now his indictment.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TRENTON, N.J. – An Ocean County, New Jersey, man today admitted possessing and distributing images of child sexual abuse and inducing a minor to send him sexually explicit images and engage in sexually explicit conduct over an online messaging service, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Kevin Van Pelt, 33, of Lakehurst, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner to an information charging him with one count each of online enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual conduct, distribution of child pornography, and possession of prepubescent child pornography.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From August 2018 to October 2018, Van Pelt used multiple online messaging services to communicate with a minor victim, including repeatedly requesting that the minor send him sexually explicit images. Van Pelt also distributed images and videos of child sexual abuse over several online social media applications between December 2017 and March 2019. Van Pelt possessed images and videos of prepubescent child sexual abuse on his cellular phone when he was arrested by local authorities on May 1, 2019.
The charge of online enticement carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a $250,000 fine. The charge of distribution of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. The charge of possession of prepubescent child pornography carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for July 20, 2023.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark; and members of the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Christine Hoffman, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian D. Brater of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Trenton.
23-069
Defense counsel: Teri Lodge Esq., Marlton, New Jersey
Kevin Van Pelt, 33, of Lakehurst, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Georgette Castner to an information charging him with one count each of online enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual conduct, distribution of child pornography, and possession of prepubescent child pornography.
BARNEGAT TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 21, 2023, Lisa Ziobro, 44, of Barnegat, was charged with two counts of Aggravated Arson and four counts of Arson.
On March 21, 2023, at approximately 7:30 a.m., Officers from the Barnegat Township Police Department and Barnegat Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Waterfall Lane. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire. The family dog was rescued and unharmed. A pet bird was unable to be rescued and perished in the fire.
A thorough and extensive investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, determined that two separate fires had been intentionally set within the structure. The first fire was set on a mattress in a bedroom, and the second fire was set on a shower curtain in the bathroom. Further investigation determined that Ziobro – who resided at the residence – was responsible for setting both fires.
Ziobro was transported to Barnegat Township Police Headquarters, processed, and transported to the Ocean County Jail where she remains lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Barnegat Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Barnegat Township Police Department, and Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, for their combined and cooperative 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.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that the fatal structure fire that occurred on Heron Street in Manchester Township on Sunday, March 19, 2023, has been ruled accidental.
On March 19, 2023, at approximately 6:50 p.m., Officers from the Manchester Township Police Department and Manchester Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Heron Street. First Responders were able to rescue a female victim from the fire. The victim was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, and is currently listed in critical but stable condition. During the primary search of the residence, the body of a deceased female was discovered. The decedent’s body was transported to Community Medical Center for a post mortem examination and identification.
A thorough and extensive investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, determined that the fire originated in a garbage can at the northwest corner of a patio, and the cause of the fire was deemed to be accidental due to discarded smoking material.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and cooperative efforts in connection with this investigation.
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 United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Detective Bureau, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Patrol Division, and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department K-9 Unit, to conduct a investigation into the distribution of cocaine in Ocean County, specifically in the Point Pleasant Beach area. This cooperative, multi-agency two month investigation identified a residence in Point Pleasant Beach as being utilized by Pablo Lezama, 43, Magdaleno Navasantos, 45, Felix Pacheco, 31, Miguel Alonso, 27, and Angel Pacheco, 44, all of Point Pleasant Beach, to store and distribute cocaine.
Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies initiated surveillance on the subject residence in Point Pleasant Beach. On March 17, 2023, the Ocean County Northern Regional SWAT Team executed a court authorized search warrant on the subject residence. As a result, law enforcement seized a quantity of cocaine individually packaged for distribution, and drug paraphernalia indicative of narcotics manufacturing and distribution. All five defendants were arrested at the residence on March 17, 2023.
Pablo Lezama was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Hindering Apprehension. Lezama was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Magdaleno Navasantos was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Navasantos was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Felix Pacheco was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Pacheco was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and subsequently released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Miguel Alonso was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Hindering Apprehension. Alonso was served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Angel Pacheco was charged with Possession of Less than One-Half Ounce of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Cocaine, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Pacheco 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, the Ocean County Northern Regional SWAT Team, United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Detective Bureau, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department Patrol Division, and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department K-9 Unit, for their combined and collective efforts in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–On March 19, 2023, at approximately 6:51pm, the Manchester Police Department received a call for a structure fire on Heron St located in the Cedar Glen West section of the Township. Several patrol officers responded and observed the residence to be fully engulfed in flames. Residents from the adjoining quadplex and surrounding buildings were quickly evacuated. Upon arrival, officers were told by a family member that another family member was still inside of the burning home. Officers attempted to make entry into the residence where they were met by heavy smoke and heat and they were unable to get in the home to rescue the resident inside.
As a result of attempting to get inside of the home, three police officers and the reporting family member were taken to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Multiple Fire Departments from Manchester, Whiting, Ridgeway, Joint Base, Lakehurst, Toms River, and Cassville responded to extinguish the fire. Manchester Emergency Medical Service responded to assess the residents and officers for smoke inhalation.
Detective Adam Emmons of the Manchester Police Investigations Bureau, Detective John Doran of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ocean County Fire Marshall are investigating this incident. Also assisting with the investigation is the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Crime Scene Unit and the Ocean County Medical Examiner. Manchester Emergency Management Coordinator Robert Sharry and the American Red Cross also responded to assist with the incident. At this point in time, the cause and origin of the fire is unknown as the case is actively being investigated. The identity of the decedent will not be released due to pending notification to the decedent’s next of kin.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 19, 2023, at approximately 6:50 p.m., Officers from the Manchester Township Police Department and Manchester Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Heron Street. First Responders were able to rescue a female victim from the fire. The victim was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, and is currently listed in critical condition. During the primary search of the residence, the body of a deceased female was discovered. The decedent’s body was transported to Community Medical Center for a post mortem examination and identification. Three Manchester Township Police Officers were transported to Community Medical Center where they were treated for smoke inhalation and released.
The origin and cause of the fire are currently under investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Additional information will be released to the public as it becomes available.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 13, 2023, Mark Capichana, 55, of Keyport, pled guilty before the Honorable Lisa A. Puglisi, J.S.C., to Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine in an Amount Greater than Five Ounces with Intent to Distribute, as well as Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity. At the time of his sentencing on June 30, 2023, the State will be seeking a term of seven years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) as to the Narcotics charge and seven years NJSP as to the Financial Facilitation charge. The sentences are to run consecutively.
“Operation Checkmate” was a four-month-long cooperative, multi-jurisdictional investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, United States Drug Enforcement Administration – High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Group 5, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force,and New Jersey State Police – Trafficking Central Unit, in concert with many other state, county, and local law enforcement agencies. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force managed and directed three simultaneous multi-agency investigations into high level cocaine distribution in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex Counties, as well as New York City. During the course of these investigations, approximately 50 additional law enforcement personnel were assigned to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force on a full-time basis. Multiple agencies – both within and outside of Ocean County – assisted in every aspect of all three investigations. The investigations, identified as “Operation Checkmate,” began in July 2021 and concluded in October of 2021.
The three cocaine networks were responsible for the import of more than three kilograms of cocaine per week into the Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex County areas. Through sophisticated surveillance methods and undercover operatives, “Operation Checkmate” was successful in disrupting and dismantling illicit controlled dangerous substance (CDS) distribution activities in these three counties, as well as New York City. On October 26, 2021, “Operation Checkmate” closed with the apprehension of 24 individuals for various offenses involving distribution of controlled dangerous substances. Additionally, 24 search warrants were executed resulting in the seizure of more than four kilograms of cocaine, over 15 pounds of marijuana, in excess of $650,000 in United States currency, seven firearms (three handguns, three “ghost guns,” and one pistol grip shotgun), ten vehicles, and additional illegal narcotics.
On October 26, 2021, Detectives executed court authorized search warrants at Capichana’s residence in Keyport and a business operated by Capichana, also located in Keyport. As a result, law enforcement seized – in combination from the residence and the business – approximately 1,455 grams of cocaine as well as $166,000 in United States currency. Capichana was transported to the Ocean County Jail, and later released as a consequence of New Jersey Bail Reform.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Chief Narcotics Assistant Prosecutor William Porter and Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Burke who are handling the case on behalf of the State, and also recognizes the following agencies for their collaborative assistance and cooperation with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force in connection with this investigation: Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit; Ocean County Regional SWAT Team; United States Drug Enforcement Administration – HIDTA Group 5; Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force; New Jersey State Police – Trafficking Central Unit; New Jersey State Police Teams Unit; New Jersey Air National Guard Counter Drug Task Force; Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Unit; Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force; Matawan Borough Police Department; Matawan Borough Police Department K-9 Unit; Keyport Borough Police Department; Manalapan Township Police Department; Ocean County Sheriff’s Office; Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Field Services Unit; Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit; Barnegat Township Police Department; Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit; Brick Township Police Department Special Response Team; Brick Township Police Department K-9 Unit; Beachwood Borough Police Department; Berkeley Township Police Department; Jackson Township Police Department; Lakewood Township Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit; Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team; Lakewood Township Police Department K-9 Unit; Manchester Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team; Ocean Township Police Department (Waretown); Point Pleasant Borough Police Department; South Toms River Police Department; Stafford Township Police Department; Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Unit; Toms River Township Police Department Emergency Services Unit; Toms River Township Police K-9 Unit; Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office; Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit; Aberdeen Township Police Department; Asbury Park Police Department; Hazlet Township Police Department; Hazlet Township Police Department K-9 Unit; Keansburg Borough Police Department; Marlboro Township Police Department; Middletown Township Police Department; Sea Bright Borough Police Department; Old Bridge Township Police Department – Bureau of Narcotics; Union Beach Borough Police Department; Union Beach Borough Police Department K-9 Unit; New York City Police Department – 50th Precinct Field Intelligence Office; and the City of New York Office of Special Narcotics Prosecutor.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–On Sunday March 12, 2023, at approximately 2:38 p.m., officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to Route 547 in the Ridgeway Section of town to investigate a motor vehicle crash involving a vehicle which had left the roadway and struck a large pine tree and a guard rail.
Upon arrival, officers observed a 2007 Toyota Camry with extensive front end damage on the grass portion adjacent to the roadway with the rear of the vehicle resting on the guard rail. The investigation revealed that the Toyota was travelling southbound on CR 547, when it left the roadway, struck two traffic sign supports, a large pine tree, and a guard rail. The vehicle was occupied by its driver, identified as 19-year-old Yanna Emilcar, and the front seat passenger, identified as 26-year-old Safiany Emilcar. Both occupants were transported via ambulance to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment and evaluation of non-life threatening injuries. The roadway was closed for several hours during the investigation.
Assisting at the scene were members of the Ridgeway and Manchester Volunteer Fire Departments, Manchester Fire Department, Manchester Emergency Medical Services, Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department, Lakehurst Borough Police Department, the Ocean County Road Department, and Accurate Towing. The investigation into the crash is still ongoing, however, driver error appears to be a contributing factor. This crash is being investigated by Patrolman Jesse Hoydis of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Jackson Township Police Chief Matthew Kunz announced that on March 8, 2023, Gerson Aguilar-Lara, 24, of Lakewood, was charged with two counts of Kidnapping, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and Robbery, in connection with a series of events that occurred in Jackson Township between March 7, 2023 and March 8, 2023.
On March 7, 2023, at approximately 10:30 p.m., the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a female victim seeking help; the call was subsequently disconnected. Upon callback, the victim was able to provide her name and basic information before the connection was again terminated. The Jackson Township Police Department was able to ascertain the address of the victim as a residence on North Chapel Road in Jackson. Through investigation, responding officers determined that the victim and her infant child had been taken from the residence against their will. Further investigation revealed that Aguilar-Lara, who was in a dating relationship with the victim and father of the infant, had forced the victim and her child into a Chevrolet Equinox and then fled the area.
The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Jackson Township Police Department put out a description of the vehicle, and utilized various investigative techniques to locate the victims as well as Aguilar-Lara. On March 8, 2023, at approximately 3:15 a.m., the Toms River Police Department observed Aguilar-Lara’s vehicle as it turned into a parking lot on Route 37 in Toms River. As the vehicle came to a stop, Aguilar-Lara fled on foot; he was taken into custody by officers of the Toms River Township Police Department shortly thereafter. Neither the victim nor her infant child were harmed.
Aguilar-Lara was transported to Jackson Township Police Headquarters, where he was processed and he is currently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer and Chief Kunz acknowledge the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Offenders Unit, Jackson Township Police Department, Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Lakewood Township Police Department, Toms River Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation leading to Aguilar-Lara’s apprehension.
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.
BOONTON — Attorney General Matthew J. Platkintoday announced charges against a Boonton police captain who allegedly stole his own internal affairs records and computer hardware containing police data from the Boonton Police Department.
Stephen Jones, 42, of Toms River, has been charged by complaint with computer theft, tampering with public records, and other offenses in connection with the April 2022 incident. The charges are a result of an investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability’s (OPIA) Corruption Bureau.
The investigation revealed Jones removed at least five computer towers from the Boonton Police Department, three of which contained police information, including files on internal affairs (IA) matters. Additionally, he allegedly stole his own personnel file and IA file, stashing the computer towers in his Toms River home and the files at his in-laws’ home in Edison.
Then the officer-in-charge of the Boonton Police, Jones was allegedly captured on surveillance video late at night on April 13, 2022 removing containers and computer towers from the police department. According to the investigation, Jones removed the computer hardware and files without authorization and in violation of Boonton Police policies.
Jones is charged with one count of each of the following offenses:
• second-degree computer theft
• third-degree theft by unlawful taking
• third-degree tampering with public records
• fourth-degree falsifying or tampering with records
Second-degree crimes carry a five- to 10-year prison term with a $150,000 fine upon conviction. Third-degree crimes can carry a prison sentence of three to five years and a $15,000 fine. Fourth-degree offenses could lead to up to 18 months in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Deputy Attorney General Eric Cohen is prosecuting the case for the OPIA Corruption Bureau under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Jeffrey Manis, Bureau Chief Peter Lee, OPIA Deputy Director Anthony Picione and OPIA Executive Director Thomas Eicher.
These charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
LITTLE EGG HARBOR, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 6, 2023, at approximately 1:45 p.m., multiple fire companies from the Little Egg Harbor Township area responded to a structure fire on Harvest Way in Little Egg Harbor Township. During a search of the residence, the body of a deceased male was discovered. The decedent’s body was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River for a post mortem examination and identification.
The origin and cause of the fire are currently under investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Additional information will be released to the public as it becomes available.
LITTLE EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Just after noon today March 7, 2023 the New Jersey Forrest Fire Service responded to a fire in Little Eggo Harbor Township off of Route 539 near Warren Grove after being spotted by the Cedar Bridge Fire Tower. Upon arrival the original fire was around 10 acres in size and quickly growing due to weather conditions. A command post is set up near the Warren Grove Range. The fire has a reported potential to exceed 450 acres. Fire will be known as the ‘Governor’s Branch Wildfire’- Munion Field Road south of the Governor’s Branch.
Local fire departments have been requested for structural protection in the area of the fire.
TUCKERTON, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 5, 2023, Ronald Yaniak, 56, of Little Egg Harbor Township, was charged with Criminal Sexual Contact in connection with an incident that occurred in Tuckerton on March 4, 2023.
On March 4, 2023, the Borough of Tuckerton Police Department received a 911 call from a female stating that she was touched inappropriately by an Uber driver while she was utilizing the ride-sharing service. An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victim’s Unit and the Borough of Tuckerton Police Department determined that the victim and three fellow passengers called for an Uber ride from Barnegat to Tuckerton. During the ride, the Uber driver inappropriately touched the victim – who was seated in the front passenger seat of the vehicle.
Further investigation revealed that Yaniak was the driver of the subject vehicle and that he did, in fact, touch the victim inappropriately. On March 5, 2023, Yaniak was charged with Criminal Sexual Contact at the Tuckerton Police Department, processed, and released on a summons pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victim’s Unit and Borough of Tuckerton Police Department 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.
BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced the resolution of charges brought against two juveniles from Brick Township for the arson that occurred on the Garden State Parkway on January 19, 2022, which shut down the northbound and southbound lanes of traffic near milepost 91 in Brick Township for approximately 10 hours. Although the charges were resolved in late 2022, the State’s intention to identify the juveniles by name in a subsequent public disclosure was opposed by attorneys for the juveniles in motions pending before the court; those motions were only recently decided by the court in the juveniles’ favor in February 2023, when it was ordered that the juveniles could be identified solely by their initials.
On Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at approximately 5:00 p.m., New Jersey State Police responded to a report of a fire in the area of milepost 91 on the Garden State Parkway in Brick Township. During the investigation, State Police Detectives determined that the fire was started within a drainage culvert that runs underneath the Garden State Parkway – from the 91 north entrance ramp to the 91 south exit ramp. Further investigation revealed that two juveniles, I. J., 15, and A.R., 14, were responsible for the arson and various acts of delinquency related to that event.
Late last year, both juveniles pleaded guilty to Arson and Criminal Mischief, and admitted that a Christmas tree inside the drainage culvert was purposely lit on fire, resulting in the extensive damage to the area. Both I.J. and A.R. were sentenced to 60 days in the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center as a condition of three years juvenile probation. Additionally, the Court ordered $15,000 in restitution to be split evenly between the juveniles. Finally, both juveniles were ordered to complete 50 hours of community service and attend and complete a fire setter’s education program.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Iva Krasteva who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the New Jersey State Police, Brick Township Police Department, and New Jersey Department of Transportation, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.
LITTLE EGG HARBOR, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on March 3, 2023, Michael Pillarella, 28, of Manahawkin, was found guilty of Manslaughter and Assault by Auto in connection with a motor vehicle crash that occurred in Little Egg Harbor Township during the evening hours of January 30, 2021. The crash resulted in the death of a female juvenile victim, and serious bodily injury to a second female juvenile victim. After a nearly three-week jury trial before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P., the jury concluded beyond a reasonable doubt that Pillarella recklessly caused the death of one victim, and recklessly operated a motor vehicle and caused serious bodily injury to the second victim. Pillarella is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Ryan on May 5, 2023, at which time he faces up to 15 years New Jersey State Prison.
On January 30, 2021, at approximately 9:45 p.m., officers from the Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department responded to the area of Radio Road and Baltusrol Court for a report of a two-vehicle crash with serious injuries. An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit and Little Egg Harbor Police Department revealed that a 2017 Hyundai Elantra, operated by Pillarella, was traveling northbound on Radio Road when he failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway, crossed over the centerline, and struck an oncoming 2006 Toyota XB travelling southbound on Radio Road. The Toyota XB was operated by a female juvenile; there was also a female juvenile passenger in the vehicle. As a result of the crash, both juveniles sustained serious injuries and were subsequently airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune.
Pillarella was airlifted to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center Trauma Center in Atlantic City for treatment of his injuries from the crash. A warrant was obtained for a draw of Pillarella’s blood. Pillarella was treated and signed himself out of the hospital against medical advice. Pillarella was initially issued several motor vehicle summonses in connection with the crash.
Further investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit and Little Egg Harbor Police Department resulted in the filing of additional charges against Pillarella on February 1, 2021, for Aggravated Assault and Assault by Auto — two counts as to each offense relating to both juvenile victims. Pillarella was taken into custody without incident by officers from the Little Egg Harbor Police Department, and he has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his arrest.
On February 9, 2021, the female juvenile passenger in the Toyota XB succumbed to the injuries she sustained as a result of the January 30, 2021 crash. She was pronounced deceased at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. As a consequence, the charges against Pillarella were upgraded to include Aggravated Manslaughter and Vehicular Homicide relative to the passenger victim.
On February 15, 2020, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office received the laboratory results in connection with Pillarella’s blood draw; those results revealed that Pillarella was under the influence of a combination of Alprazolam, Methadone, Fentanyl, and alcohol at the time of the crash, and that he was unfit to safely operate a motor vehicle on the roadways of the State of New Jersey. Additionally, further investigation revealed that Pillarella was operating his motor vehicle at an excessive rate of speed – approximately 80 miles per hour at the time of the crash.
Prosecutor Billhimer appreciates the diligence and dedication of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Robert Cassidy and Assistant Prosecutor Alyssa Mandara, 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 Vehicular Homicide Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crimes Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Advocacy Unit, Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department, Berkeley Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and collective efforts investigating this tragedy – ultimately resulting in today’s guilty verdicts.
FOUND GUILTY:
Michael Pillarella, 28, of Manahawkin, was found guilty of Manslaughter and Assault by Auto in connection with a motor vehicle crash that occurred in Little Egg Harbor Township during the evening hours of January 30, 2021. The crash resulted in the death of a female juvenile victim, and serious bodily injury to a second female juvenile victim.
SEASIDE PARK, NJ (OCEAN)–The Marine Mammal Stranding Center NOAA was assisted by Seaside Park Fire Department, Seaside Park Police Department and Seaside Park Public Works, Tri-Boro EMS, Seaside Heights Fire Department, New Jersey Fish & Wildlife, NJ Parks, with the removal of a dead wale from the M Street Beach this morning. The whale was spotted yesterday and washed ashore earlier today. A necropsy will be conducted in order to determine the cause of death.
Seaside Park Police Department are saddened to see the death of such a beautiful creature. Police ask that you please keep your distance and not disturb the whale so that the necropsy team can conduct their investigation.
Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today issued the following statement in response to another dead whale that washed ashore in Seaside Park in his congressional district earlier this morning:
“At least 18 dead whales and dolphins have washed ashore or been sighted in our area in the past three months.
Anyone who lives at the Jersey Shore knows that these alarming deaths are unprecedented and likely indicative of a larger environmental problem.
How much longer will the Biden Administration and Governor Murphy continue to play politics and ignore the extensive calls from me, local residents, fishermen and other stakeholders for a thorough and transparent investigation into this blatant environmental crisis?
The letters I wrote to the Biden Administration weeks ago urging an immediate pause to all offshore wind activity until ecological safety can be assured continue to remain unanswered.
I will not let up until my constituents get the answers they deserve.”
Smith noted that he is speaking with his colleagues in Congress to advance his bill requiring an investigation into the environmental review process for the offshore wind projects.
“I have already spoken with Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman and Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodger,” said Smith. “Congress must pass my legislation—HR 1056—to require an independent investigation into the approval process and environmental impacts of these projects before it’s too late.”
“The scale and speed of these fast-tracked offshore wind developments—with thousands of turbines slated to be installed—calls into question whether due diligence was done to investigate their effect on the environment, fisheries, tourism, and other critical factors that make our Jersey Shore the unique treasure that it is,” said Smith, who spoke at the Save the Whales rally in Point Pleasant Beach last Sunday.
“The fact that these whale deaths are occurring concurrently with the ongoing sound surveys and the underwater noise generated by acoustic vessels—even before construction and pile driving begin—cannot be ignored,” Smith said.
TOMS RIVER—Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today issued the following statement in response to another dead whale that washed ashore in Seaside Park in his congressional district earlier this morning:
“At least 18 dead whales and dolphins have washed ashore or been sighted in our area in the past three months.
Anyone who lives at the Jersey Shore knows that these alarming deaths are unprecedented and likely indicative of a larger environmental problem.
How much longer will the Biden Administration and Governor Murphy continue to play politics and ignore the extensive calls from me, local residents, fishermen and other stakeholders for a thorough and transparent investigation into this blatant environmental crisis?
The letters I wrote to the Biden Administration weeks ago urging an immediate pause to all offshore wind activity until ecological safety can be assured continue to remain unanswered.
I will not let up until my constituents get the answers they deserve.”
Smith noted that he is speaking with his colleagues in Congress to advance his bill requiring an investigation into the environmental review process for the offshore wind projects.
“I have already spoken with Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman and Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodger,” said Smith. “Congress must pass my legislation—HR 1056—to require an independent investigation into the approval process and environmental impacts of these projects before it’s too late.”
“The scale and speed of these fast-tracked offshore wind developments—with thousands of turbines slated to be installed—calls into question whether due diligence was done to investigate their effect on the environment, fisheries, tourism, and other critical factors that make our Jersey Shore the unique treasure that it is,” said Smith, who spoke at the Save the Whales rally in Point Pleasant Beach last Sunday.
“The fact that these whale deaths are occurring concurrently with the ongoing sound surveys and the underwater noise generated by acoustic vessels—even before construction and pile driving begin—cannot be ignored,” Smith said.
SEASIDE PARK, NJ (OCEAN)–Around noon today another dead whale was spotted floating off Seaside Park near L Street. Ryan Mack of Jersey Shore Fire Response was on scene and provided a photograph of the dead whale one March 1, 2023.
Calls On Biden Administration To Suspend Offshore Wind Projects Over Whale Deaths have so far gone unanswered.
This is a developing story please check back for further details.
MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN) – On Thursday, February 23, 2023, at approximately 9:01 a.m., members of Manchester Township Police, Fire, and EMS along with members from each of the Manchester and Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Companies responded to a Pine Acres Manor residence for a report of a structure fire.
Upon arrival, smoke and flames were observed emanating from the rear of the residence and it was quickly determined that the occupants of the residence had self-evacuated. As a result of the fire, the residence sustained fire and water damage to the rear interior of the residence and the building inspector subsequently deemed the residence uninhabitable. There were no injuries as a result of this fire.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was not suspicious in nature but the exact cause and origin have yet to be determined. This case is being investigated by Detective Richard Conklin of the Manchester Township Police Investigations Bureau and the Ocean County Fire Marshall.
Assisting at the scene were members of the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Company, Manchester Volunteer Fire Company, Ocean County Fire Marshall, Manchester Township Building Department, Manchester Township OEM and the American Red Cross.
BEACH HAVEN, NJ (OCEAN)–Just after 9:00 a.m. Beach Haven Fire Company was dispatched to 313 Iroquois Avenue for a reported working structure fire. The first arriving engine reported heavy fire throughout and called for a 2nd Alarm sending additional resources from other Long Beach Island departments as well as from the mainland. The fire was extinguished and is currently under investigation. No other details are available at this time.
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–On February 21, 2023, at approximately 8:01 a.m., Manchester Township Police responded to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Commonwealth Boulevard and Beacon Street. It was reported to responding police officers that the crash involved a Manchester Township School Bus. Upon arrival, the officers quickly determined that there were no students on the bus at the time of the crash. The investigation revealed that a 2010 Dodge Caliber, operated by 18-year-old Talia Cotto of Manchester, NJ, was making a left turn from Beacon Street onto Commonwealth Boulevard. As the Dodge entered the intersection, it was struck by the school bus which was travelling on Westbound on Commonwealth Boulevard. The operator of the school bus, Caroline Tompkins, 28-year-old from Manchester, NJ, sustained minor injuries and was transported to Community Medical Center for a medical evaluation. The operator of the Dodge was determined to be at fault in the crash and was issued a motor vehicle summons for careless driving. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage and were towed from the scene by Priced Rite towing. This crash is being investigated by Ptl. Anthony Iliadis of the Patrol Division. Also assisting at the scene were EMTs and Career Firefighters from the Manchester Division of Emergency Services along with members of the Ridgeway and Manchester Volunteer Fire Departments.
POINT PLEASANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Smith (R-Manchester) called for immediate answers from the Biden Administration and Governor Murphy to the growing questions raised by him, county and local officials, environmental leaders, and concerned Jersey Shore residents over the massive offshore wind projects along the New Jersey-New York coastline in light of the recent unprecedented surge in whale deaths.
Rep. Smith speaks at the Save the Whales rally in Point Pleasant Beach on Sunday. Pictured with Smith are (left to right) Trisha DeVoe, a naturalist and rally co-organizer; Leslie Mangold, rally organizer; Seaside Park Mayor John Peterson Jr; and Cindy Zypf, Executive Director of Clean Ocean Action.
“Questions and concerns raised by me and many others have gone unanswered concerning the unexplained deaths of at least 10 whales,” said Smith, who has received no response to date from the Biden Administration regarding his request to immediately pause all offshore wind projects until ecological safety can be assured.
“We demand to be heard and our deep concerns addressed—not trivialized, mocked or dismissed,” Smith said. “We want the truth. The people of New Jersey deserve better.”
The rally comes less than a week after a dead whale washed ashore in Manasquan and just two days after another dead whale washed ashore in New York, marking the ninth and tenth whale deaths in the area since early December.
“There is great concern for the potential serious—even catastrophic—damage to marine ecosystems leading to the destruction of NJ’s fishing and tourism businesses if hundreds, and even thousands, of wind turbines are installed off the New Jersey coast,” said Smith.
“Collectively, New Jersey and New York have set the nation’s largest regional offshore wind target by aiming to install over 16 GW of offshore wind energy capacity by 2035,” Smith said.
“No elected officeholder including President Biden or Governor Murphy—or any bureaucrat—should advance such a sweeping, potentially dangerous policy without meaningful input from the people or by bypassing local officials as happened on Friday to benefit Orsted,” said Smith.
“On Friday, I introduced legislation in the House of Representatives to require the US Government Accountability Office—GAO—to investigate the ‘sufficiency of the environmental review processes for offshore wind projects…of the Marine Fisheries Service, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) and any other relevant federal agency,’” said Smith.
Smith noted the investigation would determine the impact of offshore wind activity on whales and other marine wildlife, commercial and recreational fishing, vessel traffic, tourism, and the sustainability of shoreline beaches and inlets.
The study mandated by Smith’s bill would also examine whether federal agencies adequately consulted major stakeholders including county and local officials, commercial and recreational fishermen, local environmental groups, and Jersey Shore residents, as well as determine the estimated cost of these projects and who pays for them.
“Without serious, aggressive and independent analysis on the impact of these projects, they must be paused,” said Smith.
Amid growing concerns over recent whale deaths, ongoing questions about environmental impacts and a call from 12 Jersey Shore mayors for a moratorium on offshore wind activity, Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) on Monday urged two Biden Administration Secretaries in separateletters to immediately suspend all offshore wind projects until “ecological safety can be assured.”
Smith, writing on behalf of the 12 mayors, including four from his own congressional district, said, “I share their concerns regarding the several offshore wind projects under development off the coast of New Jersey, and their requisite impact on recent whale deaths, as well as the potential impacts on the broader environment and the fishing industry.”
“Over the course of the past several months, there have been repeated instances of dead whales washing up on New Jersey’s shoreline, and the proximity of nearby offshore wind development has raised concerns that ongoing activity on these projects may be contributing to whale fatalities,” Smith said in his January 30th letters to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.
“The federal government has a responsibility to ensure the Jersey Shore’s environmental viability, and any projects that may affect not only whales, but the broader marine ecosystem and the economy it sustains, must be comprehensively reviewed before allowed to proceed,” said Smith.
“The New Jersey mayors, local environmental leaders, and members of the fishing community all share a deep concern that four major offshore wind projects have been approved concurrently within the span of two years. That these projects are being built at such a large scale and in such a short amount of time casts doubt over whether there was sufficient time to properly evaluate these projects’ impact on marine ecosystems, fisheries, shipping channels, tourism, and other important factors that may be affected,” Smith said in the letters.
“It was recently reported that, last year, the Delaware Riverkeeper Network raised a concern that construction related to offshore wind was harmful to Atlantic Sturgeon. While at first their review overlooked this concern, NOAA subsequently found new information corroborating this claim. Still, construction continued in the interim, causing undue environmental harm,” Smith wrote.
“Similarly, the lack of conclusive evidence disproving the link between offshore wind development and whale deaths is sufficient enough to require a pause until assurances can be made to the public that the environmental and maritime safety of these projects has been properly reviewed,” Smith continued.
“Accordingly, I request that all work be suspended until such time that ecological safety can be assured,” wrote Smith.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on February 18, 2023, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office performed a post mortem examination of Billy Kimbrough, 76, of Toms River, whose body was discovered in a structure fire on Roberts Road in Toms River Township on February 16, 2023. The examination concluded that Mr. Kimbrough’s cause of death was Asphyxia Due to Smoke Inhalation and his manner of death is accidental.
On February 16, 2023, at approximately 3:00 p.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department and Toms River Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Roberts Road. During the primary search of the residence, the body of a deceased male later identified as Mr. Kimbrough, the occupant of the residence, was discovered.
A thorough and extensive investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and the Toms River Township Bureau of Fire Prevention, determined that the fire originated on a mattress in the only bedroom of the residence and that smoking cannot be eliminated as the cause of the fire.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Police Department, Toms River Township Bureau of Fire Prevention, and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and cooperative efforts in connection with this investigation.
February 18, 2023
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that the fatal structure fire that occurred on Roberts Road in Toms River Township on February 16, 2023 has been ruled accidental.
On February 16, 2023, at approximately 3:00 p.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department and Toms River Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Roberts Road. During the primary search of the residence, the body of a deceased male later identified as Billy Kimbrough, 76, the occupant of the residence, was discovered.
A thorough and extensive investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, and the Toms River Township Bureau of Fire Prevention, determined that the fire originated on a mattress in the only bedroom of the residence and that smoking cannot be eliminated as the cause of the fire. A post mortem examination of the victim is scheduled for today.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Police Department, Toms River Township Bureau of Fire Prevention, and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and cooperative efforts in connection with this investigation.
BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 7:15 a.m. Brick Police received a report of a car fire in the Emergency Room parking lot at Ocean Medical Center. The caller reported the car was in the lot with other cars around it. Chief 2300 arrived first and confirmed the working car fire with other vehicles as multiple exposures. When the engine arrived a 1 3/4″ hose line was stretched to attack the vehicle fire. It appears that was some extension to the other vehicles in the parking lot.
Nine dead whales in two months and still no answers from the Biden Administration
February 17, 2023
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today introduced legislation requiring an immediate, comprehensive investigation into the environmental approval process for offshore wind projects as Governor Murphy and the Biden Administration continue to ignore growing calls to pause offshore wind development over concerns about the recent A dead whale washes ashore in Manasquan on Monday, February 13th—the ninth one along the New Jersey-New York coastline since early December.
“Nine dead whales have washed up on our beaches since early December, and we still have no meaningful answers from Governor Murphy or the Biden Administration on the broader impact of these projects on the marine environment as they rush to build the largest offshore wind farm in the nation,” said Smith, who has yet to receive a response from the Biden Administration after he urged two Biden Administration Secretaries late last month to pause the offshore wind activity.
“As part of a full-court press for answers, my legislation will investigate the level of transparency from federal agencies that greenlighted this aggressive offshore wind development and determine how much scrutiny was implemented in reviewing the environmental and maritime safety of this project, especially given its unprecedented size and scale,” Smith said.
Smith’s bill would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO)—commonly known as the congressional watchdog—to investigate the sufficiency of the environmental review process for offshore wind projects, including the impacts on whales, finfish, marine mammals, benthic resources, commercial and recreational fishing, air quality and greenhouse gas emissions, vessel traffic, tourism, and the sustainability of shoreline beaches and inlets.
The study mandated by Smith’s legislation would also examine whether federal agencies adequately consulted major stakeholders including county and local officials, commercial and recreational fishermen, local environmental groups, and Jersey Shore residents, as well as determine the estimated cost of these projects and who pays for them.
Smith, a longtime advocate for marine wildlife and the broader environmental and economic viability of the Jersey Shore, reiterated that “the lack of conclusive evidence disproving the link between offshore wind development and whale deaths is sufficient to require a pause until assurances can be made to the public that the environmental and maritime safety of these projects has been properly reviewed.”
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on February 16, 2023, at approximately 3:00 p.m., Officers from the Toms River Township Police Department and Toms River Township Fire Departments were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Roberts Road. During the primary search of the residence, the body of a deceased male was discovered. The decedent’s body was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River for a post mortem examination and identification. During the suppression of the fire, a firefighter was treated for a minor injury at Community Medical Center and released.
The origin and cause of the fire are currently under investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Township Bureau of Fire Prevention, and the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Additional information will be released to the public as it becomes available.
MidJersey.News 
You must be logged in to post a comment.