Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on October 27, 2023, Porfirio Serrano-Cruz, 40, of Seaside Heights, was sentenced by the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C., to seven years New Jersey State Prison, as a result of his previously entered guilty plea to Aggravated Assault in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred in Seaside Park on June 30, 2022. This sentence will be subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, meaning that Serrano-Cruz will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Serrano-Cruz pled guilty to the charge before Judge Rahill on August 14, 2023.
On June 30, 2022, at approximately 5:15 a.m., Officers from the Seaside Park Police Department responded to a residence on O Street in response to a 911 call; the caller stated that someone had broken into his residence and tried to kill him. Responding Officers found a 39-year-old male victim with multiple stab wounds to the arms, chest, abdomen and groin. The victim was air-lifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of his injuries. He was subsequently treated for his injuries and released.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, and Seaside Park Police Department, determined that Serrano-Cruz was the individual responsible for the stabbing of the victim. On June 30, 2022, Serrano-Cruz was located in Seaside Heights and taken into custody without incident by Officers from the Seaside Heights Police Department. He has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his apprehension.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Julie Peterson who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Seaside Park Police Department, Seaside Heights Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation resulting in Serrano-Cruz’s apprehension, guilty plea, and now his state prison sentence.
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on October 4, 2023, Anthony Collins, 40, of Seaside Heights, was charged with the crimes of Manslaughter and Endangering an Injured Victim in connection with the death of Robert May, 70, of Seaside Heights, on October 1, 2023, in the Borough of Seaside Heights.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Officers from the Seaside Heights Police Department responded to the area of Central Avenue and Sumner Avenue for a report of a fall victim. Responding Officers found a male victim – later identified as Robert May – laying on the ground next to his bicycle. Mr. May was observed to be bleeding from a laceration to his head. Mr. May was initially treated at the scene and refused further medical assistance; he thereafter left the area and returned to his residence. A subsequent investigation by the Seaside Heights Police Department revealed that Mr. May was assaulted by another individual, which caused him to fall off his bicycle and strike his head on the pavement.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the Seaside Heights Police Department received information that Mr. May had been acting erratically subsequent to his fall, resulting in him being transported by the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad from his home to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Mr. May’s condition continued to deteriorate, and he was subsequently transferred to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. On October 1, 2023, Mr. May succumbed to his injuries. A post-mortem examination conducted on that date by the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of Mr. May’s death to be blunt force injury resulting from the assault which occurred in Seaside Heights on September 18, 2023, and the manner of his death to be homicide.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Seaside Heights Police Department determined that Collins was, in fact, the individual who assaulted Mr. May on September 18th, ultimately resulting in his death.
On October 4, 2023, a warrant was issued for Collins’ arrest, and his name was entered in the National Crime Information Center database. On October 15, 2023, Collins surrendered himself at Seaside Heights Police Department 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 Major Crime Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, Seaside Heights Police Department, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and United States Marshals Service, 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. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
SEASIDE PARK, NJ (OCEAN)–Seaside Park police have identified the body found this morning as Wilmer Gomez, 31, of Howell. He was the missing swimmer from Sunday.
Reports from Sunday from Seaside and Seaside Park, numerous rescues were made that day:
SEASIDE HEIGHTS— Several swimmers in distress rescued reports of 31-year-old male missing.
Calling for Aqua Eyes sonar for missing person search. Still missing as of 8:15 p.m.
Search called off for tonight will resume in morning.
9/4/2023 Update for Seaside from Seaside Park Fire Company:
Yesterday morning at 5:21 a.m. the Seaside Park Fire Department was dispatched with zone 1 for a forest fire assignment, 4531’s crew spent 12 hours on a structural protection assignment. While that assignment was being conducted other crews responded to multiple other emergencies in town and in the State Park. These emergencies included multiple water rescues. When the crew from the forest fire returned they assisted the other 2 crews for a total of 10 emergencies for the day. Unfortunately, the final call of the day was a tragic one and someone did not get to go home with their family. Crews were on the Stockton Ave beach until after 9:00 p.m. on a recovery mission. Some of our members left their homes and did not return for 17 hours yesterday. We cannot stress enough the importance of staying out of the ocean when the lifeguards are off duty, we remind the public that today is the last day of guarded beaches in Seaside Park!
Further stories from Sunday can be found at the link below:
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that, Giancarlos Fernandez, 19, of Hasbrouck Heights, was charged with Assault by Auto and Knowingly Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Crash with Serious Injuries, in connection with a pedestrian strike that occurred in Seaside Heights on May 26, 2023.
On May 26, 2023, at approximately 6:50 p.m., Seaside Heights Police responded to the area of Barnegat Avenue and Freemont Avenue for a report of a pedestrian being struck by a motor vehicle. Responding Officers discovered that a 2012 Infinity G37, being operated by Fernandez, was traveling west on Freemont Avenue at a high rate of speed when he struck an eleven year-old male riding is bicycle. Upon impact the eleven year-old male became embedded in the windshield of the vehicle and was eventually thrown to the pavement. The eleven year-old victim was air lifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of serious injuries. He is currently listed in stable condition.
Following the crash, Fernandez exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended by Seaside Heights Police Department Detectives a few blocks away. Once apprehended, Seaside Heights Police administered standardized field sobriety tests to Fernandez. Fernandez was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River, where a warrant was obtained for a draw of his blood. Fernandez was subsequently transported to the Ocean County Jail where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Seaside Heights Police Department, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit for their assistance in 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.
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–Yesterday, police and firefighters were dispatched to 325 Webster Avenue for a report of a structure fire around 10:30 p.m. when Seaside Police & Ocean County Radio Room received a report of flames coming out the roof of a house. Seaside Heights Police were first on the scene and confirmed a working fire and with entrapment. Police forced entry in the rear of the structure and removed the two occupants without any harm. The occupants were then taken to Tri-Boro EMS ambulance for evaluation. Firefighters quickly laid a water supply line in from the hydrant and stretched a line to the front of the structure and quickly knocked down the flames. The cause of the is under investigation by the Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office.
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–Today around 5:10 p.m., Seaside Police received a report of a trapped dog inside a car with the owner being gone for over 45 minutes. Seaside Heights Police Officers arrived and deployed a car entry tool to rescue the dog out of the parked hot car. Temperatures this afternoon were in the 90s. Officers checked the dog and the dog seemed to be fine. The driver didn’t return for about an hour after the dog was removed.
UPDATE: According to Seaside Heights Police, Diane Santos-Garcia of New York City, was issued a summons for “Care of Dog”
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on February 22, 2022, Steven Adams, 23, of Jackson, pled guilty to Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1), before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., in connection with an incident that occurred in Seaside Park on November 15, 2021. At the time of Adams’ sentencing on April 8, 2022, the State will be seeking a term of five years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2.
On November 15, 2021, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Officers from the Seaside Park Police Department were dispatched to the Desert Palm Inn for a report of an injured male who had fallen from a balcony. Responding Officers found Chad Atwood, 42, of Seaside Park, lying on the pavement. It was apparent that Mr. Atwood was suffering from serious injuries, and he was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of those injuries.
An investigation conducted by the Seaside Park Police Department determined that Adams and Mr. Atwood – both guests at the Desert Palm Inn – were involved in an altercation in the parking lot of the establishment. The altercation then proceeded to the second floor balcony. Adams charged at Mr. Atwood, pushing him over the railing of the balcony and causing him to fall to the ground below. Adams was taken into custody and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he has remained lodged since November 15, 2021.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the diligence of Assistant Prosecutor Kimberly Carr who is handling the case on behalf of the State, as well as the efforts of the Seaside Park Police Department relative to this investigation, leading to Adams’ arrest, guilty plea, and soon his state prison sentence.
Steven Adams, 23, of Jackson Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on February 22, 2022, Steven Adams, 23, of Jackson, pled guilty to Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1), before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., in connection with an incident that occurred in Seaside Park on November 15, 2021. At the time of Adams’ sentencing on April 8, 2022, the State will be seeking a term of five years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2.
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Ocean Township Police Chief Michael Rogalski announced that on October 25, 2021, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled that Megan Campana, 42, of Seaside Heights, whose body was found in Waretown on June 4, 2021, died of natural causes.
On June 4, 2021, the Ocean Township Police Department received a report of an unresponsive female located in a wooded area of the Barnegat Branch Rail Trail near County Line Road in Waretown; responding Officers located the body of a deceased female. On June 5, 2021, the Ocean County Medical Examiner positively identified the body as that of Ms. Campana. On October 25, 2021, the Ocean County Medical Examiner released the results of a forensic toxicology report issued in connection with the post-mortem examination performed on Ms. Campana. The Medical Examiner ruled the manner of Ms. Campana’s death to be from natural causes.
Prosecutor Billhimer and Chief Rogalski acknowledge the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean Township Police Department Detective Bureau and Patrol Division, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their collective assistance relative to this investigation.
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Jose Serrano-Robles, 43, of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, was charged with Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3; Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4a; Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5b; and Being a Certain Person Not to Possess Weapons in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7b(1), in connection with a shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of August 16, 2021, in Seaside Heights.
On August 16, 2021, at approximately 2:00 a.m., Seaside Heights Police Officers responded to a 911 call for reports of gunshots fired at the La Fontana Motel on Grant Avenue. Responding Officers found a 51-year-old male victim with an apparent gunshot wound to the head. The victim was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of his injuries, and is reported to be in stable condition.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau revealed that Serrano-Robles and the victim had been sharing a room at the La Fontana Motel. A search of the motel room yielded two handguns. The investigation further revealed that Serrano-Robles shot the victim and then fled the area. Detectives from the Seaside Heights Police Department located Serrano-Robles at the Toms River Bus Station, where he was taken into custody without incident. Serrano-Robles is currently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau and Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Warrants Division, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation resulting in Serrano-Robles’ swift 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.
R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier.
Photos and video by: NJ State Police:
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
New Jersey Lt Governor Shiela Oliver, New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Patrick Callahan, Father Michael Lorentsen of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer and John Ciuppa, President, Garden State COPS kick off New Jersey Law Enforcement Survivors Day at Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, N.J. on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. The event is the idea of Mr. Vincent Storino Sr. one of the owners Breakwater Beach and Casino Pier. (New Jersey State Police / Tim Larsen)
Legislation will Increase Solar Development and Facilitate Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure throughout the State
July 9, 2021
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN) – Governor Phil Murphy today signed a package of bills aimed at advancing New Jersey’s transition to a clean energy future to further the Administration’s goal of reaching 100 percent clean energy by 2050. The legislation will increase solar development and facilitate installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure throughout the state.
“Three and a half years ago we put forth one of the most aggressive plans in the nation to move New Jersey away from fossil fuels and towards a future based on clean and renewable energy technologies,” said Governor Murphy. “From wind-turbine component manufacturing, to solar energy installation, to electric vehicles, the modernization of our energy sector will not only aid us in addressing climate change, but also drive significant economic growth and create good-paying, union jobs across the state. By signing these bills today, we are marking another milestone on our path to 100 percent clean energy by 2050 and fueling our clean innovation economy.”
“In order to combat climate change and its devastating consequences, we must do all we can to make it easier for people and families to use and charge electric vehicles whether they live in a single-family home or in a multi-family dwelling. Electric vehicles are the future and everyone should have access to the environmental and economic benefits they provide,” said Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, who serves as Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. “The legislation that Governor Murphy signed today will go a long way to supporting electric vehicle adoption across New Jersey. In fact, DCA is already at work crafting model ordinances to provide local governments with the ability to safely and efficiently approve the installation of electric vehicle service equipment and parking spaces that are pre-wired for electric vehicle infrastructure. DCA looks forward to continuing to do its part on electric vehicles and the broader effort to protect our environment.”
The Governor signed the following four bills into law:
S3223 (Smith, Bateman/Swain, Benson, Lopez, Verrelli, Karabinchak, Zwicker) – Establishes numerical requirements and zoning standards for installation of electric vehicle supply equipment and Make-Ready parking spaces
A1653 (Quijano, Karabinchak, Holley/Smith, Bateman) – Encourages development of zero-emission vehicle fueling and charging infrastructure in redevelopment projects.
A4554 (Karabinchak, Burzichelli, Houghtaling/Smith, Bateman) – Establishes successor program to solar renewable energy certificate program in BPU, including solicitation process for certain solar power generation facilities.
A5434 (Dancer, Armato, Houghtaling/Smith, Bateman) – Establishes dual-use solar project pilot program for unpreserved farmland; allows land used for dual-use solar project to be eligible for farmland assessment under certain conditions.
“I often talk about how significant these past few years have been for greatly expanding and growing renewable energy and electric vehicle capacity in New Jersey to combat climate change,” said Senator Smith. “With the dual-use solar project and utility-scale solar program laws now established, we can significantly increase our renewable energy footprint in a way that both preserves farmland and open-space. This clean energy can then go into the electrical grid to help power the electric vehicles via charging stations installed around the state.”
“In the not-so-distant future, we’ll see the day when most cars on the road are electric. By 2040, over half of all passenger vehicles sold are projected to be electric,” said Assemblymembers Lisa Swain, Daniel Benson, Yvonne Lopez, Anthony Verrelli, Robert Karabinchak, and Andrew Zwicker in a joint statement. “For the sake of our climate future, that day cannot come soon enough. If we want to encourage consumers to shift from buying gasoline-powered cars that emit dangerous fossil fuels into the air and erode our climate, to environmentally conscious electric vehicles that will reduce our dependence on oil and support clean air initiatives, we must invest in EV charging infrastructure in every community. The standards outlined in this law will remove roadblocks faced when installing EV supply equipment and parking spaces, which will expand our EV infrastructure and help New Jersey meet its climate goals.”
“More people are using zero-emission vehicles now than ever before. This is due in part to the hundreds of dollars ZEV drivers save each year on gas,” said Assemblymembers Annette Quijano, Robert Karabinchak, and Jamel Holley in a joint statement. “These vehicles are also better for our planet than gasoline cars because they don’t create byproducts that can harm the environment. The Assembly passed quite a few bills last session to encourage the purchase of ZEVs, and we must continue our efforts of finding ways to make these cars more convenient for both current and prospective owners. This law will encourage municipalities to incorporate charging and refueling stations in their redevelopment plans to increase the number of stations throughout our state. The more places our residents can go to recharge or refuel their ZEV, the more practical and appealing these vehicles will be.”
“Solar power is a clean, renewable source of energy that can reliably power homes and businesses throughout our state,” said Assemblymen Robert Karabinchak, John Burzichelli, and Eric Houghtaling in a joint statement. “The Solar Successor Program will incentivize the generation of more solar power to help New Jersey reach our energy goals over the next five years and beyond. This program will not only create new jobs, but help protect our environment as well – ultimately benefitting everyone in our state.”
“This law will allow large-scale solar energy projects to be used as a tool for farmland preservation, and improve long-term viability of New Jersey family-farming operations,” said Assemblymen John Armato and Eric Houghtaling in a joint statement. “Studies have shown that agriculture production and solar generation can coexist on the same land. With a dual-use solar project pilot program, crops would flourish while the State continues its ambition toward 100% clean energy by 2050.”
“A very good balance was struck between maintaining our best agricultural lands while at the same time advancing the state’s Energy Master Plan,” said New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas Fisher. “The Department of Agriculture is working closely with BPU as well as with Rutgers University to ensure the best possible outcomes are achieved. Thank you to Governor Murphy and the Legislature for continuing to make clean energy a priority that will allow solar interests to be developed while advancing agriculture in the Garden State.”
“Governor Murphy’s actions on these bills today will expand solar energy and electric vehicle infrastructure and continue to advance our efforts to achieve 100% clean energy by 2050,” said New Jersey Board of Public Utilities President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “We are building on the success of New Jersey’s solar industry, which is going strong with over 142,000 installations in the state, as well developing the critical EV infrastructure necessary to help drivers make the switch. The new legislation complements our efforts at the Board and will help deliver on the Governor’s vision of a clean energy future.”
“Increasing the use of solar energy and zero-emission vehicles is not only essential for addressing the threat of climate change, but also creates important opportunities for long-term, sustainable economic growth,” said New Jersey Economic Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan. “Around the world, clean energy is a major job creator, and Governor Murphy’s strong leadership in signing these bills is a critical step forward that will establish New Jersey as a leader in the fight against climate change while building a stronger, fairer economy.”
“I am proud to stand with Governor Murphy today as he signs legislation that will make it easier for New Jersey’s municipalities to create electric vehicle charging infrastructure in their communities and further advance the state’s clean energy goals,” said New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “Driving electric has numerous benefits for public health, air quality and the environment. We encourage the public to review the many incentives New Jersey offers for purchasing and driving electric vehicles and consider doing so an investment in the state’s clean energy future.”
“Governor Murphy understands that the aggressive and thoughtful pursuit of clean energy and the economy of New Jersey will be the rising tide that lifts all boats,” said Pam Frank, CEO, ChargEVC-NJ. “And importantly, in the name of fairness and in the name of decency, the governor recognizes that for so many generations, so many of our boats, never even left the shore. Putting his vision together with the leadership of these two men, Senator Smith and Assemblyman Benson means a lot is happening.”
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on May 1, 2021, Gerardo Ruiz, 50, of Seaside Heights, was charged with Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1), relative to the death of Alecia Perreault, age 29, of Seaside Heights, that occurred in the early morning hours of May 1, 2021, in Seaside Heights.
On May 1, 2021, at approximately 7:30 a.m., Seaside Heights Police received a telephone call from an individual claiming to have knowledge that Ruiz killed a female at the Offshore Motel in Seaside Heights. The caller further advised that Ruiz was staying at the Surfside Motel in Seaside Heights. Officers responded to a room at the Offshore Motel, where they located the body of Ms. Perreault with apparent wounds to her neck; Ms. Perreault was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officers subsequently responded to Ruiz’s room at the Surfside Motel, and discovered that he had experienced an apparent drug overdose. Ruiz is currently in the protective custody of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office at a medical facility. Ruiz is currently listed in serious but stable condition.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau determined that Ruiz is the individual responsible for Ms. Perreault’s death. “The Ocean County Medical Examiner has preliminarily determined this to be a homicide but the cause and manner are currently pending further testing,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vitim Witness Advocacy Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their cooperative assistance in connection with this investigation.
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.
Gerardo Ruiz, 50, of Seaside Heights, was charged with Murder
“We’re extremely concerned by Governor Murphy’s willingness to consider the use of vaccine passports that could prevent people from working, going to school, or visiting public places,” said Holzapfel. “In a free society that respects individual rights, we believe health decisions should be a personal, private choice that a patient doesn’t have to discuss with anyone but their doctor. Our new legislation would prevent vaccine passports from being employed here in New Jersey.”
So-called vaccine “passports” are physical or electronic documents or credentials that could be used to demonstrate that an individual has been immunized against COVID-19.
They could be used to prevent unvaccinated individuals from traveling, accessing public places or events, attending school, or even working.
“We don’t think our state government should threaten or allow for personal freedoms to be restricted based on vaccination status,” said McGuckin. “Requiring vaccine passports to engage in everyday activities would be discriminatory and raise a host of serious constitutional and privacy concerns. This fatally flawed idea needs to be nipped in the bud.”
Holzapfel will introduce legislation in the Senate that makes it unlawful to ask a person if they have received a COVID-19 vaccination or require a person to display proof of vaccination as a condition of or as a prerequisite to:
the exercise of any privilege or right granted under State or federal law;
conducting any business or commerce;
travelling to, outside, or within the State;
obtaining or maintaining an internship, obtaining or maintaining employment, or receiving a promotion from an employer;
participation in any governmental or political activity;
admission or enrollment into any child or adult day care program;
admission to, enrollment in, or graduation from a preschool program, elementary or secondary school, college, university, or any other institution of education;
participation in any activity, internship, opportunity, program, or sport offered by a preschool program, elementary or secondary school, college, university, or any other institution of education;
receiving adequate dental care or health care;
maintaining, receiving, or renewing a professional certification or license;
obtaining or renewing membership in any professional organization;
entrance into or service from any place of business, including, but not limited to, any market, restaurant, or store;
entrance into and service from any public building, office, or structure;
entrance into and use of any public park or beach; or
admission into or service from any amusement park, concert venue, theater, or sporting event.
Additionally, the legislation makes it unlawful to discriminate against or to take any adverse action against any individual who has not received a COVID-19 vaccine or who does not disclose whether the individual has received a COVID-19 vaccine.
McGuckin and Catalano will join as co-sponsors of identical companion legislation that is pending introduction in the General Assembly.
“After a year of watching Governor Murphy take extreme actions by executive orders, people don’t want their rights to be further eroded,” added Catalano. “Just like shutting down businesses and closing houses or worship, forcing people to show their documents to go out in public seems completely un-American. We have to fight back.”
PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Plumsted Township Police Chief Earl Meroney announced that on March 22, 2021, Nancy Proctor, 62, of Ortley Beach, was charged with Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3a.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Unit and Plumsted Township Police Department revealed that Proctor – a former manager at Laurita Winery in New Egypt – stole in excess of $40,000 from the winery during the course of her employment spanning the time period from January 24, 2019 through November 1, 2019. Proctor was responsible for collecting payments from food vendors for events taking place at Laurita Winery, but instead diverted the monies intended for Laurita Winery to her own personal PayPal accounts, for her own personal benefit.
On March 22, 2021, law enforcement located Proctor at her current place of employment in Seaside Heights; she was subsequently transported to the Seaside Heights Police Department, where she was processed and released on a summons pending a future court date.
Prosecutor Billhimer and Chief Meroney commend the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Unit, Plumsted Township Police Department, and Seaside Heights Police Department for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.
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.
Nancy Proctor, 62, of Ortley Beach
Nancy Proctor, 62, of Ortley Beach, was charged with Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3a
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on November 30, 2020, John T. Mullen, Jr., 51, of Seaside Heights, was sentenced to twenty-two years in New Jersey State Prison by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., as a result of his previously entered guilty plea to Aggravated Manslaughter in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-4. This sentence is subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2., meaning that Mullen will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his prison sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Mullen pled guilty to Aggravated Manslaughter before Judge Ryan on September 23, 2020.
On October 20, 2019, Manchester Township Police responded to the Surf and Stream Campground after receiving multiple 911 calls about a body lying in the entrance driveway to the campground. Upon arrival, Manchester patrol units found the body of Thomas J. Applegate, 34, of Manchester, lying in the driveway of the Surf and Stream Campground with a wound in his chest. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. A joint investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Manchester Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit determined that Mullen stabbed Mr. Applegate during the course of a drug deal, which ultimately resulted in his death.
“The law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation – through sheer hard work and resolve – swiftly identified Mullen as the individual responsible for Mr. Applegate’s death and quickly brought him into custody,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated. “The exceptional teamwork displayed by these law enforcement professionals has brought about a lengthy state prison sentence for Mullen, which may, as Judge Ryan pointed out, effectively result in a life sentence given this defendant’s age and longstanding history of substance abuse,” Prosecutor Billhimer continued. “We hope this sentence affords the family of Mr. Applegate some level of peace and closure,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the diligence of Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Michael Abatemarco and Assistant Prosecutor Alyssa Mandara who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Advocacy Unit, Manchester Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, who collectively did an outstanding job investigating and resolving this matter, ensuring that Mullen would be brought to justice.
John T. Mullen, Jr., 51, of Seaside Heights, was sentenced to twenty-two years in New Jersey State Prison by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., as a result of his previously entered guilty plea to Aggravated Manslaughter
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