Confirmed EF1 Tornado in Windsor section of Robbinsville Township, NJ UPDATE: National Weather Service Confirms EF1 Tornado Hits Windsor Section Of Robbinsville, NJ
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–A possible tornado touched down near Gordon Road and Route 130, the Robbinsville Township Police and Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded for wires down, then a structural collapse in the 1200 Block of Route 130 at 7:27 p.m. Shortly after trees and wires were reported down at the intersection of Voelbel Road and Perrinveville Road, power was out in the are and was still being restored this morning.
There was damage to a day care center on Route 130 from the storm and a specific path goes though the woods from Route 130 towards Windsor Road and Windsor-Perrineville Road. The next damage in a specific path is located at Windsor-Perrineveille Road and Voelbel. Trees are down and appeared to be twisted where they were broken off.
The day care center was occupied by the owner at the time of the storm and there were no injuries reported. A roofing contractor was on scene this morning getting an estimate to make the roof repairs. It appears that just roofing material was removed and some minor siding damage near the entrance; the daycare center should be reopen very quickly.
MidJersey.news was in the area last night and witnessed rotation right after the storm left Robbinsville and progressed into East Windsor. Rotation was seen behind the “Field of Terror” off Perrineville Road and the rotating clouds were last seen heading into Millstone towards Clarksburg/Perrineville and Roosevelt.
The path of damage is very specific and not wide usually as seen as straight line winds. If the National Weather Service confirms a tornado the story will be updated to reflect that.
Severe Flooding From Thunderstorms And Possible Tornados Hit Area
Possible Tornado On Long Beach Island Several Houses Damaged Possible Capsized Boats In The Bay
The storm damaged the roof of a day care center and left a specific path though the woods behind the day care off of Route 130 going towards Windsor Road.
The next location of damage was seen at the intersection of Windsor Perrineville and Voelbel Roads in Robbinsville Township near the East Windsor Border
Some minor crop damage and a couple of trees were damaged in the area of Cedarville Road. The rotating clouds that damaged Robbinsville were heading in this direction then eventually towards Millstone, Clarksburg and Roosevelt.
The areas the National Weather Service is investigating for storm damage are consistent with the path of the storm witnessed yesterday.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today that an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department has led to the arrest of a Trenton man for this weekend’s fatal shooting of Daquan Basnight.
Matthew Tanner, 36, was arrested without incident Tuesday evening in Trenton by members of the MCHTF, the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Trenton Police Street Crimes Unit. He is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon and one count of second-degree certain persons not to possess a weapon. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Tanner pending trial.
At approximately 12:20 a.m. on Sunday, August 1, the ShotSpotter gunshot detection system activated for multiple rounds in the 800 block of Stuyvesant Avenue. Police responded and located the victim, 30-year-old Basnight of Ewing, lying in the street with multiple gunshot wounds to his face and body.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call HTF Detective Shawn Bruton at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Update: Victim Identified In Last Night’s Stuyvesant Ave. Shooting In Trenton
Updated: Fatal Shooting In Trenton
Trenton Man Arrested In August 1, 2021 Shooting-Murder Of Daquan Basnight
Matthew Tanner, 36, Trenton
Matthew Tanner, 36, was arrested without incident Tuesday evening in Trenton by members of the MCHTF, the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Trenton Police Street Crimes Unit. He is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon and one count of second-degree certain persons not to possess a weapon. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Tanner pending trial.
Names of 2021* homicide victims:
2/18/2021 Jabree Saunders, 26, from shooting on May 14, 2018
2/22/2021 Khalil Gibbs, 25, of West Windsor, shooting
2/25/2021 Lovelle Laramore, 60, of Trenton shooting
4/15/2021 Kaheem Carter, 22, of Trenton, shooting
4/20/2021 Shaquan McNeil, 25, of Trenton, shooting
4/24/2021 Cheryl Jones, 65, of Trenton, shooting
4/29/2021 Ramire Harvey, 25, of Trenton, shooting
5/15/2021 David Williams 36, of Trenton, shooting
5/29/2021 Edgar Geovani Sis-Luis, 34, of Trenton, aggravated manslaughter
7/05/2021 Dion Ellis, 16, Trenton, Shooting
7/14/2021 Pablo Herrera Chun, 53, Trenton, Shooting
7/19/2021 William Mitchell, 33, Trenton, Shooting
7/19/2021 Jermel Carter, 38, Trenton, Shooting
7/29/2021 Leonard Pettigrew, 58, Trenton, Shooting
7/30/2021 Shaquil Loftin, 23, Shooting, Trenton
8/01/2021 Daquan Basnight, 30, of Ewing, Shooting
*Updated to reflect the person who died in 2021 from complications from a shooting on May 14, 2018 as per medical examiner report.
Confirmed EF1 Tornado in Windsor section of Robbinsville Township, NJ UPDATE: National Weather Service Confirms EF1 Tornado Hits Windsor Section Of Robbinsville, NJ
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–A possible tornado touched down near Gordon Road and Route 130, the Robbinsville Township Police and Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded for wires down, then a structural collapse in the 1200 Block of Route 130 at 7:27 p.m. Shortly after trees and wires were reported down at the intersection of Voelbel Road and Perrinveville Road, power was out in the are and was still being restored this morning.
There was damage to a day care center on Route 130 from the storm and a specific path goes though the woods from Route 130 towards Windsor Road and Windsor-Perrineville Road. The next damage in a specific path is located at Windsor-Perrineveille Road and Voelbel. Trees are down and appeared to be twisted where they were broken off.
The day care center was occupied by the owner at the time of the storm and there were no injuries reported. A roofing contractor was on scene this morning getting an estimate to make the roof repairs. It appears that just roofing material was removed and some minor siding damage near the entrance; the daycare center should be reopen very quickly.
MidJersey.news was in the area last night and witnessed rotation right after the storm left Robbinsville and progressed into East Windsor. Rotation was seen behind the “Field of Terror” off Perrineville Road and the rotating clouds were last seen heading into Millstone towards Clarksburg/Perrineville and Roosevelt.
The path of damage is very specific and not wide usually as seen as straight line winds. If the National Weather Service confirms a tornado the story will be updated to reflect that.
Severe Flooding From Thunderstorms And Possible Tornados Hit Area
Possible Tornado On Long Beach Island Several Houses Damaged Possible Capsized Boats In The Bay
The storm damaged the roof of a day care center and left a specific path though the woods behind the day care off of Route 130 going towards Windsor Road.
The next location of damage was seen at the intersection of Windsor Perrineville and Voelbel Roads in Robbinsville Township near the East Windsor Border
Some minor crop damage and a couple of trees were damaged in the area of Cedarville Road. The rotating clouds that damaged Robbinsville were heading in this direction then eventually towards Millstone, Clarksburg and Roosevelt.
The areas the National Weather Service is investigating for storm damage are consistent with the path of the storm witnessed yesterday.
Confirmed EF1 Tornado in Windsor section of Robbinsville Township, NJ UPDATE: National Weather Service Confirms EF1 Tornado Hits Windsor Section Of Robbinsville, NJ
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–A possible tornado touched down near Gordon Road and Route 130, the Robbinsville Township Police and Robbinsville Township Fire Department responded for wires down, then a structural collapse in the 1200 Block of Route 130 at 7:27 p.m. Shortly after trees and wires were reported down at the intersection of Voelbel Road and Perrinveville Road, power was out in the are and was still being restored this morning.
There was damage to a day care center on Route 130 from the storm and a specific path goes though the woods from Route 130 towards Windsor Road and Windsor-Perrineville Road. The next damage in a specific path is located at Windsor-Perrineveille Road and Voelbel. Trees are down and appeared to be twisted where they were broken off.
The day care center was occupied by the owner at the time of the storm and there were no injuries reported. A roofing contractor was on scene this morning getting an estimate to make the roof repairs. It appears that just roofing material was removed and some minor siding damage near the entrance; the daycare center should be reopen very quickly.
MidJersey.news was in the area last night and witnessed rotation right after the storm left Robbinsville and progressed into East Windsor. Rotation was seen behind the “Field of Terror” off Perrineville Road and the rotating clouds were last seen heading into Millstone towards Clarksburg/Perrineville and Roosevelt.
The path of damage is very specific and not wide usually as seen as straight line winds. If the National Weather Service confirms a tornado the story will be updated to reflect that.
Severe Flooding From Thunderstorms And Possible Tornados Hit Area
Possible Tornado On Long Beach Island Several Houses Damaged Possible Capsized Boats In The Bay
The storm damaged the roof of a day care center and left a specific path though the woods behind the day care off of Route 130 going towards Windsor Road.
The next location of damage was seen at the intersection of Windsor Perrineville and Voelbel Roads in Robbinsville Township near the East Windsor Border
Some minor crop damage and a couple of trees were damaged in the area of Cedarville Road. The rotating clouds that damaged Robbinsville were heading in this direction then eventually towards Millstone, Clarksburg and Roosevelt.
The areas the National Weather Service is investigating for storm damage are consistent with the path of the storm witnessed yesterday.
SHIP BOTTOM, NJ (OCEAN)–A bicyclist was struck on Long Beach Island, and a medevac helicopter was called sometime before 8:30 a.m. Beach Haven First Aid Squad, Ship Bottom Fire Company and Surf City Fire Company and Ship Bottom Police were on scene for the landing zone in the field behind Ethel A. Jacobsen Elementary School. After the helicopter landed the person was transported by ground to the local hospital.
August 31, 2021
SAYREVILLE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief John Zebrowski of the Sayreville Police Department announce a Barnegat man has been arrested after being indicted by a Middlesex County Grand Jury for the 1999 murder of Nancy Noga, 17, of Sayreville.
On January 7, 1999, Ms. Noga, who was then a senior in high school, was reported missing after she did not return home from work. Five days later, on January 12, 1999, at approximately 8:57 A.M., Ms. Noga’s body was discovered in a wooded area behind what was then Mini-Mall Plaza Shopping Center on Ernston Road. An autopsy later determined Noga died from blunt force trauma after being struck with a blunt object. For more than two decades, the case remained open and active as investigators continued to investigate Ms. Noga’s death.
Today, Bruce A. Cymanski, 49, of Barnegat was indicted for first- degree murder, first-degree felony murder, first-degree aggravated sexual assault, first-degree kidnapping, and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose in connection with the killing of Nancy Noga. Assistant Prosecutor Scott Lamountain, who serves as the section chief of the Major Crimes Unit, presented the case to the Grand Jury.
Following the return of the indictment by a Middlesex County Grand Jury, Cymanski was arrested near his home by members of the Sayreville Police Department, Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Barnegat Police Department after a brief foot pursuit. Cymanski is presently lodged at the Middlesex County Adult Correction Center where he is detained pending a pre-trial detention hearing in Superior Court.
The arrest was made possible by a joint investigation conducted by Detective Mark Morris and Sergeant Deon McCall, both of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, in conjunction with Sergeant Daniel Ellmyer of the Sayreville Police Department and retired Detective Sergeant Richard Sloan, formerly of the Sayreville Police Department.
Cymanski was in-part identified through the use of genetic genealogy conducted by the Chief Genetic Genealogist of Parabon NanoLabs, Ms. CeCe Moore.
“In the decades since Nancy Noga’s death, law enforcement has relentlessly pursued justice on her behalf. The advancement of modern scientific tools has allowed that endeavor to enter a new chapter,” said Prosecutor Ciccone.
“This arrest is the result of decades of hard work by so many detectives and officers. We never stopped following up on leads, and today with the arrest of Bruce Cymanski, we are one step closer to bringing a degree of justice and closure to the family. I want to thank Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and her office for their tireless efforts and partnership in bringing justice to the family of this young girl,” said Chief Zebrowski.
This investigation is active and continuing. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Morris at (732)745-3702 or Sergeant Ellmyer at (732)525-5406.
As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Cymanski are merely accusations and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
From the Facebook Page: A Cold Night in January: What Happened to Nancy?
Sayreville Police Department file photo
August 31, 2021
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP – SOUTH SEASIDE PARK, NJ (OCEAN)—Berkley Township Police have released the name of the lifeguard killed in a lighting strike yesterday as 19 year old Keith Pinto of Toms River, NJ. According to Pinto’s Facebook page he attended Ocean County Community College and was a graduate of Toms River High School North.
Yesterday August 30, 2021 at approximately 4:35 p.m. the Berkeley Township Police Department responded to the 21st Avenue Beach in the South Seaside Park section for a report of a lighting strike involving multiple people on the beach. Upon arrival, first aid and advanced life support was immediately rendered to the victims.
It was determined that a total of 8 victims, four of which were lifeguards, were reported to have been either struck or were injured from the residual lighting strike. One of the victims, a Berkeley Township lifeguard, Keith Pinto 19 of Toms River, succumbed to his injuries. The remaining victims were triaged and treated for their injuries at surrounding hospitals. The investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing.
Berkeley Township Mayor Carmen Amato issued the following statement regarding the fatal lightning strike in South Seaside Park today.
“This is a tragic and heartbreaking day for our town and the entire Jersey Shore.”
“This young person was out there every day protecting the lives of others. Our lifeguard teams, like so many along the shore, develop special connections with our community throughout the summer, which makes this loss even greater.”
“On behalf of myself and our entire community, I offer our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of this young man.”
Berkley Township’s ocean beaches will be closed for swimming but open for sunbathers Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday as beach staff and lifeguards will be off. Crisis Counselors will be available for beach staff employees.
Governor Phil Murphy released a statement this evening: “Our hearts are with the family and friends of the young lifeguard killed by today’s horrific lightning strike on the beach in Berkeley Township, and we pray for a full recovery for those injured. I’ve spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time.”
A GofundMe has been set up at this link:
Words cannot describe how so many of us are feeling right now. We lost a special guy tonight, one who was so close and meant so much to so many people. Keith passed away after being struck by lightning while he was working his lifeguarding shift. A complete tragedy that nobody would have ever expected to happen. It would be impossible to get it all into words how much our friend meant to us but we all know how amazing he was. Keith has left behind an overwhelming amount of amazing memories that will live in our hearts forever. All donations will go directly to Keith’s family for the proper goodbye that he deserves. Our hearts are broken by what happened and all our love and support goes out to the Pinto family and all others affected by this tragedy. We’re gonna miss you so much brother❤️#LLK
This is the second fatal lifeguard accident at the Jersey Shore this year only 10 days ago on August 20, 2021 a 16 year old lifeguard in Cape May died from injuries from a lifeboat accident.
August 30, 2021
Update: Tragic Loss At The Jersey Shore As Lightning Claims Lifeguard And Injures 7 Others
BERKLEY TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 4:35 p.m. thunderstorm moving though the area approximately 4 miles to the north of Berkley Township in the Lavallette area generated a lighting bolt that hit the beach in the area of 21st Avenue. This area of Berkley Township is also known as South Seaside Park. The lighting bolt hit a Berkley Township lifeguard who was later pronounced dead and the bolt also injured at least seven more people. Rescue efforts were made and a helicopter was called, other victims of the lighting strike were transported to Community Medical Center, RWJ Barnabas Health in Toms River. The victims were transported by multiple EMS agencies operating at the scene.
Governor Phil Murphy released a statement this evening: “Our hearts are with the family and friends of the young lifeguard killed by today’s horrific lightning strike on the beach in Berkeley Township, and we pray for a full recovery for those injured. I’ve spoken to Mayor Carmen Amato and offered the full support and assistance of our administration during this difficult time.”
This is the second fatal lifeguard accident at the Jersey Shore this year only 10 days ago on August 20, 2021 a 16 year old lifeguard in Cape May died from injuries from a lifeboat accident.
The last lighting death in NJ was on June 9 when 70 year old golfer was killed at Burlington Country Club in Westampton, NJ. 2021 Lightning Fatalities by State
August 29, 2021
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Sometime around 7:30 p.m. a guest was reported injured from a fall at Six Flags Great Adventure. A helicopter was called but canceled due to weather and the patient was transported by ground to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune for treatment. Park officials said in a statement that a guest climbed over a fence into a clearly marked restricted area. See full statement below:
Statement by Six Flags Great Adventure: A guest climbed over a fence into a clearly marked restricted area. While climbing onto the roof of a building in the restricted area, the guest slipped and injured her leg. We are proud of our public safety team, who risked their own safety to serve our guest. The guest has been transported to a local hospital.
August 27, 2021
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–There were two separate accidents early this morning in Lakewood. The first accident was before 1:00 a.m. where two vehicles collided at the intersection of Circle Place and Central Avenue. One person was transported to the hospital and a fire hydrant was damaged.
Two vehicles collided at the intersection of Circle Place and Central Avenue.
In a second accident around 3:00 a.m. one person injured after vehicle overturns after crashing into a pole. The vehicle struck a pole and a tree causing his vehicle to overturn at the intersection of Carey Street & Madison Avenue in Lakewood. First Aid, Fire Volunteers & Chaveirim members heard a loud bang and went to the street to investigate. Upon arrival they found an overturned vehicle with one subject trapped inside. The first aid unit immediately called for additional units and extrication while the volunteers attempted to remove the patient. The First Aid, Fire & Chaveirim volunteers managed to remove the patient and he was transported by Hatzolah to Jersey Shore University Medical Center with Paramedics on board. JCP&L was requested to the scene to repair a pole which was damaged in the accident.
. The vehicle struck a pole and a tree causing his vehicle to overturn at the intersection of Carey St & Madison Ave in Lakewood.
August 26, 2021
POINT PLESANT BEACH, NJ (OCEAN)–Around 10:00 a.m., Point Pleasant Beach Police Department received multiple 9-1-1 calls and dispatched the fire department to a shed fire at Broadway and Channel Drive. The fire chief arrived and confirmed the fire. When the first engine arrived, the crew pulled a 1 ¾” line and quickly knocked down the fire. Crews overhauled the scene, and preliminary information is that it was an ice maker that caught fire. No further information is available at this time.
Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
August 25, 2021
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–The Stafford Township Detective Bureau has charged four individuals for a string of motor vehicle burglaries and motor vehicle thefts that occurred on the 24th and 28th of July 2021. There was a total of 91 charges signed ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, 3rd Degree Receiving Stolen Property in addition to numerous counts of conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
The following individuals were charged for crimes occurring on July 24, 2021:
Henry Alvarez, 18, of Beach Avenue in Atlantic City received a total of 13 charges ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, and conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
A 15-year-old from Monroe Avenue in Atlantic City received a total of 13 charges ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, and conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
The following individuals were charged for crimes occurring on July 28, 2021:
Henry Alvarez, 18, of Beach Avenue in Atlantic City received a total of 21 charges ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, 3rd Degree Receiving Stolen Property, and conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
A 15-year-old from Monroe Avenue in Atlantic City received a total of 16 charges ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, and conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
A 16-year-old from Hamilton Avenue in Atlantic City received a total of 13 charges ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, and conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
A 14-year-old from Brooklyn Avenue in Atlantic City received a total of 15 charges ranging from 3rd Degree Theft, 3rd Degree Burglary, and conspiracy and criminal attempts to commit those offenses.
We would like to thank members from the Barnegat Township Police Department, the Atlantic City Police Department, and the Hammonton Township Police Department for their assistance with this investigation.
The Stafford Township Police Department does not release photos of arrested subjects, and the public and the press are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
August 24, 2021
SEASIDE PARK, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 23, 2021, Michael Jedziniak, 18, of Seaside Park, was sentenced by the Honorable Kimarie Rahill, J.S.C., to a four-year suspended sentence to the custody of the Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC), as a result of a previously entered guilty plea to Armed Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(1), and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4a. In lieu of incarceration at a facility operated by the JJC as requested by the State, Judge Rahill imposed a term of 18 months probation under the supervision of the Juvenile Intensive Supervision Program (JISP); as a condition of his JISP probation, Jedziniak must attend and successfully complete a Residential Program operated by the JJC. Upon successful completion of his JISP probation, Jedziniak will remain on probation for an additional 18 months and be supervised by the Ocean County Probation Department.
The State was seeking a seven year sentence of incarceration to the custody of the JJC. Jedziniak, who was 17 years-old when the crimes occurred, pled guilty to both charges before Judge Rahill on June 8, 2021.
On October 27, 2020, at approximately 11:45 a.m., the Seaside Park Police Department responded to the area of I Street in response to a 911 call for a reported shooting in conjunction with a Robbery. Responding Officers were met by witnesses to the incident; a short time later, a white BMW pulled up to a marked Seaside Heights Police vehicle in the Borough of Seaside Heights and advised that one of the passengers was the victim of a robbery and shooting. The victim was taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune, treated for injuries, and released. Following a thorough investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Seaside Park Police Department, Seaside Heights Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Jedziniak was identified as the perpetrator. A warrant for Jedziniak’s arrest was executed by the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, and he was taken into custody without incident. Jedziniak was processed at Seaside Park Police Headquarters, and has been lodged at the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center since his arrest.
Prosecutor Billhimer would like to acknowledge the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Madeline Buczynski 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 Regional SWAT Team, Seaside Park Police Department, Seaside Heights Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for the collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation and disposition.
Related MidJersey.News coverage:
Arrest Made In Seaside Park Shooting
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
August 21, 2021
NEW YORK — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set Port Condition YANKEE for the Ports of New York and New Jersey, due to the expectation of gale force winds from Tropical Storm Henri expected to arrive within 24 hours.
Mariners are advised that the COTP will further manage tropical storm conditions in the ports through vessel traffic control measures. These measures will limit vessel movement in accordance with the Standard Severe Weather Practices outlined in the Captain of the Port New York Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan. These measures will be implemented by the Vessel Traffic Service based on observed and predicted wind conditions as the storm progresses.
All facilities and vessels within the Port of New York and New Jersey shall cease cargo operations, lightering and bunkering when directed by the COTP. All commercial self-propelled oceangoing vessels over 500 gross tons desiring to remain or depart port must contact the COTP if their departure time is later than 12 hours after setting of Hurricane Condition YANKEE. Vessels bound for the port of New York and New Jersey are advised to contact the COTP at (718) 354-4088 for additional guidance.
Please refer to Coast Guard Advisory Notice (CGAN 2021-13) for details.
The Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages:
Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.
Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailer-able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.
Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms or hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.
Be prepared. Area residents should be prepared by developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing their home and having a plan for pets. Information can be found at the National Hurricane Center’s webpage.
Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Updated weather forecasts for the New York area can be found at the National Weather Service’s webpage. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.
Don’t rely on social media. People in distress should use 911 to request assistance whenever possible. Social media should not be used to report life-threatening distress due to limited resources to monitor the dozens of social media platforms during a hurricane or large-scale rescue event.
Vessels and facilities may contact the Vessel Traffic Service at [email protected] or (718) 354-4088 with additional questions or concerns.
National Weather Service Images
August 21, 2021
MULBERRY GROVE, IL (FAYETTE) –The Illinois State Police is investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash that happened on Route 70 East Bound at Milepost 55, in Mulberry Grove, Fayette County on August 20, 2021 at 9:19 a.m.
Police say, preliminary investigative details indicate the following occurred:
A 2020 Freightliner tractor trailer was traveling westbound on Interstate 70, near mile post 55.
A Chevrolet Pickup pulling a trailer with a car, and a Honda Odyssey were traveling eastbound on Interstate 70 at the same location.
The tractor trailer left the roadway to the left and traveled through the median. The tractor trailer struck the trailer of the pickup truck. The tractor trailer then struck the Honda, causing both units to skid into the south ditch.
The driver of the tractor trailer from Los Angeles, CA was airlifted to a regional hospital with serious injuries.
The driver and passenger of pickup from Missouri refused medical attention.
The 19-year-old male driver and 20-year-old female passenger of Honda from Brick Township, NJ were pronounced deceased on scene.
The ISP Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit is continuing the investigation. No further information will be disseminated at this time.
The driver of the tractor trailer was cited for Improper Lane Use and Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid a Crash.
IL State Police Photo
August 20, 2021
The Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) has set Port Condition X-ray for the Ports of New York and New Jersey, due to the expectation of gale force winds from Tropical Storm Henri expected to arrive within 48 hours.
These ports currently remain open with no restrictions. Mariners are advised that the COTP will further manage tropical storm conditions in the ports through vessel traffic control measures. These measures will limit vessel movement in accordance with the Standard Severe Weather Practices outlined in the Captain of the Port New York Hurricane and Severe Weather Plan. These measures will be implemented by the Vessel Traffic Service based on observed and predicted wind conditions as the storm progresses.
At this time, the COTP is not requiring vessels and barges desiring to remain in port to complete a Remaining in Port Checklist. However, port users should monitor local weather broadcasts and implement their heavy weather procedures and take immediate action to safeguard personnel and property to minimize the damage caused by high winds, unusually high tides and heavy rain.
Please refer to Coast Guard Advisory Notice (CGAN 2021-11) for details.
The Coast Guard is advising the public of these important safety messages:
Stay off the water. The Coast Guard’s search and rescue capabilities degrade as storm conditions strengthen. This means help could be delayed. Boaters should heed weather watches, warnings, and small craft advisories.
Secure belongings. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Trailer-able boats should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, lifejackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources be diverted to ensure people are not in distress.
Stay clear of beaches. Wave heights and currents typically increase before a storm makes landfall. Even the best swimmers can fall victim to the strong waves and rip currents caused by tropical storms or hurricanes. Swimmers should stay clear of beaches until local lifeguards and law enforcement officials say the water is safe.
Be prepared. Area residents should be prepared by developing a family plan, creating a disaster supply kit, having a place to go, securing their home and having a plan for pets. Information can be found at the National Hurricane Center’s webpage.
Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Updated weather forecasts for the New York area can be found at the National Weather Service’s webpage. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.
Don’t rely on social media. People in distress should use 911 to request assistance whenever possible. Social media should not be used to report life-threatening distress due to limited resources to monitor the dozens of social media platforms during a hurricane or large-scale rescue event.
Vessels and facilities may contact the Vessel Traffic Service at [email protected] or (718) 354-4088 with additional questions or concerns.
Images from the National Weather Service
August 20, 201
The Coast Guard urges all mariners to prepare for Tropical Storm Henri before its predicted Sunday landfall.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts Henri to have wind speeds equal to or exceeding 39 mph.
The Coast Guard is reminding the public of these important safety messages:
Stay off the water. Hurricanes and tropical storms can be deadly and our ability to conduct rescues can be diminished or non-existent at the height of a storm. Be prepared, stay informed and heed storm warnings.
Be prepared. Owners of large boats are urged to move their vessels to inland marinas where they will be less vulnerable to breaking free of their moorings or to sustaining damage. Mooring lines should be doubled in case of high winds. Boats that can be trailered should be pulled from the water and stored in a place that is not prone to flooding. Those who are leaving their boats in the water are reminded to remove EPIRBs and to secure life rings, life jackets, and small boats. These items, if not properly secured, can break free and require valuable search and rescue resources to be diverted and may put first responders in harm’s way to ensure people are not in distress.
Evacuate as necessary. If mandatory evacuations are set for an area, the public should evacuate without delay. Coast Guard personnel and other emergency responders may not be able rescue those in danger during the storm.
Stay informed. The public should monitor the progress and strength of the storm through local television, radio, and the Internet. Boaters can monitor its progress on VHF radio channel 16. Information can also be obtained on small craft advisories and warnings on VHF radio channel 16.
Lookout for rip currents. As the storm approaches, rip currents will become more prevalent. Rip currents typically reach speeds of 1 to 2 feet per second-this makes rip currents especially dangerous to beachgoers as these currents can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Because rip currents move perpendicular to shore and can be very strong, beach swimmers need to be careful.
For more information on hurricane preparedness visit Ready.Gov and NOAA websites, as well as following them on Twitter.
Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpage:
August 20, 2021
The Coast Guard is advising boaters and all persons enjoying the water this weekend to be aware of the dangers presented by the possibility of increased sea states and the potential for increased rip currents as Tropical Storm Henri passes through the Mid-Atlantic region.
Boaters who are anticipating going out over the weekend should ensure they check conditions before launching, and ensure it is safe for their vessel. In addition, wearing a life jacket, having a reliable form of communication like a marine band radio and filing a float plan are simple ways to increase survivability and direct rescuers to you accurately if you encounter trouble.
Rip currents are created from turbulent sea conditions offshore.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, an estimated 100 people are killed each year as a result of rip currents. With the arrival of Tropical Storm Henri off the Mid-Atlantic coast, rip current potential can increase.
Beachgoers should only swim where there are on-duty lifeguards and follow guidance from local authorities on surf conditions.
If you see someone in danger, do not hesitate to contact your local 911 operator.
For more information on rip currents, click here.
For more information on Tropical Storm Henri and its impacts, click here
The above images are provided National Weather Service.
August 19, 2021
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 19, 2021, Donald Rutter, 52, of Tuckerton, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1), Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4a(1), and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5c(2), in connection with a shooting incident involving bodily injury which occurred during the evening hours of January 5, 2021 in Little Egg Harbor Township.
On January 5, 2021, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Little Egg Harbor Township Police were dispatched to Jarvis Marine on Radio Road in response to a 911 call which related that an individual had been shot. Responding Officers found Thomas Jarvis, 55, of Little Egg Harbor, with an apparent gunshot wound to his midsection. Mr. Jarvis was transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center. Mr. Jarvis was treated for his injuries and eventually released from the hospital.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit revealed that Rutter was, in fact, the individual who shot Mr. Jarvis. An exhaustive search of the surrounding area by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Regional SWAT Team, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey State Park Police, United States Marshals Service, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and Tuckerton Police Department, was unsuccessful in locating Rutter in the aftermath of the shooting. As such, a warrant was issued for Rutter’s arrest.
On January 28, 2021, Rutter was ultimately located in Atlantic City and taken into custody, without incident, by the United States Marshals Service. He has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his apprehension.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Kaitlyn Burke who is handling 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, Little Egg Harbor Township Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Regional SWAT Team, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey State Park Police, United States Marshals Service, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and Tuckerton Police Department, for their combined and collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation resulting in Rutter’s apprehension and today’s 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. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Donald Rutter, 52
Donald Rutter, 52, of Tuckerton, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1), Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4a(1), and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5c(2), in connection with a shooting incident involving bodily injury which occurred during the evening hours of January 5, 2021 in Little Egg Harbor Township.
August 16, 2021
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
August 16, 2021
The New Jersey State Police, Wall Township Police Department, and Brick Township Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a man suspected of impersonated a police officer.
On August 1, at approximately 2:00 p.m., the victim stopped her car in Brick Township because she thought a police officer was pulling her over. The suspect was driving behind the victim in a black, older model Ford Crown Victoria when he activated a blue dome light on the front dashboard.
When the victim pulled over, the suspect approached her vehicle and identified himself as a police officer. After a brief exchange, she became suspicious and asked him for identification. He failed to provide identification and instead instructed her to exit the vehicle. She refused to exit and the suspect attempted to remove her from the vehicle, before she fled the scene and reported the incident.
During the investigation, detectives discovered that a similar incident occurred on August 3 at approximately 9:45 p.m. in Wall Township. Another female victim reported that a man in black, older model Ford Crown Victoria pulled her over and impersonated a police officer.
The suspect is described as a white male, 40-50 years old, with long red hair pulled back in a pony tail, a red scruffy beard, and tattoos on both arms and the back of his hands. He was last seen wearing black BDU pants, a light blue short-sleeved bloused shirt with the word “police” on the front and non-descriptive patches on the arms that also said “police” but no specific department. He was also wearing a duty belt and a holster with what appeared to be black handgun.
A detective with the State Police Forensic Imaging Unit created a composite sketch of the suspect.
Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Christopher Mason of the Wall Township Police Department at 732-449-4500 ext. 1192 or Detective Michael Bennett of the Brick Township Police Department at 732-262-1100.
August 13, 2021
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 13, 2021, Miguel Angel-Villegas, 31, of New Haven, Connecticut, pled guilty to Attempted Murder in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 and N.J.S.A. 2C:11-3a(1), as well as Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3b(4), before the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C., relative to a shooting incident that occurred in Tuckerton on November 21, 2019. At the time of his sentencing on September 27, 2021, the State will recommend a term of fifteen years New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) as to the Attempted Murder charge, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2, and five years NJSP as to the Hindering charge. The sentences are to run concurrently.
On November 21, 2019, a Tuckerton Borough Police Officer performed a lawful stop on a motor vehicle in which Angel-Villegas was a passenger. During the course of the stop, the vehicle pulled away at a very high rate of speed and collided with another vehicle. Angel-Villegas exited the vehicle, pulled out a firearm and began firing at the Officer. Angel-Villegas subsequently fled on foot and was apprehended later the same evening by the United States Marshals Service and members of the New York City Police Department – just outside of Penn Station, New York City. A subsequent investigation by Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit revealed that Angel-Villegas ordered his then-girlfriend – the driver of the vehicle – to provide the Tuckerton Police Officer with a fictitious name due to his belief that he was wanted on a parole violation out of the State of Connecticut, and then forced her to speed away from the Officer during the motor vehicle stop.
Villegas has been lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his return to New Jersey.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Chief Trial Attorney Michael Weatherstone and Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Veni who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, United States Marshals Service, New York City Police Department, Tuckerton Borough Police Department, Little Egg Harbor Police Department, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey State Police Regional Operations Intelligence Center, New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit, New Jersey Transit Police, Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, New Haven (Connecticut) Police, Port Authority Police, Tuckerton Fire Department, and Tuckerton Public Works Department, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, ultimately resulting in Villegas’ apprehension, guilty plea, and soon his state prison sentence.
Midjersey.news file photos of the scene.
MidJersey.News file photos of the scene.
August 13, 2021
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–On Thursday August 12, 2021 at 4:49 pm, officers responded to Toms River Road near the Ocean County Vo-Tech School on the report of a head on motor vehicle crash with injuries.
Upon arrival responding officers discovered a 2 car motor vehicle crash in the roadway which required a road closure and detour. Initial investigation revealed that a 2011 Nissan which was operated by a 51 year old male and travelling southbound, swerved abruptly into the oncoming lane of traffic for unknown reasons and collided with a 2021 Audi travelling northbound which was operated by a 45 year old male.
The 51 year old male operator of the Nissan was pronounced at the scene and officers also discovered that a dog which had been in his vehicle was fatally injured in the crash. The driver of the Audi was treated for minor injuries.
The investigation is currently ongoing and is being led by Police Officer Tristan Bennett. Anyone who may have more information about this incident is asked to contact him at 732-928-1111.
August 12, 2021
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with the Pine Beach Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit and Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Unit and Patrol Division, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team, Lakewood Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Lakewood Police Department Patrol Division, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, and Lacey Township Police Department, to conduct an investigation into the distribution of narcotics in the Ocean County area. The investigation identified a residence in Pine Beach being utilized by Kevin Collins, 37, and Daysha Kelly, 35, as well as a residence in Lakewood being utilized by Elex Hyman, 49, and Jamie Steen, 38, for purposes of storing and distributing Heroin, Fentanyl, and Cocaine in Ocean County. The investigation revealed that all four defendants were acting together and in support of one another in carrying out their distribution scheme.On August 10, 2021, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Narcotics Strike Force, along with Officers from the Pine Beach Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit, and Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Unit, established surveillance on the subject residence in Pine Beach. Detectives observed Collins and Kelly leave the residence and travel by way of public transportation to the Ocean County Mall. As Detectives maintained surveillance on Collins and Kelly, the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team executed a court-authorized search warrant on the Pine Beach residence. Detectives then approached Collins and Kelly and arrested them without incident. Collins and Kelly were found to be in possession of approximately 100 wax folds of Heroin, 22 grams of Crack Cocaine, and $1,230 in United States Currency. In addition, as a result of the execution of the search warrant on the Pine Beach residence, Detectives seized approximately 1300 wax folds of Heroin, 134 Ecstasy Pills, two semi-automatic 9mm handguns, and $9740 in United States currency.On August 11, 2021, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Narcotics Strike Force, along with Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team, Lakewood Township Police Department K-9 Unit, and Lakewood Township Police Department Patrol Division, executed a court-authorized search warrant on the residence in Lakewood. Though nothing of evidentiary value was located at the residence, Lacey Township Police Officers performed a motor vehicle stop on a vehicle being operated by Hyman – with Steen as a passenger – in Lacey Township. As a result of the stop, Hyman and Steen were arrested and approximately $5780 in United States Currency was seized.Kevin Collins, of Pine Beach, was charged with Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Ecstasy Pills With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of Heroin in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Ecstasy Pills in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a; and Being a Certain Person Prohibited from Possessing a Weapon in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7a. Collins was transported to the Ocean County Jail where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.Daysha Kelly, of Pine Beach, was charged with Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Ecstasy Pills With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Possession of Heroin in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Ecstasy Pills in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1); Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2a; and two counts of Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4.1a. Kelly was transported to the Ocean County Jail where she is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.Elex Hyman, of Barnegat, was charged with Conspiracy to Possess More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Conspiracy to Possess More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); and Conspiracy to Possess More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Ecstasy Pills With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2). Hyman was transported to the Ocean County Jail where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.Jamie Steen, of Barnegat, was charged with Conspiracy to Possess More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Heroin With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); Conspiracy to Possess More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Cocaine With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2); and Conspiracy to Possess More than One-Half Ounce but Less than Five Ounces of Ecstasy Pills With Intent to Distribute in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2a(1) and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(2). Steen was transported to the Ocean County Jail where she is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, Pine Beach Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department Crime Reduction Unit and Patrol Division, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Unit and Patrol Division, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team, Lakewood Township Police Department K-9 Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department Patrol Division, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, Lacey Township Police Department, and Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
August 12, 2021
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 12, 2021, an Indictment by a Grand Jury sitting in Monmouth County was returned against David Giordano, 36, of Toms River, on charges of Terroristic Threats in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-3a, and False Public Alarms in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:33-3c, relative to an incident that occurred on April 12, 2021. These charges were presented to a Monmouth County Grand Jury due to a conflict arising out of the fact that Giordano’s threats were made against the Ocean County Judiciary.
On April 12, 2021, three videos were uploaded to a public YouTube Channel entitled “Toms River Police are the Best.” These videos included images of Giordano, news coverage of Giordano’s previous arrest in connection with painting a blue line on Hooper Avenue, images of the Ocean County Justice Complex as well as Toms River Township Town Hall – followed by a video of a homemade bulldozer destroying public buildings in Granby, Colorado in 2004. The videos also included graphics stating the person posting the video would turn Toms River Township Town Hall and the Ocean County Justice Complex “upside down.” An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit determined that Giordano produced and posted the videos to the YouTube Channel.
On May 3, 2021, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, and Berkeley Township Police Department executed court-authorized search warrants on two residences – one in Toms River and the other in Berkeley Township – where Giordano is known to reside. As a result, Detectives recovered and seized several items containing digital evidence. A motor vehicle stop was subsequently performed by Toms River Township Police Officers on a vehicle operated by Giordano. Giordano was arrested and taken into custody without incident. Although initially detained in the Ocean County Jail and then transported to Monmouth County Correctional Institution shortly after his arrest, Giordano was released on July 21, 2021 pursuant to New Jersey Bail Reform.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Shanon Chant-Berry who is handling the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Toms River Township Police Department, and Berkeley Township Police Department, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation leading to Giordano’s 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. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
David Giordano, 36, of Toms River
August 11, 2021
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 11, 2021, Roberto Alcazar-Sanchez, 27, of Jackson, was indicted by a Grand Jury sitting in Ocean County on charges of Knowingly Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident Resulting in Death in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5.1, as well as Operating a Motor Vehicle with a Suspended Driver’s License while being involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident Resulting in Death in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:40-22a, relative to a motor vehicle crash that occurred in Jackson Township on December 24, 2020. Alcazar-Sanchez was also indicted for Possession of Cocaine in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1).
On December 24, 2020, at approximately 6:00 p.m., Officers of the Jackson Township Police Department were summoned to the area of Cedar Swap Road and I-195 for a report of a motor vehicle crash with serious injuries. An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit and Jackson Township Police Department revealed that a 2010 Mercedes Benz, driven by Norman Shtab, 83, of Howell Township, was exiting I-195 at Exit 21. His wife, Phyllis Shtab, 81, also of Howell, was a passenger in the vehicle. As Mr. Shtab was attempting to make a left-hand turn onto Cedar Swap Road, his vehicle collided with a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado.
Mr. and Mrs. Shtab were transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center in Neptune Township following the crash. Mr. Shtab was treated for his injuries and later released. On December 26, 2020, Mrs. Shtab succumbed to the injuries she sustained as a result of the crash, and was pronounced deceased at Jersey Shore Medical Center on that date.
On December 30, 2020, a warrant was issued for the arrest of the driver of the Chevrolet Silverado – identified through continuing investigation to be Alcazar-Sanchez – who fled the scene of the December 24th crash on foot. A search of the Silverado revealed a bag of white powder which tested positive for cocaine. Further investigation revealed that Alcazar-Sanchez then fled the United States and traveled to Mexico. On March 3, 2021, Alcazar-Sanchez surrendered himself to United States Customs and Border Patrol Protection Agents in Laredo, Texas. He was ultimately extradited back to Ocean County, and has remained lodged in the Ocean County Jail since his return on March 31, 2021.
Additionally, during the course of this investigation, Alcazar-Sanchez’s girlfriend, Reyna Mendez, 27, of Jackson, was questioned by law enforcement in connection with this matter. It was determined that Mendez provided false information to Detectives during the course of her questioning; as a consequence, Mendez has been indicted for Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:29-3a(7).
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Assistant Prosecutor Alyssa Mandara who is handling the case on behalf of the State, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Victim Witness Advocacy Unit, Jackson Township Police Department, Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Jackson Township Police Department Special Emergency Response Team, Brick Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Field Services Unit/Warrants, United States Customs and Border Protection, Laredo Texas Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service, for their collaborative efforts and assistance relative to this investigation ultimately leading to Alcazar-Sanchez’s arrest and 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. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Roberto Alcazar-Sanchez, 27
Previous MidJersey.news coverage here:
Driver Fled On Foot After Fatal Jackson Crash And Still On The Run
WANTED: Roberto Alcazar-Sanchez, 27, Of Jackson For Charges In Involving Fatal Crash
Fugitive in Jackson Township fatal crash arrested in Texas
Defendant Charged With Leaving The Scene Of Jackson Township Fatal Crash To Remain Detained Pending Trial
August 11, 2021
A Lakewood man has been sentenced for his role in the 2020 shooting of a four-year-old Asbury Park girl, announced Monmouth County Acting Prosecutor Lori Linskey.
Sciaire N. Jackson, 28, was sentenced on Wednesday August 11, 2021, to 8 years in a New Jersey State Prison, by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Lourdes Lucas. The sentence is subject to the provisions of NERA, the “No Early Release Act,” requiring Jackson to serve 85 percent of the sentence imposed before becoming eligible for parole. Jackson had previously pleaded guilty to second degree Aggravated Assault and second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose on June 21, 2021.
At approximately 1:35 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2020, a 4-year-old child was shot while sitting outside her family’s home with other family members on Boston Way, a residential village in Asbury Park. The child was shot in the upper thigh area, breaking the femur bone. Physicians treating the child at the time deemed the injury as serious, but non-life threatening.
A joint investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and the Asbury Park Police Department revealed that Jackson rode up on a bicycle and began firing a handgun at several people located outside of an apartment. The child, who was merely playing outside, was not the intended target of the shooting. A second person returned fire at Jackson; that person, however, has not has not yet been identified.
The case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Lawrence H. Nelsen, III.
Jackson is represented by Robert C. Wolf Esq., of Westmont.
Sciaire N. Jackson, 28
August 9, 2021
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–On Monday, August 9, 2021, at approximately 7:00 AM, police and fire units were dispatched to Route 571 near Oak Ridge Parkway for a motor vehicle accident with entrapment and a vehicle fire. Claudine Silvestri, 52 of Toms River, was traveling westbound on route 571 in the left lane when she suddenly drifted into the right lane and struck a curb and a guard rail according to a witness. The vehicle then veered to the left and entered the oncoming traffic lanes where she collided head-on with a sign truck before her vehicle caught fire.
Upon arrival, Police officers and EMTs extinguish the fire. Ms. Silvestri was trapped inside and had to be extricated from the vehicle. She was pronounced at the scene.
Along with Toms River Police, Toms River EMT‘s, Pleasant Plains and Silverton Fire Companies, the Ocean County Prosecutor‘s Office, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CSI, and Berkeley Hazmat reported to the accident scene.
The accident remains under investigation by Toms River Traffic Safety Officers Mark Nater and Ryan Fitzgerald.
August 8, 2021
BARNEGAT LIGHT, N.J. — Coast Guard crewmembers medevaced a 62-year-old man with injuries to his ribs and arm from his 33-foot pleasure craft in Oyster Creek Channel near Barnegat Light, Saturday, August 7. 2021.
The injuries reportedly resulted from the vessel running aground.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Delaware Bay received the initial report through VHF Channel 16 from a grounded boater requesting medical attention.
A boatcrew aboard a 29-foot Response Boat-Small from Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light was launched to assist and a Special Marine Information Broadcast was issued for the area.
After the patient was stabilized, the boatcrew transited to Station Barnegat Light where awaiting EMS transported him to Jersey Shore Medical Center for additional treatment.
USCG Facebook Photos
August 6, 2021
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 6, 2021, Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark, was sentenced by the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, P.J.Cr.P., to seven years to the custody of the Commissioner of Department of Corrections as a result of previously entered guilty pleas to two counts of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1), as well as Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d, relative to an incident that occurred in Point Pleasant Beach during the afternoon hours of September 7, 2020. This sentence is subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2, meaning that Roman will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Roman, who was 17-years-old when the crimes occurred, voluntarily waived jurisdiction of the Family Court — which handles juvenile delinquency matters — and agreed to be prosecuted as an adult. Roman pled guilty to these charges before Judge Daniels on May 13, 2021.
On September 7, 2020, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Point Pleasant Beach Police Department responded to multiple 911 calls for reports of a fight on Jenkinson’s Beach. Responding Officers found Alex Galdamez, 22, and William Mazariego, 18, both of West Haverstraw, New York, suffering from multiple stab wounds. Both individuals were taken to Jersey Shore Medical Center for treatment of their serious injuries.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department revealed that Roman was the individual responsible for stabbing both Mr. Galdamez and Mr. Mazariego. Roman was taken into custody without incident at the scene, and has been lodged in the Ocean County Juvenile Detention Center since his apprehension on September 7, 2020.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Chief Juvenile Assistant Prosecutor Anthony Pierro and Assistant Prosecutor Madeline Buczynski who handled the case on behalf of the State. Prosecutor Billhimer likewise commends Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Point Pleasant Beach Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation, ultimately leading to Roman’s guilty plea and sentence.
Related MidJersey.news coverage:
18 Year Old Newark Man Pleads Guilty For Sept. 7, 2020 Jenkinson’s Beach Stabbings
Arrests Made In Point Pleasant Beach Stabbings, Victims Identified
Newark Teen Sentenced To 7 Years In State Prison For Aggravated Assault Stabbing At Jenkinson’s In Point Pleasant Beach
Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark
Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark, was sentenced by the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, P.J.Cr.P., to seven years to the custody of the Commissioner of Department of Corrections as a result of previously entered guilty pleas to two counts of Aggravated Assault in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1b(1), as well as Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-4d, relative to an incident that occurred in Point Pleasant Beach during the afternoon hours of September 7, 2020. This sentence is subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2, meaning that Roman will be required to serve at least 85 percent of his sentence before he may be considered for parole eligibility. Roman, who was 17-years-old when the crimes occurred, voluntarily waived jurisdiction of the Family Court — which handles juvenile delinquency matters — and agreed to be prosecuted as an adult. Roman pled guilty to these charges before Judge Daniels on May 13, 2021.
OSHA finds employers failed to ensure safe respirator use while testing hundreds daily
August 4, 2021
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–A Central New Jersey medical facility and temporary staffing agency failed to ensure the safety and health of nurses giving flu shots and testing potentially infectious patients for the coronavirus earlier this year, a U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigation has found.
OSHA’s investigation – initiated in January in response to a complaint – found that Lakewood Resource and Referral Center did not provide medical evaluations to determine each employee’s ability to use a respirator before they required workers to use them, and failed to fit test employees required to wear respirators. The agency proposed $273,064 after citing the facility for two willful violations. In 2020, OSHA cited the facility for similar hazards after the company failed to protect staff providing medical and dental care from coronavirus.
Investigators also found Homecare Therapies failed to ensure medical evaluations were done and did not provide fit tests for workers required to use respirators. OSHA cited the staffing agency for two serious citations with $13,653 in proposed penalties.
“A safe and healthful workplace is every worker’s right and every employer’s responsibility,” said OSHA Area Office Director Paula Dixon-Roderick in Marlton, New Jersey. “In this case, both employers failed to protect vital frontline healthcare workers from exposure to the coronavirus.”
Lakewood Resource and Referral Center Inc., which operates as the Center for Health, Education, Medicine and Dentistry in Lakewood, contracted with Homecare Therapies – doing business as Horizon Healthcare Staffing – in October 2020 for temporary nurses to assist staff with the administration of flu vaccines initially. After the assignments began, the facility required nurses to administer 200 to 300 coronavirus tests each day for patients and the public.
Founded in 2009, Lakewood Resource and Referral Center Inc. provides preventative, treatment and health education services in Lakewood and the surrounding areas. Licensed in New York and accredited in New Jersey, Homecare Therapies LLC has operations in Manalapan. It has provided services in the New York metropolitan area since 1992.
Read more about feasible and acceptable means of abatement for this hazard.
The employers have 15 business days from receipt of their citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
On March 12, OSHA launched a national emphasis program focusing enforcement efforts on companies that put the largest number of workers at serious risk of contracting the coronavirus. The program also prioritizes employers that retaliate against workers for complaints about unsafe or unhealthy conditions, or for exercising other rights protected by federal law.
On June 10, OSHA also issued an emergency temporary standard to protect healthcare workers from contracting coronavirus. The ETS became effective immediately upon publication in the Federal Register.
View OSHA’s COVID-19 information and resources. Agency Occupational Safety & Health Administration Date August 4, 2021Release Number 21-1430-NEW
August 4, 2021
BRICK, NJ (OCEAN)–A local youth wrestling coach was arrested today on a charge of receipt and distribution of child pornography, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced today.
Alec Donovan, 24, of Brick, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with receipt and distribution of child pornography. He appeared by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor and was released on $100,000 unsecured bond.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Donovan used a messaging application to share videos containing child pornography over the Internet. From January 2021 through March 2021, Donovan sent three videos containing images of child sexual abuse and received two videos containing images of child sexual abuse via the web-based messaging application. The videos Donovan sent and received depicted sexual acts involving pre-pubescent children.
Donovan also used the web-based messaging application to solicit and engage in conversations with minors, including requesting nude photographs from the minors and sending nude photographs to them.
The charge of receipt and distribution of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI’s Newark Field Office is asking anyone with information related to this case or who may be a victim, to contact them at [email protected].
Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr., with the investigation leading to today’s charge.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole F. Mastropieri of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Shawn Barnes of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
21-353
Defense counsel: Nikole Pezzullo Esq.,, Freehold, New Jersey
August 4, 2021
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on August 4, 2021, Courtney C. Michaels, 25, of Lakewood Township, was charged with Counterfeiting in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-32c.
This charge is a result of an investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad and Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. The investigation revealed that Michaels was importing large volumes of counterfeit designer handbags, jewelry, and clothing from overseas. She advertised the goods as designer brands including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci, and sold those goods across the United States through her online retail websites. The merchandise was not authentic, and was being sold at a fraction of the cost of genuine merchandise.
On August 4, 2021, a search warrant was executed at Michaels’ residence in Lakewood Township where Detectives seized numerous counterfeit items. Michaels was processed at the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office and released on a summons pending a future court appearance.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, 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).
August 4, 2021
SHIP BOTTOM, NJ (OCEAN)–The Long Beach Island Health Department (LBIHD) received the first report of a positive Covid-19 case on July 19th that cited attending teen nights in Beach Haven on Sunday July 11th and Tuesday July 13th. LBIHD was then notified on July 26th of an additional positive teenager who attended a teen night on Sunday, 7/18. LBIHD was again notified on August 2nd of (2) laboratory confirmed positive teens that attended Teen Night on Sunday, 7/25 and (1) positive teen that attended a teen night on Tuesday, 7/27.
We received communication from our local urgent care clinicians over this past weekend citing a significant uptick in testing and positive outcome of teenagers that referenced attending teen nights the week prior. We also received several calls of parents of teenagers testing positive all having recent local teen night club attendance. Based on laboratory confirmed and office reporting as of August 3, (11) positive teens all with a common attendance at teen nights.
The State Health Department has been notified of this community cluster. It can be challenging to identify the full scope of this cluster due to under reporting, cases can be dispersed over the state and region during the height of the summer season. However, we will be actively associating any reported cases to our jurisdiction that share this common element.
If you have attended these venues within the last 14 days and are experiencing Covid-19 symptoms, regardless of immunization status, we would advise testing. The recommended time to seek testing in no sooner than 5 days after an exposure to ensure if transmission and infection from the virus occurred it will be captured.
We would advise both parents and teenagers that events that bring teenagers together in large numbers and social atmospheres pose significant risk of Covid-19 transmission. Unlike more structured and regulated organizations that host youth, teens night often do not require health screening, immunization status, social distance, masking or negative covid-19 tests. The latest immunization coverage updated by CDC on 7/29/21 for those 12-15 yrs of age is 27% and for those 16-24 yrs. of age is 41%. Immunizations are widely available for 12 and older and we strongly encourage receiving the vaccine.
Please feel free to contact our local health Department at 609-492-1212 or the local health department in the respective jurisdiction you reside.
**This is a breaking news report with preliminary information from radio traffic and sources. An update will be made with corrections upon arrival of official information from authorities**
HAMILTON TWP (MERCER)– A man is in police custody tonight following an incident involving explosives, Saturday evening.
According to sources, the man was arrested around 7:00 pm following a police investigation in regards to multiple recent detonations. The vehicle was stopped by police on Yardville-Allentown Road near Yardville-Hamilton Square Road and he was taken into custody, according to radio reports and sources.
Sources also say that explosive material was located inside of the vehicle. NJ State Police Bomb Squad responded to the scene and a perimeter was set up as a precaution. The Hamilton Fire Department was put on standby also.
No further information is available at this time. We would like to remind you that this information is based off of radio reports and sources, and is NOT official information. Once official information is received, the story will be updated.
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May 11, 2021
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–This morning FBI Spokesperson Doreen A. Holder, told MidJersey.news in a statement: “The FBI is there on court authorized law enforcement activity. No further comment.” when asked about the FBI and other law enforcement activity at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir located at 112 N Main St. in the township.
At the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir FBI agents in unmarked vehicles could be seen leaving and entering the compound. Four large tour busses with what appeared to be workers were leaving the Mandir along with an Monmouth County EMS Taskforce Bus. Up to five of ambulances were also seen at the gate according to witnesses.
Law enforcement sources would not say what they were looking for in the activities at the property.
About the same time as the law enforcement activity at BAPS a class action lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court District of New Jersey with several allegations against the the religious organization over labor practices.
According to the complaint, after being trafficked to the U.S. under false pretenses, the workers’ passports were confiscated, and they were forced to live and work in a fenced, guarded compound. They were not allowed to leave the grounds unaccompanied, and they were under constant monitoring, threats of being fined for infractions, and arrest.
Plaintiffs allege that the trafficked workers were forced to work 12-13 hours a day with only rare days off, performing arduous and sometimes dangerous work for approximately 31,000 – 35,000 rupees (approximately $425 – $450 USD) per month, or less than $1.20 per hour.
See full lawsuit below for details.
On April 30, 2021 New Jersey Department of Labor issued a Stop Work Order for Newark-based Cunha’s Construction Inc. was ordered to halt work at current and future projects for the duration of the order, which will remain in effect until the contractor complies with state wage and hour laws and all outstanding back wages and penalties have been paid.
The NJDOL’s Division of Wage and Hour Compliance conducted site visits at two of the company’s current worksites, BAPS Temple in Robbinsville and BAPS Temple in Edison, after learning of the projects from workers. These inspections found the contractor was paying workers in cash off the books and did not have workers’ compensation insurance.
Other violations involve the misclassification of construction workers by paying them in cash off the books, failure to pay overtime, failure to keep records, hindrance of the investigation, and unpaid or late paid wages. See press release below for full details.
A BAPS representative Matthew Frankel of MDF Strategies told MidJersey.news “We were first made aware of the accusations early Tuesday morning, we are taking them very seriously and are thoroughly reviewing the issues raised.”
This is sill a developing story follow MidJersey.news for the latest.
A emailed statement John Nalbone from Robbinsville Township Office of Communications & Public Information said, “Based upon media reports, the Township was made aware of federal law enforcement activity this morning on the BAPS property located in Robbinsville. The Township’s jurisdiction over the property is limited to land use and Uniform Construction Code (UCC) matters. At no time in approving BAPS’s land use applications, or in conducting UCC inspections on the property, did Robbinsville Township officials witness, or become aware of any labor issues that may have been present. The Township was aware of temporary housing on the site and conducted inspections of that housing in April and June of 2020, until in-person inspections were suspended due to COVID-19. As to not interfere with this ongoing federal investigation, the Township will have no further comment.”
Press release provided from the law firms of the class action lawsuit:
Class Action Lawsuit filed in NJ again Major Hindu Temple
Today, workers’ rights attorneys filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of Indian workers who were trafficked and faced rampant wage theft and shocking abuses by Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, Inc. (“BAPS”), reportedly the largest Hindu temple in the United States.
In addition to the six named plaintiffs – Mukesh Kumar, Keshav Kumar, Devi Laal, Niranjan, Pappu, Brajendra – the case, Kumar v. Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha, Inc., is brought on behalf of approximately 200 other Indian nationals who have worked at the temple. According to the complaint, after being trafficked to the U.S. under false pretenses, the workers’ passports were confiscated, and they were forced to live and work in a fenced, guarded compound. They were not allowed to leave the grounds unaccompanied, and they were under constant monitoring, threats of being fined for infractions, and arrest.
Plaintiffs allege that the trafficked workers were forced to work 12-13 hours a day with only rare days off, performing arduous and sometimes dangerous work for approximately 31,000 – 35,000 rupees (approximately $425 – $450 USD) per month, or less than $1.20 per hour.
The lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey by attorneys Patricia Kakalec of Kakalec Law PLLC, Daniel Werner of Radford & Keebaugh, LLC, and Andrew Glenn of Jaffe Glenn Law Group, P.A., outlines the defendants’ violations of federal and state laws including the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (“TVPA”), the Fair Labor Standards Act (“FLSA”), and New Jersey wage and hour laws. Besides BAPS, defendants in the case are BAPS Mercer LLC, BAPS Robbinsville LLC., BAPS Fellowship Services, Inc., Bharat Doe a/k/a Bharat Bhai, Pankaj Patel, Kanu Patel, and Swami Prasanand.
“This is a horrific case of worker exploitation and it is even more disturbing that it has gone on for years in New Jersey behind the temple’s walls,” said Werner. “These workers were coerced through lies to come to the United States to work and then suffered tremendously – they were basically forced into servitude.”
The plaintiffs were brought to the United States under R-1 or religious visas, which are available to those who minister or who work in a religious vocation or occupation, but the workers solely performed manual labor.
“These workers came to work in New Jersey to earn wages and help their families,” says Kakalec. “They were taken advantage of and cheated out of millions of dollars in wages. They deserve justice.”
Swati Sawant, an attorney for individuals who worked in the temple, says: “These individuals have suffered greatly – financially as a result of the wage theft, physically as a result of the grueling work they were forced to undertake, and mentally as a result of being forced for stay within the temple compound for months, and for many, years. They are brave for standing up for their rights.”
The lawsuit seeks the workers’ unpaid wages, an award of money for other damages, and a court order preventing the defendants from continuing to violate the law.
A copy of the complaint can be viewed HERE.
0001-kumarcomplaintDownload
Radford & Keebaugh, LLC. is a Georgia based law firm focused on civil rights and employment litigation specializing in areas such as employment discrimination, wage and hour violations, constitutional claims including false arrest and malicious prosecution, sexual harassment, Americans with Disabilities Act, and whistleblower retaliation.
For more information, visit: https://decaturlegal.com.
Kakalec Law PLLC is a New York based law firm which represents employees in wage and hour, discrimination, and other employment matters, and also represents individuals with disabilities in civil rights and access matters. For more information, visit: https://kakaleclaw.com.
Jaffe Glenn Law Group PA is a New Jersey and New York based law firm which represents employees specializing in overtime claims, minimum wage violation cases, as well as other employment related cases. For more information visit https://jaffeglenn.com.
NJDOL Issues Stop-Work Order Against Construction Contractor, Halting All Current and Future Work
April 30, 2021
TRENTON – The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) has issued a company-wide stop-work order to Cunha’s Construction Inc. and owner Nuno Cunha based on repeated and ongoing violations of state wage and hour laws. This is the first time the NJDOL has used its authority to pause all work by a single entity rather than on a per project basis.
Newark-based Cunha’s Construction Inc. was ordered to halt work at current and future projects for the duration of the order, which will remain in effect until the contractor complies with state wage and hour laws and all outstanding back wages and penalties have been paid.
The NJDOL’s Division of Wage and Hour Compliance conducted site visits at two of the company’s current worksites, BAPS Temple in Robbinsville and BAPS Temple in Edison, after learning of the projects from workers. These inspections found the contractor was paying workers in cash off the books and did not have workers’ compensation insurance.
Other violations involve the misclassification of construction workers by paying them in cash off the books, failure to pay overtime, failure to keep records, hindrance of the investigation, and unpaid or late paid wages.
The company has eight unpaid judgments for back wages and penalties dating back to 2007 that have not been resolved by way of compliance or restitution to workers. In addition, NJDOL concluded the company was not paying its workers on numerous job sites and was not maintaining proper payroll for any projects across the state.
“With the authority to issue stop-work notices, we can better protect workers from bad actors who repeatedly skirt the law,” said Assistant Commissioner Joseph Petrecca of the Division of Wage and Hour Compliance. “Now more than ever, it is important to keep our workers safe, and ensure they are treated fairly.”
The NJDOL first served the company-wide stop-work order to Cunha’s Construction Inc. on April 1, upon which owner Nuno Cunha appealed the decision to the director of NJDOL’s Division of Wage and Hour Compliance through his attorney. The NJDOL was represented during the appeal process by Section Chief and Deputy Attorney General Peter A. Basso and Deputy Attorney General Micauri Vargas of the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General’s Division of Law, Affirmative Civil Rights & Labor Section. After the presentation of evidence and witness testimony, the appeal determination upheld the actions of the NJDOL.
“This stop-work order from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development is the first of its kind under a law signed by Governor Murphy to strengthen our ability to enforce the state’s labor laws,” said Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal. “The message to employers should be clear: We are committed to using all of the tools at our disposal to protect New Jersey’s workers.”
As of July 2019, the NJDOL has the authority to require any employer to cease business operations when significant pay, benefits, or other workers’ rights violations are documented. As Cunha’s Construction Inc. is not a registered public works contractor, the department previously had few options to ensure compliance and payment of restitution.
For more information on New Jersey’s wage and hour laws, please visit myworkrights.nj.gov.
NJDOL issued a company-wide stop-work order to Cunha’s Construction based on repeated violations of state wage and hour laws. This is the first time NJDOL has used its authority to pause all work by a single entity rather than on a per project basis.
Passenger busses, a Monmouth County EMS Taskforce bus, a couple of ambulances as well as unmarked law enforcement vehicles are seen passing though the front gate of the Mandir Photos by Brian McCarthy, OnScene News BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir located at 12 N Main St. in the township. Within the compound you can see labor housing in trailers, construction of the Mandir and law enforcement on the property in zoomed in images. News media from several networks gathered a the front gate and were met by security as FBI agents in unmarked vehicles went in and out of the gate.
It was reported that on August 17, 2017 a fatal accident occurred where a 15 year old “volunteer” at the temple was killed in a 45 foot fall. Rescue personnel from Robbinsville Township arrived and performed CPR on the 15 year old and was later pronounced dead at RWJ University Hospital in Hamilton. OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration opened and investigation and closed the investigation on August 23, 2017 with no notes listed available from the OSHA website. You can access that information at the link below:
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–A 10:00 p.m. a witness noticed a fishing vessel run aground on Island Beach State Park in Area 23. The witness stated that is appeared the the vessel lost power and drifted onto shore. According to other sources there were three aboard and no injuries reported.
The vessel is marked “Bear” and home port appears to be Barnegat Light, NJ according to the Boat Database and USCG Maritime Information Exchange, Port State Information Exchange. https://cgmix.uscg.mil/psix/psixsearch.aspx
Vessel Information:
Vessel Particulars:
Vessel Name: BEAR Primary Vessel Number: 674417 (Official Number (U.S.)) Hull Identification Number: N/A Manufacturer Hull Number: N/A IMO Number: N/A Vessel Flag: UNITED STATES Vessel Call Sign: WDD6926
Service: Commercial Fishing Vessel Length: 68.00 ft Breadth: 19.00 ft Depth: 8.00 ft Build Year: 1984 Alternate VINs:CG246444 (Coast Guard Number)
Service Information:
Tonnage Information:
Service Status: Active Out Of Service Date: N/A Last Removed From Service By: N/A
Cargo Authority: N/A Tonnage:72 – Simplified, Gross Ton57 – Simplified, Net Ton
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 8:00 p.m. a pedestrian was struck by a car in the 2000-2100 Block of Nottingham Way-Route 33, in front of the Red, White and Blue Thrift Store. Hamilton Township Police, Hamilton Township Fire Department, RWJ EMS and Capital Health Paramedics responded to the scene of the crash.
The Hamilton Township Police and Fire Police closed Nottingham Way between Klockner Road and Madison Avenue for the accident Investigation. Hamilton Township Fire Department responded with a special service unit for lights for the investigation. It was reported that the Mercer County Prosecutors Office Serious Collision Response Team (SCRT) was responding to the scene. As of 11:10 p.m. the roadway was still closed.
No further information is available at this time.
It was almost a year ago on October 31, 202, a block away, where another pedestrian was struck on the same stretch of highway in a serious crash:
Pedestrian Critical After Being Struck by Car in Hamilton
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June 16, 2020
POINT PLEASANT, NJ (OCEAN)–Sergeant Michael Krauchuck, of the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau, rescued three occupants from a sinking vessel in the Point Pleasant Canal.
On Sunday, June 14, at approximately 5:08 p.m., troopers from the Marine Services Bureau Point Pleasant Station were dispatched to the report of a 26-foot boat sinking in the Point Pleasant Canal in Point Pleasant Boro, Ocean County.
Based on the preliminary investigation, the boat began to take on water while traveling in the canal. A good samaritan who was nearby helped transfer five occupants from the boat to land, while the operator and two other occupants stayed on board in an attempt to get the boat to a nearby dock. Due to the rough conditions, they were unable to prevent the boat from taking on more water.
Within minutes of the initial call, Sergeant Michael Krauchuck responded to the scene and secured the sinking boat to his State Police vessel. While attempting to pull the boat to the nearby dock, Sgt. Krauchuck realized that they would not make it, because the boat was taking on water too rapidly. As a result, Sgt. Krauchuck helped pull the three occupants onto his vessel and cut the lines before the boat sank.
All of the occupants were transported back to Point Pleasant Station for a medical evaluation by EMS. There were no reported injuries.
Sgt. Krauchuck’s quick and decisive actions may have helped prevent a tragedy.
Sgt. Krauchuck’s quick and decisive actions may have helped prevent a tragedy.
Matthew Tanner, 36, Trenton
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
Donald Rutter, 52
Roberto Alcazar-Sanchez, 27
Sciaire N. Jackson, 28
Juwan Roman, 18, of Newark
