TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–In the wake of numerous issues with voting and counting on Election Day, challenges that are still under investigation, Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes is calling for a thorough public review of what went wrong and a comprehensive overhaul of the elections process in Mercer County.
“After issues in the last two elections, I have come to the conclusion that we must fundamentally change the management of the election process in Mercer County because it is clearly not working,” the County Executive said. “There are legal limits to what I can do as County Executive but rest assured that I will do everything within my power to ensure the integrity of elections in Mercer County and will tolerate nothing less.”
In Mercer County, three separate entities, the Board of Elections, the Superintendent of Elections, and the Office of the County Clerk each plays a role in elections. Board of Elections commissioners are appointed by the respective County Chairs of the Republican and Democratic Parties, the Superintendent of Elections is an appointee of the Governor, and the County Clerk is an elected position.
“I am happy that Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami-Covello requested that the County Prosecutor look into the election. But we also need a more thorough and public review. We’ve got too many people in control and the quality of our elections has suffered as a result, undermining peoples’ faith in the democratic process,” Mr. Hughes said.
Moving forward, County Executive Hughes proposes the following:
Request a special meeting of the Commissioner Board to bring together the Clerk, Superintendent and Election Board Chair explain to the public what went wrong.
Reform and simplify our election process by merging and unifying the Office of the Superintendent and the Board into one, and having an experienced Executive Director oversee our elections.
Call on legislators to enact changes that will allow Mercer County to reform our system.
Pledge any county resources needed to ensure every vote is counted and help get to the bottom of what went wrong hasten and conclude investigation.
“I pledge to you that we will get to the bottom of this and that every vote will be counted,” Mr. Hughes said. “I have listened to the people of Mercer County and have spoken with election officials, and we are committed to finding out how we can improve the election process and to prevent future incidents as the one on Election Day.”
In Mercer County, the Office of the County Executive does not supervise the Board, their offices, nor does it have jurisdiction. The board is responsible for selecting polling places, training board workers, receiving and counting vote-by-mail ballots, and counting and certifying provisional ballots. The Superintendent of Elections handles voter registration, renews registration records, investigates provisional ballots, and is the custodian of voting machines. The County Clerk designs and prints all election ballots, processes vote by mail applications, and officially certifies the election results.
File photo: Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes
File photo: Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried
Robbinsville Township Mayor Dave Fried said in a Facebook post:
“Regarding the events of Election Day, here is what we know so far.
Either the machine scanners did not work, or the ballots were printed incorrectly and the machines did their jobs and correctly spit them out as invalid. An investigation is reportedly under way, and Robbinsville will join other elected officials across Mercer County to see that the investigation is complete and transparent.
Let me be clear: I am not blaming anyone. Honestly, I do not know how this happened. Pointing fingers without all the facts is not productive. We do know that this is the second straight year the County process did not work as it should have, and I am not happy with much of what I saw.
One of the basic tenets of our democracy is the right to vote, and that every vote will be counted.
As of today, it appears our District 5 ballots (Library) have been found after having been misplaced. That information was given directly to our Municipal Clerk Michele Seigfried from the County.
Just a quick note about our clerk’s office. Michele and her team of Deputy Clerk Kaitlyn Macellaro and Sandy DeLorenzo performed exceptionally under extremely difficult conditions this past week. I cannot thank them enough for their service to our Township. The same goes for our Administration team, led by B.A. Joy Tozzi, each of whom worked all hours of the day and night in the chaotic aftermath of Election Day.
Over in Princeton, it seems they discovered ballots still in their machines. During in-person voting on Election Day, two slots for placing ballots were used. The first was the so-called emergency slot. This was used in the early part of the day because officials had hoped the scanner problems could be fixed before polls closed. As the day went on, that emergency bin became full and the scanners were removed so the main bin could be used. They discovered Princeton’s ballots were still in some of those containers since both sides were not emptied. It also appears that the documentation of the chain of custody regarding our ballots was quite poor, allowing the ballots to be apparently misplaced for a time.
The courts have ordered all the machines returned to the Mercer County Board of Elections for inspection to ensure there are no more ballots in those machines, including the ones deployed in Robbinsville.
I DO NOT believe there was any type of fraud, and I DO NOT believe there are any conspiracies at work here. I do believe mistakes were made at a time in our nation when it can ill-afford to stumble on Election Day.
We have spent millions of dollars on these machines and ballots, and they clearly did not work as advertised. It is time to reassess and come up with a better system. Those of you who voted early did not seem to have any issues. Perhaps we need to consider moving entirely in that direction. I will be attending all upcoming Mercer County Commissioner’s meetings until we have a real and fortified plan. Together, I am hopeful we will come up with a solution. Robbinsville has no intention of paying for this process unless real change is implemented.
I have no reason to believe, even with ballots that may or may not still be out there, that our local results will change.
Thus, I sincerely congratulate our three new Board of Education members – Jeffrey Pierro, Raghu Nandan and Peter Oehlberg. I wish each of you the best of luck, and I am sorry your first election was fraught with so much turmoil.
I have always said putting your name on a ballot is one of the most difficult – but potentially rewarding things – a person can do. Although no candidate should have to wait days for results in 2022, each of you earned your rightful place among your other BOE members.
While Ballot Question #1, which sought to combine our Planning and Zoning Boards into a consolidated Land Use Board, did pass, Ballot Question #2 regarding an increase in our Open Space tax to preserve more land and slow development did not. I know times are tough. That is why we put items such as these questions on the ballot. Sometimes we think we know what the residents want, but this process helps us know for certain.”
Election Problems Reported In Mercer County, NJ
More Mercer County Election Chaos As Robbinsville Ballots Go Missing!
FREEHOLD – A Colts Neck man who committed a string of robberies and a burglary over the course of about a month in 2021 has been sentenced to 15 years in prison, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Thursday.
Conor Kavanagh, 31, will be required to serve at least 85 percent of the first 12 years of the sentence before becoming eligible for parole under the provisions of New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA), in accordance with the terms set during the Friday, July 7, 2023 sentencing hearing before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Joseph W. Oxley. Kavanagh will also be subject to having no contact with the victims, as well as making restitution, and is also not allowed to return to the financial institutions where the crimes were committed.
The charges stem from three robberies, all committed within a month of each other in the fall of 2021.
Shortly after 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, November 13, 2021, an individual who was later identified as Kavanagh approached a teller window at the PNC Bank inside the Stop & Shop supermarket on Route 36 in Keyport. Kavanagh then passed a note indicating he was in possession of a weapon and made off with a quantity of cash, leaving the scene in a green Toyota pickup truck. At approximately 4 p.m. on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, a bank robbery occurred at the Wells Fargo branch on Newman Springs Road in the Lincroft section of Middletown. The bank robbery was committed in an identical fashion to the earlier one in Keyport, with the suspect wearing similar clothing and also leaving the scene in a green Toyota pickup truck.
Three days later, on Friday, December 17, the Wells Fargo branch on Route 36 in Eatontown was robbed. Again, a suspect passed a note demanding money, indicating that he was in possession of a weapon.
Following the bank robbery in Middletown, Detectives from the Middletown Police Department developed information that led to Kavanagh being identified as a potential suspect. After the bank robbery in Eatontown, Middletown Detectives and assisting members of the FBI observed Kavanagh driving a green pickup truck that matched the description of the vehicle used in the earlier bank robberies and placed him under arrest.
Detectives searched the pickup truck and located proceeds from the Eatontown bank robbery and the clothing the suspect was seen wearing on surveillance footage. They also located information pertaining to a storage unit in Shrewsbury; a search of that location revealed proceeds from the Keyport and Middletown bank robberies. Additionally, a search of the cell phone Kavanagh was using contained evidence of online searches for local bank branches. Prosecutor Santiago would like to thank our partners from the Eatontown, Keyport, and Middletown police departments, as well as members of the FBI’s Newark office, for their invaluable assistance in this investigation.
This case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan. Kavanagh is being represented by Edwin Wu, Esq., with an office in Freehold Borough.
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June 6, 2023
FREEHOLD – An inmate at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) has admitted to providing a fellow inmate with the drugs that caused the overdose that killed him, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Tuesday.
Appearing before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Chad N. Cagan last Friday, Alvino Hinton, 48, of Long Branch pleaded guilty to a single count of Strict Liability for a Drug-Induced Death.
At approximately 9:05 a.m. on Sunday, April 17, 2022, MCCI officers found 31-year-old David Egner of Toms River non-responsive on the floor of his cell. First aid was immediately rendered and Egner was rushed to a local hospital for treatment, where he was diagnosed as suffering from heroin/fentanyl poisoning. He was pronounced deceased at the hospital several days later.
A cooperative investigation led by MCPO Detective Brian Hammarstrom and also involving members of the MCPO Major Crimes Bureau and Professional Responsibility and Bias Crime Unit, along with the MCCI Special Investigations Division, revealed that earlier on the same morning he was found unresponsive, Egner had entered Hinton’s cell to deliver a tray of food. At that time, Hinton admitted during his plea hearing, he provided Egner with a quantity of heroin laced with fentanyl. Hinton was formally charged in August 2022.
This case is being prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Lisa Commentucci. Hinton is being represented by Paul E. Zager, Esq., with an office in Freehold.
Sentencing in the case has been tentatively scheduled for Friday, August 11, at which time Hinton is expected to face a term of 10 years in state prison, with at least 85 percent of the term to be served prior to the possibility of parole under the provisions of New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA).
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
May 8, 2023
FREEHOLD – A local man who sexually abused two juvenile siblings over the course of several years and was convicted at trial last fall has been sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison for the crimes, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Monday.
Walter Orlando Perez-Ramos, 35, of Asbury Park will be required to serve at least 85 percent of the first 16 years of the sentence before becoming eligible for parole under the provisions of New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA), in accordance with the terms set down during a Friday afternoon sentencing hearing before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Jill G. O’Malley.
On Monday, May 3, 2021, members of the Asbury Park Police Department first received information regarding the abuse of the two victims, then ages 16 and 17.
An investigation by members of the Asbury Park Police Department quickly determined that the abuse had involved dozens of incidents taking place on various dates from May 2015 through May 2020, each involving inappropriate touching. Perez-Ramos was arrested later in May 2021 and remained in custody at the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI). MCPO Special Victims Bureau Director Danielle Zanzuccki handled the prosecution of the case, while Perez-Ramos was represented by George J. Mardinly, Esq.
Following the weeklong trial before Judge O’Malley that ended in November 2022, Perez-Ramos was convicted on two counts of second-degree Sexual Assault, two counts of third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and a single count of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact.
During Friday’s sentencing hearing, Judge O’Malley also ordered that Perez-Ramos register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law and be subject to Parole Supervision for Life upon his release.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
April 26, 2023
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH) – The Middlesex County man who attacked and killed a stranger in a Freehold Township parking lot nearly five years ago, solely motivated by the victim’s race, has been sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 35 years for the crime, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.
Jamil Hubbard, 30, of Sayreville was sentenced Tuesday afternoon by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Lourdes Lucas for causing the death of 56-year-old Jerry Wolkowitz.
At approximately 7:15 a.m. on the morning of Tuesday, May 1, 2018, members of the Freehold Township Police Department and other first responders rushed to the Chesterfield Apartments on Harding Road on a report of a physical altercation involving a person struck by a vehicle. At that location they found Wolkowitz in the apartment complex’s parking lot, having sustained severe injuries to his head, abdomen, and back. Wolkowitz was subsequently transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center for emergency treatment.
Missing from the parking lot was Wolkowitz’s vehicle, a Kia Forte, which Hubbard was later found to have stolen. Hubbard then led police on a pursuit, refusing to obey commands to pull over, until it was terminated due to high speeds and out of concern for public safety. Minutes later, the Kia was found abandoned on Bordentown Avenue in Sayreville, and Hubbard was arrested by members of the Sayreville Police Department without incident at his home in the nearby Winding Wood Apartments.
An investigation involving numerous members of the MCPO Major Crimes Bureau, Freehold Township Police Department, and Sayreville Police Department later revealed that Hubbard was in the area that morning because he had slept in his vehicle overnight, having engaged in an argument with his ex-girlfriend, a resident of the apartment complex, the night before. When he woke up, he told investigators, he spotted Wolkowitz walking nearby and decided to try to kill him because he was white, initially attacking him from behind with punches and kicks before stealing his wallet and car keys. He also told investigators he dragged the victim into the parking lot and ran him over with the defendant’s car.
Wolkowitz, a longtime member of the Freehold First Aid and Emergency Squad and a freelance photographer, remained hospitalized in a coma until he died due to his injuries on Thursday, October 18, 2018. A Monmouth County Grand Jury returned an indictment against Hubbard in March 2019.
Hubbard’s prosecution was handled by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Hoda Soliman and Keri Schaefer, who presented evidence during a seven-week trial refuting an attempted insanity defense, showing that Hubbard’s conduct was intentional, knowing, and deliberate. At the conclusion of the trial, in November 2022, the jury convicted him of first-degree Murder, first-degree Bias Intimidation, second-degree Eluding, third-degree Theft from the Person, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and third-degree Motor Vehicle Theft.
Judge Lucas yesterday ordered that Hubbard serve a life term for the murder conviction, 25 years for the bias conviction, and 10 years for the eluding conviction, with all three terms to run consecutively to each other. During the sentencing hearing, three of Wolkowitz’s siblings and his fiancée either read statements into the record or had their remarks read into the record on their behalf. In addition, a statement by the victim’s now-deceased mother was read into the record by a family member.
Judge Lucas remarked on the case’s extreme brutality, which prompted an obvious need for deterrence.
“Racism has no place in our community. The evidence demonstrated this brutal attack was a targeted one, based on race, and such abhorrent behavior cannot be tolerated. Yesterday’s sentencing constituted an unambiguous message regarding this notion,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “There is no place in civilized society for those who commit such acts, and the only appropriate reckoning in cases such as these is their permanent removal from society. We hope that yesterday’s proceedings offered a measure of solace for the many individuals who so clearly loved and respected Mr. Wolkowitz so deeply.”
Hubbard was represented at trial by Allison Friedman, Esq. and Katherine M. Caola, Esq.
The Middlesex County man who attacked and killed a stranger in a Freehold Township parking lot nearly five years ago, solely motivated by the victim’s race, has been sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 35 years for the crime, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.
Jamil Hubbard of Sayreville (Left) was convicted of first-degree Murder, first-degree Bias Intimidation, second-degree Eluding, third-degree Theft from the Person, third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and third-degree Motor Vehicle Theft, all in connection with the death of 56-year-old Jerry Wolkowitz (Right).
March 24, 2023
FREEHOLD – A Bayshore man has been criminally charged with stealing more than $60,000 from a local appliance repair company that he managed financial matters for over the course of several years, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
Eduardo “Edward” Murillo, 46, of Keyport is charged with third-degree Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition and third-degree Impersonation/Identity Theft.
An investigation by members of the MCPO Financial Crimes & Public Corruption Bureau revealed that Murillo first met the principal of the aforementioned appliance repair company several years ago, during services at a church in Matawan. Thereafter, purporting to be highly experienced in accounting, Murillo began handling the personal and financial business of the victim and his company, also based in Matawan.
Analysis of financial records revealed that on various dates between 2017 and 2019, Murillo stole a little more than $61,000 from the company, using a variety of unauthorized transactions, and spending the proceeds on items such as personal expenses and sports betting.
Murillo surrendered to authorities without incident yesterday and was formally charged and released pending a Monmouth County Superior Court hearing tentatively scheduled to take place on Tuesday, May 2.
Anyone with additional information about Murillo’s activities is urged to contact MCPO Detective Michael W. Donovan III at 800-533-7443.
This case has been assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Kristen Anastos. Murillo is being represented by Taylor DiBenedetto, Esq., with an office in New Brunswick.
Convictions on criminal charges of this nature can be punishable by up to five years in state prison.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
March 17, 2023
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A Wall Township man was sentenced to a total of three years in a New Jersey State Prison in connection with the 2019 attempt to endanger the welfare of a child, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
On Friday, March 10, 2023, before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Marc C. Lemieux, Kenneth Megill, 43, was sentenced on a third-degree charge of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Upon release, Megill faces mandatory Megan’s Law registration and Parole Supervision for Life.
Megill pled guilty to the charge on October 14, 2022.
Megill utilized an online dating platform in an attempt to endanger what he believed to be a 14-year-old male high-school student by sending him sexually explicit messages and requesting nude photographs of the child. Megill was arrested and charged following an investigation by the Wall Township Police Department, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
Investigators are seeking additional information about Megill’s activities. Anyone with information can contact Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Anthony Lacher at 800-533-7443.
Anyone who feels the need to remain anonymous but has information about a crime can submit a tip to Monmouth County Crime Stoppers by calling their confidential telephone tip-line at 1-800-671-4400; by downloading and using the free P3 Tips mobile app (available on iOS and Android – https://www.p3tips.com/1182), by calling 800-671-4400 or by going to the website at http://www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com
This case was handled by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan. Megill was represented by Robert C. Wolf, Esq., of Red Bank.
Kenneth Megill, 43, was sentenced on a third-degree charge of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Upon release, Megill faces mandatory Megan’s Law registration and Parole Supervision for Life.
March 3, 2023
FREEHOLD – A Monmouth County Grand Jury has returned an indictment against an Asbury Park man who killed his girlfriend’s Poodle last year, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
Nicholas C. Winter, 36, is charged with third-degree Animal Cruelty Resulting in Death.
Shortly before 4 a.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2022, members of the Asbury Park Police Department responded to a residence on the 1400 block of Locust Drive on a report by an adult female that her boyfriend had killed her dog. Inside the residence, the responding officers located the deceased dog, a 12-year-old male named “Bentley.” The victim’s other dog, a 14-year-old female named “Sophia,” was reported missing, but found in the area several hours later.
An investigation led by Detective Anthony Houlis of the Asbury Park Police Department and Lt. Michael Magliozzo of the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) determined that Winter had earlier repeatedly texted his girlfriend, threatening the welfare of her dogs, while she was at work. A necropsy performed on Bentley determined that he died due to blunt-force trauma to the head, neck, and body that ultimately resulted in a fatal traumatic brain injury. Winter was arrested and charged later in June 2022.
This case has been assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Keri Schaefer and Sevan Biramian. Winter is being represented by Tara Breslow-Testa, Esq., and Christopher D. Adams, Esq., both with an office in Red Bank. Convictions on third-degree criminal charges can be punishable by up to five years in state prison.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
March 3, 2023
FREEHOLD, NJ – An Asbury Park man has been charged with torturing and killing his pet cat, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
Bani J. Mezquititla, 18, is charged with Animal Cruelty by Tormenting, Torturing, or Unnecessarily or Cruelly Abusing a Living Animal, Resulting in its Death, and Animal Cruelty by Using or Causing or Procuring the Use of an Animal or Creature in Any Kind of Sexual Manner, both third-degree crimes.
An investigation into Mezquititla’s activities was initiated on Thursday, March 2, when a concerned citizen brought the body of a dead cat to Asbury Park Police Department headquarters.
Members of that agency and the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Humane Law Enforcement Division determined that the cat had belonged to Mezquititla, who is alleged to have first performed sexual acts on the animal, seriously injuring it. He is also alleged to have later restrained and tortured the cat, resulting in its death.
Mezquititla was located and arrested later on the same day the investigation was initiated, then transported to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) pending a detention hearing tentatively scheduled to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court on Wednesday, March 8.
Anyone with information about this matter is urged to contact Asbury Park Police Detective Anthony Houlis at 732-502-4582, SPCA Chief of Humane Law Enforcement Michael Goldfarb at 732-542-0040, or SPCA Lt. Michael Magliozzo at 732-440-4538.
Convictions on criminal charges of this nature can be punishable by up to five years in state prison. This case has been assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Keri-Leigh Schaefer and Sevan Biramian. Information regarding Mezquititla’s legal representation was not immediately available.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
March 2, 2023
FREEHOLD, NJ – When Pastor Terrence K. Porter, senior minister of Pilgrim Baptist Church (PBC) of Red Bank spearheaded the church’s original “Warming Center,” the mission was simple: Offer a warm, comfortable shelter to homeless men in Monmouth County on Code Blue nights – when temperatures drop to 32 degrees or below.
The undertaking proved highly successful – it became the “go-to” warming center, serving an average of 21 guests on Code Blue nights. But when Pastor Porter and other community partners like the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation saw a greater community need, the Warming Center was rebranded to the JBJ & PBC Hope & Comfort Center, with the support of Monmouth ACTS and social services.
Here, men and women guests are provided with a safe, comfortable and secure location during Code Blue Nights, Code Red days and inclement weather. Through community partnerships including Charitable Pharmacy, Reentry of NJ and Red Bank Police Department, services offered to guests include: overnight lodging, laundry services, shower and clothing, hot meals, transportation, social service resources, physical health examination and mental health services.
Since November 2022, the Center has provided services to more than 600 guests – a testament to the community need as well as the successful collaborative undertaking.
“We’ve developed an effective community-based model that brings all the stakeholders together to provide services,” says Pastor Porter. “We see firsthand how we’re making a positive impact for our guests and hope and pray other communities will replicate our initiative.”
James, a guest at Hope & Comfort Center, says “I finally found a place where people really care about what happens to me!”
“What’s rewarding is that partnerships are developing into additional partnerships,” added Pastor Porter.
Case in point: Every Thursday evening on a Code Blue night, partner agency Monmouth CARES’ community group Empower Me helps guests access social services throughout Monmouth County, including obtaining personal documentation like birth certificates and driver’s licenses. Through a partnership with Parker Health Center, representatives provide physical exams and check guests’ vaccination status. “This has really paid dividends because once guests feel more comfortable they are open to receiving healthcare services,” adds Porter.
In one case, a man’s life was saved: a podiatrist offered services at the Center for two nights – guests were welcome to stay those nights as long as the podiatrist could examine their feet. As an incentive, guests would receive a free pair of boots. It was a great success as the podiatrist saw 95% of guests. What’s more, as a result of the exam, one guest with severe diabetes was rushed to the hospital. The guest is now a patient at Parker Health – a testament that the process is working.
“It is incredibly inspiring to witness the positive change that occurs when community leaders partner to help their neighbors in need,” said Commissioner Sue Kiley, liaison to the Department of Human Services of Monmouth County. “By joining forces and working toward the common goal of providing health and safety resources to those seeking help, everyone benefits and lives are saved.”
“The mission of Monmouth ACTS is to make meaningful connections and address the unmet needs of residents who are in search of services,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “This community collaboration is the perfect example of how important it is to support each other.”
To learn more about Monmouth ACTS, visit www.MonmouthACTS.org.
Service providers and supporters of the JBJ & PBC Hope & Comfort Center welcomed over 600 guests this 2022-2023 winter season.
Guests and service providers gather at the JBJ & PBC Hope & Comfort Center in Red Bank, N.J.
Dr. Jim McGuiness (far left) and Dr. Hal Orenstein (far right) of Parker Family Health Center, together with Pastor Terrence K. Porter of Pilgrim Baptist Church of Red Bank (middle left) and retired nurse Teena Lomack (middle right), greet and serve guests at the Hope & Comfort Center.
January 18, 2023
FREEHOLD – A Freehold Township man was sentenced to a total of eight years in state prison in connection with the 2017 possession and distribution of child sexual abuse materials, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Wednesday.
On Friday, January 13, 2023, before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Jill G. O’Malley, James Simmons, 74, of Freehold Township was sentenced to four years in a New Jersey State Prison on a third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials charge. Simmons also received eight years on a second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials charge. These two sentences will run concurrently. Upon release, Simmons faces mandatory Megan’s Law registration and Parole Supervision for Life.
Simmons was convicted of the charges on July 20, 2022.
A July 2017 investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, along with NJ Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and the Freehold Township Police Department, revealed that Simmons was found to be in a possession of a USB thumb drive with over 100 videos depicting the sexual abuse of a child, along with peer-to-peer file sharing programs from equipment located at his residence on Harding Road in Freehold Township.
This case was handled by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan. Simmons is being represented by George B. Somers Jr., Esq., of Princeton.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
Beacon Metals, a scrap metal company with locations in Freehold and South Amboy.
January 18, 2023
TRENTON, NJ – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced yesterday that the State has reached a $128,838 settlement with Beacon Metals, a scrap metal company with locations in Freehold and South Amboy. The settlement resolves allegations the company shortchanged consumers at its South Amboy location by using an inaccurate scale that provided short weight readings. A total of $112,952 of the settlement will go towards civil penalties with the remainder being used to cover the Division of Consumer Affair’s investigative costs and attorneys’ fees.
In July of 2021, the Division’s Office of Weights and Measures (“OWM”) inspected Beacon Metals’ truck scale at its South Amboy location and found it produced short weight readings. OWM learned that a company had tried to service the scale in January of that year and recommended it be replaced because it was inaccurate. But Beacon Metals did not install a new truck scale until two weeks after OWM’s July inspection. OWM identified nearly 16,000 transactions in which consumers were shortchanged because of the faulty scale.
“Consumers were deliberately cheated out of their money with the use of a scale Beacon Metals knew was not working correctly for six months” said Attorney General Platkin. “Through this settlement we are showing all metal buying businesses, whether scrap or precious, that their scales better be accurate, or we will catch them.”
“Some people make their living on collecting and selling scrap metal,” said Division of Consumer Affairs Acting Director Cari Fais. “They deserve every single dollar they are owed for what they bring in to scrap yards and to know they are not being ripped off and shortchanged by their buyers.”
Under the terms of the Consent Order entered with the Division, Beacon Metals, among other things, agreed to:
Comply with all applicable state and federal laws, rules, and regulations, including the Consumer Fraud Act, the Weights and Measures Act, and the Scales, Instruments and Devices Regulations;
Not engage in any deceptive conduct;
Maintain devices in proper working condition as required by the Scales, Instruments and Devices Regulations; and
Not buy or sell goods based on weight or measurement by use of a weight or measure that has not been properly tested or sealed.
Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Koziar in the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group, handled the matter for the state. Investigator Bryan Thomson of the Office of Weights and Measures handled the investigation for the Division of Consumer Affairs.
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business or suspect any other form of consumer abuse can file an online complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or calling 1-800-242-5846 to receive a complaint form by mail.
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A spokesperson for CentraState Medical Center stated this morning that CentraState Medical Center is experiencing some technical problems related to an IT security issue. We are investigating the cause and impact at this time. Critical patient care has not been adversely affected, but as a precautionary measure we have diverted all new patients to other facilities for care.
The state Department of Health was notified.
The FBI’s Newark office said it is aware of the situation at CentraState.
New Jersey 101.5 has also reported on the issue at CentraState
CentraState Medical Center Facebook Photo
December 22, 2022
FREEHOLD – Two men were sentenced for their respective roles in the 2019 shooting homicide of a 23-year-old Asbury Park man at the Prospect Avenue basketball courts, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Thursday.
On Friday December 16, 2022, before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Marc C. Lemieux, Prince D. Young, 25, and Chyrod M. Freeman, 24, both of Asbury Park, were each sentenced to 20 years in a New Jersey State Prison on first-degree Aggravated Manslaughter charges. Those charges are subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA) which requires Young and Freeman to serve 85% of their sentences prior to being eligible for parole.
Young was also sentenced to 10 years in a New Jersey State Prison for first-degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder and 5 years for second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun. Both charges will run concurrently to the Aggravated Manslaughter sentence.
Freeman was also sentenced to 10 years in a New Jersey State Prison for second-degree Aggravated Assault and 5 years for second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun. Both charges will run concurrently to the Aggravated Manslaughter charge.
Young and Freeman previously pleaded guilty on January 27, 2022 to their roles in the June 2019 shooting death of Jehadje J. McMillian.
“Jehadje J. McMillian was a young man with an extremely bright future ahead of him that was taken away in a single act of senseless violence,” Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago stated. “The sanctity of life dictates that justice be served. These pleas and the ensuing sentences strived to provide a grieving family some sense of closure.”
Asbury Park police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired in the 1100 block of Atlantic Avenue in the city around 10:44 p.m. on Friday, June 14, 2019. Police arrived on scene to find McMillian with a gunshot wound, and he was taken to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune Township, where he was pronounced deceased at 12:14 a.m. of the following day.
The case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Matthew Bogner, Director of the Major Crimes Bureau, and Ashley Behre. Young was represented by James R. Lisa, Esq. of Jersey City, and Freeman was represented by Albert Kapin, Esq. of West Orange.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
December 20, 2022
FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A former member of the Keansburg Police Department has been sentenced to four years in state prison after admitting earlier this year to committing a sex crime while off-duty, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Tuesday.
Nicholas Thompson, 26, must serve a minimum of 85 percent of the term before the possibility of parole under New Jersey’s No Early Release Act (NERA), in accordance with guidelines set down by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Jill G. O’Malley. He will also be required to register as a sex offender under the provisions of Megan’s Law, be subject to Parole Supervision for Life, and permanently forfeit all prospects of future public employment in New Jersey.
Thompson, who was sworn in as a Patrolman in Keansburg last year, was a SLEO (Special Law Enforcement Officer) Type II at the time of the crime. He was arrested and charged in October 2021. Thompson’s plea agreement to second-degree Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault was reached in May, after consultation with the victim.
During his plea, Thompson admitted that he attempted to have sex with the victim while she was unconscious and incapable of consent. This incident occurred in January 2021 at a private residence, while Thompson was off-duty.
This case was assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Falco, Director of the Office’s Professional Responsibility & Bias Crime Unit. Thompson was represented by Mitchell Ansell, Esq., with an office in Ocean Township.
“Sworn members of law enforcement are rightfully held to a higher standard of conduct, on the job and off,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “When they fall so short of that standard that their conduct becomes criminal, we then have a solemn obligation and responsibility to step in and ensure that they are held fully accountable.”
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
December 19, 2022
FREEHOLD – A Wall Township Police Department Sergeant has been criminally charged with stealing more than $75,000 from his local Police Benevolent Association (PBA) chapter, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Monday.
James R. Cadigan, 40, is charged with second-degree Theft by Unlawful Taking.
An investigation into this matter was initiated by the MCPO Professional Responsibility & Bias Crime Bureau, upon receipt of a referral by the Wall Township PBA Local No. 234, which had discovered that a significant amount of cash proceeds was missing following an annual fundraising event held earlier this year .Sgt. Cadigan was solely responsible for orchestrating and running the event in 2022 and in many preceding years, and the PBA annually donates proceeds from the event to various charitable organizations.
In addition to confirming that a significant amount of cash was missing from the event proceeds, the investigation revealed that starting at least in 2018 and in each year thereafter, Cadigan made numerous unauthorized cash withdrawals from multiple PBA bank accounts and wrote checks to himself and to cash from these accounts. This investigation remains ongoing as to both the extent of the theft and how Cadigan used the PBA’s funds.
Cadigan was served the charges against him via summons on Friday, pending future proceedings to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court.
This case is being prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Falco, Director of the MCPO Professional Responsibility & Bias Crime Bureau. Cadigan is being represented by Mitchell A. Ansell, Esq., with an office in Ocean Township.
“Local police unions are so often the drivers of philanthropic and charitable endeavors, especially at this time of year, so it is deeply disheartening when any member of law enforcement leverages access to their funds in order to achieve personal financial gains,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “We hope that the charges being announced today send a clear message that any such conduct is wholly unacceptable, and will be thoroughly and dutifully investigated and prosecuted.”
“The criminal charge against Sgt. Cadigan is not reflective of the honor, integrity, and fidelity routinely exhibited by the sworn members of this Police Department, as they are about protecting and serving the public in the execution of their daily duties,” Wall Township Police Chief Sean O’Halloran added.
Anyone with information about this or related matters is urged to contact MCPO Detective Brian Hammarstrom at 800-533-7443.
Convictions on second-degree criminal charges can be punishable by up to 10 years in state prison.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
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.
LONG BRANCH, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office says, a social media flyer calling for a ‘pop-up party’ on Saturday resulted in thousands of people converging in Long Branch, creating a public safety emergency that resulted in a 9 p.m. curfew imposed by the city, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced.
A large-scale gathering encouraged by a flyer posted on social media caused thousands of people to arrive in the town of Long Branch, specifically, areas in and around Pier Village. The majority of those people arrived by train. At certain points the crowd was estimated to be several thousand people. A public safety emergency ensued as a result of multiple fights breaking out throughout parts of the city involving the partygoers.
Law enforcement officials from the Long Branch Police Department, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Emergency Response Team (MOCERT), Monmouth and Middlesex Rapid Deployment Forces (RDF), Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Police, Department of Corrections and NJ Transit Police, all responded to the area. One flash bang and the deployment of smoke was used by Department of Corrections officers assisting in limited situations in response to fights taking place and bottles and rocks being thrown where the crowd would not disperse. The vast majority of those present left peacefully after the announcement of the curfew.
“I would like to thank all of our local law enforcement agencies and our state partners for their response to today’s incident. Responding agencies worked in unison to create a swift, professional, and tactical response to what was evolving as a dangerous situation. We appreciate the efforts of Long Branch City Officials issuing tonight’s curfew in response to the public safety situation. Their efforts are to be commended.” Linskey stated.
As of 11:30 p.m. last night after the incident concluded, there were 11 adults and 4 juvenile arrests stemming from the fights that took place. One police vehicle was vandalized, but there were no significant injuries or property damage reported at this time. The person who damaged the police vehicle has been arrested.
State of Emergency Declared Statewide Beginning 4:00 P.M.
July 16, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Today, Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency effective at 4:00 p.m. due to severe storms experienced throughout the state and forecasted severe storms causing hazardous weather conditions including periods of intense rainfalls, flash flooding, and damaging wind gusts. These severe weather conditions are expected to cause excessive runoff which may result in landslides, rock slides, and damaged roadways.
“Throughout the state, we have seen heavy rainfalls resulting in hazardous conditions and we urge residents to remain vigilant around flooded roadways and downed trees and power lines,” said Governor Murphy. “The safety of our residents is our main priority, and we recommend everyone to be informed of local weather conditions and to take necessary precautions.”
“Our State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to coordinate and support our local, county, and state emergency management partners with any resources needed to effectively respond to the severe weather affecting our state. We remain ready to assist residents and drivers both on and off of the roads for the duration of this storm as needed,” said State Director of Emergency Management and Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan. “However, we cannot do it without the help of our communities, so please stay off the roads and let emergency response officials do their jobs. Also, prepare emergency kits for use at home and in your vehicle, check on your neighbors, and remember, turn around, don’t drown.”
The Governor encourages New Jerseyans to visit ready.nj.gov for important weather updates and safety information. Residents should also pay attention to local forecasts, warnings, and watches. For those living in Central and Southern New Jersey, visit the U.S. National Weather Service Philadelphia/Mount Holly at http://www.weather.gov/phi/
For those living in Northern New Jersey and the New York Metro area, visit the U.S. National Weather Service New York, N.Y. at http://www.weather.gov/okx/
TRENTON, NJ (MECER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting homicide in Trenton.
At approximately 3:10 p.m. on Sunday, October 9, 2022, Trenton police responded to a Shot Spotter activation for multiple rounds in the first block of Ewing Street. Responding officers arrived on scene to discover an adult male lying on the ground at Kersey Alley suffering a gunshot wound to the shoulder area. He was transported to the hospital and pronounced dead a short time later. The victim has been identified as Daquan Brown, 33, of Trenton.
No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Trenton, NJ, Man Charged With Murder Of Daquan Brown
Yesterday’s breaking news story here:
Names of the 2022 homicide victims in the City of Trenton:
2/15/2022 Antwone Barnes, 37, of Trenton, Stabbing
2/23/2022 Leonardo Fernandez, 32, of Trenton, Stabbing
3/01/2022 Shimon Nesmith Jr., 19, of Trenton, Shooting
3/03/2022 Helen Nelson, 73, of Trenton, Physical Assault
3/15/2022 Albert L. Barnes, 46, of Trenton, Shooting
3/25/2022 Sequoya Bacon-Jones, 9, of Trenton, Shooting
3/31/2022 Tahaad Goss, 16, of Trenton, Shooting
4/07/2022 Jaquir Queen, 26, of Willingboro, Shooting
4/09/2022 Leroy Davis, 31, of Trenton, Shooting
5/01/2022 Jamir McNeil, 25 of Trenton, Shooting
5/22/2022 Ali Abdullah, 25, of Trenton, Shooting
6/01/2022 Dreiby Osorio, 16, of Trenton, Stabbing
9/02/2022 Rasheed Barlow, 35, of Trenton, Shooting
9/11/2022 Chron Jenks, 34, of Ewing, Shooting
9/20/2022 Keenan Anthony Trower, 31, of Hamilton Shooting
10/09/2022 Daquan Brown, 33, of Trenton, Shooting
Pending determination:
17. ** Cause of “Suspicious death” for Corrine Daniels, 41, of Park Avenue in Trenton has not been released yet from MCPO ** Once official determination is made the list will be updated.
MAYS LANDING, NJ – On September 9, 2022, Judge Dorothy Incarvito-Garrabrant revoked the release of a woman who was involved in the June 19, 2020, crash that killed off-duty New Jersey Human Services Police Officer, Michael Luko Sr.
Taquaysha Bell, 30, of Trenton, NJ, has been indicted on the following charges:
• Vehicular Homicide, 2nd degree; and • Assault by Auto, (related to 39:4-50 Driving While Intoxicated) 3rd degree.
On December 21, 2021, Bell was released from jail with conditions pending trial of the above charges, over the State’s objection.
On August 19, 2022, Bell was involved in another motor vehicle accident in Trenton where she injured a bicyclist and left the scene. As a result, Bell was charged with failing to report an accident and leaving the scene of an accident involving bodily injury.
Based on those violations, the State moved to have Bell’s release revoked and requested that she remain incarcerated pending trial in the vehicular homicide case. Judge Garrabrant granted the State’s motion stating that Bell’s conduct is a danger to the community.
Bell’s next court date in Atlantic County for the vehicular homicide is scheduled for October 28, 2022.
Assistant Prosecutor Tiffany deGrandmaison represents the State in this matter.
Anyone with information on this matter is asked to call the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609- 909-7800 or anonymously at the Prosecutor’s Office Web site at https://www.acpo.org/forms/tipscrime-reporting/.
People can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 (TIPS) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website at http://www.crimestoppersatlantic.com/. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County.
***These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt. In all cases, a charged defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ***
Taquaysha Bell, 30, of Trenton, NJ, has been indicted on the following charges:
• Vehicular Homicide, 2nd degree; and • Assault by Auto, (related to 39:4-50 Driving While Intoxicated) 3rd degree.
From a December 22, 2021 press release from the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office:
MAYS LANDING- A Trenton woman has been arrested and charged in connection to a fatal motor vehicle accident that occurred in June 2020, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Cary Shill announced.
On Dec. 15, 2021, detectives of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force assisted in the arrest of Taquaysha Bell, 29, at her residence in Trenton. Bell was charged with Vehicular Homicide and Assault by Auto in connection to a motor vehicle crash that occurred on June 19, 2020, on the White Horse Pike in Hammonton.
Following Bell’s arrest, she was turned over to the detectives of the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Crash Investigations Unit and the Hammonton Police Department for processing.
On June 19, 2020, Bell was traveling westbound on the White Horse Pike when she entered the oncoming lane and struck a vehicle head-on, operated by Michael Luko of Mays Landing. Luko, 53, was an officer with the New Jersey Human Services Police Department and he was traveling home from work. Luko was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
Atlantic County Assistant Prosecutor Kathleen Robinson represents the state in this matter.
***These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt. In all criminal cases, a charged defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ***
Anyone with information about serious crimes is asked to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-909-7800 or go to the Prosecutor’s Office Web site at https://www.acpo.org/tips.html and provide information by filling out the form anonymously on the Submit a Tip page. People can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 (TIPS) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website at http://www.crimestoppersatlantic.com/. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County.
From June 20, 2020 Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Press Relase:
MAYS LANDING- An investigation is underway after a 53 year-old Mays Landing man was killed Friday night in a crash on the White Horse Pike, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G. Tyner announced.
An initial investigation by the ACPO Crash Investigations Unit determined that Taquaysha Bell, 28, of Trenton was traveling westbound on the White Horse Pike in a 2010 Chevy Silverado. At 11:07 p.m., near the intersection of Moss Mill Road, Bell crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a 2003 Honda Civic, operated by Michael Luko Sr., who serves as an officer with the New Jersey Human Services Police Department and was traveling home from work. Following the crash, Officer Luko was transported to Atlanticare Regional Medical Center – Mainland Division where he was pronounced deceased at 12:22 A.M.
Bell was also transported to ACRMC – Mainland Division for treatment and a blood sample was taken for toxicology analysis.
A rear seat passenger in Bell’s vehicle, Chanelle Morgan, 28, of Trenton, was transported to ACRMC – City Division where she was undergoing surgery.
Two additional male passengers were transported in the ambulances with the Bell and Morgan, but neither was injured and left the hospital without being admitted or treated.
At this time the crash is an ongoing cooperative investigation by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Crash Investigations Unit and the Hammonton Police Department. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at (609) 909-7692.
NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ – Ten New Jersey high school students were awarded scholarships from the Sharing Network Foundation for their passion and dedication to raising awareness of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. The Class of 2023 graduates were presented with their scholarship awards at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters in New Providence. The Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarships are made possible thanks to several of the organization’s family and partner funds:
Hearts for Emma Partner Fund – created in celebration of Emma Rothman’s life-saving heart transplant to support high school education and donation advocacy efforts.
Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund – created in memory of Jim Rhatican, a NJ Sharing Network Volunteer, liver transplant recipient and retired teacher and coach of 35 years.
Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund – created in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of Missy Rodriguez’s life-saving liver transplant to follow her passion as a college counselor through scholarships for high school students.
Riley’s Path – created in memory of organ donor Riley Kogen to provide financial assistance to transplant patients in times of crisis, and to award scholarships to high school students and advocacy heroes.
The 2023 scholarship recipients are:
Sophia Fliegler of Mendham, NJ (2023 graduate of Randolph High School) received a scholarship from Hearts for Emma Partner Fund. Sophia’s heart failed when she was only two weeks old. She was given a second chance to live life to its fullest thanks to a successful heart transplant. She has made it a priority to honor the memory of her heart donor by advocating for NJ Sharing Network’s mission. Sophia has participated in transplant reunions, online discussion forums, social media chats, and the 5K Celebration of Life. She plans to attend the County College of Morris in the fall. “I like to think that I am living a life for both myself and my donor, as my donor never had the opportunity to do so,” said Sophia. “I hope that my donor is looking down and happy with the life ‘we’ are living.
Emily Blomkvist of Asbury, NJ (2023 graduate of North Hunterdon High School) received a scholarship from Hearts for Emma Partner Fund. Emily’s father received a life-saving heart transplant six years ago. Since then, her two greatest missions have been promoting the importance of organ and tissue donation and the need for blood donation. Emily has been recognized for her tireless efforts to promote events at North Hunterdon High School and in her local community. She plans to attend Lehigh University in the fall. “I will never forget that we were at my cousin’s sixth birthday party when my dad received a call from the hospital telling him to get there as soon as possible because they had found a heart for his transplant,” said Emily.
Caitlin Knorr of Berkeley Heights, NJ (2023 graduate of Governor Livingston High School) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. Caitlin was born with a Hemangioendothelioma of the liver, a rare and deadly disease. She received a life-saving liver transplant when she was just five weeks old, and a second liver transplant three weeks before her second birthday. Caitlin’s experiences inspired her, her mother, and her sister to become certified volunteers for NJ Sharing Network. She has shared her story at community events and encouraged her classmates to register as organ and tissue donors. Caitlin plans to attend the University of Arizona in the fall. “I feel blessed, and my life experiences are why I have chosen to pursue my studies in the medical field,” said Caitlin. “I will continue to be a huge advocate for organ and tissue donation for the remainder of my life. I want to give hope to those who are waiting for a life-saving transplant.”
Maxwell Moore of West Milford, NJ (2023 graduate of West Milford High School) received a scholarship from the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund. Maxwell had just turned 15 years old when he developed severe shortness of breath while on vacation with his family. He was hospitalized and diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension. His condition continued to become more critical until he received a double-lung transplant in July 2020. Since his near-death experience, Maxwell has been passionate about advocating for organ and tissue donation, including leading educational presentations for the Safe Driver’s Club and the Driver’s Education class. Maxwell plans to attend Endicott College in Beverly, Massachusetts in the fall. “As I go off to college, I hope to bring awareness to my fellow classmates about the importance of organ and tissue donation,” said Maxwell. “I will proudly share my story with anyone who wishes to listen.”
Amelia Rowniewski of Wallington, NJ (2023 graduate of Applied Tech High School) received a scholarship from the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Amelia was just two years old when she had severe cold symptoms and was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. Unfortunately, Amelia’s condition worsened as her kidneys began to fail and she struggled to breathe. Her life was saved thanks to a successful kidney transplant in 2008. Amelia honors the memory of her donor by volunteering for NJ Sharing Network and the American Kidney Fund. She has met with members of Congress to advocate for policies to support kidney patients and their families and has shared her personal story to encourage others to register as organ and tissue donors. Amelia plans to attend American University in Washington D.C. in the fall. “Thanks to my donor hero, I have been able to attend concerts, make close friends, and be accepted to college,” said Amelia. “Most fulfilling of all, I’ve been able to meet and mentor younger people with organ transplants and help them get through their everyday struggles.
Veronica Sutkowski of Carteret, NJ (2023 graduate of East Brunswick Charter School) received a scholarship from the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Veronica was in second grade when her mother’s life was saved thanks to a successful liver transplant. This emotional experience helped Veronica understand the powerful impact of organ and tissue donation and inspired her to volunteer for NJ Sharing Network. She even proudly wore NJ Sharing Network’s Miss Pumps mascot costume to bring energy and fun to community events and activities. Veronica plans to attend Rutgers University in the fall. “My mother’s hard road to transplant allowed me to realize that things are not as easy as they may seem and there will be challenges in life to get to the good parts,” said Veronica. “I aspire to be in the medical field and possibly help with transplant recipients like my mother one day.”
Nina D’Apolito of Wall, NJ (2023 graduate of Wall High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. As a member of Wall High School’s Donate Life Club, Nina took the lead in developing new and creative ways to raise awareness about organ and tissue donation. Nina played a key role in creating a “Celebration of Life Garden” in the school courtyard. She, along with her peers, painted and decorated “Donate Life” rocks that were used in a scavenger hunt and then placed along the flowerbeds of the garden and in the school’s media center. Nina also promoted the club’s efforts on social media to raise additional awareness. Nina plans to attend the University of Vermont in the fall. “Everyone deserves a chance to experience the highest possible quality of life,” said Nina. “I am proud to be a registered organ and tissue donor. It gives me peace to know that when I pass away, I can potentially save up to eight lives.”
Jacob Grabell of Bridgewater, NJ (2023 graduate of Bridgewater Raritan High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Last year, Jacob’s family suffered a terrible tragedy when his father died suddenly from a heart attack. Jacob has shown great resiliency and maturity by supporting his mother and younger siblings while also volunteering his time to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Jacob has served as an assistant Hebrew school teacher and as a coach in youth basketball and soccer. He also coordinated a bone marrow drive during the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center Community Day. Jacob plans to attend Rutgers University in the fall. “My father made sure that my siblings and I understood the importance of having a lasting impact on the community,” said Jacob. “He was also a registered organ donor, in hopes of saving others. He put others before himself and this ever-lasting lesson is one of many things I will take with me from our time together.”
Charbel Hachem of Franklin, NJ (2023 graduate of Franklin High School) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. Charbel will never forget the many times that he and his family rushed to the hospital to visit his father during his battle with cancer. After many surgeries and procedures, the only hope for Charbel’s father was an organ transplant. One of their family members donated part of their liver and pancreas to save his life. This inspired Charbel to help educate his classmates about the importance of registering as an organ and tissue donor. He also began volunteering with the American Red Cross to support local communities. Charbel plans to attend Concordia University in Canada in the fall. “It is my ambition to one day work in a hospital, performing the very same innovative surgeries that saved my father,” said Charbel.
Noah Kuzloski of Point Pleasant Beach, NJ (2023 graduate of Christian Brothers Academy) received a scholarship from the Riley’s Path Fund. In July 2022, Noah’s family experienced an unthinkable tragedy when his aunt and 3-year-old cousin passed away following a motor vehicle accident. Noah’s cousin saved the lives of three young boys through the miracle of organ and tissue donation. Since that moment, Noah has shared his story with friends and classmates to encourage them to register as organ and tissue donors. He plans to attend SUNY Maritime College in the fall. “Organ and tissue donation has greatly impacted my life because it brought me peace knowing that my cousin was able to save the lives of others,” said Noah. “It also gave me a way to deal with the pain of losing her. She is a hero.”
The Sharing Network Foundation’s scholarship program provides an opportunity to recognize and award graduating high school seniors whose lives have been touched by organ and tissue donation and transplantation. Applicants were measured on academic achievement, community and volunteer efforts, extracurricular activities and advocacy for organ and tissue donation. Since the scholarship program’s inception in 2011, more than $120,000 has been awarded to 55 dedicated student advocates.
“We are grateful for the generous support of our partner funds and their ongoing commitment to rewarding students who share a commitment to our life-saving mission,” said Amanda Tibok, Executive Director, Sharing Network Foundation. “We know that all of our scholarship awardees will continue as strong leaders educating others about donation and transplantation throughout their college years and beyond.”
Front Row – (Left-to-right) The Sharing Network Foundation’s 2023 scholarship recipients Noah Kuzloski of Point Pleasant Beach, Maxwell Moore of West Milford, Jacob Grabell of Bridgewater, Veronica Sutkowski of Carteret, Emily Blomkvist of Asbury, Caitlin Knorr of Berkeley Heights, Sophia Fliegler of Mendham, and Amelia Rowniewski of Wallington. Not pictured are Charbel Hachem of Franklin and Nina D’Apolito of Wall. (Back Row – Standing behind students – Left-to-right) Julie Nelson and Jay Rhatican of the Jim Rhatican Scholarship Fund, Mitch Kogen of the Riley’s Path Fund, Nancie Rothman of the Hearts for Emma Partner Fund, and Missy Rodriguez of the Missy’s Miracle Scholarship Fund. Photo Courtesy of NJ Sharing Network
November 13, 2021
State Police Arrest Man Who Brandished Handgun at Motorist After Road Rage Incident
Suspect Led Troopers on Multi-County Motor Vehicle Pursuit
Bridgewater Twp., N.J. – The New Jersey State Police have arrested Russell T. Brown, 62, of Shallotte, N.C., after he allegedly pointed a handgun at another motorist and led troopers on a motor vehicle pursuit that spanned multiple counties.
On Friday, November 12, at approximately 4:18 p.m., Operational Dispatch Unit North advised troopers that they were on the phone with a caller who stated a man driving a white Chrysler Town and Country exited his vehicle and pointed a handgun at him after a road rage incident. The victim stated that the incident occurred on Interstate 287 southbound at milepost 35 in Morris Township, Morris County. Troopers responded to the area and observed the Chrysler traveling southbound on I-287 at milepost 23 and continued to follow the minivan onto Interstate 78 eastbound.
In the area of milepost 32.2, in Bridgewater Township, Somerset County, troopers attempted to conduct a high-risk motor vehicle stop on the Chrysler. With emergency lights activated, troopers stopped the Chrysler and provided verbal commands to the driver to exit the vehicle via the State Police vehicle public address (PA) system. The driver exited his vehicle, but after several minutes of refusing the trooper’s commands, he got back into the minivan and fled the scene.
Troopers continued to pursue the Chrysler with emergency lights and sirens activated as it traveled through multiple jurisdictions on various roadways including I-78, I-287, County Route 622, State Highway 18, and ultimately the New Jersey Turnpike. During the pursuit, the suspect intentionally struck a State Police marked vehicle on State Highway 18.
At approximately 5:52 p.m., troopers successfully stopped the Chrysler on the New Jersey Turnpike southbound at milepost 52 in Mansfield Township, Burlington County. Once stopped, troopers ordered the driver out of the vehicle, but he refused to exit. Troopers then physically removed the driver from the vehicle and arrested him. A female passenger in the vehicle was arrested without incident. During the investigation, troopers discovered a 9mm handgun in the Chrysler. The driver and passenger were relayed to State Police Somerville Station for processing. Troopers later determined that the female passenger was an unwilling participant during the pursuit and was not charged.
Russell T. Brown was charged with possession of a firearm without a permit, possession of a firearm for unlawful purpose, aggravated assault (pointing a firearm), aggravated assault against a trooper, resisting arrest, eluding arrest, and obstruction of justice. He was lodged at the Somerset County Jail pending a detention hearing.
This case is being prosecuted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.
Charges are mere accusations, and the accused is considered innocent until proven guilty.
BRIDGEWATER, NJ (SOMERSET)–According to SFC Lawrence Peele at the New Jersey State Police, Public Information Unit, at approximately 4:19 p.m., troopers responded to Interstate 78 in Bridgewater for the report of a driver pointing a handgun at another motorist. The driver of a Dodge Ram Pickup advised that the driver of a Chrysler Town and Country pointed a gun at him during an alleged road rage incident.
In the area of milepost 32.2, troopers observed the Chrysler and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver refused to stop and continued traveling eastbound on I-78. Troopers continued to pursue the vehicle with emergency lights and sirens activated as it traveled through multiple jurisdictions on various roadways including I-78, I-287, County Route 622, State Highway 18, and ultimately the New Jersey Turnpike.
At approximately 5:52 p.m., troopers stopped the Chrysler on the New Jersey Turnpike southbound prior to Interchange 6 in Burlington County. The male driver and female passenger were both placed under arrest and are currently facing multiple charges. There were no injuries reported and both suspects were relayed to State Police Somerville Station for processing.
Yesterday’s MidJersey.News story:
NJ Turnpike Pursuit Ends in Mansfield, Burlington County
New Jersey State Police with the stopped suspect vehicle in Mansfield, Burlington County on the south side of the New Jersey Turnpike, on November 12, 2021.
October 19, 2021
PLAINSBORO-SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, Chief Fred Tavener of the Plainsboro Police Department, and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announce authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying an individual believed to be involved in an aggravated sexual assault that occurred in the area of Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park on the border of Plainsboro and South Brunswick Townships.
A joint investigation has determined that on September 28, 2021 between 4:30 P.M. and 5:00 P.M., an adult woman was walking on a path adjacent to the canal where she was approached by a male armed with a weapon and moved to a secondary location on the Plainsboro-South Brunswick border where she was sexually assaulted.
The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, age range of 40’s-50’s, approximately 5’5” – 5’6” tall, wearing dark colored clothing and a dark baseball cap. The individual is believed to have been riding a bike.
This incident has similarities to a sexual assault that occurred in Duke Island Park in Bridgewater Township, Somerset County on Sunday evening, July 18, 2021.
A Monmouth County, New Jersey, financial counselor with the United States Army and major in the U.S. Army Reserves who allegedly defrauded two dozen Gold Star families has been indicted, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Caz Craffy, a/k/a “Carz Craffey,” 41, of Colts Neck, New Jersey, is charged by indictment with six counts of wire fraud and one count each of securities fraud, making false statements in a loan application, committing acts furthering a personal financial interest, and making false statements to a federal agency.
Craffy is expected to make his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tonianne J. Bongiovanni at the Trenton Federal Courthouse.
“Stealing from Gold Star families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation is a shameful crime,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As alleged in the indictment, the defendant in this case used his position as an Army financial counselor to defraud Gold Star families, steal their money, and enrich himself. Predatory conduct that targets the families of fallen American service members will be met with the full force of the Justice Department.”
“The families of our fallen service members have laid the dearest sacrifice on the altar of freedom,” U.S. Attorney Sellinger said. “These Gold Star families deserve our utmost respect and compassion, as well as some small measure of financial security from a grateful nation. They must be off-limits for fraudsters. But, as the indictment alleges, this defendant took advantage of his role as an Army financial counselor to prey upon these families, using lies and deception to steer their investments in a way that would make him money. There is no room for those who seek to rip off families of fallen servicemembers to make a buck. We will use every means at our disposal to ensure that those who defraud military families are held accountable.”
“Those who prey on the family members of fallen soldiers, will be sought out and held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Joel Kirch, Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, Northeast Field Office. “The hard work, long hours, and dedication of our partners within the Task Force, from the United States Attorney’s Office, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and our own investigative analyst, resulted in this investigation’s swift resolution.”
“The families of service members who lost their lives while serving their country deserve to be treated with compassion, dignity and respect by individuals entrusted to assist them in obtaining survivor benefits,” said James R. Ives, Principal Deputy Director of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the law enforcement arm of the DoD Office of Inspector General. “Today’s announcement reflects DCIS and our law enforcement partners’ steadfast commitment to holding accountable those who use their official positions to take advantage of grieving military families.”
“Gold Star families are given a title no one would choose because it means they’ve paid the ultimate sacrifice for this country,” said Special in Charge James E. Dennehy of the Newark FBI. The soldier, sailor, marine or airman they loved died during a time of conflict – defending this nation. They are given money and assistance to help ease the burden that comes with losing their loved one, however no amount of money can replace what they’ve lost. We allege Craffy took advantage of his position and defrauded families already going through a tremendous amount of suffering.”
“Craffy disgraced the position he was entrusted in to care for our nation’s military families when he allegedly took advantage of them during a vulnerable time of grief,” said Homeland Security Investigations Newark Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “No family, especially our Gold Star families, should have to face further heartache after a loved one’s death by having their financial security ripped out from under them by fraudsters.”
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: When a member of the Armed Services dies during active duty, his or her surviving beneficiary, now a member of a Gold Star family, is entitled to a $100,000 death gratuity and the soldier’s life insurance of up to $400,000. These payments are disbursed to the beneficiary in a matter of weeks or months following the servicemember’s death. To assist the beneficiaries in this time of need, the military provides a number of services to the servicemember’s family, including the assistance of a financial counselor.
From November 2017 to January 2023, Craffy was a civilian employee of the U.S. Army, working as a financial counselor with the Casualty Assistance Office. He was also a major in the U.S. Army Reserves, where he has been enlisted since 2003.
Craffy was responsible for providing general financial education to the surviving beneficiaries. He was prohibited from offering any personal opinions regarding the surviving beneficiary’s benefits decisions. Craffy was not permitted to participate personally in any government matter in which he had an outside financial interest. However, without telling the Army, Craffy simultaneously maintained outside employment with two separate financial investment firms.
Craffy used his position as an Army financial counselor to identify and target Gold Star families and other military families. He encouraged the Gold Star families to invest their survivor benefits in investment accounts that he managed in his outside, private employment. Based upon Craffy’s false representations and omissions, the vast majority of the Gold Star families mistakenly believed that Craffy’s management of their money was done on behalf of and with the Army’s authorization.
From May 2018 to November 2022, Craffy obtained more than $9.9 million from Gold Star families to invest in accounts managed by Craffy in his private capacity. Once in control of this money, Craffy repeatedly executed trades, often without the family’s authorization. These unauthorized trades earned Craffy high commissions. During the timeframe of the alleged scheme, the Gold Star family accounts had lost more than $3.4 million, while Craffy personally earned more than $1.4 million in commissions, drawn from the family accounts.
The wire fraud and securities fraud charges are each punishable by a maximum of 20 years in prison. The charge of submitting a false statement on a loan application is punishable by a maximum of two years in prison. The charges of acts affecting a personal interest and false statements to a federal agent are each punishable by five years in prison. All counts but the securities fraud count are also punishable by a maximum fine of either $250,000 or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. The securities fraud count is punishable by a maximum fine of either $5 million or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) also filed a civil complaint against Craffy today based on the same and additional conduct. Craffy has been permanently prohibited from association with any member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. (FINRA).
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Kirch; special agents of DCIS, under the direction of Principal Deputy Director Ives; special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Dennehy; and special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patel with the investigation leading to the indictment. He also expressed appreciation for the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the direction of Gurbir S. Grewal, Director, Division of Enforcement, and FINRA, under the direction of Acting Head of Enforcement Christopher J. Kelly.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Martha K. Nye of the Criminal Division in Trenton, and Carolyn Silane of the Criminal Division in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.23-198 Defense counsel: Mark Berman Esq., Fair Lawn, New Jersey.
craffy_indictment_signed_docketedDownload Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
BARNEGAT, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on July 7, 2021, Christopher Gregor, 29, of Barnegat, was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(2), relative to an incident that occurred in Barnegat Township on March 20, 2021.
On April 2, 2021, Officers from the Stafford Township Police Department responded to Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin in reference to the death of a six-year-old male. In the course of investigating the child’s death, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Squad came into possession of evidence revealing that Gregor committed acts of abuse against the child in Barnegat Township on March 20, 2021.
On July 9, 2021, Gregor surrendered himself to the Barnegat Township Police Department. Gregor was processed and transported to the Ocean County Jail where he remains lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer would like to emphasize that the death of the child remains an ongoing investigation.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Squad, Stafford Township Police Department, Barnegat Township Police Department, Manalapan Township Police Department, and the Alcoa (Tennessee) Police Department, for their cooperative efforts in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Christopher Gregor, 29, of Barnegat
Christopher Gregor, 29, of Barnegat, was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(2), relative to an incident that occurred in Barnegat Township on March 20, 2021.
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Govenor’s Office File Photo
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Christopher Gregor, 29, of Barnegat