NEWARK, NJ — An Amber Alert was issued for a child abduction of Pedro Dasilva a 3-year-old child last seen in Newark New Jersey. The child was last seen wearing a red hooded sweatshirt and gray pants. The suspect is a black male wearing a black Northface jacket, black pants and white sneakers. Suspect vehicle is a Silver Hynda Sonata with New Jersey registration number S27SLD If you happen to see the vehicle notify police 9-1-1
Further information will be posted as it becomes available.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police report that on August 29, 2023, at approximately 8:00 p.m., an adult male walked into Capital Health Regional Medical Center with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. It was determined the incident occurred at 222 Brunswick Avenue. Through further investigation conducted by the Mercer County Shooting Response Team it was determined Dashon Mcnair was responsible for the shooting and subsequently charged with criminal attempt homicide and weapons offenses. On October 5, 2023, Mcnair was located in the City of Trenton by Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Marshalls Unit and placed under arrest without further incident.
*Charges are mere accusations, and the accused are considered innocent until proven guilty*
October 5, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police Department reported that three are under arrest for an August 19, 2023, shooting.
Police say that on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at approximately 7:18 p.m., Trenton Police communications received a call regarding a residence struck by gunfire in the area of the 1200 block of Hamilton Avenue. A second call was received from Helene Fuld Regional Medical Center that an adult male walked into the hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. It was determined the incident occurred at 533 South Olden Avenue where a scene was located. The Mercer County Shooting Response Team conducted an extensive investigation which led to the arrests of Daniel Walker, Adrianne Spady, and Daquan Grimsley. They were charged accordingly.
Daniel Walker, 37, Criminal Attempt Homicide, Weapons Offenses
Charges are mere accusations, and the accused are considered innocent until proven guilty
October 5, 2023–UPDATE:
PLAINSBORO, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Eamon Blanchard of the Plainsboro Police Department announced today that a Homicide is currently under investigation.
On October 4, 2023, at approximately 4:37 p.m., authorities received a 911 call requesting a welfare check at a residence on Titus Lane in Plainsboro. Upon their arrival Plainsboro Police Department discovered four deceased victims in the house: Tej Pratap Singh, 43, Sonal Parihar, 42, and their two children a 10-year-old male and a 6-year-old female. This tragedy remains under investigation and autopsies are being performed today.
An initial investigation lead by Detective Will Atkinson of the Plainsboro Police Department and Detective Javier Morillo the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office determined that there is no threat to the public.
Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to call Detective Atkinson of the Plainsboro Police Department at 609-799-2333 or Detective Morillo the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745- 8843.
4 Found Dead In Plainsboro Home
October 5, 2023
PRINCETON, NJ (MERCER)–Princeton Police report that last night, on October 4, 2023, at 11:45 p.m., Princeton Police were dispatched to Mercer Road in the area of Quaker Road on a report of an overturned vehicle off the roadway. The driver, Marc Leon 23, of Hamilton, NJ was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The initial on-scene investigation revealed that Leon was driving a 2019 Toyota Camry southbound on Mercer Road when the vehicle entered the southbound shoulder. The vehicle then struck a boulder and began to roll, eventually stopping on the northbound shoulder of Mercer Road.
The Police Department is requesting that anybody who witnessed the crash to contact Ptl. Jonathan Myzie at (609) 921-2100 ext. 1875
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. An additional press release will follow when new information becomes available.
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, NJ — Joint Base McGuire-DIX-Lakehurst has give the ALL CLEAR signal at the base and things are returning to normal operations.
JBMDL is no longer under lockdown condition. We received notification of an active shooter on the joint base. After investigating the incident, it was found that there was no active shooter. We appreciate the public’s concern and thank you for your continued support.
UPDATE UPDATE UPDATEALL CLEARJBMDL IS NO LONGER UNDER A LOCKDOWN CONDITION, WE HAVE CONFIRMED ALL MEMBERS OF JBMDL ARE SAFE.
We appreciate the public’s continued support
UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE ALL CLEAR JBMDL IS NO LONGER UNDER A LOCKDOWN CONDITION, WE HAVE CONFIRMED ALL MEMBERS OF JBMDL ARE SAFE.
We appreciate the public’s continued support
— JointBaseMDL (@jointbasemdl) October 26, 2023
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, NJ — A message was posted to the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Facebook page reporting active shooter on the base at Building 5321. No other information is available at this time. Check Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst for additional details.
MESSAGE POSTED TO FACEBOOK ACCOUNT:
LOCKDOWN LOCKDOWN LOCKDOWN
ACTIVE SHOOTER REPORTED ON JBMDL
BLDG 5231. ALL PERSONNEL ARE TO LOCKDOWN UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
ALL PERSONNEL OUTDOORS SHOULD TAKE COVER.
DIVIDS File photo by: (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Azaria E. Foster)
DIVIDS File photo by: (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Azaria E. Foster)
LOCKDOWN LOCKDOWN LOCKDOWN ACTIVE SHOOTER REPORTED ON JBMDL BLDG 5231. ALL PERSONNEL ARE TO LOCKDOWN UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
ALL PERSONNEL OUTDOORS SHOULD TAKE COVER.
— JointBaseMDL (@jointbasemdl) October 26, 2023
October 26, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A Mercer County, New Jersey, man was convicted of carjacking, brandishing a firearm during the carjacking, two attempted carjackings resulting in serious bodily injury, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
Cedrick Hodges, 40, of Trenton, New Jersey, was convicted on Oct. 24, 2023, of all five counts of a second superseding indictment following a seven-day trial before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
On the evening of Dec. 16, 2017, Hodges entered the rear passenger seat of a Toyota Camry and pointed a loaded sawed-off shotgun at the driver, demanding that she operate the vehicle while Hodges entered the rear seat. The driver exited the vehicle and ran, in response to which Hodges discharged the shotgun towards her as she fled.
Moments later, Hodges approached a Honda Accord occupied by a driver and one passenger. Hodges pointed the shotgun at the driver’s window demanding that the driver and passenger exit the vehicle. When the driver refused, and instead began to drive the vehicle away from Hodges, Hodges discharged the firearm into the driver’s side window, striking the driver in his torso, causing permanent and serious bodily injury.
Hodges fled the area and several minutes later approached a man who was entering a Nissan Rogue. Hodges demanded that the man hand Hodges the keys to the Nissan Rogue. When the man refused, Hodges brandished the shotgun and discharged the firearm at the man, causing permanent and serious bodily injury.
The count of carjacking carries a maximum potential sentence of 15 years in prison. The counts of attempted carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury each carry a maximum potential sentence of 25 years in prison. The count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence is punishable by a mandatory minimum of seven years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutively to any term of imprisonment imposed on any other charges. The possession of firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Thomas Mahoney; the Hamilton Township Police Department, under the direction of Chief of Police Kenneth R. DeBoskey; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Superintendent Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, the U.S. Marshals Service, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller, with the investigation leading to the guilty verdict.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Suggs and Tracey Agnew of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
23-313
Defense counsel: Henry E. Klingeman Esq. and Ernesto Cerimele Esq., Morristown, New Jersey
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
October 10, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced today that an investigation conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department has resulted in the arrest of a Bridgeton Township man for the stabbing death of Corey Jones.
James B. Draper, 46, is charged with one count of first-degree murder and three weapons offenses, including certain persons not to possess a weapon. He was detained without incident in Bridgeton on Wednesday, October 25. The prosecutor’s office will file a motion to detain Draper pending trial.
Just before 9 p.m. on Thursday, October 19, 2023, Trenton police responded to the area of Cross Street and Kersey Alley in response to a call for an unresponsive male. Upon arrival, officers located a male victim on the ground in the sidewalk area suffering from numerous stab wounds. The victim, identified as Corey Jones, 40, of Trenton, was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead a short time later.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Michael Cipriano at (609) 575-2235 or OIC William Jett Jr. at (609) 331-5010. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
James B. Draper, 46, is charged with one count of first-degree murder and three weapons offenses, including certain persons not to possess a weapon. He was detained without incident in Bridgeton on Wednesday, October 25. The prosecutor’s office will file a motion to detain Draper pending trial.
6/15/2023 Louis Washington, 38, Trenton, Shooting, (died June 17)
6/19/2023 Ernest Denard, 61, Stabbing
6/22/2023 Guillermo Sanchez, Shooting
7/01/2023 Precious Saunders, 32, of Trenton
8/23/2023 Taquan Foxworth, 29, of Trenton, Shooting 8/19
9/02/2023 Ronald Taylor, 40, of Trenton, Shooting
9/16/2023 Balil Lewis, 37, of Trenton, Shooting
10/19/2023 Corey Jones, 40, of Trenton, Stabbing
September 28, 2023 still under investigation if determined to be a homicide the list will be updated.
October 26, 2023
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Every Robbinsville High School student must complete at least 30 hours of volunteerism in order to graduate. In working to complete this requirement, Adhviklal Thoppe found it difficult to keep track of the countless volunteer opportunities flooding his inbox.
About a year ago, he decided to do something about it: creating a handy website with all the volunteer information. Wingman (http://rville-wingman.com/) launched with the new school year.
“The idea struck me when I was looking for some volunteering events to do,” Adhviklal said. “It was difficult for me to find and keep track of multiple events along with all the other emails. I started working on the project once I realized that I could create an easy platform to help others stay organized with their volunteering events.”
The 17-year-old senior spent this summer creating his pet project.
“I had enough time to bring my idea to life,” said Adhviklal, who also works at a local Code Ninjas, which teaches computer coding to youth.
Connecting both teachers and students, the Wingman website aims to be a go-to platform for sharing educational events that offer volunteer opportunities. According to the website, “teachers create, students explore and together, we learn to make a difference.”
Instead of posting volunteer events through email, Wingman organizes every opportunity in one spot.
“Before, it was difficult to keep track of where the events were and how to find them – it wasn’t very organized,” the student said. “I saw it wasn’t really working – at least not for me. So, I created a website where all the events are consolidated. All you have to do is go there, and it’s all been listed out.”
In a way, Adhviklal created his own unofficial volunteer opportunity. It also supported his particular interests – and his soon-to-be alma mater. While the website may not benefit his specific needs for much longer, the senior knows it will help future students.
“I just enjoy computer science and I like to code,” he said. “When I saw that this problem was happening with volunteer events, I decided to take it up and create this project. I also wanted to give back to the school district because I’ve been here since fifth grade. I felt like it was a good way to give back.”
Anyone can go to the website, but only Robbinsville school administrators or those with knowledge of a security password can post volunteer opportunities.
Adhviklal said his school counselor, JoAnne Walker, and Robbinsville High School Assistant Principal Nicole Rossi-Mumpower have been very supportive. After showing the concept to Superintendent Brian J. Betze – who also was in favor – it was a go.
With the website up and running, administrators and teachers are in the process of loading events for the students to consider.
When not coding, Adhviklal can be found practicing Taekwondo, where he is a second-degree black belt. He also plays the guitar, creates 3D modeling and produces music for game development.
Next up for Adhviklal is finishing college applications. With plans for a major in computer science, he hopes to attend a great institution and also attain a graduate degree.
In order to make volunteering more accessible, Adhviklal Thoppe created Wingman.com, a website where volunteer opportunities for students are posted in one site.
Adhviklal Thoppe and Robbinsville Superintendent of Schools Brian J. Betze met to discuss Adhviklal’s pet project, a student volunteer website.
Collaborative operation targeting offenders sexually exploiting children online was launched in response to spike in cyber threats to children during COVID 19 pandemic.Attorney General warns parents and offers tips to keep children safe as they return to virtual learning, with more screen time and, in many cases, no in-person teacher supervision
August 26, 2020
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal today announced arrests of 21 individuals who are charged with sexually exploiting children online. The 19 men, one woman, and one juvenile male were arrested in “Operation Screen Capture,” a collaborative operation launched in response to a dramatic increase in reports of potential threats to children from online predators during the COVID pandemic.
Three defendants – two men and one woman – are charged with sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault children. Eighteen are charged with endangering the welfare of children for possession and/or distribution of child sexual abuse materials, including, in many cases, child rape videos.
Cyber tips to the New Jersey Regional Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force about potential threats to children online – including tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) – have increased up to 50 percent in New Jersey since the COVID emergency began in March, compared to the same time frame last year. Many cases in this operation stemmed from cyber tips from NCMEC, but others involved undercover chat investigations where perpetrators were attempting to meet children or other individuals online in order to sexually assault children.
Operation Screen Capture was led by the Division of Criminal Justice, New Jersey State Police, ICAC Task Force, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office.The New Jersey State Parole Board assisted with arrests and search warrants.
The arrests, made between March 18 and July 31, 2020 include the following cases:
Aaron Craiger. Craiger, 34, of Oklahoma, a registered sex offender, was arrested on March 18 at a motel in Atlantic City after he allegedly traveled from Oklahoma to meet two men who offered him access to underage girls for sex. In reality, the defendant had communicated with undercover investigators from the New Jersey State Police and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations. One investigator pretended to offer his 12-year-old daughter for sex, and the other, his girlfriend’s 11-year-old daughter.Craiger, who had condoms with him when arrested, also allegedly possessed and distributed child sexual abuse materials.
Jason Berry. Berry, 40, of Keansburg, N.J., allegedly sexually exploited a 14-year-old girl he met on social media, manipulating her into sending him naked pictures of herself engaging in sexual acts. He allegedly had the girl carve his initials into her legs. He then tricked the girl into revealing her mother’s phone number and sent those images to her mother.
Alize Tejada. Tejada, 21, of Newark, N.J., allegedly sexually assaulted a very young child.She allegedly videotaped herself performing a sexual act on the child and posted the video on social media.
“Reports to our Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force of potential predatory conduct against children are up as much as 50 percent during the COVID emergency as homebound children, starved for outside contact, spend more time on their devices, and opportunistic sexual predators target them online,” said Attorney General Grewal. “We urge parents to be vigilant about the online activities of their children and warn children that the strangers they meet on popular social media sites, apps and gaming platforms may be out to harm them. We will continue to work overtime to arrest child predators and those who participate in the cruel exploitation of children by sharing child sexual abuse materials.”
In past cases, the ICAC Task Force has arrested child predators who used the following chat apps: Kik, Skout, Grindr, Whisper, Omegle, Tinder, Chat Avenue, Chat Roulette, Wishbone, Live.ly, Musical.ly, Paltalk, Yubo, Hot or Not, Down, and Tumblr.Arrests also have been made involving the gaming apps Fortnite, Minecraft, and Discord.Attorney General Grewal urged parents to familiarize themselves with these and other apps and warn their children about sharing information with strangers.
“As children return to virtual learning this fall, they will be spending even more time online, in many cases without any in-person teacher supervision or peer contact,” Attorney General Grewal added. “This may make them even more vulnerable. We want parents to be aware of the dangers— and, as we highlighted in a recent virtual town hall with the State Police and Department of Children and Families, we want everyone to know that there are resources to help children who are struggling with social isolation or who may be victims of trauma or abuse.”
Virtual Town Hall: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMNHjMhVbYA&t=6s
“Operation Screen Capture is a great example of how law enforcement in New Jersey works together seamlessly through the ICAC Task Force to confront the threat of online predators, raise awareness among parents, and protect our children,” said Director Veronica Allende of the Division of Criminal Justice. “Whether we are running down tips from NCMEC or conducting undercover chats, we use our cyber expertise each day to apprehend those who use the internet to harm, abuse, and exploit children.”
“Our children are at an increased risk to fall victim to opportunistic online predators during this pandemic, as students have no choice but to turn to their devices to connect with friends and family and in many cases to prepare for remote learning,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “The State Police will continue to work with our law enforcement partners, and we will be unrelenting in our efforts to keep our children safe, but we cannot do it alone. We urge all parents and guardians to have conversations with your children about the dangers that exist on the internet and to closely monitor their online activity.”
“The internet has been instrumental in allowing our children to continue their educations remotely during this pandemic.However, it has also been used by the very worst among us to exploit them as well,” said Jason Molina, Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, Newark. “These various cases, which involve both teenagers and very young children, show the level of depravity of these predators.Some pursue physical contact initiated via online introductions, in some cases even crossing state lines, while others exclusively pursue these innocents online. In either case, the psychological damage to children is long lasting.In the face of that, only a very united effort of local, state, and federal law enforcement officials, along with the hypervigilant efforts of parents to monitor their children’s online activity, can be effective to stop them and bring them to justice.”
Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella said, “More and more, all of us look to the internet for remote connections because of work, school, or simply to surf the web, but this operation is a reminder that there are individuals who use the internet to traffic sexually explicit images and videos of children. We are proud to be part of this effort to identify, arrest, and aggressively prosecute those who are exploiting our children and our increased reliance on virtual connections by accessing and sharing illegal images and videos.”
“It cannot be emphasized strongly enough how important it is for parents to become educated about cyber threats, and take measures to protect their children from becoming victimized,” Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina said. “Our way of life has been altered by this pandemic. It used to be that kids would play outside, and parents would check on them every so often to make sure they were safe. But the dangers they face have become much more direct now that they are spending a greater amount of time online than they ever have before. These threats are not readily visible, and effortlessly gain access to our homes, posing a very real risk to our children. We will continue to do everything legally allowable to find and punish those who are responsible.”
“It is a disturbing reality that predators are using the pandemic as an opportunity to target children as their online activity increases,” said Acting Camden County Prosecutor Jill Mayer. “This operation, and the resulting arrests, show that law enforcement agencies in New Jersey and the ICAC Task Force are working diligently together to identify, catch, and arrest these individuals.My message to anyone out there who is using the internet to target children— we are watching and you will be caught. Parents need to be mindful that as we enter a school year with remote learning, there will be predators online looking for potential victims. We encourage all parents to take this time to talk to their children about internet safety, even if you’ve had this discussion before. Keeping our children safe is something that can never be discussed too much.”
“Crimes against children are among the most disturbing, yet often the toughest to prosecute,” said Acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens, II. “This joint effort underscores the willingness of law enforcement at all levels to work together to protect our most vulnerable from those who would use the internet and other means to prey upon children. In this age, when so many children are relying on computers for their education, entertainment and social life, we are committed to make the internet community as safe as possible.”
“The Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office eagerly participated in this joint law enforcement effort focusing on individuals who felt our attention to their bad acts targeting vulnerable children was diverted,” said Acting Gloucester County Prosecutor Christine Hoffman. “To the contrary, we remain committed and vigilant, and never allow geography or jurisdictional boundaries to slow our collective efforts. We’ll continue to use every investigative tool available to identify, apprehend and convict those who prey on our children.”
“The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office was proud to take part in Operation Screen Capture with our Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force partners,” said Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri. “The success of the operation highlights how important it is that parents and guardians know that these online predators are out there, especially as remote learning begins again and children spend more and more time on their screens. And it’s just as important that anyone who would use the internet as a tool to harm our kids knows that my office will continue to use every resource at its disposal to identify, investigate, and arrest you before you have the chance to do it.”
“The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office welcomed the opportunity to participate in Operation Screen Capture as a member of the ICAC Task Force,” said Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone. “This statewide investigation illustrates the fine work and collaboration of many law enforcement agencies in New Jersey. These agencies are dedicated to protecting our communities, especially our children. We thank all of the participating agencies.”
“Our relationship with ICAC has proved to be vital in protecting and safeguarding children from sexual predators,” said Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer. “We will continue to collaborate with all of our law enforcement partners to do everything we can to root out those individuals that prey on our children. To that end, it is imperative for all parents to keep an eye on the online activities of their children.”
“The Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office was a proud participant in Operation Screen Capture,” said Sussex County Prosecutor Francis A. Koch. “This statewide operation demonstrates the dedicated collaboration of all law enforcement agencies in New Jersey to proactively protect all children. As important as today’s announcement of the arrests of these defendants is, the message to parents and children to be even more vigilant and guarded while online is equally important. Today, children are required to have an increased online presence that subjects them to predators looking to take advantage of them. We therefore ask all parents and guardians to take an even greater role in their children’s online activities. We in law enforcement pledge to continue to commit ourselves to do all we can to help protect all children and to root out the despicable predators preying on them.”
Craiger, Berry, and Tejada are being prosecuted by the Division of Criminal Justice.They were ordered detained in jail pending trial.The Division of Criminal Justice is also prosecuting six defendants charged with possessing and/or distributing child sexual abuse materials.The 12 other defendants are being prosecuted by the nine county prosecutors’ offices.
The 21 defendants arrested in “Operation Screen Capture” were charged as follows:
1. Aaron Craiger, 34, of Oklahoma. Gas station attendant.Arrested March 18.Two Counts of Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault (2nd degree), Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree), Two Counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (3rd degree), Two Counts of Attempted Distribution of Marijuana (4th degree), Possession of Marijuana (Disorderly Persons Offense).
2. Jason Berry, 40, of Keansburg, N.J. Unemployed.Arrested June 18.Manufacturing Child Pornography (1st degree), Sexual Assault (2nd degree), Child Abuse (2nd degree), Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Theft by Extortion (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
3. Alize Tejada, 21, of Newark, N.J. Babysitter.Arrested July 15.Aggravated Sexual Assault (1st degree), Manufacturing Child Pornography (1st degree).
4. Michael Gilpin, 42, of Union Beach, N.J. Pipe fitter.Arrested July 26.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
5. Raymond Radziewicz, 53, of Bloomfield, N.J. Former teaching assistant at child care center who was terminated as a result of this arrest.Arrested July 7.Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
6. Brett Warfield, 21, of Carney’s Point, N.J. Private security guard.Arrested July 15.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
7. Loic Atse, 18, of Aberdeen, N.J. College student.Arrested July 23.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
8. Donovan Falconer, 25, of Plainsboro, N.J. Employee of marketing firm.Arrested June 25.Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
9. Michael Ascough, 39, Pompton, N.J. Retail employee.Arrested July 5.Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
10. Joseph Benestante, 65, of Bergenfield, N.J. Retired.Arrested July 21.Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree).
11. Shawn Daily, 45, of Browns Mills, N.J. Laborer.Arrested June 12.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
12. Roy Dantz, 71, of Mount Laurel, N.J. Retired.Arrested June 18.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
13. Christopher Crispino, 45, of Bellmawr, N.J. Unemployed.Arrested July 31.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
14. Dwayne McCormick, 25, of Orange, N.J. Unemployed.Arrested July 8.Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
15. Juvenile Male, 15, of Gloucester County, N.J. Unemployed.Arrested July 22.Distribution of Child Pornography (2nd degree), Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
16. Julian Ceballos, 31, of Hamilton (Mercer County), N.J. Restaurant worker.Arrested June 26.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
17. Timothy McMahon, 46, of Piscataway, N.J. Electrician.Arrested May 21.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
18. Edward Kross, 66, of Carteret, N.J. Part-time firefighting instructor.Arrested May 28.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
19. Henry Ziolkowski, 66, of Toms River, N.J. Surgery technician.Arrested July 10.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
20. Kevin Carrierri, 34, of Toms River, N.J. Chef.Arrested July 10.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
21. Matthew Marzullo, 20, of Hopatcong, N.J. Restaurant food server.Arrested July 1.Possession of Child Pornography (3rd degree).
First-degree charges carry a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000. Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000, while third-degree charges carry a sentence of three of five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. Fourth-degree charges carry a sentence of up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
The charges against the defendants are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Attorney General Grewal thanked the attorneys, detectives, and staff in the Division of Criminal Justice Financial & Cyber Crimes Bureau who worked on this operation under the supervision of Bureau Chief Jillian Carpenter, Deputy Bureau Chief Lilianne Daniel, and DCJ Deputy Director Robert Czepiel.
He thanked ICAC Task Force Commander Lt. John Pizzuro of the New Jersey State Police ICAC Unit and the detectives of the ICAC Unit, as well as the New Jersey State Police TEAMS and K-9 Units.
Attorney General Grewal thanked U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, Newark and Cherry Hill, under the leadership of Special Agent in Charge Jason Molina and Assistant SAC Richard Reinhold.
He thanked the New Jersey State Parole Board, under the leadership of Chairman Samuel J. Plumeri Jr., for its valuable assistance with arrests and search warrants.
Finally, Attorney General Grewal thanked all of the prosecutors, detectives, investigators, and staff of the following county prosecutors’ offices, which participated as members of the ICAC Task Force:
This case was investigated by the ATF, FBI, United States Marshal Service, with substantial assistance from Franklin Township (NJ), Jersey City (NJ), Paterson (NJ), Middlesex County (NJ), South Brunswick (NJ), Woodbridge (NJ) —
June 10, 2022: Virani Jewelers in Iselin, NJ;
October 25, 2022: Paradise Jewelry Store, in Paterson, NJ;
December 22, 2022: Chintamanis Inc., in Franklin Park, NJ;
August 30, 2023
WASHINGTON – A superseding indictment was unsealed today charging 16 alleged members (named below) of a violent crime ring that committed multiple armed carjackings, armed robberies, money laundering, and firearms offenses. Federal law enforcement arrested eight defendants this morning; the remaining defendants were previously arrested. Charges include conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce (known as Hobbs Act) robbery, interference with interstate commerce by robbery, using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, conspiracy to commit carjacking, and conspiracy to engage in monetary transaction in property derived from specified unlawful activity.
The case was announced by United States Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge Craig Kailimai with the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg, of the FBI Washington Field Office’s (Criminal and Cyber Division), Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, of the FBI’s Newark Field Office, Marshal Peter Marketos, of the United States Marshals Service, and Acting Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department.
According to the indictment, between January 7, 2022, through January 27, 2023, the defendants conspired in the District of Columbia to commit robberies in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Florida. The robberies targeted jewelry stores owned by Asian Americans. Disguised in dark clothing, masks, and gloves, armed with a gun, one or more of the defendants used various vehicles, including stolen vehicles, to commit and flee from the robberies, including:
January 7, 2022: Yasini Jewelers in E. Falls Church, VA;
June 10, 2022: Virani Jewelers in Iselin, NJ;
September 20, 2022: Sonia Jewelers & Boutique, in Springfield, VA;
October 25, 2022: Paradise Jewelry Store, in Paterson, NJ;
November 10, 2022: Baral Jewelers & Gifts, in Harrisburg, PA;
November 27, 2022: Sara Emporium Jewelry & Boutique, in Springfield, VA;
December 6, 2022: Kishek Jewelers, in Jacksonville, FL;
December 22, 2022: Chintamanis Inc., in Franklin Park, NJ;
January 27, 2023: Princess Diamonds, in Falls Church, VA.
The indictment further alleges that William Hunter, a/k/a “Ill Will,” conspired to commit carjackings between September 11, 2022 and October 22, 2022, with others. Defendants Wright, Avery Fuller, a/k/a “Deavry Cordell Fuller,” William Hunter, and Franklin Hunter, a/k/a “Gino,” conspired to launder the proceeds of the stolen property.
“This indictment alleges a conspiracy to engage in a violent armed robbery spree involving commercial establishments throughout the Eastern Seaboard,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “One defendant is also charged with conspiracy to commit carjacking as part of the spree, and others are charged with laundering the proceeds from the robberies. With an increasing number of robbery schemes that cross state lines, collaborative operations like this one are critical to holding accountable those who threaten the safety of our communities.”
“It is devastating that firearm-related violence such as the crimes committed throughout this investigation have become so prevalent within our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Craig Kailimai. “We will continue collaborating with our law enforcement partners by holding those individuals who seek to harm innocent people accountable for their actions.”
“The defendants targeted small businesses along the East Coast, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry from hardworking families,” said Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg. “For the past 20 months, the FBI worked with our partners across state lines to connect the defendants to these heists. Today’s indictment is a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the commitment we all share to eradicating violent crime.”
“We allege these suspects took part in take-over style armed robberies meant to terrify and overwhelm store owners and employees,” said FBI-Newark Special Agent in Charge James Dennehy. “Many of the victim businesses are family owned and operated and lost large sums of inventory. The alleged violent and reckless actions of the subjects are astounding; they gave no thought to the people who could have been seriously injured or even killed. We have a message for criminals out there right now who believe these smash and grab robberies work in their favor because they mistakenly believe no one will hold them accountable. That’s not the case here – and it won’t be the case in the future. FBI Newark and our law enforcement partners will make sure if we can charge something federally, we will make that happen.”
“I want to thank the detectives from MPD and the other agencies involved for their tireless work on this case. This is a prime example of how we, as law enforcement partners, come together as one to hold people accountable for committing crimes in the District of Columbia,” said Acting Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. “While this investigation took time, the message is clear: If you choose to recklessly disregard public safety in D.C., we, collectively as law enforcement partners, will do everything to find you and hold you accountable.”
NAME
AGE
ADDRESS
CHARGES
Andrew Smith aka “Drewso” or “Drew”
29
Maryland
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Antonio Tate, aka “Motion” or “T-Motion”
20
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery
Avery Fuller, aka “Ace”, “Fully”, or “Fully Ace”
28
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Davon Johnson, aka “Yb”
30
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Decarlos Hill, aka “Los”
29
Maryland
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Delonte Martin, aka “DD”
25
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery
Franklin Hunter, aka “Gino”
29
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Hesham Gomaa
45
Virginia
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Jameise Christian, aka “Safe Play”, “Safety”, or “Safe”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence;Conspiracy to commit carjacking
Jaylaun Brown, aka “Lil Launy”
21
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery
Keith McDuffie
26
California
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Robert Sheffield, aka “Real Lifaa”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Timothy Conrad, aka “Twin”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Trevor Wright, aka “Taliban Glizzy”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
William Hunter, aka “Ill Will”
28
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence;Conspiracy to commit carjacking
Lamont Marable
27
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Federal agents and local law enforcement arrested Smith, Johnson, Hill, Gomaa, Brown, McDuffie, Sheffield, and Conrad this morning; Wright, Hunter, Fuller, Tate, Martin, Brown, Christian, and Marable were already in custody. Search warrants were also executed resulting in the seizure of multiple guns and approximately $300,000 from a safe in one of the residences.
The superseding indictment also contains a notice of forfeiture and seeks the proceeds of the illegal activities.
The statutory maximum sentence for conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce (known as Hobbs Act) robbery is 20 years; the statutory maximum sentence of Hobbs Act robbery is 20 years in prison; the crime of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years with a maximum possible sentence of life; the statutory maximum sentence for conspiracy to commit carjacking is five years in prison; the statutory maximum sentence for money laundering is 20 years. A federal judge will determine the appropriate sentence after considering the appropriate sentencing guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by the ATF’s Washington Field Division, the FBI’s Washington and Newark Field Offices, the United States Marshal Service, and the Metropolitan Police Department, with substantial assistance from the police departments of: Fairfax County (VA), Falls Church (VA), Franklin Township (NJ), Jersey City (NJ), Paterson (NJ), Middlesex County (NJ), South Brunswick (NJ), Somerset County (NJ), Woodbridge (NJ), Swatara Twp. (PA), the United States Secret Service-Uniformed Division, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service-Washington Division. Additional assistance was provided by multiple U.S. Attorney’s Offices including: the District of New Jersey, Eastern District of Virginia, the District of Maryland, the Central District of California, and the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sitara Witanachchi and Andy Wang, of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg and our partners described the robberies during a press conference today. The defendants allegedly robbed nine jewelry stores in four states, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry at each heist.
This case was investigated by the ATF, FBI, United States Marshal Service, with substantial assistance from Franklin Township (NJ), Jersey City (NJ), Paterson (NJ), Middlesex County (NJ), South Brunswick (NJ), Woodbridge (NJ)….. https://t.co/JTVH77DaNM
— So Brunswick PD (@SoBrunswickPD) August 30, 2023
This case was investigated by the ATF, FBI, United States Marshal Service, with substantial assistance from Franklin Township (NJ), Jersey City (NJ), Paterson (NJ), Middlesex County (NJ), South Brunswick (NJ), Woodbridge (NJ) —
June 10, 2022: Virani Jewelers in Iselin, NJ;
October 25, 2022: Paradise Jewelry Store, in Paterson, NJ;
December 22, 2022: Chintamanis Inc., in Franklin Park, NJ;
August 30, 2023
WASHINGTON – A superseding indictment was unsealed today charging 16 alleged members (named below) of a violent crime ring that committed multiple armed carjackings, armed robberies, money laundering, and firearms offenses. Federal law enforcement arrested eight defendants this morning; the remaining defendants were previously arrested. Charges include conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce (known as Hobbs Act) robbery, interference with interstate commerce by robbery, using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, conspiracy to commit carjacking, and conspiracy to engage in monetary transaction in property derived from specified unlawful activity.
The case was announced by United States Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge Craig Kailimai with the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg, of the FBI Washington Field Office’s (Criminal and Cyber Division), Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, of the FBI’s Newark Field Office, Marshal Peter Marketos, of the United States Marshals Service, and Acting Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department.
According to the indictment, between January 7, 2022, through January 27, 2023, the defendants conspired in the District of Columbia to commit robberies in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Florida. The robberies targeted jewelry stores owned by Asian Americans. Disguised in dark clothing, masks, and gloves, armed with a gun, one or more of the defendants used various vehicles, including stolen vehicles, to commit and flee from the robberies, including:
January 7, 2022: Yasini Jewelers in E. Falls Church, VA;
June 10, 2022: Virani Jewelers in Iselin, NJ;
September 20, 2022: Sonia Jewelers & Boutique, in Springfield, VA;
October 25, 2022: Paradise Jewelry Store, in Paterson, NJ;
November 10, 2022: Baral Jewelers & Gifts, in Harrisburg, PA;
November 27, 2022: Sara Emporium Jewelry & Boutique, in Springfield, VA;
December 6, 2022: Kishek Jewelers, in Jacksonville, FL;
December 22, 2022: Chintamanis Inc., in Franklin Park, NJ;
January 27, 2023: Princess Diamonds, in Falls Church, VA.
The indictment further alleges that William Hunter, a/k/a “Ill Will,” conspired to commit carjackings between September 11, 2022 and October 22, 2022, with others. Defendants Wright, Avery Fuller, a/k/a “Deavry Cordell Fuller,” William Hunter, and Franklin Hunter, a/k/a “Gino,” conspired to launder the proceeds of the stolen property.
“This indictment alleges a conspiracy to engage in a violent armed robbery spree involving commercial establishments throughout the Eastern Seaboard,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “One defendant is also charged with conspiracy to commit carjacking as part of the spree, and others are charged with laundering the proceeds from the robberies. With an increasing number of robbery schemes that cross state lines, collaborative operations like this one are critical to holding accountable those who threaten the safety of our communities.”
“It is devastating that firearm-related violence such as the crimes committed throughout this investigation have become so prevalent within our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Craig Kailimai. “We will continue collaborating with our law enforcement partners by holding those individuals who seek to harm innocent people accountable for their actions.”
“The defendants targeted small businesses along the East Coast, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry from hardworking families,” said Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg. “For the past 20 months, the FBI worked with our partners across state lines to connect the defendants to these heists. Today’s indictment is a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the commitment we all share to eradicating violent crime.”
“We allege these suspects took part in take-over style armed robberies meant to terrify and overwhelm store owners and employees,” said FBI-Newark Special Agent in Charge James Dennehy. “Many of the victim businesses are family owned and operated and lost large sums of inventory. The alleged violent and reckless actions of the subjects are astounding; they gave no thought to the people who could have been seriously injured or even killed. We have a message for criminals out there right now who believe these smash and grab robberies work in their favor because they mistakenly believe no one will hold them accountable. That’s not the case here – and it won’t be the case in the future. FBI Newark and our law enforcement partners will make sure if we can charge something federally, we will make that happen.”
“I want to thank the detectives from MPD and the other agencies involved for their tireless work on this case. This is a prime example of how we, as law enforcement partners, come together as one to hold people accountable for committing crimes in the District of Columbia,” said Acting Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia. “While this investigation took time, the message is clear: If you choose to recklessly disregard public safety in D.C., we, collectively as law enforcement partners, will do everything to find you and hold you accountable.”
NAME
AGE
ADDRESS
CHARGES
Andrew Smith aka “Drewso” or “Drew”
29
Maryland
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Antonio Tate, aka “Motion” or “T-Motion”
20
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery
Avery Fuller, aka “Ace”, “Fully”, or “Fully Ace”
28
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Davon Johnson, aka “Yb”
30
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Decarlos Hill, aka “Los”
29
Maryland
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Delonte Martin, aka “DD”
25
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery
Franklin Hunter, aka “Gino”
29
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Hesham Gomaa
45
Virginia
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Jameise Christian, aka “Safe Play”, “Safety”, or “Safe”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence;Conspiracy to commit carjacking
Jaylaun Brown, aka “Lil Launy”
21
Washington, D.C.
Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery
Keith McDuffie
26
California
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Robert Sheffield, aka “Real Lifaa”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Timothy Conrad, aka “Twin”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Trevor Wright, aka “Taliban Glizzy”
32
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
William Hunter, aka “Ill Will”
28
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence;Conspiracy to commit carjacking
Lamont Marable
27
Washington, D.C.
Hobbs Act Robbery;Conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery;Firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
Federal agents and local law enforcement arrested Smith, Johnson, Hill, Gomaa, Brown, McDuffie, Sheffield, and Conrad this morning; Wright, Hunter, Fuller, Tate, Martin, Brown, Christian, and Marable were already in custody. Search warrants were also executed resulting in the seizure of multiple guns and approximately $300,000 from a safe in one of the residences.
The superseding indictment also contains a notice of forfeiture and seeks the proceeds of the illegal activities.
The statutory maximum sentence for conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce (known as Hobbs Act) robbery is 20 years; the statutory maximum sentence of Hobbs Act robbery is 20 years in prison; the crime of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years with a maximum possible sentence of life; the statutory maximum sentence for conspiracy to commit carjacking is five years in prison; the statutory maximum sentence for money laundering is 20 years. A federal judge will determine the appropriate sentence after considering the appropriate sentencing guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by the ATF’s Washington Field Division, the FBI’s Washington and Newark Field Offices, the United States Marshal Service, and the Metropolitan Police Department, with substantial assistance from the police departments of: Fairfax County (VA), Falls Church (VA), Franklin Township (NJ), Jersey City (NJ), Paterson (NJ), Middlesex County (NJ), South Brunswick (NJ), Somerset County (NJ), Woodbridge (NJ), Swatara Twp. (PA), the United States Secret Service-Uniformed Division, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service-Washington Division. Additional assistance was provided by multiple U.S. Attorney’s Offices including: the District of New Jersey, Eastern District of Virginia, the District of Maryland, the Central District of California, and the Southern and Middle Districts of Florida.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sitara Witanachchi and Andy Wang, of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg and our partners described the robberies during a press conference today. The defendants allegedly robbed nine jewelry stores in four states, stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of jewelry at each heist.
This case was investigated by the ATF, FBI, United States Marshal Service, with substantial assistance from Franklin Township (NJ), Jersey City (NJ), Paterson (NJ), Middlesex County (NJ), South Brunswick (NJ), Woodbridge (NJ)….. https://t.co/JTVH77DaNM
— So Brunswick PD (@SoBrunswickPD) August 30, 2023
FREEHOLD – By the end of next month, nearly one in every five Monmouth County residents will live in a municipality participating in an innovative program designed to shepherd individuals battling substance abuse and mental health disorders into recovery – and that ratio will only continue to grow in the years to come, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Tuesday.
The MCPO Recovery Diversion Program (RDP), which started as a pilot initiative in Long Branch in 2021, has since expanded to Asbury Park and Red Bank this year, with Howell Township and Keansburg slated to also begin participating by the end of October.
“When the Long Branch pilot program began, I was serving as the City’s Municipal Public Defender, allowing me to witness firsthand just how effective it can be – and as County Prosecutor, I’m now blessed to be in the position to oversee its expansion throughout the County,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “RDP participants routinely express amazement in discovering that when they visit Municipal Court to answer to minor criminal offenses, an entire team of dedicated professionals is already there waiting for them, eager to help them get their lives back on track.”
The RDP framework is simple: first, upon arraignment, a Municipal Prosecutor will offer participation to a defendant charged with a non-violent, low-level crime who has a substance use or mental health disorder. If interested, the candidate will be scheduled for a preliminary RDP session, during which he or she will meet a recovery specialist from Hope Sheds Light, a rehabilitative nonprofit organization serving individuals and families in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
The recovery specialist will then explain the program and introduce the candidate to a clinician from CPC Behavioral Healthcare or New Hope Integrated Behavioral Health Care who will schedule an intake appointment and mental health evaluation. After attending the appointment, the participant will begin treatment at the recommended level of care, with regimens ranging in length from 12 weeks to six months.
The 10-person RDP team, under the supervision of RDP Coordinator and Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Lindsay Ashwal, receives monthly compliance reports for each participant, and if he or she completes all recommended treatment, maintains contact with Hope Sheds Light, and remains arrest-free, the Municipal Prosecutor will make a motion for dismissal of the charges against them before the Municipal Court Judge. Dismissals are then left to the discretion of the Judge.
Upon completion of the program, each candidate is then encouraged to invite family and friends to attend a graduation ceremony – Asbury Park held its first such ceremony this past Friday, the first day of September’s National Recovery Month.
The graduation ceremonies are barely recognizable as court hearings – they’re far more celebratory than procedural, and regularly interrupted by laughter, tears, and too many rounds of applause to count. The first defendant to appear in Asbury Park Municipal Court on Friday afternoon got a fist-bump from the Municipal Prosecutor and a hug from the County Prosecutor.
“You’re our first RDP graduate (in Asbury Park), and you are setting such an example, not only to your friends and family, but to this community,” Santiago told the graduate as his five children and a host of loved ones looked on, prior to presenting him with a certificate of graduation. “You are going to be the example of all we’re trying to do here.”
“I am giving you the fresh start you deserve for being here today,” Asbury Park Municipal Court Judge Ronald J. Troppoli added while dismissing all of the remaining charges against the graduate, who just recently got hired to a new job and has developed a passion for cooking while in recovery. “We’re going to call him the ambassador of goodwill for this program.”
Asbury Park Municipal Prosecutor James “Jimmy” Butler noted that while he has served in the capacity since 1984, Friday was “one of my best days ever here.”
“It warms my heart to be a part of this,” he said.
“I’ve been mayor here since 2015,” added Asbury Park Mayor John B. Moor, also in attendance, “and this is my best day.”
Moor added that the introduction of RDP in Asbury Park was made possible in great part due to support the idea received from the City Council and Municipal Court staff.
“I am grateful to have the chance to offer this opportunity to those people who are interested,” Asbury Park Municipal Court Administrator Joanne Pilliod said. “It is an incredible program for all of us to be involved with.”
Funding for RDP has been provided by an Operation Helping Hand grant administered by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General (OAG). Additional partner organizations include the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, a nonprofit group that helps connect participants to education and job training and placement, as well as the municipal police departments, local elected leaders, and municipal court administrators, judges, public defenders, and prosecutors in each participating town.
“To call this a group effort would be a massive understatement,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “Each expansion of RDP, tailored to suit the needs of each newly participating municipality, necessitates buy-in from virtually every branch of municipal government – but we’re finding that once we outline precisely how the program works, what the benefits are, and the fact that it comes at no cost, there has been an overabundance of receptive audiences.”
Local towns haven’t been the only audiences to hear about the program from Prosecutor Santiago, Ashwal, and others involved – over the last two years alone, they have delivered presentations about RDP to the OAG Advocacy Institute, New Jersey State Bar Association, Monmouth County Bar Association’s Municipal Court Committee, Monmouth County Court Administrators Association, and other groups.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that more than 46 million people nationwide meet the criteria for having a substance use disorder, yet 94 percent of them do not receive any treatment. The Survey also found that approximately 1 in 4 American adults experienced signs of mental illness over the past year.
More than a million Americans have died due to a drug overdose in the 21st century, including a record high of nearly 110,000 last year. An estimated 1,500 lives were lost across Monmouth County in the decade stretching from 2012 through 2021.
“The twin scourges of substance abuse and mental illness together constitute the defining public-health challenge of our times,” Prosecutor Santiago said. “And the only path to victory will involve programs such as these, which directly connect individuals in crisis with the social services they so desperately need.”
For more information about the Recovery Diversion Program, go online to http://mcponj.org/recovery-diversion-program/.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Animal rights groups said in a combined press release today that a coalition of state and national animal protection groups including Animal Protection League of New Jersey, the Humane Society of the United States and Friends of Animals, launched an emergency court challenge to the black bear trophy hunt that is scheduled to begin Dec. 5. The hunt was authorized by the New Jersey Fish and Game Council earlier this month. Hunt clubs nominate six of the Council’s eleven members.
The animal groups are challenging the Council’s misuse of an emergency rulemaking loophole to bypass required procedures that guarantee the public the right to weigh in and require the Council to respond to said public comments. Despite having ample time to comply with these procedures, the Council forced through a last-minute emergency rule, leaving the public no time to respond.
The lawsuit seeks emergency relief stopping the Dec. 5 hunt. The hunt targets hundreds of bears and sets no express limitation on the number that can be killed. The Council advanced the proposal without counting the number of bears in New Jersey and without performing a scientifically sound estimate of the population. The Council then went further by claiming without evidence that the state’s bear population will expand by a preposterous 33% in just two years without a hunt. That speculation has no basis in science; black bears are extremely slow to reproduce.
“The Council is not above the law and should not be allowed to impede public input by fabricating an ‘emergency,’” said Jennifer Best, Director of Friends of Animals Wildlife Law Program. “The only thing that will keep the public safe and black bears wild is education on simple and effective solutions, such as bear-resistant trash cans and removing bird feeders from March through November.”
The Council claimed that emergency action was necessary due to an increase in reported bear incidents. But the number of incidents reported this year is not unusually high compared to many other years during which hunts were conducted. In fact, over 90% of bear-related complaints were reports of routine bear behavior and incidents that pose no imminent danger to the public, such as sightings of injured bears and bears seeking food from unsecured garbage cans and bird feeders. To date, the state has failed to take steps to establish the trash control programs that have successfully mitigated conflicts in Western states.
Scientific studies show only a weak correlation between the population of bears and bear attacks. Bear-human interaction is more closely connected with specific human behaviors that drive encounters. Some states with large black bear populations have fewer conflicts than states with much smaller bear numbers, a study by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies found. California, for example, which has 35,000 bears, reported just 259 interactions.
Black bears are among the slowest reproducing land mammals in North America. Trophy hunts and high kill rates over bait can lead to irreparable population damage. Hunting bears causes additional mortalities from infanticide when father bears are killed and new males enter their territory. When the state sanctions a hunt, poaching incidents go up—there has already been a case earlier this month when four bear cubs were killed in an apparent poaching incident in Passaic County. Public safety is also threatened by a bear hunt in New Jersey, where hunting accidents have killed more people than bears have.
“In addition to the disingenuous emergency, the New Jersey black bear hunt is illegal because the Comprehensive Black Bear Management Policy is arbitrary and capricious and fails to meet the standards set out by the state Supreme Court,” stated Doris Lin, Legal Director of APLNJ, who successfully overturned the state’s bear management policy in 2007.
File photo of a black bear in a residential area in Vernon, New Jersey
Bear Hunt Will Occur December 5 to 10, 2022
November 29, 2022
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Toms River Polie reported that on Monday, November 21, 2022, police were dispatched to Intermediate East regarding a potential swatting incident/threat received by the school. Out of an abundance of caution, the area was thoroughly checked and cleared, and the threat was deemed unfounded, prior to students entering the building.
Within 45 minutes of the investigation, Detective Graham Borg and Corporal Jesse Robertazzi of our Cyber Crimes Unit successfully identified the suspect, a 14-year-old male, from Edmonton, Canada. The detectives, with the assistance of Officer Scott Fallano, were subsequently able to connect this individual to another swatting call at a residence, received the prior morning by TRPD dispatchers.
Our law enforcement partners in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada arrested and charged the 9th grader in Canada for the two swatting incidents in Toms River.
*Swatting is when someone makes a prank call to emergency services in an attempt to bring about the dispatch of a large number of armed police officers to a particular address.
November 28, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police say that on Monday, November 21, 2022, at approximately 7:24 a.m., Trenton Police responded to 401 Bert Avenue, Mama Grifa Deli, on a Commercial Armed Robbery call. The suspect just robbed the store at gunpoint, relieving the establishment of their cash register and fleeing the scene. Detective B. Cook was assigned the case and took charge of the investigation. Detective Cook was able to identify the vehicle involved along with the suspect with the assistance from the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) and the Mercer County Prosecutors Office.
On the same day, at approximately 10:17 p.m., under the direct supervision of Major Crimes Commander Detective Lieutenant B. Suschke and Major Crimes Robbery Unit Supervisor Detective Sergeant L. Nazario, Detectives C. Ortiz/S. Gonzalez and V. Gribbin/C. Bustamante, while working the Robbery Task Force detail, were able to locate the vehicle occupied with the suspect. Boston was placed under arrest and subsequently charged with Armed Robbery and weapons offenses.
Hamilton police said that on the same day Monday November 21, 2022 at approximately 8:19 a.m., Hamilton Police responded to 1305 Nottingham Way (Sub Marias Sub Shop) for a reported armed robbery. Employees reported that two black males entered the business, one of the suspects brandished a black semi-automatic handgun and demanded all the cash from the register. The suspects then fled on foot in an unknown direction.
Two suspects were later identified.
Ryan T. Boston and Marshaun T. Bamble both from the City of Trenton were placed under arrest and charged with Robbery and Waeapons Offenses.
Ryan J. Boston of Trenton, NJ
November 26, 2022
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Manchester Township Chief of Police Robert Dolan announced that on November 23, 2022, Nicholas Depalma, 77, of Whiting, was charged with four counts of Aggravated Arson in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:17-1a (2) and one count of Aggravated Arson in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:17-1a (5), in connection with a series of fires that were set between January 1, 2022 and April 26, 2022, in Manchester Township.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad and the Manchester Township Police Department determined that Depalma was responsible for setting a series of five separate dumpster fires, in Manchester Township between the dates of January 1, 2022 and April 26, 2022. Four of the fires were set in proximity to structures causing damage to them and one of the fires was set near a large wooded area.
On November 23, 2022, Depalma surrendered himself to Manchester Township Police Headquarters where he was processed and released on a summons – as a consequence of bail reform, pending a future appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
Prosecutor Billhimer and Chief Dolan commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad and the Manchester Township Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation leading to Depalma’s arrest.
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).
November 26, 2022
TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Toms River Police say that on November 25, 2022 at approximately 2:55 p.m., police officers were dispatched to a residence for a reported disorderly person suffering from mental illness. Once on scene, officers spoke with the victim who stated that she had just been assaulted and the suspect was in his bedroom with a knife. After observing the suspect with the knife in his hand, officers safely removed all parties from the residence and began to speak with the suspect. Over the course of nearly two hours, Officer Kristi Stebila developed a rapport with the suspect and was able to talk him into coming out of the residence peacefully. He was charged with 3rd Degree Aggravated Assault and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and transported to Community Medical Center for mental health treatment.
“I’d like to commend Officer Kristi Stebila for her effectiveness, compassion, and patience while speaking with the suspect, as well as officers Damon Korpon, Robert King, and Kevin Corrigan for their professionalism, and ensuring the safety of everyone in the residence. On a daily basis, mental health calls are among the most dangerous. I could not be more proud of all of my officers for their dedication to making sure at the end of the day everyone goes home safe.” ~Chief Mitch Little
At approximately 3:00 p.m., November 25, 2022, police officers received an alert from the Jackson Police Department for a vehicle wanted regarding a burglary within their jurisdiction. About forty minutes later, while on patrol, Sergeant Shan Ruiz located the vehicle and the operator, Juan Alston, twenty-seven of Toms River, on Green View Way. Officers from the Jackson Police Department responded to the scene, subsequently taking Mr. Alston into custody and transporting him back to their Department.
On November 26, 2022 at approximately 2:25 a.m., Toms River Police and EMS were dispatched to the intersection of Hooper Avenue and South Shore Drive for a reported motor vehicle accident involving an entrapment. Upon arrival, the vehicle was located in the marsh, flipped over with the occupants trapped inside. The two passengers were uninjured and manage to free themselves but the driver, Paolo Helfers-Lariva, 28 of Toms River, was trapped and submerged in the water. Multiple officers enter the water in an attempt to free the driver. With the assistance of Silverton EMS and Silverton Fire Department, the driver is eventually freed and CPR was immediately initiated. Mr. Helfers-Lariva was transported to Community Medical Center where, after extensive efforts, he was ultimately pronounced. The initial investigation revealed that the vehicle was travelling at a high rate of speed heading south on Hooper Avenue when it lost control and left the roadway and struck a pole before overturning in the marsh. Also assisting on scene was the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department CSI Unit. The accident remains under investigation by Toms River Traffic Safety Officer, Corporal Terry Warren.
On November 26, 2022 at approximately 2:40 a.m. Toms River Police units were dispatched to the intersection of Ocean View Drive and Brookside Drive for a reported motor vehicle accident. The initial investigation revealed Esmeralda Menes, 24 of Lakehurst, had crashed into a concrete wall on a residential property. She was placed under arrest and charged with driving while intoxicated, reckless driving, and failure to maintain lane. The accident is being investigated by Officer Anthony Claps.
On November 26, 2022 at approximately 3:45 p.m. Toms River Police units were dispatched to the intersection of Route 37 and Hooper Avenue for a reported motor vehicle accident. Horst Szczypinski, 78 of South Toms River, was in the left lane headed westbound on Route 37 East when he may have suffered from a medical episode, and ran off of the road up onto the center median striking multiple light stanchions, and coming to final rest in the intersection. Off Duty Seaside Park Officer Ryan Stack pulled up on the crash, and along with good samaritians, broke the vehicle window to remove Mr. Szczypinski from the vehicle and began CPR. He was then assisted by multiple TRPD officers who provided oxygen, utilized a defibrillator, and continued CPR. A pulse was regained, and Mr. Szczypinski was transported to Community Medical Center, he was alert and talking to the medics. The NJDOT responded to the scene to repair the lights. Also assisting on scene was the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. The accident remains under investigation by Traffic Safety Officer Adam Koeppen.
The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are accusations only. Every criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
November 26, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–On Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2022, Police, TEMS and Trenton Fire Department were dispatched to the are of Oakland Street and Hoffman Avenue for a shooting. It was reported that the person was taken to the Trauma Center at Captial Health Regional Medical Center by private vehicle. EMS was canceled since the patient was already transported and the Trenton Shooting Response Team responded for the investigation.
No further details are available at this time. MidJersey.news did reach out to Trenton officials for official information about the shooting but has not recived a reply as of Saturday afternoon.
November 25, 2022
HIGHTSTOWN, NJ (MERCER)–Tonight, Hightstown Engine Company # 1 held a dedication for a memorial site in the front of the firehouse for Dave Lidke who passed away in the line of duty on December 23, 2013. The fire company color guard posted the colors, and the dedication was held at the site at 5:30 p.m. The memorial contains a bench, small patio positioned next to a small tree.
See post from Hightstown Engine Company # 1 below:
We’ve all experienced loss in different ways. As we continue to move forward we cannot forget the one’s we’ve loved and lost. This is the purpose of a memorial. It’s a subtle but constant reminder celebrating the heroic lives of ordinary people. When you sit and reflect on the bench that has been added to the front of the firehouse you are paying homage to those who have come before us and paved the way.
The bench and small patio are neatly positioned next to a beautiful small tree. This tree is a memorial to our dear friend Dave Lidke who sadly passed away in the line of duty on December 23rd, 2013. It too is a memorial, albeit a living one, meant to carry forward the spirit of a man for whom that tree represents.
The bench is made of stone, it’s a rock. That’s what the fire department has always been thanks to those who have come before us. The tree is full of life and growth that’s what we will continue to be within this community.
Here’s to what was and what will always be.
It would be a sincere and much appreciated gesture to have many of you with us today at 5:30pm when we dedicate this new memorial space. We want to be surrounded by the community we love to serve as we conduct this brief ceremony.
November 25, 2022
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Firefighters from Hope Fire Company of Allentown were dispatched to I-195 west bound near mile post 9.6 for a tractor trailer smoking at 3:57 p.m. Upon arrival firefighters found a trailer on fire that was disconnected from the tractor and the vehicle was full of municipal waste. Firefighters initially started working on the fire using a 1 3/4 hand line then once the cover over the burning materials was removed switched to deck gun operations. Millstone Township Fire Department brought an engine and a tanker to the scene for additional water and manpower.
Vehicle fire on I-195 westbound East of Exit 8 – CR 539 (Upper Freehold Twp) 1 Right lane and shoulder of 2 lanes closed 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/6wcQ98s1BR
— 511NJ I195 (@511nji195) November 25, 2022
November 25, 2022
HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Hopewell Township firefighters were dispatched to 6 Madison Avenue in Hopewell Township, just outside of Pennington for a structure fire at 1:35 a.m. Upon arrival of police and firefighters the 6,300 square foot mansion was fully engulfed in fire. Firefighters used two LDH – large diameter hose lines to supply a master stream from Tower 51 and at least six handlines to knock the flames down. Several tankers were also called to the scene for precautionary measures in case more water was needed. There were cars in the driveway but it was unclear if anyone was home at the time of the fire.
According to Zillo the mansion was 6,300 square feet and had five bedrooms, and five and a half bathrooms. The “Zestimate®”: $1,463,400.00 in value. According to Hopewell Township tax records the property is Block 72 Lot 1.16, 6 Madison Ave., Owners are Dowdie George & Donna Chance with a yearly tax bill of $32,240.60 on a total Township assessed value of $1,077,200. with the November 1, 2022 payment listed as “open”
There were no reported injuries and the fire is under investigation at this time. No additional details are available at this time.
November 25, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–City firefighters spent the final hours of Thanksgiving 2022 (Thursday, Nov. 24) battling a structure fire in the North Ward. It was 10:25 p.m. when firefighters were alerted to a reported commercial building fire on New York Avenue, between Mulberry and Anchor streets. Dispatched were Engines 6, 10, and 1, Ladder 4, Rescue 1 and the North Battalion. Engine 6 quickly arrived on the scene and reported smoke showing from the third-floor apartment located above the Dubai Restaurant and Lounge at 933 New York Avenue. The “All Hands” signal for a working fire was transmitted and additional resources – Engine 7, Ladder 1, Special Services 1 and the South Battalion – were dispatched. Fortunately, the blaze was quickly knocked down and was officially declared under control at 10:57 p.m. The cause of the fire was under investigation.
Mayor Gusciora grateful for State assistance; cancels emergency meeting
November 24, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mayor Reed Gusciora thanked officials from the NJ Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for stepping in to certify Trenton’s 2022 municipal budget last night following Council’s unsuccessful vote.
Three members—Council President Kathy McBride, Councilwoman Robin Vaughn, and Councilwoman Sonya Wilkins—voted against the amended budget last night, prompting DCA Director Jacquelyn A. Suárez to send a letter to the Mercer County Board of Taxation following the meeting to certify the budget. (Link to the letter)
“I’m grateful for the State’s assistance in helping to resolve this budget impasse with our City Council,” Mayor Gusciora said. “While I understand the politics of Council leadership not providing support for the budget, they should not do that to the detriment of City residents who rely on our services. Fortunately, voters sent a very clear message that they want a Council that works for the people in the next four years, and not against them.”
The State’s action prevents the City from experiencing multimillion-dollar consequences in the absence of a budget. Prior to State action and following the failed vote, Gusciora issued an executive order instituting the amended City budget, while at the same time delivering notice to Council members of an emergency meeting on Friday which has since been cancelled.
In April, Council passed a resolution receiving Gusciora’s proposed budget with no municipal tax increase, but they missed a state-mandated deadline for passage. As of October 1, all six City Council members have been accruing fines of $25 per day for not meeting their obligation to pass a municipal budget in a timely manner, per State law.
trenton-cy22-budget-certification-letterDownload
November 24, 2022
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–The Keris Tree Farm and Christmas Shop is celebrating over 33 years growing, cutting, and selling trees on a 24-acre farm just outside Allentown at 848 Route 524 also known as New Canton Stone Tavern Road. Keris Tree Farm is family owned and operated since 1977 and the first trees were harvested in 1990. The farm has choose-and-cut trees by the foot, balled trees, fresh pre-cut Canadian Balsam and Fraser Fir, wreaths, roping and seasonal greenery.
The Christmas shop is where the magic happens, a winter wonderland of artisan made crafts, decorations and holiday gifts. Maggie has hand curated merchandise from artisans to antiques for over thirty years… her eye for design and vintage holiday decor makes it such a special holiday shopping experience.
2022 Event List:
The Allentown High School Choir will be singing Christmas carols! December 4th 12:30
Backyard Brews will be set up with hot beverages and snacks for sale on 11/26-11/27, 12/3-12/4, and 12/10-12/11. @backyard_brews_
Hours:
Tuesday-Friday 10-5, Saturday and Sunday 9-5, CLOSED MONDAYS
Closed Thanksgiving Day
Facebook: Keris Tree Farm & Christmas Shop
On the porch you’ll find bundles of greenery for sale, including winterberry, holly, magnolia, branches and many types of evergreen cuttings stocked fresh.
The Christmas shop is where the magic happens! Maggie has hand curated merchandise from artisans to antiques for over thirty years… her eye for design and vintage holiday decor makes it such a special holiday shopping experience. If you’ve never entered the shop you don’t know what you’re missing! The exterior is unassuming but the inside is glowing with many treasures to find.
Choose and cut a tree, or tag a tree to cut later in the season. Visit the Christmas shop! The farm has a selection of white pine roping, Fraser Fir wreaths, Noble Fir wreaths, greenery, magnolia, winterberry and holly branches. Also live balled Christmas trees!
Photos of the Keris Farm and Christmas Tree Shop showing overall quantity of trees in different stages of growth. As the trees get older and sold room is made to plant new trees for future years.
November 23, 2022
OCEAN TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Around 3:28 p.m. on Tuesday November 22, 2022, firefighters were dispatched to 9 Cindy Lane for a commercial building fire. Responding units reported a column of smoke in the area and filled out the full first alarm. The first arriving crews found heavy fire in the roof areas extending through the roof. The fire attack was made with ladder pipe and several 1 3/4″ hose lines. The fire was quickly knocked down and contained to the fire area without spreading further throughout the building. No further details are available about the incident.
Photos and video by: Jersey Shore Fire Response
Gusciora Administration calls emergency meeting Friday for last chance passage
November 23, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Facing a November 25 deadline and multimillion dollar consequences, Council leaders voted down the City’s budget in the final scheduled 2022 budget meeting tonight — leaving the City without a spending plan with less than six weeks left in the year.
Without a municipal budget, the City faces bond default, disqualification of future bond applications, among other ramifications.
“Council leadership is intent on hurting taxpayers on their way out the door,” Mayor Reed Gusciora said. “I’m not going to let it happen. Anything I can do to protect our citizens, I’m going to do.”
Following the failed vote, Gusciora issued an executive order instituting the amended City budget, while at the same time he asked Council to supersede his order by meeting once more this week to finalize the budget. The administration is delivering notice to Council members for an emergency meeting at 10 a.m. on Friday, November 25.
In April, Council passed a resolution receiving Gusciora’s proposed budget with no municipal tax increase, but they missed a state-mandated deadline for passage. As of October 1, all six City Council members have been accruing fines $25 per day for not meeting their obligation to pass a municipal budget in a timely manner, per State law.
“The budget is a core duty of the legislative branch and that duty has been fully abdicated in Trenton,” Gusciora said. “Even the rebuke they received at the ballot box hasn’t stopped this group from inflicting pain on taxpayers for political payback. It’s absolutely repugnant.”
The City transitioned from a fiscal year budget to a calendar year budget in 2021, so the 2022 budget proposal represented an unprecedented 30-month stretch where the City did not need to raise the municipal portion of tax rates.
executive-order-22-07-for-budget-2022Download
November 23, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Clerk Paula Sollami Covello issued a statement on the November 8 General Election following the conclusion of Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri’s investigation into the recent Election Day scanner failure. The investigation was aimed at determining whether or not there was malicious or criminal intent to disrupt the conduct of the election. The inquiry was launched after County Clerk Covello requested that the County Prosecutor review the circumstances and report findings of the investigation to the State Attorney General, Mercer County Commissioners, County Executive and Mercer County’s other two election offices.
On Monday, November 21, the Mercer County Commissioners held a public meeting wherein Prosecutor Onofri announced his findings, stating that his Office conducted a thorough investigation and determined there was no criminal intent or vote tampering during the election. The investigation further concluded that there was a human error made in the programming of the voting machines by an employee of Dominion Voting Systems, which did not allow the machines to scan.
Despite this setback, on Election Day, all ballots were securely transferred to the Board of Elections Office, where they were counted by a bipartisan group of commissioners on high-capacity scanners. Every ballot that was cast on Election Day was counted and the integrity of the election remained intact throughout this process. The only difference from last year was that ballots were scanned at a central location instead of on-site at the polling locations.
“I would like to thank the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for their swift and thorough investigation into this matter,” said Sollami Covello. “I am pleased there was no intentional criminal action that created this problem. Election integrity is something I have worked hard to ensure and have taken great pride in over the past 17 years serving as Mercer County Clerk.” Sollami Covello also praised the Board of Elections Commissioners for their handling of the ballot scanning process on Election Day and beyond, which was completed on time and certified to her office within the State timeline of November 21. She also thanked the Office of the Superintendent of Elections for their work on reviewing the provisional ballots in a timely manner. The County Clerk’s certification of the general election has concluded ahead of the State deadline of November 26.
For additional information regarding the 2022 General Election, please visit the Mercer County Clerk’s website here or call 609-989-6494 or 609-989-6495.
Juvenile Arrested for March Death of Tahaad Goss; 14-Year-Old Charged
March 31, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–According to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office, just after 9 p.m., Trenton police responded to a residence in the 100 block of Liberty Street on the report of a teenager shot. Upon arrival, they located a 16-year-old male suffering a gunshot wound to the face. He was pronounced dead at the scene. There were other teenagers present in the house and a gun was at the scene. Trenton Police and the Mercer County Homicide Task Force are investigating the circumstances surrounding the teen’s death.
This is a developing story check back for further details.
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
3/15/2022 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
Brian McCarthy file photo
March 31, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–In a prepared statement from Governor Phil Murphy’s Office:
“This afternoon, as part of a regularly-scheduled testing regime, Governor Murphy took a rapid antigen test that came back positive for COVID-19. He subsequently took a PCR test, which also came back positive. He is currently asymptomatic and feeling well.
“The contact tracing process has begun to notify everyone who may have come into contact with the Governor during the potential infection window. Per CDC guidance, the Governor will cancel in-person events, isolate for the next five days, and continue to monitor for symptoms before taking an additional PCR test.
“The Governor has diligently taken precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19 and encourages everyone eligible to get vaccinated and boosted, as he has done, to protect themselves and their loved ones from the virus.”
Governor Phil Murphy, File Photo, Murphy is currently asymptomatic and feeling well.
March 31, 2022
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ – On March 27, the Robbinsville Democratic Club purchased $1000 in medical supplies and donated an additional $1000 by check to support the humanitarian efforts of St. George Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Hamilton, NJ, which is gathering and shipping much-needed supplies directly to the people of Ukraine. The Club is collecting supplies locally and fundraising indefinitely, as Ukraine and its allies respond to the Russian invasion.
“We began this fundraising drive with the goal to raise $500 for supplies, but we had such an overwhelming response from our generous Club members, friends, and family that we decided to do even more,” says Kiran Agrahara, the Club’s president. “We decided to set a goal of raising $1000 for supplies and $1000 to offset shipping costs, as it costs thousands of dollars to send just one truck’s worth of supplies to Ukraine. We are thrilled to say we met that goal.”
The partnership between the Robbinsville Democratic Club and St. George began a little over a month ago, when Natalia Krupa, the church’s donation drive liaison, posted to a local Facebook group that she was seeking cardboard boxes to use for shipments abroad. Heidi Wolfinger, the Club’s philanthropy committee chair, reached out to determine how the Club could support the church in its efforts, and has since become a hub for residents in Robbinsville and surrounding towns who want to help. In addition to the $2000 raised via its GoFundMe campaign, the Club has also donated bags upon bags of clothing, personal hygiene products, and medical supplies collected from residents in Robbinsville and communities nearby.
“The support from Robbinsville and surrounding towns for the Ukrainian people has been inspiring,” says Wolfinger. “Sadly, the need for support is not over, as the war rages in Ukraine. As we watch the devastation, thousands of miles away, knowing that we are doing our best to support their efforts is some solace. Democracy is not guaranteed or free. It needs daily tending and the war in Ukraine is evidence of that. Thank you, to everyone who has donated so far.”
People interested in donating supplies should visit the Robbinsville Democratic Club’s Facebook page for drop-off locations as well as the most up-to-date list of humanitarian needs (it shifts as conditions on the ground change). Alternatively, people can donate to this fundraising link, where 100 percent of proceeds will be used each week to purchase high-priority donation items.
“We want to thank the Robbinsville Democratic Club for its generous donation and continued assistance to the St. George Ukrainian Orthodox Church,” says Krupa. “The Robbinsville Democratic Club has gone above and beyond to help and support people in crisis in Ukraine.”
In addition to this effort, the Robbinsville Democratic Club is raising money for a Robbinsville High School scholarship, coordinating a Pride event and LGBTQ forum in June, and spearheading a Juneteenth celebration. Prospective members and friends can contact the Robbinsville Democratic Club executive board at [email protected].
About the Robbinsville Democratic Club
The Robbinsville Democratic Club was founded in 2019 to give Democrats in Robbinsville a place to discuss issues central to the Democratic platform and get involved to make positive change locally and beyond. Membership is open to students and adults in Robbinsville and surrounding communities. For more information, visit www.robbinsvilledemocraticclub.org
Photo by Mathias P.R. Reding on Pexels.com
March 31, 2021
BRIELLE, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Yesterday March 30, 2022, Brielle Police and Fire Departments responded to a pickup truck on fire at a residence in the 400 Block of Riverview Lane. Residents and Police used extinguishers and a garden hose to keep the flames from extending into a nearby garage. Once firefighters arrived, they pulled a handline off the fire engine and extinguished the fire. There appeared to be some minor extension to the garage. No other information is available about the fire.
March 30, 2022
BORDENTOWN CITY, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina announced that a Superior Court jury deliberated less than two hours before convicting a 58-year-old Trenton man of robbing a Bordentown City bank of nearly $7,000 in January 2020.
George T. Rodgers, of Jarvis Place, was found guilty yesterday of one count of Robbery (Second Degree). The Hon. Gerard H. Breland, J.S.C., scheduled sentencing for May 27.
Rodgers has been lodged in the Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly since being taken into custody just hours after holding up the bank.
The investigation began around noon on January 14, 2020, after officers were dispatched to the Investor’s Bank in the 200 block of Route 130 for a report of a robbery. The investigation revealed that the suspect approached the bank on a bicycle, then entered wearing a ski mask and passed the teller a note that read, “Give me the money, no dye bags.”
The suspect received $6,779 in cash, which he placed inside a purple Crown Royal whiskey bag before fleeing on his bicycle. The investigation further revealed that the suspect then pedaled to a Hyundai Santa Fe parked at a nearby restaurant, placed the bicycle in the rear of the SUV, entered the vehicle and drove off on Route 130 North.
Investigators were able to locate the vehicle later that day and, upon making a traffic stop, discovered Rodgers behind the wheel. The bicycle, the Crown Royal bag, a ski mask and $4,700 in cash were discovered inside of his residence.
The case was investigated by the Bordentown City Police Department and the Bordentown Township Police Department. Rodgers is being prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Julian Harris.
2022-41 Bordentown City Bank Robbery Conviction
George T. Rodgers, 58, Trenton
March 30, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Today in Trenton, local leaders from Amazon and the City of Trenton hosted a Women’s History Month program honoring two local advocacy organizations: Womanspace and Dress for Success of Central New Jersey.
“We’re here to celebrate Amazon’s partnership, not only with the city but with Womanspace and Dress for Success,” said Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. “It was amazing to see two trucks pull up that fulfilled two organization’s wish lists so they can continue in their operations and continue to provide the programming that the women of Trenton and surrounding areas deserve.”
The program, which took place at Trenton City Hall, saw Amazon deliver two vans full of wish list items for Womanspace and Dress for Success of Central New Jersey. Both agencies are non-profits that serve women and families. Womanspace provides comprehensive services to those impacted by domestic and sexual violence. Dress for Success of Central New Jersey offers women a network of support, professional attire, and development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.
Donated items from Amazon included electronics like televisions, kitchen and home goods, toiletries, and children’s items.
“I am so grateful to work with the City of Trenton, Womanspace, and Dress for Success of Central New Jersey,” said Erin Hall, a leader of the Women@Amazon employee resource group in New Jersey. “To focus on Women’s History Month, we are so proud to tout everything Womanspace – which houses women who have gone through domestic violence situations and Dress for Success which helps women find jobs – do to help our community.”
Mayor Gusciora, who emceed today’s event, was joined by the city’s Health and Human Services Director Dr. Adela Ames Lopez, who called the partnerships Amazon has forged with Trenton, Womanspace, and Dress for Success of Central New Jersey “true win for the city of Trenton.”
For their parts, Womanspace and Dress for Success of Central New Jersey expressed their gratitude for Amazon’s donations and detailed the work they do to help women and families.
“Womanspace helps survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault,” said Nathalie Nelson, CEO and President of Womanspace. “We run three hotlines. We have different programs such as our emergency shelter. We have our transitional housing, as well as our counseling and support. We are so grateful for Amazon. They have helped us in so many ways. They help all of our clients.”
“Women come to our organization to empower themselves, to get the skills and clothes they need to become successful in the working world because economic empowerment is what we’re all about,” said Aileen Kornblatt of Dress for Success of Central New Jersey.
In addition to these donations, Amazon also detailed a volunteering agreement it has with both Womanspace and Dressed for Success. This will include resume assistance, interview training, outreach regarding job openings , and general efforts meant to help both organizations.
Photos from event provided by Amazon
March 30, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced that Isiah M. Roberts, 19 of the 1400 Block of South Clinton Ave., Trenton was arrested in connection with the murder of Sequoya Bacon-Jones age 9 of Kingsbury Square. Roberts has been charged with Murder, 2nd Degree Aggravated Assault, 4th Degree Aggravated Assault for pointing a weapon, 3 counts of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd Degree. At 7:27 p.m., On March 25, 2022 Trenton Police Officers were detailed to Kingsbury Square on reports of shots fired. Two Trenton Police Officers found Sequoya on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound with several citizens rendering aid and Sequoya’s mother was there too rendering aid. The two officers rushed to render aid and brought Sequoya to their police car for possible transport to Captial Health Trauma Center. Trenton EMS arrived on scene and transferred Sequoya to their ambulance one of the police officers along with EMS transported Sequoya to Capital Health Regional Medical Center Trauma Unit. Sequoya was taken into surgery where the surgeon was able to stabilize Sequoya. She sustained a single gunshot wound to the upper body and the gunshot wound was completely though. Sequoya was transferred to RWJ University Hospital in New Brunswick but passed away at 11:59 p.m.
The Mercer County Homicide Taskforce began their investigation and learned that Sequoya and her brother were playing with other children in the court yard area of the low rise are of Kingsbury. It was determined that two females were in a dispute over a Facebook post and went to the court yard to fight. As the fight was taking place an altercation ensued between Isiah M. Roberts, and another male in the immediate area of the fight. Roberts and the male separated but that altercation made its way into the courtyard where numerous shots were fired. Roberts then fled the area in an Accura which was described by numerous residents of Kingsbury who called 9-1-1.
Detectives conducted numerous interviews, reviewed countless hours of video, and spent hours canvasing the neighborhood for information. The detectives pieced the case together and at 11:45 a.m., yesterday morning March 29, 2022 located the Accura and stopped the vehicle on Deutz Avenue in Hamilton Township. As the vehicle pulled over and before it stopped Isiah M. Roberts jumped out and fled on foot. Detectives from the Homicide Task Force engaged in a long foot pursuit along Route 129 in Hamiton Township. It was later learned that Roberts was fleeing Trenton to East Brunswick, NJ to hide from the authorities. A dragnet was cast over Hamilton to find Roberts by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Trenton Police Department, Mercer County Sherriff Office, The NJ State Police, Hamilton Township Police, and the New Jersey Transit Police. At 12:45 p.m. yesterday March 29, 2022, Roberts was arrested as he entered the Delaware River on Lamberton Road.
Mercer County Prosecutor, Angelo J. Onofri thanked numbers residents for calling 9-1-1, caring for Sequoya and providing assistance with information that led to the capture of Isiah M. Roberts.
Isiah M. Roberts, 19, has been arrested and charged in connection to the death of a 9-year-old girl fatally shot in Trenton. A Facebook profile photograph believed to be Isiah Roberts can be located here It shows a younger Isiah Roberts with a gun on the waist band and holding a large amount of money in a kitchen. It has not been confirmed that this is Isiah Roberts but appears to be him with similar features.
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
3/15/2022 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 *Under Investigation
Angelo J. Onofri Mercer County prosecutor file photo by Brian McCarthy Angelo J. Onofri Mercer County prosecutor file photos Mayor W. Reed Gusciora, file photo Kingsbury Twin Towers in Trenton, NJ file photo File photos of other crime scenes at Kingsbury Towers crime scenes by Brian McCarthy
Fox 29 Philadelphia link to entire press conference:
https://www.fox29.com/video/1051820
March 29, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced today that an investigation into a fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred in Trenton in August 2021 has resulted in criminal charges being filed against a Bordentown man.
Lemark Norwood, 44, is charged with second-degree leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and third-degree endangering an injured victim. He was processed and released pending future court proceedings.
On Sunday, August 29, 2021, at approximately 5:15 a.m., Trenton police responded to the intersection of Route 129 and Lalor Street for a hit-and-run motor vehicle collision. Responding officers found Celso Rivera, 35, in the roadway and rendered aid, but Rivera was pronounced dead at the scene.
Trenton Police Detective Nicholas Morgante and Detective Ryan Minnick of the prosecutor’s Serious Collision Response Team worked for months reviewing automated license plate reader data, combing through surveillance camera footage from the area, and identifying and speaking to witnesses who passed through the intersection in the same approximate time frame of the crash. The investigation revealed that, on the morning of the fatal collision, Norwood was operating a blue 2017 Mercedes Benz E400 in the area. When detectives made contact with Norwood at his residence in Bordentown, the Mercedes Benz was parked in the driveway. The vehicle had visible damage to the front hood, including a dent on the driver’s side with a paint chip missing.
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
File photos
March 29, 2022
JACKSON, NJ (OCEAN)–Jackson Township Police say that on Tuesday March 29, 2022 at 12:21 a.m., multiple officers responded to the area of North New Prospect and Larsen Roads after a passerby reported that a building under construction at a work site on the corner was on fire. There is currently a new apartment complex named The Paragon being built at the location.Responding officers reported that a building at the corner of the property was on fire, with visible flames coming from all three floors of the building. Jackson Stations 54, 55, 56 and 57, along with Southward and Freewood Acres Fire Departments from Howell responded and extinguished the fire.The Ocean County Fire Marshal responded to the scene and the investigation is currently ongoing and is being conducted by Jackson Police Detective Anthony Riso and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
Anyone with any additional information about this incident is asked to contact Det. Riso at 732-928-1111.
Photos and video by: Jersey Shore Fire Response
March 29, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A Mercer County grand jury recently returned a four-count indictment charging Dwayne Capers with the June 2020 shooting death of 37-year-old Dontae Barnes in Trenton, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
Capers, 28, of Trenton, is charged with first-degree murder, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun and second-degree certain persons not to possess a firearm. He is being held in the Mercer County Correction Center pending trial.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department. At approximately 5:20 p.m. on June 2, 2020, police responded to a Shot Spotter activation in the area of Oakland Street and Hoffman Avenue. Upon arrival, police located Barnes on the sidewalk suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
An initial canvas of the scene produced several shell casings and some clothing articles. Area video surveillance was reviewed and footage was obtained capturing the entire incident. An investigative detention order was obtained requiring Capers to provide a DNA sample. Results of a DNA analysis indicated Capers’ DNA profile was found on a tank top shirt recovered after Barnes’ shooting. Capers was arrested on December 23, 2021.
Assistant Prosecutor Rachel Cook presented the case to the grand jury.
Despite having been indicted, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dwayne Capers, 28, Trenton
Trenton Body Count Increases To 15 As Carnage Continues In The City
File photos from the scene by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
Trenton Shooting Victim Identified From Yesterday’s Shooting
March 28, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Three New Jersey Lottery tickets matched four of the five white balls and the Powerball drawn for the Saturday, March 26, drawing winning the $50,000 third-tier prize. Those tickets were sold at the following locations:
Mercer County: Foley’s Family Market, 1080 Whitehorse Mercerville Rd., Hamilton.
The winning numbers for the Saturday, March 26, drawing were: 02, 10, 50, 59, and 61. The Red Power Ball number was 06. The Power Playwas 3X. There were 27,520 other New Jersey players who took home an estimated $159,935 in prizes ranging from $4 to $300. The Powerball jackpot rolls to $195,000,000 for the Monday, March 28, drawing.
March 26, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force is investigating a gun-related death last night in the Kingsbury Square courtyard, near Cooper Street. The victim is a 9-year-old female Trenton resident.
At 7:30 pm, police responded to a report of a fistfight in a large crowd, as well as an alert from the ShotSpotter system. Private security officers were on the premises at the time of the shooting.
The Trenton Police Department, along with the task force, are asking anyone with information regarding the early evening incident to please contact investigators. The tipline is (609) 989-6406. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Mayor Reed Gusciora issued the following statement:
“This horrific incident has taken the life of a child. There were many eyewitnesses to the shooting who can help hold this individual accountable. Please, we must step up together. I’m grieving for the family and friends whose hearts are absolutely broken on this morning. I know investigators are doing everything they can to bring about justice. But they need help from our residents.”
The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a Friday evening shooting in Trenton that claimed the life of a nine-year-old girl, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
At approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 25, 2022, Trenton patrol units responded to Kingsbury Square for a Shot Spotter activation and the report of fights breaking out amongst a large group of individuals. Upon arrival, officers located a large crowd outside in a low-rise courtyard and a nine-year old girl suffering a gunshot wound. She was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center, then to Robert Wood Johnson New Brunswick Hospital, where she was pronounced dead shortly before midnight. No other shooting injuries were reported.
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].
File photos by: Brian McCarthy
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
3/15/2022 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 *Under Investigation
March 26, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Yesterday afternoon around 1:15 p.m. a stabbing was reported at West State Street and North Overbrook Avenue. Trenton Police, Trenton EMS, Capital Health Paramedics and Trenton Fire responded to the scene. The victim was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center it was reported that a Trauma Alert was called. No further information is available at this time.
March 24, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Union County Prosecutor’s Office has released body camera videos from the police involved shooting on February 12, 2022.
Video below is age restricted 18+ please follow the link to view the video since it contains language and images that may be unacceptable or troubling to viewers.
The case has been handed to the Union County Prosecutor’s Office as per the NJ Attorney General’s guidelines. It was done to prevent any conflicts of interest.
Disclaimer
The body worn camera footage from this incident is being provided by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office under the authority of N.J.S.A. 40A:14-118.5 and Attorney General Directives 2019-4 and 2022-1.
This footage contains language and images that may be unacceptable or troubling to viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
Related MidJersey.News stories:
Officer Involved Shooting on Centre Street in Trenton
Suspect Charged in Saturday Officer-Involved Shooting
File photos from the night of the incident.
March 24, 2022
PLAINSBORO, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–The Attorney General’s Office today released video footage from four body-worn cameras, two mobile video recorders (MVRs) in law enforcement vehicles, and two Taser cameras related to a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred on Feb. 16, 2022, in Plainsboro, N.J. The decedent has been identified as Atiba Lewis, 45, of Plainsboro. The officer who fired at Mr. Lewis has been identified as Officer Phillip Nguyen of the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office.
The fatal shooting remains under investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA). The recordings are being released pursuant to policies established by the Attorney General’s Office in 2019 that are designed to promote the fair, impartial, and transparent investigation of fatal police encounters. Investigators met today with Mr. Lewis’ family to review the recordings.
According to the preliminary investigation, the shooting occurred shortly after 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 16. A civil order for possession (eviction/ejection) had been authorized to remove Mr. Lewis from an apartment on Ravens Crest Drive in Plainsboro. The Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office executed the order with assistance from other law enforcement agencies on the morning of Feb. 16. Later that same morning, law enforcement officers sought and executed a search warrant for an unlawful firearm at Mr. Lewis’ residence.
Law enforcement executed the order and search warrant while Mr. Lewis was out of the apartment.
At approximately 11:30 a.m., after Mr. Lewis had arrived back at the apartment complex, law enforcement officers attempted to arrest him for unlawful possession of the firearm.
When the officers approached Mr. Lewis, he pulled out a knife and ran away from them. He continued to threaten the officers with the knife. Four officers deployed Tasers in an attempt to disarm Mr. Lewis, but the Tasers were ineffective. Mr. Lewis was agitated and lunged at officers several times. At approximately 11:35 a.m., with a knife in his hand, Mr. Lewis advanced directly toward Officer Nguyen, who then fired his weapon, fatally wounding Mr. Lewis.
Officers and emergency medical personnel rendered first aid to Mr. Lewis, who was transported to Princeton Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 12:10 p.m.
The recordings are posted online: Click here for recordings.
The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.
This investigation is being conducted pursuant to a state law enacted in January 2019 (P.L. 2019, c.1), which requires that the Attorney General’s Office conduct all investigations of a person’s death that occurs during an encounter with a law enforcement officer acting in the officer’s official capacity or while the decedent is in custody. Separately, the Independent Prosecutor Directive, which was issued in December 2019, outlines a 10-step process for conducting these investigations. The Directive establishes clear procedures governing such investigations to ensure that they are conducted in a full, impartial and transparent manner. Under both state law and the Directive, when the entire investigation is complete, the case will be presented to a grand jury, typically consisting of 16 to 23 citizens, to make the ultimate decision regarding whether criminal charges will be filed.
A copy of the Directive is available at this link:
and a summary of that 10-step process is available at this link:
Click to access The-Independent-Prosecutor-Directive.pdf
When the officers approached Mr. Lewis, he pulled out a knife and ran away from them. He continued to threaten the officers with the knife. Four officers deployed Tasers in an attempt to disarm Mr. Lewis, but the Tasers were ineffective. Mr. Lewis was agitated and lunged at officers several times. At approximately 11:35 a.m., with a knife in his hand, Mr. Lewis advanced directly toward Officer Nguyen, who then fired his weapon, fatally wounding Mr. Lewis.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A three-month investigation into cocaine distribution in Trenton culminated recently with one arrest and the seizure of $10,500 in narcotics, two handguns and $3,986 in cash, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.
Juan Rivera, 34, of Trenton, was arrested on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, as a result of the investigation conducted by the members of the Mercer County Narcotics Task Force, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hamilton Police Division. A motor vehicle stop of Rivera in a silver Toyota Corolla was conducted by detectives in the area of Greenwood and Walnut avenues in Trenton. Rivera was detained without incident and $3,986 in cash was seized from his person. A subsequent search of Rivera’s Greenwood Avenue residence in Trenton resulted in the seizure of approximately 105 grams of cocaine and two handguns – a Smith and Wesson .38 special and a Phoenix Arms HP22A.
Rivera was charged with narcotics and weapons offenses. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain him pending trial.
According to Prosecutor Onofri, the combined street value of the confiscated cocaine is approximately $10,500.
Despite having been charged, all persons are presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Juan Rivera, 34, of Trenton, was arrested on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, as a result of the investigation conducted by the members of the Mercer County Narcotics Task Force, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hamilton Police Division. A motor vehicle stop of Rivera in a silver Toyota Corolla was conducted by detectives in the area of Greenwood and Walnut avenues in Trenton. Rivera was detained without incident and $3,986 in cash was seized from his person. A subsequent search of Rivera’s Greenwood Avenue residence in Trenton resulted in the seizure of approximately 105 grams of cocaine and two handguns – a Smith and Wesson .38 special and a Phoenix Arms HP22A.Rivera was charged with narcotics and weapons offenses. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain him pending trial.
October 17, 2023
SEASIDE HEIGHTS, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on October 4, 2023, Anthony Collins, 40, of Seaside Heights, was charged with the crimes of Manslaughter and Endangering an Injured Victim in connection with the death of Robert May, 70, of Seaside Heights, on October 1, 2023, in the Borough of Seaside Heights.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Officers from the Seaside Heights Police Department responded to the area of Central Avenue and Sumner Avenue for a report of a fall victim. Responding Officers found a male victim – later identified as Robert May – laying on the ground next to his bicycle. Mr. May was observed to be bleeding from a laceration to his head. Mr. May was initially treated at the scene and refused further medical assistance; he thereafter left the area and returned to his residence. A subsequent investigation by the Seaside Heights Police Department revealed that Mr. May was assaulted by another individual, which caused him to fall off his bicycle and strike his head on the pavement.
On September 18, 2023, at approximately 5:00 p.m., the Seaside Heights Police Department received information that Mr. May had been acting erratically subsequent to his fall, resulting in him being transported by the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad from his home to Community Medical Center in Toms River. Mr. May’s condition continued to deteriorate, and he was subsequently transferred to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick. On October 1, 2023, Mr. May succumbed to his injuries. A post-mortem examination conducted on that date by the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office determined the cause of Mr. May’s death to be blunt force injury resulting from the assault which occurred in Seaside Heights on September 18, 2023, and the manner of his death to be homicide.
A continuing investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit and Seaside Heights Police Department determined that Collins was, in fact, the individual who assaulted Mr. May on September 18th, ultimately resulting in his death.
On October 4, 2023, a warrant was issued for Collins’ arrest, and his name was entered in the National Crime Information Center database. On October 15, 2023, Collins surrendered himself at Seaside Heights Police Department Headquarters. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Seaside Heights Police Department Detective Bureau, Seaside Heights Police Department, Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, and United States Marshals Service, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
October 17, 2023
TRENTON, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger for the District of New Jersey and Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Civil Rights Division announced today that the Justice Department has opened a civil pattern or practice investigation into the City of Trenton and the Trenton Police Department (TPD).
The investigation will seek to determine whether there are systemic violations of the Constitution and federal law by TPD. The investigation will focus on TPD’s use of force and its stops, searches and arrests. The investigation will include a comprehensive review of TPD policies, training and supervision, in addition to complaint intake, internal investigation protocols, complaint reviews, complaint adjudications and disciplinary decisions.
“Police officers have the difficult job of keeping us safe, and most officers do this work with honor and distinction,” U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said. “But if police officers abuse the trust the community places in them and fail to respect the constitutional rights of those in the community, and if the community feels threatened by those who wear the badge, it undermines public safety and endangers the very citizens they swore to protect and serve. Unfortunately, we have reviewed numerous reports that Trenton police officers may have used force inappropriately and conducted stops, searches, and arrests with no good reason in violation of individuals’ constitutional rights. Today’s announcement reflects our office’s commitment to ensuring effective, constitutional policing in Trenton and throughout New Jersey. Trenton residents should be assured that we will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation of the Trenton Police Department, and that we will address any unlawful conduct we find.”
“The public must have trust and confidence that police officers will treat them fairly and with respect,” said Assistant Attorney General Clarke. “The Justice Department is opening an investigation into the Trenton Police Department after an extensive review of publicly available information and other information provided to us suggesting that officers used force, stopped motorists and pedestrians and conducted searches of homes and cars in violation of the Constitution and federal law. Our experience has shown that policing practices that run afoul of the law and our Constitution can lead to distrust between police officers and the community. The Justice Department will conduct a full and fair investigation into these allegations, and if we substantiate those violations, the department will take appropriate action to remedy them.”
Before this announcement, officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division notified Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, Director Steve Wilson of TPD and Director Wes Bridges of the Trenton Law Department, who have all pledged to cooperate with the investigation. As part of this investigation, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office will conduct outreach to community groups and members of the public to learn about their experiences with TPD.
The U.S Attorney’s Office and the Special Litigation Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division will jointly conduct this investigation pursuant to the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, which prohibits state and local governments through their law enforcement officers from engaging in a pattern or practice of conduct by law enforcement officers that deprives people of rights protected by the Constitution and federal law. If the Justice Department has reasonable cause to believe that the law enforcement officers of a state or local government have engaged in a prohibited pattern or practice, the department is authorized to bring a lawsuit seeking court-ordered changes to remedy the violations. In this investigation, the department will assess the law enforcement practices under the Fourth and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Justice Department via email at [email protected] or by phone at 973-645-2801. Individuals can also report civil rights violations regarding this or other matters using the reporting portal of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, available at https://www.civilrights.justice.gov/ or the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey’s civil rights reporting portal, available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/civil-rights-enforcement/complaint.
Additional information about the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is available on its website at https://www.justice.gov/crt. Additional information about civil rights enforcement at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, including the Office’s Civil Rights Division, is available at https://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/civil-rights-enforcement.
23-304
Mayor W. Reed Gusciora releases statement following an announcement by the U.S. Attorney’s Office of an investigation into the Trenton Police Department
Trenton, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger for the District of New Jersey and Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Civil Rights Division announced today that the Justice Department has opened a civil pattern or practice investigation into the City of Trenton and the Trenton Police Department (TPD).
The investigation will seek to determine whether there are systemic violations of the Constitution and federal law by TPD. The investigation will focus on TPD’s use of force and its stops, searches and arrests. The investigation will include a comprehensive review of TPD policies, training and supervision, in addition to complaint intake, internal investigation protocols, complaint reviews, complaint adjudications and disciplinary decisions.
Mayor W. Reed Gusciora issued the following statement regarding the announcement, “I was informed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office this morning that his office will be conducting a civil pattern and practice investigation of the Trenton Police Department. I’ve instructed all levels of City government to fully cooperate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its investigation. My administration knows all-too-well the difficulty and danger police officers face on a daily basis. We thank and support the overwhelming majority of officers at the city, county, and state level who do the right things every day to keep Trentonians safe. These officers have been instrumental in taking guns off the streets and preventing senseless acts of violence. In the past few months, over 214 firearms, 2,868 grams of crack-cocaine, and 26,066 decks of heroin, and $133,722 dollars were seized from drug and firearm traffickers. But we also recognize that the community’s trust in our police force is critical. If any members of law enforcement violate the public trust or act in contravention of our state and federal laws, they should and must be held accountable.”
Before the announcement, officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division notified Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora, Director Steve Wilson of TPD and Director Wes Bridges of the Trenton Law Department, who have all pledged to cooperate with the investigation. As part of this investigation, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office will conduct outreach to community groups and members of the public to learn about their experiences with TPD.
DIVIDS File photo by: (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Azaria E. Foster)
Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com
Brian McCarthy file photo
Governor Phil Murphy, File Photo, Murphy is currently asymptomatic and feeling well.
Photo by Mathias P.R. Reding on Pexels.com
George T. Rodgers, 58, Trenton
Photos from event provided by Amazon
Isiah M. Roberts, 19, has been arrested and charged in connection to the death of a 9-year-old girl fatally shot in Trenton. 
A Facebook profile photograph believed to be Isiah Roberts can be located here It shows a younger Isiah Roberts with a gun on the waist band and holding a large amount of money in a kitchen. It has not been confirmed that this is Isiah Roberts but appears to be him with similar features.
Angelo J. Onofri Mercer County prosecutor file photo by Brian McCarthy Angelo J. Onofri Mercer County prosecutor file photos 
Mayor W. Reed Gusciora, file photo 
Kingsbury Twin Towers in Trenton, NJ file photo 
File photos of other crime scenes at Kingsbury Towers crime scenes by Brian McCarthy
File photos
Dwayne Capers, 28, Trenton
File photos from the scene by: Brian McCarthy OnScene News
File photos from the night of the incident.
When the officers approached Mr. Lewis, he pulled out a knife and ran away from them. He continued to threaten the officers with the knife. Four officers deployed Tasers in an attempt to disarm Mr. Lewis, but the Tasers were ineffective. Mr. Lewis was agitated and lunged at officers several times. At approximately 11:35 a.m., with a knife in his hand, Mr. Lewis advanced directly toward Officer Nguyen, who then fired his weapon, fatally wounding Mr. Lewis.
