WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Wall Township Police reported that on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at approximately 6:45 p.m. the Wall Township Police Department responded to the area of State Highway 35 and 18th Avenue for a motor vehicle collision involving two vehicles with multiple injuries reported.
The investigation on scene revealed that 2011 Nissan Altima being operated by Mitchell G. Holley (34) of Linburn, Georgia was traveling on State Highway 35 southbound, when he left his lane of travel and entered the northbound lane of State Highway 35 striking a 2023 Mazda CX3 being operating by a 39-year-old man and occupied by a 31-year-old female both of Point Pleasant. All occupants were required to be extricated from their vehicles by emergency crews and transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
State Highway 35 from Wall Church Road to 18th Avenue was shut down in both directions for approximately an hour and half while emergency crews conducted extrication and medical treatment and crash investigators processed the scene. Fire and rescue crews from West Belmar Fire Department, Glendola Fire Department and South Wall Fire and Rescue responded to the scene as well as emergency medical crews from Wall Township Police EMS, Belmar EMS and paramedics from Hackensack Meridian.
Mr. Holley who was operating the Nissan Altima was found to be operating a motor vehicle with a suspended drivers license. He was issued motor vehicle summonses for reckless driving and driving while suspended, criminal charges are pending toxicology results at this time.
The collision is currently being investigated by members of the Wall Township Police Department. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is asked to contact Patrolman Hunter Manning or Captain Chad Clark at (732) 449-4500.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all the trial rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and New Jersey State Law.
October 10, 2023
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer has announced that the victims who perished in the motor vehicle crash that occurred in Lakewood Township on October 7, 2023, have been identified as Jayla Ortiz, 23, of Lakewood, Ceasia Jefferson, 24, of Neptune Township, and a 17-year-old male of Lanoka Harbor.
On October 7, 2023, at approximately 2:20 a.m., Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department were summoned to the area of New Hampshire Avenue and Cedar Bridge Avenue for a report of a serious motor vehicle crash.
An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad and Lakewood Township Police Department determined that a 2009 Honda Accord being operated by Jayla Ortiz, and containing passengers Mylani Theibault, 18, Lakewood, seated in the front passenger seat, Alexis Holloway, 23, of Berkeley Township, Ceasia Jefferson, 24, of Neptune, and a 17 year-old male of Lanoka Harbor, all seated in the rear passenger seat, was traveling eastbound on Cedar Bridge Avenue. Ms. Ortiz failed to stop at a red traffic signal and entered the intersection – striking a 2008 Dodge Truck. The impact caused the Dodge Truck to roll over and split in two. The Honda Accord continued off the roadway and struck a metal traffic signal pole; upon contact with the pole, the Accord likewise broke into two parts.
“As a result of the crash, Mathew Draheim, 56, of Lakewood, who was the operator of the Dodge Truck, was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC) in Neptune to be treated for minor injuries. Jayla Ortiz and Ceasia Jefferson were pronounced deceased at the scene. Mylani Theibault, Alexis Holloway, and the 17-year-old male, were transported to JSUMC for treatment. At the hospital, the 17-year-old male succumbed to his injuries. Mylani Theibault and Alexis Holloway remain hospitalized; Mylani Theibault is currently listed in stable condition. Alexis Holloway is currently listed in critical condition,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare. Our thoughts and prayers are with these young men and women, their families and their friends,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
“The crash remains under investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Vehicular Homicide Squad and Lakewood Township Police Department,” Prosecutor Billhimer concluded.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit- Vehicular Homicide Squad, Lakewood Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their cooperative assistance in connection with this investigation.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Hamilton Township Police reported that on Wednesday July 26, 2023, at approximately 10:57 a.m., Officer Broniszewski and Officer McGowan were in the area of South Broad Street and Oldfield Avenue when they conducted a motor vehicle stop on a green Honda. During the stop the Officers located four metal pipes with caps and green wicks consistent with being pipe bombs on the passenger side floor inside the vehicle. The driver was detained and South Broad Street was shut down between Harcourt Avenue and Churchill Avenue. The surrounding businesses and residences were also evacuated as a precaution. The New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit was contacted and responded to the scene and took possession of the devices for destruction. The suspect was placed under arrest and identified as Jeremy Giliberti, 51, of Mt. Laurel. Search warrants were applied for Giliberti’s residence and additional vehicles and one more device was located inside of his residence. The New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit took possession of the additional device.
Giliberti was charged with Possession of Destructive Device. Giliberti was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.
The Hamilton Police Division would like to thank the New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit, FBI, ATF, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office, and Mt. Laurel Police Department for their assistance.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Bob Whartenby of the Hamilton Police Division Major Crimes Unit at (609) 581-4032 or the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008.
Jeremy Giliberti, 51, of Mt. Laurel was charged with Possession of Destructive Device. Giliberti was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.
Yesterday’s Breaking News Story Here:
South Broad Street In Hamilton Closed Due To Police Activity
Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw announced that a Palmyra man has been indicted on charges related to coaxing underage boys on social media to send him nude pictures and videos, then using that material to blackmail his victims into performing sexual acts on themselves for his enjoyment.
A grand jury indicted Sean Higgins, 31, on 75 total counts that included charges of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Criminal Sexual Contact, Cyber Harassment, and Obscenity to a Minor. Thirteen of the counts were first degree charges.
Higgins is accused of committing these crimes in 2020 while serving as the youth pastor and music leader at Harbor Baptist Church in Hainesport, and serving as a teacher at the Harbor Baptist Academy, a private K-12 school that is housed in the same facility.
The indictment includes 13 victims, ranging in age from 12 to17, who resided in Alabama, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Tennessee. It was returned on August 16 and signed by Prosecutor Bradshaw. An arraignment will be scheduled soon in Superior Court in Mount Holly.
The crimes for which he was indicted did not include physical contact with the victims, and did not involve any members of the church congregation or students at the school.
He has been lodged in the Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly since being taken into custody at his residence in October 2020. With the assistance of the New Jersey State Police, search warrants were executed at that time on his home as well as the church, and multiple electronic devices were seized.
The investigation revealed that Higgins would adopt the persona of a teenage girl and utilize Snapchat and Instagram to begin a conversation with a juvenile male, introducing himself as Julie Miller. After establishing a rapport, he would suggest that they trade photos. Higgins would then send pictures of an unidentified female teenager.
In return, Higgins would often receive nude photos that the victims took of themselves. Immediately upon receiving those images, he would take a screenshot of the victim’s friends list that was visible on the forward-facing social media platform. Higgins would send that screenshot back to the victim and threaten to send the nude photos he had just received to the list of the victim’s friends unless the victim did exactly what Higgins demanded.
In most of the cases that were investigated, Higgins then demanded that his victims go into the bathroom at their residence and place the phone on the floor, or at an angle looking up, and would instruct the victims to masturbate or perform sexual acts on themselves. Higgins would record what was transpiring.
According to the videos made by Higgins that were obtained during the investigation, victims would often beg Higgins to be allowed to stop engaging in sexual conduct, but Higgins would demand that they complete his instructions, or face the consequences of having the recordings he was making of the incident be sent to their list of friends.
The investigation began after a youth in Berks County, Pa., contacted Snapchat and reported that he sent nude photos of himself to someone he believed to be an unknown female. The unknown female, who in actuality was Higgins, had threatened to expose his nude photographs after they exchanged pictures. An underage male in Alabama also reported his communications with Higgins to law enforcement authorities.
The investigation was conducted by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office High-Tech Crimes Unit, the Cinnaminson Township Police Department and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations – Cherry Hill. Multiple state and local agencies assisted in confirming the identities of additional victims once investigators became aware of their existence.
The BCPO High-Tech Crimes Unit, Cinnaminson Township Police Department and HSI – Cherry Hill are members of the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (NJ ICAC Task Force). The BCPO also belongs to the New Jersey State Police Cyber Terrorism Task Force.
Higgins is being prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Stephen Eife, supervisor of the BCPO Special Victims Unit.
Anyone who believes their child has had inappropriate interaction on Snapchat or Instagram with someone going by the user name of Julie Miller, Julia Miller, or some variation of that name, is asked to call Burlington County Central Communications at 609-265-7113, or send an email to [email protected].
An indictment is an accusation. Defendants are presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.
UPDATE: South Broad Street reopened. The vehicle was reportedly towed to the old AMC Theater on Sloan Avenue and police and fire activities continued at that location.
July 26, 2023
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 12:30 p.m. Hamilton Township Police all of a sudden closed the 2600 Block of South Broad Street in all directions across from Maddock Ave due to a what appeared to be a traffic stop. The vehicle has police tape on it in front of Hamilton Yamaha and Sessions Smoke Shop across from the Broad Street Diner. Additional police units were arriving at the scene at the time of this report.
Witnesses told MidJersey.news that this is a bomb threat and that stores are evacuated in the area and the roadway closed.
If you are using South Broad Street in Hamilton Township in that area please seek alternate routes until the situation is under control.
NJ Public Safety News Alerts
Police department activity on US 206 both directions North of CR 524/White Horse Circle (Hamilton Twp) All lanes closed northbound; All lanes open southbound 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/KnjcG6Tzt1
— 511NJ I295 (@511nji295) July 26, 2023
Police department activity on US 206 both directions North of CR 524/White Horse Circle (Hamilton Twp) All lanes closed 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/GN5hhw7H6b
— 511NJ I295 (@511nji295) July 26, 2023
Police department activity on US 206 both directions North of CR 524/White Horse Circle (Hamilton Twp) All lanes closed 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/PGhMWBh6td
— 511NJ I295 (@511nji295) July 26, 2023
Police department activity on US 206 both directions North of CR 524/White Horse Circle (Hamilton Twp) All lanes closed 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/VVaRyLPaHd
SAYREVILLE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Rashid Ali Bynum, 28, of Portsmouth, Virginia. Arrested today, Tuesday May 30, 2023, at 10:45 a.m. in connection with the murder of Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour. Bynum was taken into custody outside a residence in Chesapeake City, Virginia without incident. Bynum was charged with first-degree Murder, second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, and second-degree Possession of a Handgun for an Unlawful Purpose. Bynum is awaiting extradition to New Jersey where he will then be held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional facility pending a pre-trial detention hearing in Superior Court.
February 1, 2023, at approximately 7:22 p.m., authorities received a 911 call reporting shots fired in the area of Samuel Circle, in the Parlin section of Sayreville, NJ. Sayreville Police Department responded to the scene, upon their arrival, officers located town councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour, 30, of Sayreville, in her vehicle who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Dwumfour had succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced on scene.
Sayerville Councilwoman Shot And Killed Near Her Home
Rashid Ali Bynum, 28, of Portsmouth, Virginia. Arrested today, Tuesday May 30, 2023, at 10:45 a.m. in connection with the murder of Sayreville Councilwoman Eunice Dwumfour.
MANASQUAN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–On Thursday, January 14, the Division’s Bureau of Marine Fisheries expanded the state’s artificial reef network through deployments on Little Egg and Manasquan Inlet Reefs.
A 200-foot-long barge along with a 45-foot tugboat and 40-foot push boat were deployed at the Little Egg Reef site. These deployments were sponsored by the Beach Haven Charter Boat Association’s Junior Mate Program with donations by The Sportfishing Fund.
These three deployments bring the total number of deployments at that reef to 79. They are located at the following coordinates: 39° 28.340 x 074° 11.083
A 65-foot tugboat was sunk at the Manasquan Inlet Reef. The deployment was sponsored by the Manasquan River Marlin and Tuna Club with donations by The Sportfishing Fund. This deployment was in memory of past Manasquan River Marlin and Tuna Club Lifetime Member John Geiges.
A 65-foot tugboat was sunk at the Manasquan Inlet Reef. This vessel represents the 5th deployment on the Manasquan Inlet Reef and is located at the following coordinates: 40° 04.784 x 073° 59.420
January 21, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mayor. W. Reed Gusciora today gave the following statement announcing his intent to veto City Council Ordinance 20-60, which seeks to create a new Legislative Counsel position in Trenton government that replicates many of the powers and responsibilities that already fall under the City Attorney:
“To put it simply, this ordinance clearly violates the Faulkner Act, which outlines the separate powers of the Council and Mayor, the latter of which appoints the City Attorney per statute. And despite repeated warnings from the City’s Law Department that this effort was illegal, it still passed by a 4-3 vote.
As Judge Jacobson already ruled in McBride v. Gusciora in May 2020, ‘the Council has limited authority under the Faulkner Act, and cannot, on their own, appoint counsel to represent them.’
So why are we treading back down this path? We share Council’s concerns for unnecessary legal fees. But understand that we are bound to uphold municipal law and would have no other choice but to oppose this ordinance in court. This ordinance would in effect create a separate law department that would be a waste of taxpayer dollars.
When I heard that Council President offered an ‘Olive Branch’ to the administration, I was hopeful that it was out of a sincere desire to better cooperate moving forward. I’m still hopeful that is the case. But this ordinance is not an olive branch: it’s a thorn bush.
As such, I will veto this ordinance to spare us more legal battles, so we can focus our renewed cooperation on the major issues affecting our community, including crime, economic development, and COVID-19.”
Morris County Regional Vaccination Center Now Open to Frontline Health Care Workers, Police and Fire First Responders
January 8, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)/ROCKAWAY, NJ (MORRIS)–Ernest Doggett, III., Trenton Firefighter, who also is also an EMT, and rides Engine 6 as the Interim Captain, received his COVID-19 vaccine today in Morris County. Governor Phil Murphy was in attendance to observe police and firefighters receiving their vaccinations.
Governor Phil Murphy, joined by New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, Superintendent of the State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, and labor officials, visited the Morris County Regional Vaccination Center today to highlight the beginning of New Jersey’s vaccination effort for sworn law enforcement and fire professionals.
All sworn law enforcement and fire professionals in New Jersey are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, which is estimated to include about 55,000 individuals. These first responders are the first individuals in Phase 1B to become eligible for vaccination. EMS professionals, also considered first responders, are already eligible for the vaccine under Phase 1A as health care workers.
“Throughout this pandemic, our first responders have continued to save lives and protect our communities, and I am proud today that we are able to provide them with this added level of protection as they continue to do their jobs,” Governor Murphy said. “When we’re ready to move forward, this site will serve as one of six megasites for the general public to receive their vaccinations. With hundreds of thousands of preregistrations already received, we know there will be a strong demand when that day arrives.”
“We’re all used to charging head-on into potentially dangerous situations, but COVID-19 has added a whole new layer of uncertainty and change for all of us,” said John Alderton, a career firefighter and EMT with the Morris Township Fire Department. “This vaccine is the first step of us moving in the right direction. Thank you Governor Murphy for bringing this vaccine to not only first responders, but hopefully in the near future, to every New Jersey resident.”
“These megasites will be able to handle a large volume of individuals as we continue to move through eligible phases of vaccination toward the general public,” Health Commissioner Judith Persichillisaid. “The sites are part of a growing network of community-based sites that will help ensure fair and equitable access and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines.”
“I’m grateful that Governor Murphy, Commissioner Persichilli, and the Department of Health have opened these mega-sites, and have made vaccinations for COVID-19 available for police and fire professionals across the state,” said Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal. “Our first responders have demonstrated extraordinary heroism, dedication, and resilience in answering the call to serve during this pandemic, and routinely put themselves in harm’s way. I strongly encourage all law enforcement who live or work in the state to get vaccinated and help stop the spread of this virus.”
“We memorialized a lot of New Jerseyans over the past several months,” said Colonel Patrick Callahan, Superintendent of the State Police. “This vaccine will save lives. The fact that this megasite and sites like it around New Jersey are up and running is a testament to this collective team effort.”
“This vaccine megasite in Morris County marks a monumental step for New Jersey residents, particularly our healthcare providers and first responders who have gone above and beyond during the pandemic,” said Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. “The collaboration across state, county, local levels alongside the incredible team at Atlantic Health puts all of us on the path to greater safety and well-being. I fought for vaccine distribution funding in the latest coronavirus package and I’ll continue to fight to get the resources necessary from the federal government.”
“This is a tremendous logistical undertaking by Morris County in partnership with Atlantic Health System and the State of New Jersey,” Stephen H. Shaw, Director of the Morris County Board of Commissionerssaid. “Our Offices of Public Health and Emergency Management worked tirelessly through the holiday season with Atlantic Health to identify and transform an empty retail space into a large scale, safe, secure regional vaccination facility. Morris County remains steadfast in its commitment to allocate the resources necessary to protect the public health. We anticipate being able to inoculate as many as 2,400 individuals daily at this facility. Our thanks go out to Atlantic Health for its contributions of staff and assets, Governor Murphy for his support, everyone in our Offices of Public Health and Emergency Management, the National Guard, our Sheriff and all the healthcare workers who have made this possible.”
“The arrival of safe and effective vaccines represents a landmark moment in our fight against COVID-19, making this center a place of hope and healing for our entire region,” said Brian Gragnolati, President and CEO, Atlantic Health System. “On behalf of patients and caregivers across New Jersey, I want to thank Governor Murphy and Morris County leaders for their tremendous support and partnership. Together, we are taking the next big step forward in protecting our friends, neighbors and communities. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity to receive their vaccinations as soon as they are eligible.”
“We are happy to see that Governor Murphy is moving forward quickly to make Covid-19 vaccines available to law enforcement and firefighters,” said Bob Fox,President of the New Jersey Fraternal Order of Police. “His immediate response is greatly appreciated by law enforcement.”
“PFANJ fire fighters & EMT’s serve as the first link in the COVID-19 response,” said Steve McConlogue, President, Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey. “These environments are unstructured, unprotected and place our members near COVID-19 patients, causing increased exposure for the responder. Many COVID- 19 patients are treated by a fire fighter or EMT before they are transported to a hospital for further care. Additionally, fire fighters and EMTs often respond to emergencies unrelated to whether a caller has COVID-19 only to later learn that they were exposed to the virus. We are encouraged to see the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine made available to all firefighters in New Jersey, we have been on the frontlines battling this virus since March. A COVID-19 vaccine is one of the best ways to protect fire and EMS personnel from this pandemic. Along with ensuring that the proper PPE is available, priority access to a vaccine allows emergency responders to have another tool to protect themselves and the community as a whole. Scientific reports have indicated that fire fighters, paramedics and EMTs are proportionately far more likely to contract COVID-19 than the general public due to their on-the-job exposures. We thank Governor Murphy and his team for answering the call on behalf of firefighters. The International Association of Fire Fighters have worked tirelessly with federal, state and local officials to protect their members, and make fire fighters, paramedics & EMTs a top priority level for COVID-19 vaccines.”
“Our members battled through this pandemic since last March and we have shared in the struggle and pain with the residents we protect,” said Wayne Wolk, Executive Vice President, New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association. “We are grateful to have worked with Governor Murphy and his administration to be sure NJ first responders had the tools to safely provide the front line protection day in and day out. Being moved up in the queue to receive the COVID-19 vaccination is another testament to that support.”
“I would like to thank the Governor and the Health Departments decision to listen to our pleas and move our states brave law enforcement and firefighters up on the vaccine list,” said Pat Colligan, President of the New Jersey State Police Benevolent Association. “Our law enforcement officers, whether they were working on a cell block or responding to calls for service were truly “first responders” from the very beginning of this pandemic and continue to be the first on the scene on virtually every call for service. We are looking forward to putting this pandemic in the rear view mirror and we are sure this will help expedite that.”
“We are very proud to announce that due to the support of Governor Murphy, along with the clinical guidance of New Jersey’s top medical professionals, we have completed one of our first mega sites located in Morris County for administering vaccines to New Jersey’s citizens,” said Pete J. Stilianessis, President, State Troopers NCO Association. “We’re very proud to have played our part in this very important milestone to recovery for New Jersey and the citizens that we have served throughout this pandemic. We are appreciative to have one of our NCO’s take the lead on being the first Trooper to receive this life changing breakthrough vaccine. We look forward to working with our Governor and other branches in government for further successes until we can finally return to normalcy.”
“The State Troopers Fraternal Association applauds Governor Murphy and his entire team for their aggressive, swift, and committed response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Wayne Blanchard, President, State Troopers Fraternal Association. “Since March, Governor Murphy has had to make many difficult decisions in order to keep the best possible containment of the COVID-19 virus. The arrival of the vaccines has given us new hope in curbing the COVID-19 pandemic and the Governor and his administration have been on the front lines and have been efficiently distributing the vaccines since their arrival. Today marks a special place in the history in the fight against COVID-19 as Governor Murphy has recognized the significant challenges and risks the STFA members face daily in the performance of their duties during the pandemic. To date, over 150 STFA members have contracted the COVID-19 virus and the safety of the citizens of the State of New Jersey depends on their health. We are truly grateful to Governor Murphy for streamlining the vaccination process for our men and women who must respond when called upon even during the perils of the pandemic. In addition, we laud the Governor and his team for the coordination of many vaccination sites but in particular sites such as the Morris County Mega Vaccination site, which has tremendous capabilities for safe, orderly, and large-scale vaccinations.”
Ernest Doggett, III., currently serves as a Firefighter, Emergency Medical Technical (EMT), and Engine 6 Interim Captain.
This is Ernie Doggett on the job, cleaning up after an early morning fire fight in the 700 Block of West State Street on July 24, 2020. You can read about the fire here: Kitchen Fire In Trenton
BORDENTOWN TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Police say that on the morning of December 7, 2022 Bordentown Township Officers responded to the Bordentown Regional School District’s school bus depot located on Dunns Mill Rd. for a report of catalytic converters that had been stolen overnight from five (5) school busses.
These items were altogether valued at $13,084 and a subsequent investigation undertaken by Det. Moloney led to criminal charges of criminal conspiracy, burglary, theft and criminal mischief being filed on January 4, 2023 against the below subjects for this incident:
Markel Davis, age – 25, Lakeshore Dr. Camden NJ 08104.
Khalil Davis, age – 23, Saunders St. Camden NJ 08105.
Catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed across the nation because these items contain several types of recyclable materials that can be scrapped for a quick profit. Our Police Department has focused a lot of attention on this crime trend and cleared nine (9) incidents of catalytic converter thefts in 2022 with arrests.
What can you do to prevent this type of theft?
* Park your car in a garage or well-lit area.
* Install security cameras in the area where you normally park.
* Adjust the alarm on your vehicle to activate from vibrations. Thieves use a saw to cut out the catalytic converter so those vibrations would activate the alarm.
*Engrave your VIN number onto your catalytic converter to make it easier to identify in case it does get stolen.
*Install a catalytic converter specific security device.
*Report suspicious activity. It only takes minutes for a thief to remove a catalytic converter.
All persons are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
File photos from the raid in North Hanover Burlington County on November 2, 2022 Catalytic Converter theft is a national problem due to the high value precious metals they contain.
STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on January 27, 2021, Jeydon Lowe, 24, of Barnegat, pled guilty to Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5, before the Honorable Linda G. Baxter, J.S.C. At the time of sentencing on March 19, 2021, the State will be recommending a term of seven years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2. Additionally, Lowe pled guilty to Driving While Intoxicated in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.
On March 25, 2020, at approximately 5:30 p.m., members of the Stafford Township Police Department responded to a single vehicle crash on Stafford Avenue near Hilliard Boulevard. An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, Stafford Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit revealed that a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt operated by Lowe was traveling eastbound on Stafford Avenue at an extremely high rate of speed. Lowe lost control of the vehicle as he was attempting to navigate a right-hand turn, and consequently crashed into a tree. A passenger in the front seat of the vehicle, Robert Parlin, 24, of Little Egg Harbor, succumbed to his injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Lowe sustained minor injuries and was taken to Hackensack Meridian Health Southern Ocean County Medical Center in Stafford Township. A search warrant was obtained for a draw of his blood. On April 14, 2020, Detectives received the laboratory results from the blood draw which indicated that Lowe had a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of nearly .12 percent. An operator of a motor vehicle is presumed to be over the legal limit for purposes of alcohol consumption where his/her BAC is .08 or greater.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligence of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Jamie Schron who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Vehicular Homicide Unit, Stafford Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation which ultimately resulted in Lowe’s guilty plea.
Jeydon Lowe, 24, of Barnegat
Jeydon Lowe, 24, of Barnegat, pled guilty to Vehicular Homicide in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:11-5, before the Honorable Linda G. Baxter, J.S.C. At the time of sentencing on March 19, 2021, the State will be recommending a term of seven years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2. Additionally, Lowe pled guilty to Driving While Intoxicated in violation of N.J.S.A. 39:4-50.
January 27, 2021
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on January 27, 2021, Elioenai Aguinaga, 32, of Lakewood, pled guilty to Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2), before the Honorable Rochelle Gizinski, J.S.C. At the time of his sentencing on March 24, 2021, the State will be seeking a term of eight years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2.
On March 26, 2020, Officers of the Lakewood Township Police Department were summoned to Taylor’s Pharmacy on Madison Avenue for a report of a robbery. Responding Officers learned that a male suspect had entered the pharmacy, brandished a semi-automatic handgun at the store clerk, and demanded money from the cash register. The suspect took approximately $130 and fled the pharmacy.
A subsequent investigation by the Lakewood Township Police Department Detective Bureau ultimately determined that Aguinaga was, in fact, the individual who committed the robbery at Taylor’s Pharmacy on March 26th. On April 25, 2020, Aguinaga was arrested by Officers from the Lakewood Township Police Department, processed at Lakewood Township Police Headquarters, and transported to the Ocean County Jail – where he has been lodged since his apprehension.
Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligence of Assistant Prosecutor Kaitlyn Burke who handled the case on behalf of the State, as well as the hard work and determination exhibited by Officers of the Lakewood Township Police Department and Detective Bureau in their investigation of this matter which ultimately resulted in Aguinaga’s guilty plea.
Elioenai Aguinaga, 32, of Lakewood
Elioenai Aguinaga, 32, of Lakewood, pled guilty to Robbery in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:15-1a(2), before the Honorable Rochelle Gizinski, J.S.C. At the time of his sentencing on March 24, 2021, the State will be seeking a term of eight years New Jersey State Prison, subject to the terms of the No Early Release Act, N.J.S.A. 2C:43-7.2.
January 27, 2021
See related MidJersey.News’ story here: Trenton Catholic Academy will close its doors in June.
By: Tyler Eckel
ironmikesfund.com is seeking help in saving TCA.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP (MERCER)– On January 8, 2021, it was announced by the Diocese of Trenton that Trenton Catholic Academy, a Pre-K through 12th grade school, will permanently shut its doors on June 30, 2021.
Trenton Catholic Academy, also known as McCorristin High School and St. Anthony’s High School, have been a cornerstone of Catholic education in the community since its establishment in 1962, with outstanding academics and athletics, a 100% graduation rate, and 100% college acceptance rate. Despite the changing of names, the school’s icon remains the Iron Mike, paying respect to Michael P. McCorristin, the man who built the school with volunteers and contractors, and made it all possible.
“It is a sad day for the Diocese of Trenton, Trenton Catholic Academy (TCA), and Hamilton Township,” said Hamilton Mayor Jeff Martin in his statement. “Whether known as Anthony’s, McCorristin, or TCA, there has always been a great partnership between the school and the Township. Hamilton is committed to helping TCA and the Diocese in the months to come. On behalf of the Township, I thank them for their nearly 60 years of providing a high quality, well-rounded education to those in our greater Hamilton community,” Martin continued.
The school has sent many of their students to top colleges and universities. Iron Mike alumni have gone on to prestigious careers and several have advanced to play professional sports. “Most importantly, the school has succeeded in meeting the hopes of the school’s late founding president St. Joseph Sister Dorothy Payne, who wanted her students to be: ‘Good kids that live good lives that make the world a better place,’” Diocese of Trenton said in a statement.
ironmikesfund.com is seeking your help to help save the school.
The group is made up of alumni, administrators, coaches, business people, and supporters.
ironmikesfund.com is available now to accept tax-deductible donations. “We are asking for your financial support, or better yet, your investment in the future of our children and our world. A united group of alumni, administrators, coaches, business professionals and supporters are currently working on a detailed plan to keep the doors open for many years to come. Please help by donating to www.ironmikesfund.com. Your gift to the Iron Mikes Fund provides the financial means to keep our school open as an independent school. This will help our students to continue to excel in academics, athletics and overall student life. Your contribution will have far reaching rewards into the future,” ironmikesfund.com told MidJersey.News.
ironmikesfund.com would like to thank donors in advance for your careful consideration and tax-deductible pledge to save their school.
Photos of TCA Campus, January 8, 2021.
January 27, 2021
Published by: Tyler Eckel
EWING TOWNSHIP (MERCER): Around 12:40 Wednesday afternoon, Ewing Police and Ewing Fire Department responded to 113 Beacon Avenue after received a call from a delivery driver reporting some coming from a house.
Officers arrived on scene to find heavy smoke coming from the residence and were quickly alerted by a neighbor that a resident was inside. From there, Officers immediately entered the house, but were driven back to do the heavy fire conditions.
While responding to the scene, a Ewing Township fire officer received the update from police and called the “All hands,” sending additional manpower, fire equipment, and additional EMS/paramedics to the scene.
Within minutes of Ewing firefighters arriving to the scene, they located a man deceased inside of the burning home. The fire was placed under control at approximately 1:03 pm.
Ewing Police detectives and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office are currently investigating the cause of the fire. The identity of the victim has not yet been determined.
Photos by Brian McCarthy, OnScene News
January 27, 2021
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The $1.25 billion Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey must pay New Jersey over the next 18 years needs to be used to reduce premiums, says Assemblyman Ron Dancer. The lawmaker recently introduced a constitutional amendment to guarantee lower health insurance costs for policyholders.
“Unless the annual assessments are constitutionally dedicated, they could be raided through the budget process to pay for unrelated things because the annual appropriations bill can override any statutory dedication of funds,” explained Dancer (R-Ocean). “We have to learn a lesson from diversions such as the use of energy bill taxes to pay for New Jersey Transit rather than true clean energy initiatives as intended. We must put the money in a constitutional lock box so that it can’t be used to balance the budget or for pet projects.”
New Jersey’s largest health insurer is required to make payments to the state, including $600 million this year, as part of legislation Gov. Phil Murphy recently signed allowing Horizon to transition from a not-for-profit business entity to a not-for-profit mutual holding company.
“Nearly half of the money happens to arrive in an election year,” said Dancer. “The $600 million can certainly make for a more electorate-pleasing budget, especially when there is less revenue due to Covid and business restrictions. The public will only be made more cynical about government priorities if we blow this windfall on new spending instead of dedicating it to help the 3.6 million Horizon members who paid it in the first place.”
If Dancer’s proposed constitutional amendment (ACR207) is advanced by the Legislature, voters would need to approve it during the following election.
“Neither this year’s payment nor the 17 following assessments are dedicated to any specific use whatsoever,” said Dancer. “We should be lowering the costs of health insurance for Horizon’s policyholders, not letting the state cash a check worth $1.25 billion dollars that it can spend at a whim.”
Dancer’s resolution has been referred to the Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Governor Phil Murphy released a statement this morning about the death of the United States Capital Police Officer who is a NJ native from South River. Officer Brian D. Sicknick was responding to the riots on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol and was injured while physically engaging with protesters. He returned to his division office and collapsed. He was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Sicknick was a graduate from Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools. He was also a Staff Sergeant with the NJ Air National Guard where he was a fire team member at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and served in Operation Southern Watch and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Statement from Governor Phil Murphy:
“United States Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick embodied the selfless spirit of his native state.
Officer Sicknick was a product of South River and a graduate of the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools. Before joining the Capitol Police, he was Staff Sergeant Sicknick with the New Jersey Air National Guard. He was a Fire Team Member and Leader with the 108th Security Force Squadron, 108th Wing, at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, and his six years of service included overseas deployments in support of Operation Southern Watch and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Tammy and I send our deepest condolences to Officer Sicknick’s family and friends, as well as to his United States Capitol Police colleagues and the Guardsmen and Guardswomen he served alongside. We thank him for his service to our nation.
Officer Sicknick gave his life protecting the United States Capitol, and by extension, our very democracy, from violent insurrection. His needless murder at the hands of a mob bent on overthrowing the Constitution he had dedicated his life to upholding is shocking. It is my fervent hope that the rioters whose actions directly contributed to his death are quickly identified and brought to justice.”
January 7, 2021 Official United States Capital Police Press Release:
At approximately 9:30 p.m. this evening (January 7, 2021), United States Capitol Police Officer Brian D. Sicknick passed away due to injuries sustained while on-duty.
Officer Sicknick was responding to the riots on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol and was injured while physically engaging with protesters. He returned to his division office and collapsed. He was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The death of Officer Sicknick will be investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch, the USCP, and our federal partners.
Officer Sicknick joined the USCP in July 2008, and most recently served in the Department’s First Responder’s Unit.
The entire USCP Department expresses its deepest sympathies to Officer Sicknick’s family and friends on their loss, and mourns the loss of a friend and colleague.
We ask that Officer Sicknick’s family, and other USCP officers’ and their families’ privacy be respected during this time.
Sean Higgins, 31
Jeydon Lowe, 24, of Barnegat
Elioenai Aguinaga, 32, of Lakewood
Photos by Brian McCarthy, OnScene News
