November 2023

As a result of this conduct, Raja evaded $543,815 in personal income taxes for tax years 2016, 2017, and 2018.

November 27, 2023

TRENTON, N.J. – A New York, man, formerly from Manalapan, NJ, today admitted evading personal income taxes for the tax years 2016 through 2018, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Khuram Raja, 37, of Locust Valley, New York, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi in Trenton federal court to an information charging him with one count of tax evasion.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

During tax years 2016, 2017, and 2018, Raja owned and operated a company that provided construction and building services in Manalapan, NJ. Raja earned income from the company and filed business tax returns for the company for tax years 2016 and 2017 that materially understated the company’s income. Raja failed to report certain taxable income that the company received in cash and checks cashed at check-cashing facilities, and deducted expenses from the company’s reported income that included certain personal expenses that were not, in fact, expenses of the company. Raja failed to file business tax returns for tax year 2018 by the applicable deadline. Raja did not file personal income tax returns for tax years 2016, 2017, and 2018 by the applicable deadlines, and failed to report the income from the company that would have flowed through to his personal income tax returns. As a result of this conduct, Raja evaded $543,815 in personal income taxes for tax years 2016, 2017, and 2018.

The charge of tax evasion carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, or twice the gross pecuniary gain or loss, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for April 16, 2024.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of IRS – Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine M. Romano of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Health Care Fraud in Newark.

23-348

Defense counsel: Ernesto Cerimele Esq., Morristown, New Jersey

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

July 15, 2021

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Prosecutors Office stated that the Mercer County Homicide Task Force, the Mercer County Shooting Response Team and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a shooting that occurred at approximately 8:40 p.m. on July 14, 2021, in Trenton.  Officers responded to the area of 43 N. Stockton Street and located Pablo Herrera Chun, 53, suffering from two gunshot wounds.  He was transported to Capital Health System-Fuld and pronounced deceased at 10:22 p.m. 

The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Karl Johnston at the Mercer County Homicide Task Force at (609) 989-6406.  Information can also be emailed to [email protected].

Names of 2021* homicide victims: (this may need to be adjusted)**

1. 2/18/2021 Jabree Saunders, 26, from shooting on May 14, 2018
2. 2/22/2021 Khalil Gibbs, 25, of West Windsor, shooting
3. 2/25/2021 Lovelle Laramore, 60, of Trenton shooting
4. 4/15/2021 Kaheem Carter, 22, of Trenton, shooting
5. 4/20/2021 Shaquan McNeil, 25, of Trenton, shooting
6. 4/24/2021 Cheryl Jones, 65, of Trenton, shooting
7. 4/29/2021 Ramire Harvey, 25, of Trenton, shooting
8. 5/15/2021 David Williams 36, of Trenton, shooting
9. 5/29/2021 Edgar Geovani Sis-Luis, 34, of Trenton, aggravated manslaughter
10. 7/05/2021 Dion Ellis, 16, Trenton, Shooting
11. 7/14/2021 Pablo Herrera Chun, 53, Trenton, Shooting

*Updated to reflect the person who died in 2021 from the May 14, 2018 shooting.

Earlier MidJersey.News stories on last night’s shooting:

UPDATE: Fatal Shooting; Trenton, N. Stockton Street Last Night

Last night’s MidJersey.News story here: BREAKING: Man Shot On N. Stockton Street In Trenton, Taken To Trauma Center

There have been multiple shootings on N. Stockton Street that MidJersey.News has covered you can see other N. Stockton shootings here:

The shootings we covered in 2021 on N. Stockton St. prior to last night was on May 16, 2021:

Fatal Shooting With Vehicle Crash Leaves 36 Year Old Man Dead, Woman Injured

5/16/2021 UPDATE: Victim Identified In Last Night’s Fatal Shooting

5/21/2021 UPDATE: Trenton Man Arrested for Saturday Murder of David Williams

March 9, 2021 shooting here:

BREAKING: Shooting In Trenton Person Transported By Private Vehicle To Trauma Center

March 10th Update: 32 Year Old Shot In Last Night’s Gunfire, Treated For Non-life Threatening Injuries At Capital Health Trauma Center

Photos and video by: Dennis Symons MidJersey.News and  Brian McCarthy, OnScene News

Arrest Made In Ewing Wawa Shooting Incident

January 15, 2023

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township Police reported that on Sunday, January 15, 2023, at 3:26 a.m., Ewing Township Police Officers responded to the Wawa at 1300 Silvia Street on the report of a shooting. When Officers arrived, it was determined that an argument ensued between 3 or 4 Wawa patrons that arrived separately. Wawa employees intervened and asked that parties involved to exit the store. One male party exited the store, however, he returned after a short time. When the male reentered the store, one of the parties that remained in the store fired a weapon in his direction. The male that was reentering the store then returned fire. It is not believed that anyone was struck by gunfire. Police believe that there is any reason to believe that there is any active threat to the community.

The incident is currently under investigation by Ewing Township Police Department Detective Justin Ubry. If anyone has any information that may assist with the investigation, please contact Detective Urby at 609-882-1313 x 7590 or by email [email protected] You may also contact the Ewing Police Tipline at 609-882-7530 or email [email protected] Police say that the tip line should not be used to report crimes in progress or emergencies that require immediate response.

November 25, 2023

EWING TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)—Ewing Township Police reported that on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 4:54 p.m., Ewing Police Officer Austin Woolverton came upon a serious motor vehicle crash involving two vehicles, one of which was a motorcycle, in the area of Parkway Avenue at Walter Street. The driver of the motorcycle was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team responded to assist with the investigation. Parkway Avenue was shut down between Lower Ferry Road and Scotch Road. The investigation into the crash is active and ongoing. Anyone with information concerning the crash is asked to contact Officer Abdelbasset Jibbou at (609) 882-1313. No additional information is available at this time.

December 3, 2021

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Around 1:10 a.m. the Trenton Fire Department was dispatched to 517 Centre Street for a house fire. Arriving firefighters found fire though the roof on arrival and called for and “all hands” fire around 1:13 a.m. Within 10 minutes a 2nd Alarm was called sending more apparatus to the scene. The fire was reported under control around 2:00 a.m.

The initial dispatch sent Engine 3, 7, 10, Ladder 2, Rescue 1 and South Battalion to the fire. The all hands send Engine 1, Ladder 4, Special Services 1, and North Battalion Chief to the scene. The Second Alarm added Engine 6 and Engine 9 as Engine 8 and Ladder 1 relocated to Fire Headquarters. Signal 22 was called to the scene for support. Mutual aid fire departments responded to cover the city were Ewing, Lawrence, and Hamilton. (note we do not have access to the County or City CAD this is our best guess)

The fire was believed to be in previously burned buildings 513 though 515 Centre Street and burned an occupied building 517 Center Street since the Red Cross was called to temporarily relocate the displaced resident. There was a fire involving buildings multiple times and most recently on July 27, 2021.

The property could not be found on the City’s Blight Reduction Demolition List or auction list located here:

https://trentondemolition.com/

Government Surplus Real Estate Auction by Order of the City of Trenton, NJ

If you live near an abandoned home that is a danger report it here:

Abandoned Homes Reporting Form FOR CITIZENS TO REPORT HOMES THAT ARE IMMINENT DANGERS OR NUISANCES

July 27, 2021 MidJersey.News article on fire at same location:

Trenton Firefighters Save Row Of 5 Attached Homes

July 27, 2021 MidJersey.News photos fire at same location: July 27, 2021 MidJersey.News photos fire at same location File photos

October 31, 2023

Newark, N.J. – U.S. Customs Supervisor Jacqueline Montanaro, a Hazlet resident who died while trying to rescue her daughter from a housefire, will be one of 12 fallen police officers honored at the Archdiocese of Newark’s 30th Annual Blue Mass this Thursday, Nov. 2, at 10 a.m. in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, will preside over the Mass, which honors the dedication and sacrifices of New Jersey law enforcement personnel. Police and fire officials of all faiths representing federal, state, county, and municipal departments and agencies will attend the liturgy. They will be joined by the families of the deceased being recognized as well as multiple police honor guard units, bagpipers, and drummers. High-ranking public officials will also be present to show their support.

Aside from Montanaro, this year’s Blue Mass will pay tribute to five other officers who died in the line of duty: Bayonne Police Captain Paul Jamolawicz, Port Authority Police Officer Anthony Varvaro, Deptford Township Police Officer Robert Shisler, Timothy Sullivan of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, and New Jersey State Police Lieutenant Gerald Barbato.

The following officers also will be remembered: Bayonne Sergeant Robert Skalski, Newark Captain Richard Weber, Officer Brendan Burke of the New Jersey Transit Police, Lieutenant Walter A. Imbert of the Orange Police Department, Timothy O’Hare of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office, and Detective Alex Melendez of the New Jersey Transit Police.

Additionally, the Blue Mass will honor Newark firefighters Augusto Acabou and Wayne Brookes following their deaths earlier this year.

A luncheon sponsored by law enforcement will be held at the Branch Brook Park Roller Rink in Newark following the Mass. Tickets may be purchased at the door or by contacting Vincent Nardone and William Schievella at 1-800-427-7651 or [email protected].

About the Archdiocese of Newark  

The Archdiocese of Newark serves 1.3 million Catholics throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, and Union counties. The Archdiocese has 212 parishes, 73 Catholic schools, and many missions and ministries. Hundreds of Masses are celebrated in more than a dozen languages each week. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., the sixth archbishop of Newark, leads the Archdiocese with four auxiliary bishops. Together, they serve the northern New Jersey community through faith, education, and social services. For more information, visit www.rcan.org. 

Police and clergy process out of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark following the 2021 Blue Mass. (Photo courtesy of the Archdiocese of Newark)

Police from throughout New Jersey process into Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart for the Archdiocese of Newark’s 29th Annual Blue Mass on November 3, 2022. (Photo by Archdiocese of Newark/Joe Jordan)

Police officers prayed for more than 70 law enforcement personnel who were killed in the line of duty, died of COVID-19, were killed on 9/11, or who died in retirement during the Archdiocese of Newark’s 28th Annual Blue Mass inside Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on November 4, 2021.

Law enforcement personnel representing federal, state, county, and municipal departments and agencies will pray for fallen officers during the 29th Annual Blue Mass in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Thursday, Nov. 3, at 10 a.m. (Photo by Archdiocese of Newark/Julio Eduardo Herrera)

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin watches as police officers display the flags of the United States, the Vatican, and numerous law enforcement agencies during the Archdiocese of Newark’s 28th Annual Blue Mass at Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on November 4, 2021.

December 17, 2021

FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH) – A 43-year-old man has been found guilty of stalking a then-14-year-old girl in Hazlet several years ago, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced Friday. 

Shyam Gurung, formerly of Jersey City, was convicted by a Monmouth County Jury of fourth-degree Stalking earlier this week, following deliberations taking place over two days and a weeklong trial.

A May 2017 investigation led by the Hazlet Police Department revealed that Gurung, who was working as an Uber and Lyft driver at the time, drove his black Infiniti sedan to the area of the Hazlet Middle School on multiple occasions in order to see the victim. 

On one such occasion, Gurung approached the child as she walked home from school and told her that she was “pretty,” indicating that he followed her every day. Less than a week later, Gurung was observed waiting across the street from the school as the victim began walking home. He was arrested shortly thereafter.

Gurung is scheduled to be sentenced by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Vincent Falcetano on Friday, February 25, 2022.

Convictions on fourth-degree crimes are punishable by terms ranging from probation to 18 months in state prison. The case was handled by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Cummings of the Special Victims Bureau. Gurung was represented by Darren Gelber, Esq., with an office in Woodbridge.  

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

In the MidJersey.News coverage area:

The Police Chaplain of the Year: Pastor John R. Taylor of Friendship Baptist Church in Trenton, who is Chief Chaplain of the New Jersey State Police.

The Outstanding Youth Engagement Award: Patrolwoman Charleigh Logothetis of the Hazlet Township Police Department.

December 17, 2021

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)—Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck today announced the winners of this year’s Excellence in Policing Awards during a virtual ceremony that highlighted the tremendous service displayed by New Jersey’s law enforcement agencies, officers, and professionals.

For video of the event: https://youtu.be/smKt517ko0Q

Now in their second year, the annual Excellence in Policing Awards reflect the comprehensive package of policy initiatives advanced by the Attorney General’s Office, designed to encourage and reinforce the Garden State’s commitment to building a national model for strengthening trust between law enforcement officers and the communities they serve.

“Today we honor these officers, professionals, and departments, who, through their exemplary service and innovation, have stood out as representing the best of New Jersey’s law enforcement,” said Acting Attorney General Bruck. “I’m honored to present these awards to dedicated public servants who are committed to keeping our residents safe, promoting resiliency among our officer ranks, and building greater trust between law enforcement and the public.”

The following Excellence in Policing Awards were awarded today:

The Detective Joseph Seals Valor Award honors a police officer or officers who demonstrated an act of extraordinary bravery or heroism in the line of duty. The award honors Detective Joseph Seals, a 13-year veteran of the Jersey City Police Department, who lost his life in the line of duty in December 2019. Detective Seals’ actions in December 2019 likely saved the lives of many others. Detective Seals was not a stranger to heroism; in 2008, he broke through a window and stopped the rape of a 41-year-old woman on Christmas Eve. This year the Detective Joseph Seals Valor Award is presented to the Borough of Carteret Police Department. On July 23, 2021, nine officers— Lt. John Kelly, Detective Louis Maldonado, Detective Raul Martinez, Detective Anthony Ramos, Detective Eric Guzman, Detective Justin Craig, Officer Michael Kelly, Officer Javier Borrero, and Officer Derrick Clavijo—responded to a fire at Bristol Station Apartments, and directed and safely evacuated all occupants out of fire-engulfed Building #4, and then helped evacuate occupants out of nearby Building #6. The officers then remained at the scene to assist the Fire Department.

The Detective Pablo Santiago Resiliency Award honors a law enforcement officer who developed an innovative program or initiative to improve officer safety and wellness. It is named for Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Detective Pablo Santiago, who lost his life to suicide in December 2018. Detective Santiago’s untimely death was the inspiration for the Attorney General’s Statewide Law Enforcement Resiliency Program. The Detective Pablo Santiago Resiliency Award is presented to Lt. William Walsh of the Voorhees Township Police Department and the Multi-Agency Police Peer Support (MAPPS) team. Lt. Walsh spearheaded the program in 2020 in collaboration with the Voorhees, Cherry Hill, and Gloucester Township police departments to bridge the needs of officers recovering from work-related traumatic events, and to create an environment accepting of those seeking assistance. Officers or civilian staff from the three departments may reach out to peer officers for support.

The Attorney General’s Community Outreach Award honors a county prosecutor’s office or police department that exhibited outstanding community outreach efforts. This year the Attorney General’s Community Outreach Award is presented to the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office. In September 2020, BCPO partnered with Bergen County law enforcement and the Bergen County Sherriff’s Office to create the Community Engagement Task Force (CETF) to address residents’ needs and build stronger relationships between law and enforcement and the community. For example, during the pandemic, CETF partnered with local groups to deliver food to vulnerable residents over a seven-month period, and helped local seniors to avoid scams.

The Outstanding Community Partnership Award honors a county prosecutor’s office or police department that has implemented or strengthened a community partnership or collaboration with community stakeholders to advance public safety. This year, the Outstanding Community Partnership Award is presented to the West Orange Police Department, who partnered with the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris to create a co-responder model where trained clinicians respond with police on mental health crisis calls. This community-related response facilitates treatment for those who need it, while reducing involvement in the criminal justice system.

The Police Chaplain of the Year honors an exceptional chaplain who goes above and beyond the normal duties of a police chaplain to serve the needs of the department and community. This year the Police Chaplain of the Year is Pastor John R. Taylor of Friendship Baptist Church in Trenton, who is Chief Chaplain of the New Jersey State Police. Pastor Taylor is responsible for overseeing 20 police chaplains of various denominations, is an integral contributor to the statewide dialogue on police-community relations, is a long-time law enforcement trainer, and has been instrumental in advancing community policing in tandem with NJSP and other law enforcement agencies throughout the State.

The Outstanding Youth Engagement Award honors a law enforcement officer who designed and implemented an innovative program or initiative to promote stronger police-youth engagement. The Outstanding Youth Engagement Award is presented to Patrolwoman Charleigh Logothetis of the Hazlet Township Police Department. In October 2021, Officer Logothetis pioneered the HTPD’s Inaugural Special Needs Open House, an impactful program designed to build a positive foundation with the community, especially concentrating on youth with special needs, while collaborating with local and statewide programs and organizations.

December 3, 2021

TRENTON, N.J. – A Monroe County, Pennsylvania man was sentenced today to 200 months in prison for his role in distributing large quantities of heroin and cocaine in the Bayshore area of Monmouth and Middlesex counties, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig announced today.

Guy Jackson, 49, of Effort, Pennsylvania, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Trenton federal court to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. Jackson also admitted to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine. Judge Martinotti imposed the sentence today via videoconference.

Today’s sentence follows a coordinated takedown in November 2018 of 15 defendants charged in a federal criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine. To date, 13 defendants have pleaded guilty. Supplier Gregory Gillens was sentenced on Sept. 8, 2020, to 10 years in prison. Co-defendant Daniel McHugh was sentenced to 90 months in prison; co-defendant David Nagy was sentenced to one year and one day in prison; co-defendant Shavar Williams was sentenced to time served, which amounted to approximately 14 months in prison; co-defendant Daryl Jackson was sentenced to five years’ probation with 10 months of home detention; and co-defendant Brian Hall was sentenced to three years’ probation with eight months of home detention. Co-defendants Krystal Cordoba, Daniel Alfano, Tyler Scarangello, Christy Dube, Richard Gethers, and Lashawn Mealing are awaiting sentencing. Defendant Deberal Rogers has been indicted, and charges were dismissed against one defendant.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From May 2017 to November 2018, Jackson and others engaged in a narcotics conspiracy that operated in the Raritan Bayshore region of Middlesex and northern Monmouth counties. Through the interception of telephone calls and text messages pursuant to court-authorized wiretap orders, controlled purchases of heroin and cocaine, the use of confidential sources of information, and other investigative techniques, law enforcement learned that Jackson regularly supplied large quantities of heroin and cocaine for further distribution. Some of the heroin distributed by the conspiracy contained fentanyl, a dangerous synthetic opioid.

In addition to the prison terms, Judge Martinotti sentenced Jackson to five years of supervised release. Four vehicles that Jackson used in the course of the drug conspiracy, as well as in excess of $10,000 in cash that Jackson admitted was proceeds of drug trafficking, were previously seized and administratively forfeited.

Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI, Newark Division, Red Bank Resident Agency, Jersey Shore Gang and Criminal Organization Task Force (including representatives from the Bradley Beach Police Department, Brick Police Department, Howell Police Department, Marlboro Police Department, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Toms River Police Department, and Union Beach Police Department) under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch, Jr.; special agents of the FBI, Philadelphia Division, Scranton Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jacqueline Maguire; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the Matawan Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas J. Falco, Jr.; the Holmdel Police Department, under the direction of Chief John Mioduszewski; the Highlands Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Burton; the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey; the Old Bridge Police Department, under the direction of Chief William A. Volkert; the Keansburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief Wayne Davis; the Hazlet Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ted A. Wittke; and the Aberdeen Police Department, under the direction of Chief Alan Geyer, with the investigation leading to this week’s sentencings.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elisa T. Wiygul of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.

The charges and allegations against the remaining defendant are merely accusations, and she is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

21-555

Defense counsel: Lorraine Gauli-Rufo Esq., Verona, New Jersey

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

December 2, 2021

FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A Monmouth County grand jury this week returned indictments against two defendants charged with crimes involving distribution and/or possession of child sexual abuse materials, bringing the total number of indictments of this kind over approximately the last month to eight, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Lori Linskey announced Thursday.

Two of the eight defendants have been charged with first-degree crimes, the most serious applicable offenses under state law.

Indicted on Tuesday were:

• Jonathan W. Cruz, 38, of Aberdeen, arrested January 2020 and indicted on charges of first-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials using a File-Sharing Program Available to Others and first-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials; and
• Neil Ridgway, 58, of Howell, arrested April 2019 and indicted on charges of third-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials.

Indicted earlier this fall were:

• Michael Pipitone, 39, of Middletown, arrested in September 2020 and indicted on charges of first-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials using a File-Sharing Program Available to Others and second-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials;
• Charles Hoagland, 57, of Hazlet, arrested in November 2020 and indicted on three counts of second-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and one count of second-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials;
• David Eidman, 53, of Long Branch, arrested in November 2020 and indicted on two counts of second-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and single counts of third-degree Endangering via Possession and third-degree Attempted Endangering;
• Carl Aliwalas, 29, of Neptune Township, arrested in May 2021 and indicted for second-degree Endangering via Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials and second-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials; and
• John Coluzzi, 33, of Manalapan, arrested in May 2021; and Marvin Diaz, 35, of Howell, arrested in November 2019; both were indicted for second-degree Endangering via Distribution and third-degree Endangering via Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials.  

Additionally, earlier this fall, 40-year-old Kenneth Megill of Wall Township, arrested in January 2020, was indicted on charges of third-degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child and third-degree Attempted Obscenity to a Minor for allegedly engaging in inappropriate conversations with and attempting to show inappropriate materials to a juvenile.

Investigations into the actions of these defendants were conducted by members of the Prosecutor’s Office’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, working in tandem with representatives of local police departments in the jurisdictions in which the crimes took place. The cases are assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Stephanie Dugan.

The Monmouth County ICAC Task Force includes members of the following police departments: Bradley Beach, Eatontown, Howell, Long Branch, Manalapan, Marlboro, Middletown, Neptune Township, Spring Lake, Spring Lake Heights, Tinton Falls, Keyport, Keansburg, Belmar, Holmdel, and Red Bank; the Task Force also receives investigative support from the New Jersey State Police (High Tech Crime Bureau).

Convictions on first-degree criminal charges are commonly punishable by terms of 10 to 20 years in state prison. Second-degree convictions can result in terms of 5 to 10 years; third-degree convictions can result in terms of 3 to 5 years.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

July 7, 2021

KEYPORT – HAZLET, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Hazlet Police Chief Ted Wittke announced that the subject we have been looking for all day (July 6, 2021) was just taken into custody by Hazlet Police. Numerous officers from multiple jurisdictions including Keyport, Union Beach, Middletown, Matawan, Monmouth County Sheriffs Office and the New Jersey State Police spent the last 7 hours conducting an exhaustive search in the area between Shorelands Cemetery and Airport Plaza. Officers on foot were supplemented by (3) Police K9s, drones, and helicopter.

At 7:21 p.m. we received a call that a subject matching that description was seen behind St. John’s Church. As officers flooded the scene Deputy Chief Robert Mulligan spotted him and took him into custody with the assistance of Sgt. Robert Dickens and Ptl. Megan Quinn.

We are thankful for all of the support we received from our Bayshore, County and State partners today. We are also thankful that we were able to take this potentially dangerous person off the street.

Keyport Police reported the incident earlier yesterday that they looking for a white male wearing a red hat in his 51years old gray /white hair armed with a knife wanted for questioning for aggravated assault at the Stop n Shop.

Restaurant to Bring Approximately 100 Full- and Part-Time Jobs to Community

March 23, 2021

HAZLET, NJ (MONM0OUTH)–Chick-fil-A Hazlet, located in Monmouth County, on the boarder of Hazlet and Holmdel, is slated to open for business on Thursday, April 1. Chick-fil-A^®, Inc. has selected Brandon Jones as the independent franchised Owner/Operator of this new Chick-fil-A restaurant in Hazlet. Jones will be responsible for all day-to-day activities of the business, including employing approximately 100 full- and part-time Team Members, cultivating relationships with local organizations and neighboring businesses, and serving Guests. Chick-fil-A Hazlet is located at 2819 State Route 35 and will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

At Chick-fil-A, safe service is our first priority. New Chick-fil-A restaurants will take additional time to review operations and make sure appropriate precautions are in place before opening their dining rooms, to ensure the safety of Guests and Team Members. Currently, Chick-fil-A Hazlet will open via drive-thru only. Guests can take advantage of contactless ordering and payment through the Chick-fil-A mobile app. To learn more about Chick-fil-A’s response to the coronavirus, please visit our safe service page.

In place of the traditional Chick-fil-A First 100^® Grand Opening celebration, Chick-fil-A Hazlet will be surprising 100 local heroes making an impact in Monmouth County with free Chick-fil-A for a year. Additionally, in honor of the new restaurant opening, Chick-fil-A will donate $25,000 to Feeding America. The funds will be distributed to partners within the greater Hazlet area to aid in the fight against hunger.

Locally Owned and Operated

Born and raised in Monmouth County, Brandon Jones has been determined to bring a Chick-fil-A restaurant to his community. So much so, that he began the process of becoming an Operator more than 10 years ago, holding off on moving into this role until there was an opportunity in Monmouth County. Prior to joining Chick-fil-A, Jones held a number of sales and marketing positions at industry-leading organizations, such as ZOLL Medical Corporation and Hologic Inc.

“Becoming an Operator in Monmouth County is a dream that has been a decade in the making and I couldn’t be more thrilled to finally see it come to life,” said Jones. “I look forward to making this restaurant a cornerstone of the community, creating a place that delivers great food with excellent service and provides personal and professional growth opportunities for Team Members.”

• Brandon Jones

“Becoming an Operator in Monmouth County is a dream that has been a decade in the making and I couldn’t be more thrilled to finally see it come to life,” said Jones. “I look forward to making this restaurant a cornerstone of the community, creating a place that delivers great food with excellent service and provides personal and professional growth opportunities for Team Members.”

Team Member Investment

Chick-fil-A franchised Operators are committed to hiring, developing and retaining top talent, and providing a great work environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. They also offer their Team Members opportunities for flexible work hours and leadership growth, competitive pay and benefits, hands-on training and mentoring, and the chance to apply for scholarships to support their continuing education. As with all Chick-fil-A restaurants, Team Members are guaranteed Sundays off.

Quality Ingredients; Delicious Food

Chick-fil-A focuses on serving customers great-tasting food made with high quality ingredients. The produce we use in our recipes – from whole lemons and chopped apples, to fresh romaine lettuce and tomatoes – is delivered to our restaurants up to six times a week. Chick-fil-A Lemonade is made from three simple ingredients: lemon juice, sugar and water. All U.S. Chick-fil-A restaurants now serve chicken raised with No Antibiotics Ever, starting from the egg. By not allowing antibiotics of any kind, Chick-fil-A chicken meets the highest commitment for non-antibiotic use. For more information about the Chick-fil-A No Antibiotics Ever commitment, visit www.chick-fil-a.com/no-antibiotics-ever.

Commitment to Customer Service

With a longstanding tradition in the restaurant industry for setting high standards in customer service, Chick-fil-A earned recognition for providing the “best fast food customer service in America” according to America’s Best Customer Service 2020 report by Newsweek, among other honors. 

            For more information about Chick-fil-A and stories about the Brand’s food, people and customers across the country, visit chick-fil-a.com. For the latest news and updates on Chick-fil-A Hazlet, visit the Chick-fil-A Hazlet Facebook page.

About Chick-fil-A, Inc.

Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. is a family owned and privately held restaurant company founded in 1967 by S. Truett Cathy. Devoted to serving the local communities in which its franchised restaurants operate, and known for its Original Chick-fil-A^® Chicken Sandwich, Chick-fil-A serves freshly prepared food in more than 2,600 restaurants in 47 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada.

A leader in customer service satisfaction, Chick-fil-A was named top fast food restaurant in Newsweek’s 2019 America’s Best Customer Service report and received several honors in QSR’s 2019 Reader’s Choice Awards, including “The Most Respected Quick-Service Brand” and “Best Brand for Overall Experience”.  Additionally, Glassdoor named Chick-fil-A one of the top 100 best places to work in 2020. More information on Chick-fil-A is available at www.chick-fil-a.com.

October 8, 2020

Visit: https://www.monmouthcountyvotes.com/ for the latest voting information in Monmouth County

FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–As you may be aware, this year’s November General Election in New Jersey is being conducted primarily by mail-in ballots, per State mandate. On November 3, 2020, Election Day, limited polling locations will be open for voting on paper provisional ballots only, except for disabled voters. 

Voters across Monmouth County are receiving their mail-in ballots this week and are encouraged to contact the County Clerk’s Election Office at 732-431-7790, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with any questions about the delivery of their ballots. 

Due to this unprecedented change in our election process, Monmouth County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon has provided a comprehensive webpage on MonmouthCountyVotes.com, explaining this year’s election process.

In addition, our office has provided video tutorials, including an animated step-by-step video informing Monmouth County voters of how to properly complete and return their mail-in ballots. The tutorial also explains how the paper ballots are reviewed and verified by the Monmouth County Board of Elections.

The video can be viewed on our Facebook and YouTube pages. We encourage you to share this important information with your friends and neighbors.

Election Hotline Established to Secure Election Integrity

To help ensure free and fair elections in Monmouth County, the County Election Offices and Prosecutor’s Office have established an election hotline. To report any issues of voter fraud or misconduct in Monmouth County, residents can call the County Prosecutor’s Office hotline at 855-786-5878.

“Our democratic system of government depends on free and fair elections and, as such, election integrity and security is important to all of us,” said County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni and County Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon. “For these reasons, our offices are working together to further safeguard the electoral process.”

• Monday, October 12th: All County Offices closed in observance of Columbus Day
• Tuesday, October 13th: Voter Registration Deadline for the November General Election
• Friday, October 30th: Application Deadline for General Election Mail-In Ballots by Electronic Means for Qualified Overseas Civilian and Military Voters 
• Tuesday, November 3rd: General Election Day!
• Tuesday, November 3rd at 8 p.m.: Close of the polls; Deadline to deliver mail-in ballot by U.S. Postal Service mail, Drop Box, or in-person to the County Board of Elections at 300 Halls Mill Road in Freehold or at assigned Polling Place.

Monmouth County Secure Ballot Dropbox Locations:

September 22, 2020

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–An Allentown resident told MidJersey.News that around 11 pm last night a delivery crew installed a Vote-By-Mail Drop Box in front of Allentown at Borough Hall on Main Street. There are currently 17 Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County, this is the furthest west serving Western Monmouth County.

A current list of Vote-By-Mail Drop Box locations for Monmouth County can be found here.

Pursuant to State law, the November 3, 2020 General Election will be conducted primarily by Mail-In Ballot in New Jersey.

If you wish to place your Mail-In Ballot in a secure drop box, below are the locations throughout the County which will be available starting the week of September 15. Addresses in the list below are clickable and will bring up Google Maps.

Voters can drop their voted Mail-In Ballot into these Board of Elections Drop Boxes anywhere in the County up until 8 p.m. on November 3, 2020. You do not have to be a resident of the town where the drop box is located. Be advised that these drop boxes are under video surveillance and are monitored by the Monmouth County Board of Elections, which can be reached at 732-431-7802.

For more information about the General Election process, click here.

Allentown Borough Hall Vote-By-Mail Drop Box arrived at 11 pm last night.

September 22, 2020

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–A Middlesex County, New Jersey, man today admitted that he conspired to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin as part of a conspiracy responsible for distributing significant quantities of heroin and cocaine in the Bayshore area of Monmouth and Middlesex counties, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.

Daniel McHugh, 50, of Sayreville, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti via videoconference to an information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. McHugh also admitted to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine and possessing with intent to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine.

Today’s guilty plea follows a coordinated takedown in November 2018 of 15 defendants charged by complaint with conspiracy to distribute heroin and cocaine. To date, 13 defendants have pleaded guilty, including supplier Gregory Gillens and lead defendant Guy Jackson. Gillens was sentenced on Sept. 8, 2020, to 10 years in prison. Jackson is awaiting sentencing.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From May 2017 to November 2018, McHugh and others engaged in a narcotics conspiracy that operated in the Raritan Bayshore region of Middlesex and northern Monmouth counties. Through the interception of telephone calls and text messages pursuant to court-authorized wiretap orders, controlled purchases of heroin and cocaine, the use of confidential sources of information, and other investigative techniques, law enforcement learned that McHugh regularly obtained heroin and cocaine for further distribution from Jackson. Some of the heroin distributed by the conspiracy contained fentanyl, a dangerous synthetic opioid.

On the date of his arrest, McHugh gave consent to search his residence. During that search, law enforcement recovered quantities of heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine intended for further distribution.

The heroin conspiracy count to which McHugh pleaded guilty carries a statutory mandatory minimum term of five years in prison, a maximum of 40 years in prison, and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 20, 2021.

U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited Special Agents of the FBI, Newark Division, Red Bank Resident Agency, Jersey Shore Gang and Criminal Organization Task Force (including representatives from the Bradley Beach Police Department, Brick Police Department, Howell Police Department, Marlboro Police Department, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Toms River Police Department, and Union Beach Police Department) under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr.; Special Agents of the FBI, Philadelphia Division, Scranton Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Driscoll; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent; the Matawan Police Department, under the direction of Chief Thomas J. Falco, Jr.; the Holmdel Police Department, under the direction of Chief John Mioduszewski; the Highlands Police Department, under the direction of Chief Robert Burton; the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni; the Old Bridge Police Department, under the direction of Chief William A. Volkert; the Keansburg Police Department, under the direction of Chief James K. Pigott; the Hazlet Police Department, under the direction of Chief Philip Meehan; and the Aberdeen Police Department, under the direction of Chief Richard A. Derechailo, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elisa T. Wiygul of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.

The charges and allegations against the two remaining defendants are merely accusations and they are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

20-308 

Defense counsel: James R. Murphy Esq., Princeton, New Jersey

• Brandenberger.Information.pdf

Driver was Using Cellular Phone When Fatal Crash Occurred

August 21, 2020

FREEHOLD, NJ (MONMOUTH)–A Monmouth County judge sentenced a 51-year-old Keansburg woman to 5 years in prison in connection with the 2016 collision which took the life of 39-year-old Yuwen Wang on Laurel Avenue in Hazlet Township, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Alexandra Mansonet, 51, of Keansburg, was sentenced to 5 years in a New Jersey state prison by the Honorable Judge David F. Bauman on Friday, August 21, 2020. Mansonet’ s sentence is also subject to the provisions of the No Early Release Act (NERA) requiring her to serve 85 percent of the sentence imposed before becoming eligible for release on parole.  She will also be on parole for a period of three years once released. The trial jury returned a guilty verdict for second degree Vehicular Homicide following a three-week trial on November 22, 2019.

Evidence presented at the trial revealed that Mansonet was texting while driving at the time of the fatal crash.

The charges stem from a collision which occurred at approximately 8:20 a.m. on Sept. 28, 2016 at the intersection of Laurel Avenue and Sixth Street in Hazlet.  The initial collision involved a 2000 Mercedes Benz, operated by Mansonet and a 2011 Toyota Corolla, operated by Robert Matich of Keansburg.  Matich’s son was a passenger in the vehicle.  Matich’s vehicle was proceeding south on Laurel Avenue approaching the intersection with Sixth Street when he observed pedestrians looking to cross Laurel Avenue at the marked crosswalk.  In compliance with motor vehicle law that requires a driver to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk, Matich slowed his vehicle a significant distance prior to the intersection to allow the pedestrians to cross.  As Matich brought his vehicle to a controlled stop, Mansonet’s vehicle collided with the rear of his vehicle, which was propelled forward, striking the victim.

Wang was transported by helicopter to Robert Wood Johnson University Medical Center’s Trauma Unit in New Brunswick, where she died on Oct. 3, 2016.

An investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Serious Collision Analysis Response Team (SCART) and Hazlet Township Police Department determined Mansonet was using her cellular telephone while driving and made no observations of Matich’s vehicle. Accordingly, Mansonet never activated her brakes and collided with the vehicle, causing it to cast forward and strike the victim.

After Mansonet was sentenced, Raymond M. Brown, Esq., one of the attorneys handling her appeal, asked the Court to grant Mansonet’s release on bail while her appeal is pending, which was opposed by the State. Judge Bauman denied the motion.  Mr. Brown then asked Judge Bauman to stay his order pending an emergent appeal of the denial of bail pending appeal.  The stay was granted, allowing Mansonet to file and emergent appeal to the Appellate Division on the issue.

Accordingly, Judge Bauman released Mansonet, but ordered that she turn herself in on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 by 3:00 p.m. to begin serving her sentence unless the Appellate Division reverses his ruling and grants bail pending appeal.

The case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Christopher J. Decker, Director of the Office’s Major Crimes Bureau.

Mansonet was represented at trial and sentencing by Steven D. Altman, Esq. and Philip Nettl, Esq. of Benedict and Altman, New Brunswick.  She is now represented by Raymond M. Brown, Esq. and Rachel E. Simon, Esq. of Scarinci Hollenbeck, Lyndhurst.

October 30, 2023

TRENTON – Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division on Civil Rights (DCR) announced today that DCR has entered into a Consent Order and Decree resolving a complaint alleging that Mercer County Community College discriminated against an employee who contracted COVID-19 by firing the employee rather than extending his medical leave or allowing him to work remotely.

Under the Consent Order announced today, Mercer County Community College will be required to rehire the complainant and pay him $50,000 as compensation for his lost wages and benefits and damages for his pain and suffering. The Consent Order also requires the College to ensure that its policies and practices comply with the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD), including by ensuring that its policies expressly acknowledge that the College must engage in an interactive process with an employee who requests a disability accommodation and that a leave of absence may be a reasonable accommodation under the law. Through an interactive process, employers and employees work together to identify and select reasonable accommodations that allow the worker to perform the essential functions of the job.

Under the Consent Order, the College must also pay $10,000 to DCR, must train its employees to comply with the LAD, and must provide regular reports to DCR about how it handles accommodation requests it receives.

“Under New Jersey law, an employee who suffers a serious illness or disability may be entitled to an accommodation that allows them to recover and heal rather than be fired because they are unable to return to work,” said Attorney General Platkin. “We will continue to pursue disability discrimination complaints on behalf of those workers who have not been treated fairly, justly, or with respect.”

“October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and our message is clear: We will hold accountable any employer who discriminates on the basis of disability, including against employees who have contracted COVID-19,” said Sundeep Iyer, Director of the Division on Civil Rights. “The LAD’s protections against disability discrimination in employment are robust, and enforcing them remains a key priority for our office.”

New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination is one of the strongest anti-discrimination laws in the country. Among other things, the law prohibits discrimination in employment, housing, and places of public accommodation on the basis of an actual or perceived disability. This means that employers, housing providers, or places of public accommodation cannot deny equal treatment to any person because of a disability. It also means that an employer must provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities unless doing so would impose an undue hardship. “Reasonable accommodations” can include, among other things, job restructuring, modified work schedules or leaves of absence, job reassignment, and making facilities usable by persons with a disability. The law also requires employers to engage in an “interactive process” with the employee to determine a suitable accommodation.

According to the Finding of Probable Cause issued by DCR in this case, the employee was hospitalized in critical condition on a ventilator in December 2021 and subsequently developed pneumonia, kidney failure, sepsis, and motor issues. Several months later, his sick time and sick bank credits were exhausted. He submitted medical documentation indicating that he needed an extension of his leave until September 2022 while he recovered. When he was unable to convince the College to extend his leave beyond July, he asked if he could work a hybrid schedule. But the College denied his request and terminated him. His replacement was hired in October, nearly three months after he offered to work a hybrid schedule and a little over a month after his doctor anticipated he would be able to return to work. DCR concluded in its Finding of Probable Cause that the college offered no evidence that granting the employee’s request for an extension of leave, or allowing him to work a hybrid schedule, would have imposed an undue hardship on its business operations.

The settlement announced today requires Mercer County Community College to take the following steps:

Rehire the complainant into a position with the same salary he previously had;Pay the complainant lost wages equivalent to the amount the complainant would have made had he not been terminated as well as compensatory damages for pain, suffering, and humiliation, with the total amount paid to the complainant totaling $50,000;Pay $10,000 to DCR;Calculate future promotions and payment for the complainant based on his time in the position as if he was not terminated;Agree to a two-year period during which the College will report to DCR on, and DCR will monitor, all accommodation requests from employees;

Revise the College’s anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy to include additional detail on the right to request a reasonable accommodation, and train staff on that policy.

The Mercer County Community College matter was handled by Division of Law Deputy Attorney General Geoffrey Gersten under the supervision of Section Chief James Michael.

MCCC Facebook Photo

October 31, 2023

In a press release today from Ørsted, the Board of Directors has decided to cease the development of U.S. Offshore Projects, Ocean Wind 1 and Ocean Wind 2. Govenor Phil Murphy called today’s decision by Orsted to abandon its commitments to New Jersey outrageous and calls into question the company’s credibility and competence. (see full statement below)

“Due to adverse impacts relating to supply chain delays, increased interest rates, and the lack of an OREC adjustment on Sunrise Wind, we have recognized impairment losses of DKK 28.4 billion in 9M 2023. The majority of these (DKK 19.9 billion) relates to our US offshore project Ocean Wind 1.

Net profit amounted to DKK -19.9 billion, and return on capital employed (ROCE) came in at -14 %. Net profit and ROCE excluding impairment losses amounted to DKK 8.5 billion and 13 %, respectively.

Our previously guided EBITDA for 2023, excluding new partnership agreements, of DKK 20-23 billion remains unchanged, when excluding a provision of approximately DKK 8-11 billion related to potential cancellation fees following our decision to cease the development of Ocean Wind 1. Due to a later timing across our project portfolio and the termination of investments on Ocean Wind 1, our gross investment for 2023 is now expected to amount to DKK 40-44 billion, a reduction of DKK 4 billion.“

“Therefore, as part of our ongoing review of our US offshore wind portfolio, we’ve decided to cease the development of Ocean Wind 1 and Ocean Wind 2. At the same time, we’ve taken final investment decision on the 704 MW Revolution Wind project, progressing it to the construction phase with an attractive forward-looking value creation.“

New Jersey Govenor Phil Murphy released the following statement about Ørsted’s decision:

“Today’s decision by Orsted to abandon its commitments to New Jersey is outrageous and calls into question the company’s credibility and competence. As recently as several weeks ago, the company made public statements regarding the viability and progress of the Ocean Wind 1 project. In recognition of the challenges inherent in large and complex projects, my Administration in partnership with legislative leadership insisted upon important protections that ensure New Jersey will receive $300 million to support the offshore wind sector should Orsted’s New Jersey projects fail to proceed. I have directed my Administration to review all legal rights and remedies and to take all necessary steps to ensure that Orsted fully and immediately honors its obligations.  

“Ultimately, as we have seen in other states recently, offshore wind projects awarded prior to 2020 have been impacted by a combination of interest rate escalation, supply chain cost increases, and inflation. And while today is a setback, the future of offshore wind in New Jersey remains strong. In recent weeks we’ve seen a historically high number of bids into New Jersey’s ongoing third offshore wind solicitation, and the Board of Public Utilities will shortly announce two additional solicitations related to our first-in-the-nation State Agreement Approach to build an offshore wind transmission infrastructure. 

“I remain committed to ensuring that New Jersey becomes a global leader in offshore wind – which is critical to our economic, environmental, and clean energy future.”

Govenor Phil Murphy stated Today’s decision by Orsted to abandon its commitments to New Jersey is outrageous and calls into question the company’s credibility and competence. Press Pool File photo Rich Hundley

31.10.2023 19:40

Today, Ørsted’s Board of Directors approved the interim report for the first nine months of 2023.

Operating profit (EBITDA) for the first nine months amounted to DKK 19.4 billion. Excluding new partnerships, EBITDA amounted to DKK 15.4 billion, DKK 1.0 billion higher than in the same period last year.

Earnings from offshore sites amounted to DKK 13.0 billion, which was DKK 6.8 billion higher than in the same period last year, and were positively affected by ramp-up at Hornsea 2 and Greater Changhua 1 and 2a and the negative impact from hedges in 2022 not being repeated.

Due to adverse impacts relating to supply chain delays, increased interest rates, and the lack of an OREC adjustment on Sunrise Wind, we have recognised impairment losses of DKK 28.4 billion in 9M 2023. The majority of these (DKK 19.9 billion) relates to our US offshore project Ocean Wind 1.

Net profit amounted to DKK -19.9 billion, and return on capital employed (ROCE) came in at -14 %. Net profit and ROCE excluding impairment losses amounted to DKK 8.5 billion and 13 %, respectively.

Our previously guided EBITDA for 2023, excluding new partnership agreements, of DKK 20-23 billion remains unchanged, when excluding a provision of approximately DKK 8-11 billion related to potential cancellation fees following our decision to cease the development of Ocean Wind 1. Due to a later timing across our project portfolio and the termination of investments on Ocean Wind 1, our gross investment for 2023 is now expected to amount to DKK 40-44 billion, a reduction of DKK 4 billion.

Mads Nipper, Group President and CEO of Ørsted, says in a comment to the interim financial report for the first nine months of 2023:
“We’re pleased with the performance of our operating assets in the first nine months of 2023, which drives a satisfactory development in our earnings. Our operating profit (EBITDA) excluding new partnerships increased by DKK 1 billion compared to the same period last year, and earnings from our offshore sites have more than doubled compared to last year.

“The current market situation with supply chain challenges, project delays, and rising interest rates has challenged our offshore projects in the US, and in particular our offshore project Ocean Wind 1, which has led to significant impairments in Q3 2023.

“Therefore, as part of our ongoing review of our US offshore wind portfolio, we’ve decided to cease the development of Ocean Wind 1 and Ocean Wind 2. At the same time, we’ve taken final investment decision on the 704 MW Revolution Wind project, progressing it to the construction phase with an attractive forward-looking value creation.

“Based on the challenged US portfolio and the current market conditions, we’ve initiated numerous actions to ensure our capital structure and rating and to improve our competitiveness and value creation.”

Financial key figures for 9M 2023:

Earnings call
In connection with the presentation of the interim report for the first nine months of the year, an earnings call for investors and analysts will be held on Wednesday, 1 November 2023 at 14:00 CET.

Denmark: +45 78 76 84 90International: +44 203 769 6819

USA: +1 646 787 0157