HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Police say that on January 16, 2024, at approximately 10:48 p.m., Hamilton Police officers were detailed to El Mexicano Restaurant, located at 1633 Hamilton Avenue, for a robbery that just occurred. Responding officers met with employees of the business who advised that a black male entered the business and forcefully took money from one of the employees at the business’s cash register, then fled on foot. The employee sustained a minor injury to her hand but refused medical attention on scene. Employees of the business followed the suspect to the area of Greenwood Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue, where Officer Piotrowski and Officer Doan located the suspect and took him into custody. The suspect was identified as Jamar Hutchinson, 25, of Hamilton, NJ.
Hutchinson was charged with robbery and transported to the Mercer County Correctional Center pending a detention hearing.
Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Nicholas Schulte at (609) 689-5825 or [email protected]. The public can also leave a message on the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008.
Every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Multiple fire departments are currently operating a structure fire in the second block of Fountayne Lane. The fire was reported sometime around 10:57 a.m. and first arriving firefighters reported large amount of fire from the roof line.
About 11:20 a.m. it was reported that firefighters had multiple hose lines stretched and a ladder flowing water on the fire.
At 11:35 a.m. the Lawrence Township Fire Marshal was requested to the scene.
11:50 a.m. Fire Under Control
Furter details to be provided as information becomes available.
December 24, 2023
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–South Brunswick Police reported a one car crash early Christmas Eve morning on Route 1 has claimed the life of a 23-year-old South Brunswick man. The crash was reported at 12:53 AM on Route 1 south by New Road. The man was driving a 2012 Honda Accord southbound on Route 1. According to witnesses the man was in the left lane when he lost control, slid sideways across the roadway and struck a utility. The man died at the scene.
The Kendall Park First Aid, Kendall Park Fire Department, Middlesex County Medical Examiner, and New Jersey State Department of Transportation responded to the crash. Route 1 south was closed for several hours during the investigation.
Anyone who may have witnessed the crash can call South Brunswick Police Traffic Safety Burea PFC Bryan Sites at (732) 329-4648.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Hamilton Police reported that on Wednesday September 20, 2023 at approximately 10:41 p.m., Officers were dispatched to the area of Waverly Place and Mervine Place on a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival Officers located two fifteen-year-old juvenile males who had been stabbed. The victims were treated on scene by responding Officers and personnel from the Hamilton Fire Department. An investigation revealed a red Toyota arrived in the area and five suspects exited the vehicle and began a physical confrontation with the victims. During the confrontation the victims were stabbed several times by one of the suspects. Both victims were transported to Capital Health at Fuld for further treatment. Their injuries are not considered life threatening. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Tom Clugsten of the Hamilton Police Division Juvenile Unit at (609) 581-4027 or the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008.
September 21, 2023
MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–On Wednesday, September 20th, at approximately 4:35 p.m., officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to the area of Pasadena Road near the intersection of Buckingham Road to investigate the report of a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcycle.
Upon arrival, officers observed a 2017 Yamaha motorcycle near the wood-line on the grass shoulder adjacent to the roadway with extensive damage. A witness in the area observed the incident and immediately contacted the police. Upon arrival, Officers and EMT’s from the Manchester Emergency Medical Services began life saving measures on the motorcyclist who had sustained severe injuries.
The investigation revealed that the Yamaha motorcycle was traveling westbound on Pasadena Road attempting to pass another motor vehicle when the rider lost control of the motorcycle, ran off the roadway, and struck a tree. The rider was ejected from the motorcycle as a result of the impact with the tree. The sole occupant of the Yamaha was identified as 27-year-old Robert Trout of Lanoka Harbor, NJ, and he was determined to be wearing a DOT approved helmet at the time of the crash. He was transported via ambulance to Southern Ocean Medical Center where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The roadway was closed for several hours during the crash investigation. Assisting at the scene were members of the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Manchester Emergency Medical Services EMT’s and firefighters, Robert Wood Johnson Paramedics, and Priced Rite Towing Service. The investigation into this crash is still ongoing, however, speed and driver error appear to be contributing factors. The crash is being investigated by Patrolman Jose Diaz and Patrolman Brendan Brush of the department’s Traffic Safety Unit.
September 21, 2023
Flag sponsorships are now available for the Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton’s popular and stirring Flags for Heroes display at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton.
Residents and businesses can honor their personal heroes by sponsoring a 3’x5’ American flag to be flown for nearly three weeks – Nov. 1-18 – on the hospital grounds along White Horse-Hamilton Square Road and Klockner Road.
The Rotary Club’s goal is to fly more than 300 flags, exceeding last year’s total.
Flag sponsorships, starting at $60 for individuals and $300 for businesses, can be purchased from the Rotary Club’s website, www.RHRotary.org. The deadline for sponsorships is Wednesday, Oct. 18.
Each donor will receive a digital certificate, a keepsake flag medallion with their name, message, and hero’s name, and acknowledgement on the display banner at RWJUH/Hamilton and on the Rotary Club’s website.
Net proceeds from Flags for Heroes will be donated to non-profit organizations in Mercer County, including the Mercer County Military Action Council, which will help finance an active U.S. military member’s return to their family during military leave.
The 4th annual Flags for Heroes display will fill the prominent hospital field with flags honoring family members, teachers, veterans, active military, first responders and others who have made a mark in a person’s life. A Community Field Dedication and Veterans Day ceremony will be held on the grounds on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 11 am to noon.
“If you live or work in this area, you have likely seen the fantastic display on the hospital grounds in the first weeks of November. For first-timers or those who have sponsored flags each year, here’s another chance to recognize heroes in your life,” said George Ott, president of the Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton.
“We are inviting local individuals and businesses to sponsor an American flag so that we may continue our efforts to assist those in need,” said Bill Coleman, co- chair of the Rotary Club’s Flag For Heroes committee. “This is a great opportunity for people to honor their hero and to make everyone aware in a moving display.”
For more information about the Rotary Club of Robbinsville Hamilton and its charitable initiatives, email [email protected] or visit www.RHRotary.org.
September 21, 2023
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Trenton Police Department has released statistics detailing the results of the Summer Initiative Task Force. Starting in June, the joint effort between TPD, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Law Enforcement Partners, the State Police, and Trenton’s Street Teams resulted in numerous arrests, the confiscation of drugs and weapons, and multiple summonses issued, amongst other accomplishments before completing on September 10.
Detectives and Officers utilized various deployment efforts including: targeting known violent offenders with active arrest warrants, conducting vehicle interdictions and increasing traffic enforcement, utilizing Packetalk cameras to covertly conduct surveillance throughout the city, increasing suppression patrol and Walk and Rides in the “Hot Spots” throughout various parts of the City, and addressing complaints submitted to the Director’s Office, City Hall and the Tip Line regarding the open-air use/sale of illegal narcotics, violations of city ordinances, and weapons offenses.
“I am immensely proud of the work Director Wilson has spearheaded with this Summer Initiative Task Force. This collaboration between TPD, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the State Police, and our Street Teams has resulted in great success. Thousands of doses of harmful, illicit drugs are now off our streets. Over sixty firearms have been seized, nearly 350 arrests conducted, and over $50,000 cash has been confiscated and removed from illicit trade, among numerous other achievements. Thank you to this collaborative team for helping make our streets and communities safer for all,” said Mayor Reed Gusciora.
The chart shows the amount of drugs, guns, arrests made, and money confiscated throughout each month and the total number for the summer.
Aside from arrests and the confiscation of drugs, weapons, and money, the Task Force also focused on clearing warrants, increasing patrols and traffic enforcement, and responding to complaints and notifications of city ordinance violations and weapons offenses.
In June, the initiative led to 79 cleared warrants, 391 motor vehicle stops, 521 motor vehicle summonses issued, 42 vehicles towed, and 100 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
In July, these efforts led to 69 cleared warrants, 383 motor vehicle stops, 733 motor vehicle summonses issued, 54 vehicles towed, and 201 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
In August, 154 warrants were cleared, 468 motor vehicle stops conducted, 780 motor vehicle summonses issued, 93 vehicles towed, and 165 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
From September 1 – 10, there were 31 warrants cleared, 133 motor vehicle stops, 236 motor vehicle summonses, 15 vehicles towed, and 32 violations of City Ordinance summonses issued.
In total, the Initiative resulted in 333 warrants cleared, 1375 motor vehicle stops, 2270 motor vehicle summonses, 204 vehicles towed, and 498 violations.
Cumulatively, these efforts resulted in the seizure of 584 grams of crack-cocaine, 8254 decks of heroin, 61 firearms, and $53,309 in cash off city streets and out of the hands of drug and firearm traffickers. 342 arrests were conducted over the course of the summer.
“I want to thank every Officer and Detective who played a part in making the Summer Initiative successful. After a hectic start, we were able to curb the violence and make the Capital City a safer place for all residents during the Summer and will continue to do so as the year goes on,” Director Wilson said.
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on July 13, 2024, Elizabeth Mascarelli, 29, of Seaside Heights, was charged with Hindering Apprehension, Desecration of Human Remains, being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and Possession of a Defaced Weapon, all in connection with a series of events that occurred in Toms River and Jackson Township on or about July 3, 2024. Additionally, Danielle Bolstad, 42, of Barnegat, Jared Krysiak, 34, of Brick Township, and Jarred Palumbo, 36, of Manchester, were each charged with Hindering Apprehension and Desecration of Human Remains in connection with the same series of events.
On July 5, 2024, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Manchester Township Police Department, and United States Marshals Service, located Maxwell Johnston, 35, of Manchester Township, at a residence on Ravenwood Drive in Toms River; Johnston was wanted in connection with the murder of Gabriella Caroleo, 25, of Seaside Heights, which occurred in Manchester Township on June 27, 2024. Upon their arrival at the residence, the Marshals successfully called out three of the occupants, later identified as Bolstad, Krysiak, and Palumbo. Johnston and Mascarelli remained in the residence, however, and it was learned that Johnston was armed.
Negotiators attempted to have Johnston surrender himself peacefully; those attempts were met with negative results. After several hours, Mascarelli exited the residence and was transported to Community Medical Center in Toms River to be treated for injuries sustained throughout the standoff. The residence was subsequently cleared using a drone, and Johnston was located in a bedroom, deceased, with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to his head.
Further investigation revealed that Mascarelli had allowed Johnston to stay at the residence on Ravenwood Drive with her for four days – despite her knowledge of the murder of Ms. Caroleo and Johnston’s alleged involvement in it. As such, Mascarelli was charged with Harboring a Fugitive from Justice, and served with the charge on a complaint at the hospital. Mascarelli was later transported to the Ocean County Jail, where she is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
In furtherance of the continuing investigation into the death of Ms. Caroleo, Detectives discovered evidence that a murder may have been committed at the Ravenwood Drive residence on or about July 3, 2024. To that end, law enforcement came into possession of information indicating that evidence of that murder might be found at a property in Jackson Township. On July 12, 2024, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, New Jersey State Police K-9 Unit New, Jersey State Police Forensic Science Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, executed a court-authorized search warrant on the subject property on Toms River Road in Jackson Township. As a result, Detectives discovered numerous body parts in black bags along with additional evidence connected to the murder.
On that same date, Detectives executed a court-authorized search warrant on the Ravenwood Drive residence. As a result, Detectives discovered a defaced .22 caliber handgun as well as additional evidence that the murder had been committed at that location.
On July 13, 2024, the Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office conducted a post mortem examination of the body parts, and was able to identify the victim as the owner of the Ravenwood Drive residence – Kerry Rollason, 56, of Toms River. The Medical Examiner concluded that the cause of Mr. Rollason’s death was multiple gunshot wounds in addition to blunt force trauma, and the manner of death to be homicide.
Further investigation revealed that Johnston was responsible for the murder of Mr. Rollason at the Ravenwood Drive residence. It was also determined that the firearm found at the Ravenwood Drive residence belonged to Mascarelli. Additionally, Mascarelli, Bolstad, and Krysiak assisted Johnston with dismembering Mr. Rollason’s body, and Mascarelli, Bolstad, Krysiak, and Palumbo assisted Johnston in disposing of the body in Jackson Township.
On July 13, 2024, Palumbo was taken into custody without incident. He was processed and served with the charges via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.
On July 14, 2024, Bolstad was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where she is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.
On July 15, 2024, Elizabeth Mascarelli was served with the charges referenced above on a complaint at the Ocean County Jail.
Jared Krysiak has not yet been taken into custody, and is considered a fugitive from justice. As such, a warrant for his arrest has been issued and his name has been entered in the National Crime Information Center database.
Prosecutor Billhimer urges anyone who has any information related to this investigation to contact Detective Denis Mitchell of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extension 2476, or Detective James Carey of the Toms River Township Police Department at 732-349-0150.
“The crimes committed against Mr. Rollason are unsettling and disturbing. I am thankful for the law enforcement professionals that worked diligently to uncover these depraved and soulless crimes, Prosecutor Billhimer stated.
Prosecutor Billhimer expresses his sincere gratitude to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Manchester Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Police Department, Toms River Police Department Detective Bureau, Toms River Police Department Emergency Services Unit, Jackson Township Police Department, Ocean County Regional SWAT Team, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, United States Marshals Service, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Monmouth County Emergency Response Team, Howell Township Police Department, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey State Police K-9 Unit, New Jersey State Police Forensic Science Unit, Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Newark Police Department, and Ocean County Medical Examiner’s Office, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this very thorough and extensive investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).
Related:
Seaside Heights Woman Charged with Harboring a Fugitive from Justice
Follow up to story MidJersey.News brought you on August 2, 2022
August 24, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission is working with its E-ZPass service providers — TransCore and Conduent — to proactively adjust the accounts of E-ZPass passenger-vehicle customers overcharged in the Trenton-Morrisville (Route 1) Toll Bridge’s right E-ZPass-only lane between February 1 and July 7.
This automated process currently is projected to be completed on or about September 9. When E-ZPass customers will see the retroactive adjustments reflected in their accounts, however, will depend on the respective customer service center that issued their E-ZPass transponder and administers their account.
Affected E-ZPass motorists are requested to refrain from making individual requests on Trenton-Morrisville Bridge passenger vehicle misclassifications while this electronic adjustment process is underway.
A damaged piece of electronic tolling equipment in one of the bridge’s two E-ZPass-only lanes sporadically caused thousands of passenger vehicles to be classified as a truck and charged a $9 toll instead of the prescribed $1.25 fare between February 1 and July 7.
An investigation Commission staff conducted with TransCore and Conduent in recent weeks has determined that of the roughly 1.4 million toll transactions recorded in the problematic Trenton-Morrisville toll lane between February and early July, around 86,000 of them (or about 6.1 percent) involved passenger vehicle misclassifications. TransCore is the Commission’s in-lane toll service provider, largely handling the hardware and software that records and relays transactions at Commission tolling points. Conduent is the company that operates the regional New Jersey E-ZPass Customer Service Center, which processes the toll transactions and violations recorded at Commission toll bridges.
The recent problem at the Trenton-Morrisville (Route 1) Toll Bridge initially appeared to be confined to SUVs, vans, pickup trucks, and cars with higher profiles, but investigation revealed misreads occurring intermittently with virtually any type of passenger vehicle.
The damaged piece of in-lane toll equipment – an overhead LED/infrared vehicle profiler unit that classifies vehicles for toll charges – apparently had been struck on multiple occasions by flat-bed trailers stacked with poorly anchored loads of crushed motor vehicles.
The compromised reader was replaced July 7. Customers have not reported any equipment-induced misclassifications or overcharges occurring in that lane since that date. Follow-up testing also has determined the replaced unit to be operating correctly.
In the wake of the investigation into the issue, the Commission has requested State Police to increase patrols in the area of the toll bridge to combat E-ZPass equipment strikes by poorly loaded flat-bed trailers.
Because of the irregularities of when misreads occurred and which vehicles were impacted at the Trenton-Morrisville Toll Bridge, the Commission is urging passenger-vehicle E-ZPass customers who used the bridge between February and early July to check their past account statements for possible overcharges, but refrain from seeking individual refunds while the automatic account adjustment process takes place. As noted above, E-ZPass adjustments for vehicle misclassifications at the Trenton-Morrisville Bridge should appear in future account statements.
MidJersey.News contacted E-Z Pass on July 13, 2022 about an overcharge on Trenton-Morrisville Toll Bridge E-ZPass on May 17, 2022 that was on the E-Z Pass monthly statement.
“Your account has been credited $7.75. You may view the transaction on our website and on your next statement. Thank you, New Jersey E-ZPass Customer Service“
Murphy Administration Allocates American Recovery Plan Funds to Continue Innovative Programming First Launched in January 2020
August 8, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Governor Phil Murphy and Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin today announced the allocation of $10 million in federal American Recovery Plan (ARP) funds to continue funding for the State’s Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs (HVIPs), which directly help gun violence victims and serve to break the cycle of gun violence.
In January 2020, the Murphy Administration and the Attorney General’s Office awarded $20 million in federal Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) dollars to fund nine HVIPs across New Jersey to reach victims of gun violence and others touched by violence at the time of crisis. These programs are considered by experts and practitioners to be one of the crucial strategies for violence intervention and prevention services and established New Jersey as a national leader in stemming gun violence. A primary goal of the HVIP is to link hospitals with community-based organizations that are already working hard to assist victims and prevent the spread of violence.
By partnering with community organizations to provide services to victims and families in hospitals following a shooting, the program has shown an ability to reduce the cycle of gun violence when retaliation is most likely to occur and spread. When the $20 million in competitive federal VOCA funding was announced, selected hospitals received two years of HVIP funding, some of which the hospitals sub-awarded to community-based providers in their areas to help directly deliver services to those impacted by gun violence. At the end of the two-year grant period, the Attorney General’s Office made available a third year of VOCA funding in the amount of $10.3 million.
Building on the success of this program and to further develop and strengthen a community-based approach to public safety, in 2021 Governor Murphy and the Attorney General’s Office announced the creation of an entirely new grant program to meaningfully expand violence intervention work in New Jersey, announcing $10 million in state funding to establish Community-Based Violence Intervention Programs (CBVIs). Currently, CBVI grants directly fund more than 20 community organizations in 15 municipalities covering every region of the State, supporting intervention strategies that help communities reduce homicides and shootings by developing healing relationships among the groups and individuals who are at the center of gun violence.
During this time, the AG’s Office learned of an upcoming decrease in federal VOCA funds that would also support HVIPs and worked with the Murphy Administration to identify alternative sources of funding. The federal ARP funds will provide this alternative funding source for the HVIP program for at least another 12 months after the VOCA funds are expended. Further details on this competitive program will be made available in the upcoming months.
“Earlier this year, I signed my comprehensive Gun Safety 3.0 package, which strengthened gun laws across our state, bringing us one step closer to a stronger, fairer, and safer New Jersey. Today’s continued funding of the Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program is another step toward that reality,” said Governor Murphy. “I am proud of the work that this Administration has done thus far and am committed to continuing to address the gun violence epidemic our State is facing.”
“Make no mistake – this investment in our HVIP initiative will save lives,” said Acting Attorney General Platkin. “Thanks to the Governor’s leadership, New Jersey will continue its groundbreaking efforts in violence intervention programming by disrupting cycles of violence before they start. I applaud the challenging, but essential, work of our hospital and community partners and will continue to champion these programs as Attorney General.”
“Thank you to the Governor, the Acting Attorney General, and their teams for their fast action and continued support,” said Aqeela Sherrills, Executive Director of the Community-Based Public Safety Collective. “Thanks to the New Jersey Violence Intervention and Prevention Coalition for their lifesaving work. We look forward to continued partnership with the Attorney General’s Office to advance community-based public safety in New Jersey.”
“It is reassuring that the Governor and his team have made the necessary investment to keep existing Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs operable for the rest of the year,” said Will Simpson of the New Jersey Violence Intervention and Prevention Coalition. “The NJVIPC will support any and all efforts to establish more expansive, long-term funding for a community-centered public safety ecosystem. We are looking forward to having more consistent and transparent communication with the Office of the Attorney General and the Murphy Administration to ensure the needs of the community are being heard and met.”
“The Paterson Healing Collective is pleased to learn that the Governor has heard our calls to action so that we can keep doing the life-changing and life-saving work we have been doing for the last two years,” said Dr. Liza Chowdhury, Director of the Paterson Healing Collective. “Our survivors and community members rely on our services and we could not afford to lose the resources that positively impact their lives. We look forward to continued efforts to sustain HVIPs and CVI programs in the future.”
“As a gun violence survivor, I know the importance of the work,” said Pam Johnson, Executive Director of the Jersey City Anti-Violence Coalition. “From a personal standpoint and a professional standpoint, I know that with this investment we can save more lives and do more healing.”
“I am grateful to the Murphy Administration and the Attorney General’s Office for finding the resources to maintain these powerful community led programs,” said Rev. Dr. Charles F. Boyer, Founding Director, Salvation and Social Justice. “I never doubted their commitment to this work. These programs are critical for putting the public back in public safety.”
“We applaud the Attorney General’s Office for addressing the urgent need to support the work of hospital and community-based violence intervention programs in New Jersey,” said Joe Kim, Associate Director, Training and Technical Assistance at The Health Alliance for Violence Intervention. “As the lead technical assistance agency for the HVIPs across NJ, the HAVI is committed to the ongoing work of ensuring that victims of violence are given the resources and supports they need to heal from trauma and break cycles of violence. We are proud to stand with our community and hospital partners to ensure these services are sustainable for years to come.”
“Revive South Jersey understands the importance of providing services to victims of gun violence and then working proactively to prevent future victimizations,” said Jonathan Cummings, Executive Director of Revive South Jersey. “As a South Jersey stakeholder that has been partnering with the Bridgeton Police Athletic league for the last five years, we understand the necessity of this work in our community. The investment in the HVIP will provide critical support to continuing the vital service of working to prevent gun violence in the state.”
“One of our team members has served over 200 victims of violence at University Hospital’s HVIP, preventing retaliation and repeat victimization. We are grateful that she and the rest of the team will continue to serve victims uninterrupted.” –Statement from the Newark Community Street Team.
The initial $20 million VOCA investment along with the additional third year of VOCA funding in HVIP grants were awarded to the following hospitals:
Center for Family Services, City of Camden, Camden CountyTrinitas Health Foundation, Elizabeth, Union CountyAtlantiCare Atlantic City, Atlantic CountyCapital Health, Trenton, Mercer CountyJersey City Medical Center (RWJBarnabas), Jersey City, Hudson CountyRobert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick (Serving Middlesex, Somerset and Union Counties)University Hospital, Newark, Essex CountyJersey Shore University Medical Center/Hackensack Meridian, Monmouth County (Focusing on Asbury Park, Neptune Township and Long Branch City)
FREEHOLD – A 19-year-old male has been criminally charged after robbing a Howell resident at gunpoint during a merchandise transaction¸ Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Thursday.
Giancarlo Nevarez, of the Clarksburg section of Millstone, has been charged with first-degree Armed Robbery, second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose and second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.
On Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at approximately 3:06 p.m., the Howell Township Police Department received a 9-1-1 call reporting a shot-fired incident in the area of the 4200 block of Route 9 southbound in Howell Township.
A subsequent investigation by members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Bureau and the Howell Township Police Department revealed that a male victim reported that he had contacted Nevarez through a social media platform to sell him a couple of pairs of high-end sneakers. Upon their meeting, Nevarez was shown the sneakers and then he presented a firearm, fired one shot and left with the merchandise. No one was struck and there were no injuries as a result of the gunshot.
Prosecutor Santiago would like to remind the public that the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and other local agencies have set up safe exchange zones to protect the safety of our residents and minimize the risk of someone becoming a victim of robbery through in-person transactions.
Anyone with information about this matter is urged to contact Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Thomas Manzo at 800-533-7443 or Howell Police Department Detective Ryan Jackson at 732-938-4111.
The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Cummings of the Major Crimes Bureau. Nevarez’s representation is unknown at this time.
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.
February 15, 2024
WALL TOWNSHIP- On Thursday, February 15, 2024, members of the Wall Township Police Department and the New Jersey State Police arrested three people following a search warrant after a joint narcotics investigation.
On Thursday morning the New Jersey State Police T.E.A.M.S. Unit, New Jersey State Police Special Investigations Unit and the Wall Township Police Department Detective Bureau executed a search warrant in Sea Breeze Trailer Park on State Route 35. As a result of the investigation the following people were arrested and charged with the following:
• Kaliq Q. Walker (20) of Tinton Falls: Possession of Crack Cocaine (3rd Degree), Possession of Crack Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute (3rd Degree), Possession of Heroin (3rd Degree), Possession of Oxycodone (3rd Degree) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Disorderly Persons Offense).• Nathanael W. Jones (42) of Wall Township: Possession of Crack Cocaine (3rd Degree), Possession of Buprenorphine Hydrochloride (3rd Degree), Possession of Heroin (3rd Degree) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
• Alexis C. Evely (26) of Old Bridge: Possession of Heroin (3rd Degree), Possession of Crack Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (3rd Degree), Possession of Crack Cocaine (3rd Degree), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Disorderly Persons Offense), Possession of Oxycodone (3rd Degree), Failure to Make Lawful Disposition of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Disorderly Persons Offense).
All the above subjects were transported to Monmouth County Correctional Institution awaiting a detention hearing in court.
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.
February 15, 2024
HAMILTON, NJ (MERCER) — On Saturday, February 10th, St. Raphael School Board held its annual Golden Ticket event to benefit St. Raphael School. About 200 parish and community members gathered to honor the St. Raphael Holy Angels ushers and the Hollendonner family with an evening of dinner, dancing, and celebration. The event committee includes members of St. Raphael Holy Angels Parish, school board and PTA members, and is chaired by Lori Danko as a member of the St. Raphael School board. ”I am thrilled that the community is keeping the Catholic school spirit alive,” Danko said. This year Danko and her committee raised over $13,000.
Father Gene Daguplo reported, “I’m pleased to announce that in just three short years, our Golden Ticket Committee has raised over $50,000 for St. Raphael School by hosting annual receptions honoring members of our parish community. These events have served as both a celebration of all the great things that St. Raphael Holy Angels Parish accomplishes throughout the community, as well as a financial benefit to grow our academic and enrichment offerings in our school.” St. Raphael School is now one of the fastest growing schools in the Diocese of Trenton, and just achieved number one in improving student STAR testing scores in the diocese. Joseph Slavin, longtime Hamilton Township School district educator and current principal of St. Raphael School said, “What a great evening!!! Once again the Golden Ticket
event shows why St. Raphael is the best. The dedication, kindness and love shown by our Catholic school and our community is evident everyday.”
The Golden Ticket event is held annually and is being planned for February 2025.
February 15, 2024
LAKEWOOD, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force collaborated with the Lakewood Township Police Department, Lakewood Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Jackson Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team, Manchester Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, New Jersey State Police Drug Trafficking Central Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, to conduct a two month-long investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics in Ocean County. This cooperative, multi-agency investigation identified Justin Love, 25, of Jackson Township, as being involved in the distribution of crack cocaine in Ocean County.
In December 2023, Detectives from the aforementioned law enforcement agencies established stationary and mobile surveillance on Love. Detectives were able to determine that Love was utilizing a residence on Deer Path in Lakewood to store and distribute crack cocaine. On February 14, 2024, the Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team executed a court-authorized search warrant on the subject residence and Love’s motor vehicle. As a result, Detectives seized approximately 15 grams of crack cocaine, a semi-automatic handgun, drug paraphernalia, and approximately $5,000 in United States Currency. A search of Love’s motor vehicle resulted in the seizure of an additional quantity of crack cocaine, drug paraphernalia, and United States currency. Love was taken into custody at the residence without incident.
Justin Love was charged with Possession of Less than One Half Ounce of Crack Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Oxycodone Without a Valid Prescription, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, and Possession of a Weapon During a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense. Love is presently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.
Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Asset Forfeiture Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department, Lakewood Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Lakewood Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Lakewood Township Police Department Special Response Team, Jackson Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Brick Township Police Department Street Crimes Unit, Toms River Township Police Department Special Enforcement Team, Manchester Township Police Department, Manchester Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Manchester Township Police Department Narcotics Enforcement Team, New Jersey State Police Drug Trafficking Central Unit, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, and United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, for their combined and collective assistance in connection with this investigation.
The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police reported that Trenton Police K9 Officer Domingo Perez was driving on Bridge Street, toward S. Broad Street, responding to a call. A State Parole officer reported someone with guns with high-capacity magazines inside a vehicle. (An investigation revealed juveniles had brought airsoft guns to their home and nothing criminal was reported.) A Jeep SUV, driven by an unlicensed driver, was on Second Street, heading toward Bridge Street from S. Broad Street, when he went through the stop sign and drove into Officer Perez’s police vehicle. The force of the impact caused Officer Perez’s vehicle to careen into a residence at 703 Second Street.
Officer Perez was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center with lacerations to the head and complaints of pain. He was treated and subsequently released. His K9 partner, Nittany, was taken to a local animal hospital where she was treated for a cut to her head and released. The driver of the other vehicle appeared to have minor abrasions and was also treated at Capital Health Regional Medical Center.
Two families were displaced and placed in hotels due to the damage done to the residence. No injuries were reported by the residents of the home. Trenton Housing responded to inspect the building. The Trenton Police Department Internal Affairs Bureau, Trenton Police Department Criminal Investigation Bureau Fatal Crash Unit, and Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team are investigating.
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Mayor Reed Gusciora Releases Statement after Speeding Car Runs Through Stop Sign injuring Trenton Police Officer and Damaging Residential Building
Thursday morning, a Trenton police officer, K-9, and another driver sustained injuries after an accident sent both vehicles into a residential building.
Officer Perez was en route to assist a State Patrol officer after reports of a man in possession of a gun with a high-capacity magazine, when he was struck by an unlicensed driver who sped through a stop sign at the corner of Second and Bridge Street. The officer’s vehicle was T-boned, sending both cars into a residential building.
Perez was hospitalized with a significant head injury, but is listed in stable condition. He has since been released. The driver is also in stable condition with minor cuts to the head. Both were transported to Capital Regional Medical Center. The K-9 was taken to NorthStar Veterinarian hospital and was treated and released after suffering a facial injury.
“Thursday’s accident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day in the line of duty. Officer Perez, who was en route to assist with a high-risk situation, showed immense bravery and quick thinking. We are relieved to hear that he, the K-9, and the other driver are all in stable condition and receiving the care they need,” Mayor Reed Gusciora said. “Our thoughts are with them and their families as they recover from this incident. We remain committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and will continue to support our law enforcement officers in their tireless efforts to protect us all.”
Additional officers were able to respond to the reports of a man with a gun and located juveniles in possession of imitation airsoft AR-15 style rifles. The rifles were confiscated without taking anyone being taken into custody.
An estimated 170 Million American TikTok users in the United States are reciving a message that TikTok is not available right now due to the TikTok ban. The application was shut down about two hours before midnight eastern time just befefore the January 19, 2025 deadline. The law was set to take effect just one day prior to the next president taking office.
Lawmakers and U.S. Officials claim that there are supposed security risks with TikTok and its parent company ByteDance and its ties to China.
When users try to access their TikTok account a message says, “A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now.”
“We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!”
The message also says you can still log in the website to download your data.
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–At 4:44 p.m. Robbinsville Fire Department and EMS were dispatched to the New Jersey Turnpike Exit 7A Ramp to I-195 West Bound for a tractor trailer crash. Upon arrival it was determined that there were no injuries but a tractor trailer had lost control and ran off the roadway and the trailer portion was across the roadway blocking traffic. The ramp was closed and the traffic was diverted to I-195 East Bound to I-195 Exit 7 to make a U-turn back to I-195 West. A towing company is on scene and in the process of removing the tractor trailer. The New Jersey State Police is investigating the crash. No further information is available.
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