EASTAMPTON, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw and Eastampton Township Police Chief Joseph Iacovitti announced that a 26-year-old Willingboro man was fatally shot last night at the Eastampton Gardens apartment complex.
The investigation began yesterday just before 7:15 p.m. after officers from the Eastampton Township and Westampton Township police departments were called to the intersection of Hedding-Jacksonville Road and Welsford Way for a report of a motor vehicle crash.
Upon arrival at the scene, it was discovered that Christian Kurtz was suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported by ambulance to Virtua Mount Holly Hospital, where he died approximately 30 minutes later.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Kurtz had been shot while at the apartment complex, then drove a short distance in his car before colliding with the other vehicle.
No arrests have been made. An autopsy will be performed today by the Burlington County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The investigation is being conducted by the Prosecutor’s Office and the Eastampton Township Police Department, with assistance from the Westampton Township Police Department. The lead investigators are BCPO Detective Nicholas Schieber, BCPO Detective Kevin Smith and ETPD Det. Richard Tracy.
Anyone with information that might be useful to investigators is asked to call Burlington County Central Communications at 609-265-7113, or send an email to [email protected].
Robbinsville Woman Charged with Four Counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child
April 29, 2025
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–An investigation by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and the Robbinsville Township Police Department has resulted in the arrest of a Robbinsville woman for endangering the welfare of a child, Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey and Robbinsville Police Chief William G. Swanhart announced today.
On Sunday evening, April 27, 2025, Robbinsville police responded to a township residence in reference to an unresponsive five-year-old girl. The child was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, where she was pronounced dead a short time later.
Raphaelle Register, 36, was arrested and charged on Monday, April 28, 2025, with four counts of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child. The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain her pending trial.
The criminal complaint states that Register had a legal duty to care for the two five-year-olds, the eight-year-old and the 12-year-old, all of whom she left unattended. The complaint further states that she failed to adequately feed and nourish the five-year-olds and provide access to necessary medical treatment, thereby making the children abused or neglected.
An autopsy was performed yesterday afternoon by the Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office. The cause and manner of the child’s death are pending further testing and investigation.
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.
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On April 6, 2024 at approximately 7:40 p.m., Manuel Ramones-Vicuna, 24-year-old male from Hamilton, was traveling westbound through the parking lot of the Independence Mall, located at 2465 S. Broad St, on a 2014 KTM 350 Off-Road motorcycle when he struck the guidewire to a utility pole. Mr. Ramones-Vicuna was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered serious injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.The crash is under investigation by Officers Hendricksen, Mandelko, and Welsh from the Hamilton Police Traffic Unit.
Any witnesses are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Traffic Unit at (609)581-4000.
WALL TOWNSHIP, NJ (MONMOUTH) – A Wall Township man was arrested and criminally charged in connection with an armed robbery in the same town, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced on Thursday.
Jeffrey L. Kniffin, 50, was charged with one count of first-degree Armed Robbery, one count of Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose and one count of fourth-degree Possession of Hollow Point Bullets.
On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at approximately 3:24 p.m., officers from the Wall Township Police Department were dispatched to a Bank of America branch located on State Highway 35 for a reported robbery. Upon arrival, law enforcement officials learned that a man wearing a mask, glasses, ball cap, black hoodie and gloves had entered the bank, brandished a firearm and stole a large amount of cash, in excess of $5,000, prior to fleeing the scene.
An off-duty Wall Township police officer was driving in the vicinity of the bank when he learned of the robbery. As the officer proceeded towards the location, he observed a male matching the description of the suspect riding a bicycle. The officer followed the suspect, later identified as Kniffin, to the front of Kniffin’s residence on M Street, where he would ultimately be apprehended.
Kniffin was transported to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI), where he is currently being held pending his first appearance in Monmouth County Superior Court.
The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Michael Luciano of the Major Crimes Bureau. Information regarding Kniffin’s legal representation was not immediately available.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
Archdiocese of Newark to Celebrate 31st Annual Blue Mass Honoring Active, Fallen Police
Liturgy Celebrated by Cardinal Tobin will Recognize 11 Deceased NJ Law Enforcement Officers
October 26, 2024
Newark, N.J. – The Archdiocese of Newark will celebrate the 31st Annual Blue Mass honoring the dedication and sacrifices of New Jersey law enforcement personnel on Thursday, November 7, 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 will be attended by law enforcement officers of all faiths representing federal, state, county, and municipal departments and agencies. They will be joined by the families of the deceased being recognized as well as multiple police honor guard units, bagpipers, and drummers. Numerous community members — including several high-ranking public officials — will also be present to show their support.
“The Blue Mass is a reminder of the sacrifices police officers make, but it’s also a chance for the community to come together in prayer, reflection, and unity,” said Lieutenant Christopher Whiting of the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, who is co-chairman of this year’s Blue Mass. “In a time when law enforcement faces numerous challenges, this event is an opportunity to bridge divides and reinforce the support that officers need, both spiritually and from the public. The Mass serves as a powerful reminder that the work they do impacts everyone, and they deserve our appreciation and respect year-round.”
This year’s Blue Mass will pay tribute to nine local police officers who died in the line of duty within the past few years, including many who succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses: New Jersey State Police Trooper Marcellus E. Bethea, Sayreville Police Captain William Gawron, Elizabeth Police Sergeant Michael “Zini” Kurinzi, Port Authority Police Captain Richard L. Ruiz Sr., Port Authority Police Captain John M. Collins, Port Authority Police Officer David J. Lee, Port Authority Police Officer Anthony J. Mezzacappa, Port Authority Police Officer John M. Cortazzo, and New Jersey Transit Police Inspector Robert Noble.
Additionally, Millburn Police Officer Luke Lyons and Fairfield Police Detective James Ciampi — two police officers who passed away outside of duty — will be recognized for their years of commitment to law enforcement.
“The officers being honored this year were individuals dedicated to their profession, embodying courage, selflessness, and a deep sense of duty,” Whiting said. “They always put the safety of others above their own, and they were highly respected within their departments and communities. Their passing is a profound loss, but their legacy of service and sacrifice will be remembered and celebrated during the Mass.”
For more information on the Blue Mass, contact Vincent Nardone and William Schievella at 1-800-427-7651 or [email protected]
New Jersey State Police Trooper Marcellus E. Bethea of Florence, Sayreville Police Captain William Gawron, Sergeant Michael “Zini” Kurinzi of Toms River, Port Authority Police Officer Anthony J. Mezzacappa of Hazlet, and Officer Luke Lyons of Randolph will be honored at the Archdiocese of Newark’s 31st Annual Blue Mass on Thursday, Nov. 7, at 10 a.m. in Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The Blue Mass is a tradition that pays tribute to all New Jersey law enforcement personnel, with 11 deceased officers being celebrated this year.
October 26, 2024
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Robbinsville Township Mayor and Director of Public Safety Dave Fried announced yesterday, that Lieutenant William Swanhart has been named the next Robbinsville Township Police Department, Chief of Police, effective January 1, 2025.
Swanhart, 43, will take the reins from outgoing Chief Michael K. Polaski, who announced his retirement effective December 31 after 25 years of exemplary public service, in August.
“Lt. Swanhart’s experience, training and steady hand certainly rose to the top during this process,” Fried said. “We are extremely fortunate to have such a deep and talented pool of qualified candidates, and I would have been proud to have any one of them as my chief. Mike will be greatly missed. He was the right man, at the right time, and at the end of the day I feel the exact same way about Lt. Swanhart.”
Swanhart joined the department in December of 2006. Prior to his appointment with the RTPD he worked for New Jersey Transit Police. Swanhart served as a patrolman until being assigned to the Criminal Investigations Unit in October of 2012. In July of 2013, Swanhart was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, where he was assigned supervision of the Criminal Investigation’s Unit. Swanhart reached the rank of Lieutenant in July of 2016.
Since 2022, Swanhart has served as Administrative Lieutenant with duties that include oversight of the department’s Internal Affairs function, Public Information Officer, Field Training Officer Program, Traffic Unit, and School Resource Officers. During his career, Swanhart has been a Drug Recognition Expert, Evidence Custodian, Internal Affairs Officer, Department Training Coordinator, member of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Cyber Crimes Task Force, and worked with various federal, county, and local law enforcement partners.
“I’m very humbled by the opportunity to lead this great agency,” Swanhart said. “The groundwork was set for me by Chief (Marty) Masseroni, Chief (Chris) Nitti and Chief Polaski and I am excited to keep us moving forward. When you start at the academy as a recruit this is the pinnacle. Just incredibly proud to serve not only this agency, but the citizens of Robbinsville and I am looking forward to building a great relationship with them.”
Among his achievements, Lt. Swanhart garnered the State of New Jersey Highway Traffic Safety Top Gun DWI Enforcement award. In 2014 and 2015, he received training from the United States Secret Service in Hoover, Alabama in the area of computer forensics. After completing the FBI-LEEDA Law Enforcement Development Course in 2017, Lt. Swanhart graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2023, Session 285.
“I would like to congratulate Lt. Swanhart and his family of this achievement,” Chief Polaski said. “Lt. Swanhart has been an integral part of this agency for 18 years and possesses the knowledge and skill set to face the challenges that may lay ahead. The department is in good hands, and this will be a very smooth transition.”
Lieutenant William Swanhart has been named the next Robbinsville Township Police Department, Chief of Police, effective January 1, 2025.
WALL TOWNSHIP- On Saturday, December 16, 2023, the Wall Township Police were engaged in foot pursuit following an investigation into a suspicious person at an area motel.
At approximately 8:58 p.m. on Saturday, December 16th Patrolman Johan Moreno-Garcia and Sergeant Chris Mason were investigation a suspicious person incident at the Budget Inn Motel located on State Highway 35. While the above officers were speaking with the male subject identified as William Segars, 37-years-old of Neptune, he initiated a foot chase.
Segars was apprehended a short time later and he was found to have several active arrest warrants out of Tinton Falls, Eatontown, Neptune and Ocean Township. Once he was apprehended, he was also found to be in possession of a knife and heroin.
Segars was charged with resisting arrest, obstructing the administration of law, possession of heroin and unlawful possession of a weapon. He was later transported to Monmouth County Correctional Institution in Freehold.
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.
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Chief Raymond Hayducka of the South Brunswick Police Department announced today that a homicide is currently under investigation in South Brunswick Township.
Yesterday, January 9, 2025, at approximately 3:15 P.M., authorities responded to a residence on Route 27 in South Brunswick Township following the report of an unresponsive female. Upon their arrival, South Brunswick Police Department discovered Lauren Saldana, 38, of Freehold, unconscious. Saldana was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Initial investigation led by Detective Matthew Hagood of the South Brunswick Police Department and Detective Javier Morillo of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, determined that Roman Romanovskiy, 41, of South Brunswick was the alleged perpetrator of the acts causing the death of Saldana. Moreover, Saldana and Romanovskiy knew each other, thus it was not a random act of violence.
Romanovskiy was arrested without incident yesterday, and charged with first- degree Murder, second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Romanovskiy is being held at the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center pending the results of his Pre-Trial detention hearing.
The Endangering the Welfare of a Child charge was filed since the acts resulting in the victim’s death were committed in the presence of minors.
Anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to call Detective Hagood of the South Brunswick Police Department at 732-329-4646 or Detective Morillo the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-745-8843.
January 10, 2025
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–An investigation conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force (MCHTF) and the Trenton Police Department has resulted in the arrest of a New York man for the December 2024 shooting death of a 32-year-old city resident, Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey announced.
Sean Wilkerson, 33, of Brooklyn, NY, is charged with one count of first-degree murder, one count of first-degree felony murder, one count of second-degree attempted kidnapping, one count of second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose and one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon. He was arrested on January 7 in New York by members of the U.S. Marshals NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force. The prosecutor’s office will file a motion to detain him pending trial.
At approximately 5:51 p.m. on Sunday, December 22, 2024, Trenton police officers were dispatched to the 100 block of South Cook Avenue in Trenton on multiple reports that someone had been shot. Responding officers located the victim, later identified as Shakeem Lemach Davis, inside E&J Deli Grocery suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Davis was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where died a short time later.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Tim Bruey at (609) 989-6406 or Sgt. Roberto Reyes at (609) 256-0997. Information can also be emailed to [email protected].
Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Homicide Under Investigation in Trenton
Names of the 2024 Trenton Homicide Victims
01/13/2024 Eduardo Lopez-Cruz, 38, of Trenton, Shooting
01/16/2024 Stefon Locke, 33, Shooting on 1/16 died 2/8/2024
02/28/2024 Shawn Moore, 45, Trenton, Shooting
03/19/2024 Donnell Jenkins age 52, Stabbing
04/04/2024 Jose Alfredo Azcona Garcia, 46, of Trenton, Shooting
05/01/2024 Jerome Francis, 43, of Hamilton
05/01/2024 Chevaughn Fagan, 28, of Trenton
05/19/2024 Stephon Fisher, 18, of Trenton, Shooting
05/26/2024 Dwayne Penix, 20, of Trenton, Shooting
06/01/2024 Shydasia Merrick, 26, of Trenton (Hit and Run)
06/11/2024 Johnathan Applegate
06/23/2024 Samier Vincent, 30, of Trenton, Shooting, died 6/27/2024
07/02/2024 Capriest Ruiz, 23, of Camden, Shooting, died on 2/3/2024
07/04/2024 Amir Williams, 32, of Trenton, Shooting
07/12/2024 Johny Emmanuel Cruz-Rodrigez, Shooting
07/14/2024 Luis Torres Marrero, 47, of Trenton, Shooting 7/9/2024
09/22/2024 Opium Leverette, 17, of Trenton, Shooting
12/08/2024 Kristoffer Givens, 47, of Ewing, Shooting
12/22/2024 Shakeem Lemach Davis, 32, of Trenton, Shooting
12/27/2024 Michael Jones, 44, of Trenton, Shooting
Homicide Victims in Mercer County outside of Trenton:
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER) — Multiple people suffered burns and other injuries in a house fire and were rushed from the scene in ambulances this evening (Oct. 31). Firefighters used a ladder to rescue at least one person from a second-floor window of the burning structure on Tyler Street.
The Trenton Fire Department’s Engines 3, 7 and 10, Ladder 2, Rescue 1 and Battalion Chief Dave Smolka were dispatched at 9:05 p.m. after the city’s communications center started receiving multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting that the multifamily house at 24 Tyler Street, near East Canal Street, was on fire with multiple people trapped on the upper floors.
Patrolling police officers were quickly on the scene. They confirmed people were trapped in the three-story rowhouse. Based on the police’s report, additional firefighters were sent to the scene as the “All Hands” signal for a working fire was transmitted.
Engine 7 arrived and reported they had a person hanging out a second-floor window. Firefighters raised a ladder to the window to rescue that person. Searches were made of the basement and all three floors and firefighters confirmed that everyone was out by about 9:15 p.m.
The total number of people injured and how they escaped from the fire was not immediately known. At least three people were transported by city and mutual aid ambulances to Capital Health Regional Medical Center. At least one trauma alert was called.
Firefighters used two hoselines to quickly extinguish the fire. The blaze was declared under control at 9:24 p.m.
Police quickly cordoned off the street on both sides of the burned building with crime scene tape. Investigators from the police department, fire department, county prosecutor’s office and state fire marshal’s office were called out to probe the cause of the blaze.
It proved to be a busy Halloween evening for city emergency personnel. About two hours before the fire, police and EMS crews responded to a double shooting in the area of New Willow and Kirkbridge avenues.
An act of juvenile delinquency for offenses which if committed by an adult would constitute as Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, Burglary, and Theft.
October 31, 2022
SAYERVILLE, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone and Acting Chief Daniel Plumacker of the Sayreville Police Department announced today that a juvenile male has been taken into custody and charged with an act of juvenile delinquency for offenses which if committed by an adult would constitute as Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, Burglary, and Theft.
Today, October 31, 2022, between Midnight and 12:30 A.M., a 68- year-old female victim was sexually assaulted in her residence. The suspect entered the victim’s apartment located on Swider Drive in Parlin, New Jersey, woke her, sexually assaulted, and deprived her of belongings before fleeing the scene.
This is an active and ongoing investigation anyone with information or surveillance footage of the area is asked to call Detective Lauren Leyva of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victim’s Unit 732-745-4499 or Detective Jeff Taylor of the Sayreville Police Department at 732-525-5450.
October 31, 2022
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Hope Fire Company and Allentown – Captial Health EMS responded at 6:37 p.m. to Old York Road and Montgomery Way for a T-bone crash with reported injuries. Robbinsville Township Police and New Jersey State Police also responded to the scene of the crash. The injuries were minor, and one person was placed in the back of the ambulance for evaluation of injuries but did not seek transport to the hospital. Hope Fire Company stood by for cleanup and assisted Robbinsville Police with traffic control. The Robbinsville Township Police Department is investigating the crash.
October 31, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)—City of Trenton, Public Information Officer, Timothy J. Carroll told MidJersey.News that a double shooting was reported at 7:18 p.m. Two male victims were reported shot after having a verbal altercation with a passing vehicle on New Willow Street near Kirkbride Avenue and Wiley Avenue. Trenton EMS and Capital Health Paramedics transported the two victims to the Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center. The Trenton Police Department Shooting Response Team is investigating the shooting. No additional details are available at this time.
October 31, 2022
TRENTON, N.J. – A Monmouth County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 63 months in prison for defrauding lenders of $50 million dollars in connection with an invoice factoring scheme perpetrated over nearly a decade, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Vincent Galano, 60, of Oceanport, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty by videoconference before U.S. District Judge Zahid N. Quraishi to an information charging him with one count of wire fraud. Judge Quraishi imposed the sentence today in Trenton federal court.
According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court:
Accounts receivable factoring, also known as invoice financing (factoring), is a financial transaction through which a company obtains cash by selling its unpaid invoices, ordinarily at a discount, to a factor. Factoring clients send their debtors notices of assignment naming the factor as the assignee of the debt owed on the invoices. The factor collects invoiced amounts owed by the clients’ debtors and, upon collection of the entire invoiced amount, pays its clients the balance of the invoice, deducting the factor’s fees.
Galano formed PF Funding LLC (PF Funding) in 1996 for the purpose of factoring accounts receivables for various corporate clients. In 2007, PF Funding entered into a secured lending relationship with a single purpose entity created to finance PF Funding’s factoring business. Shortly thereafter, the factoring lender established a line of credit as a means to provide PF Funding capital to grow its receiveables portfolio. Over the next several years, PF Funding grew its factoring business by drawing from the line of credit while maintaining as current its loan obligations to the factoring lender. However, beginning in 2011, Galano, through PF Funding, purchased increasingly greater numbers of invoices for which he was unable to collect the debt owed on the receivables. To justify PF Funding’s continued draws from the line of credit, Galano concealed this bad debt from the factoring lender by misrepresenting the bad invoices as collectible on reports he routinely provided to the factoring lender. In other instances, Galano mischaracterized invoices that had already been paid and collected as outstanding and capable of being factored, in essence double-counting to drive up the outstanding receivables. In the reports provided to the factoring lender, Galano manipulated the overall value of PF Funding’s portfolio of outstanding invoices in an amount proportional to the funds he needed to draw from the unsecured line of credit to maintain as current the principal and interest payments on his outstanding loans.
Engaging in this pattern of misrepresentation over nearly a decade, by 2020 PF Funding had ultimately defaulted under its loan obligations, owing approximately $50 million to its lenders by virtue of the scheme. During a May 2020 telephone call with his lenders, Galano admitted that he had concealed significant losses suffered by PF Funding over many years. He admitted that he had routinely distributed to lenders over that prolonged period fabricated reports that overstated the number and value of outstanding invoices which the reports represented as payable.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Quraishi sentenced Galano to two years of supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution of $50 million.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric A. Boden of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Trenton.
22-406
Defense counsel: Christopher Porrino Esq. and Rachel Maimin Esq., New York
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
October 31, 2022
FREEHOLD – An Ocean County man has been arrested for allegedly killing his wife and leaving her body on the side of a road in Ocean Township this past weekend, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Monday.
Jeremy B. Cruz, 51, of Forked River is charged with First-Degree Murder in connection with the death of 51-year-old Dawn C. Cruz.
At approximately 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 30, a woman who appeared to have sustained severe injuries was observed by a concerned motorist at the intersection of Asbury and Colonial avenues in the Township of Ocean. Upon responding, Ocean Township Police Department officers located the victim, identified as Dawn Cruz, who was ultimately pronounced dead at the scene.
A short while later, Jeremy Cruz turned himself in to authorities at Berkeley Township Police Department headquarters in Ocean County. A joint investigation by members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean Township Police Department, Asbury Park Police Department, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and Berkeley Township Police Department ultimately led to the arrest and charging of Cruz. He remains in custody pending a first appearance and detention hearing to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court.
This case has been assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Caitlin J. Sidley of the Major Crimes Bureau. Information on Cruz’s legal representation was not immediately available. Convictions on Murder charges are commonly punishable by terms of up to life in state prison.
Anyone with information about this matter is being asked to contact MCPO Detective Aaron Shaw at 800-533-7443 or Ocean Township Police Department Detective Zachary Rhein at 732-531-1800.
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.
October 31, 2022
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On October 30, 2022, at approximately 10:15 p.m., a motor vehicle crash occurred on Whitehorse-Mercerville Rd near Godfrey Drive. A 2014 Buick Enclave driven by Linda McBride, a 55-year-old, female from Hamilton, was traveling southbound on Whitehorse-Mercerville Rd near Godfrey Drive when she crossed over the northbound lane and left the roadway. The Buick then struck a 2016 Ford Van that was parked in the driveway of 779 Whitehorse Mercerville Road before coming to a stop against the driveway retaining wall. Members of the Hamilton Fire Division arrived on scene to assist with medical attention. McBride was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The crash is under investigation by Officers C. Clugsten and J. Galant from the Hamilton Police Division’s Traffic Unit.
Any witnesses are asked to contact the Hamilton Police Traffic Unit at (609)581-4000.
According to statistics provided by the Union, Robbinsville, Bordentown and Allentown covered Hamilton Township 1,056 times over the past two years for calls in Hamilton. The statistics provided did not include additional mutual aid EMS services from Trenton, Lawrence and West Windsor that also provide mutual aid to Hamilton so the number could be higher.
October 30, 2022
BORDENTOWN, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Burlington County Professional Firefighters Association IAFF Local 3091 says that on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, Union Officials met with Bordentown Township Administrator Michael Theokas and was advised that the City and Township are looking into privatizing EMS Services for the residents and visitors of Bordentown Township, Bordentown City and Fieldsboro.
The Union states that Bordentown Township requested Bids for EMS Coverage for 2022-2025 due by September 29, 2022. Just 1 year after PERC Awarded Burlington County Firefighters Association IAFF Local 3091 to be the exclusive bargaining agent for all full time and part time EMT’s, and 5 months after we signed the 1st Collective Bargained Agreement with the Township.
Now they’re looking to layoff 6 Full Time employees and 10 Part Time employees after serving faithfully during the entire COVID Pandemic and accept the only bid they received from RWJ Barnanbas Health.
RWJ provides EMS services to Hamilton Township and shortfalls on answering their call volume, which requires Mutual Aid to respond for the overflow.
Mutual Aid sent into Hamilton (RWJ) to handle calls:
In 2021 mutual aid was sent to Hamilton 507 times from Robbinsville 420, Bordentown. 57, Allentown. 30.
So far in 2022 mutual aid was sent to Hamilton 549 times with over two months to go in 2022 since statistics were collected. Robbinsville 411, Bordentown 97, Allentown 41
**The statistics included did not list TEMS – Trenton Emergency Medical Services, Lawrence Township, and West Windsor Emergency Services who also provide additional mutual aid into Hamilton Township.
The Union says that if RWJ is awarded the contract to cover Bordentown, we can estimate the amount of mutual aid calls will grossly increase into Hamilton Township, leaving our residents and visitors without proper coverage.
October 30, 2022
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Around 1:15 p.m. the Hamilton Township Fire Department, Hamilton Police, and EMS were sent to the 5,000 Block of South Broad Street near Old York Road for a vehicle into a guardrail with reported entrapment. Firefighters arrived and reported a guardrail though the vehicle with entrapment. The patient was extricated and transported by EMS to Captial Health Regional Medical Center and a “Trauma Alert” was called. Firefighters requested a hazardous materials crew for a fuel leak from the vehicle. Hamilton Township Police Department is investigating the crash.
No further details are available at this time, check back later for updates.
October 28, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)– A fire involving a pile of junked cars sent a towering column of smoke looming up over the northern end of the city this evening (Friday, Oct. 28). The blaze, which involved more than a dozen old vehicles, occurred at a junkyard in the 300 block of Enterprise Avenue. Firefighters who were alerted about 7 p.m. arrived to find a pile of scrapped auto parts engulfed in a mass of flames. Crews from Engines 6, 10 and 7, Ladder 4 and Rescue 1, under the direction of Battalion Chief Ross Dale, attacked the fire using a pair of 2.5-inch hoselines. Additional crews from Engine 1 and Ladder 1 were dispatched and sent to the Route 1 Freeway to see if a better vantage point could be had to attack the fire from the elevated roadway. Ultimately, however, the crews on the ground made quick work at containing the fire and preventing flames from spreading to either a nearby structure and another even larger pile of junked vehicles. With the blaze contained, those additional companies were not needed and were ordered off of the highway and back to quarters. Firefighters were on the scene for about an hour and a half hosing down the smoldering pile.
October 28, 2022
FREEHOLD – An Ocean County man has been arrested and charged with committing a daytime robbery of a West Long Branch check-cashing business that netted $700,000, Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago announced Friday.
Travis A. Bryant, 41, of Jackson is charged with first-degree Robbery, second-degree Burglary, and fourth-degree Possession of an Imitation Handgun.
At approximately 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 2, 2017, members of the West Long Branch Police Department responded to the check-cashing business on Route 36 on a report of a silent alarm activation. At that location, officers found a lone employee, who advised that a man wearing a hooded sweatshirt pulled tightly around his face and sunglasses had just robbed the store of a large quantity of cash.
It was quickly determined that the man had entered the store when no customers were present and used a ladder to access and climb through ceiling ducts in order to access a secured, employees-only area of the business where cash was stored. After falling through the ceiling, Bryant reportedly approached the store employee, indicating that he was in possession of a weapon, and ordered her into the store bathroom while he made off with her purse, cell phone, and approximately $700,000 in cash, driving away in a van.
An intensive, long-term investigation by members of the West Long Branch Police Department and a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) resulted in Bryant being identified as a suspect in the case, and he was arrested without incident yesterday and lodged in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI) pending a first appearance and detention hearing to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court.
This case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Bogner, Director of the MCPO Major Crimes Bureau, members of which also assisted in the investigation. Information on Bryant’s legal representation was not immediately available.
Convictions on first-degree crimes are commonly punishable by terms of 10 to 20 years in state prison.
Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.
Jaree Kitchen, 24, was sentenced to 60 years pursuant to the No Early Release Act for the two counts of Murder and 10 years for the charge of Aggravated Arson, to run consecutively, for a total of 70 years.
October 28, 2022
JAMESBURG, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone announced today that Jaree Kitchen, 24, has been sentenced for the crimes of murder, aggravated arson, and weapons offenses.
On November 6, 2019, at approximately 3:19 a.m., Jamesburg Police officers responded to 7 Sheridan Street in Jamesburg for a report of a house fire. Upon arrival, officers observed visible flames exiting the structure of the house. The Jamesburg Fire Department arrived on scene and extinguished the fire. A subsequent investigation conducted by Sergeant Kevin Wilson, Detective Sergeant Jason Muller and Detective Jim Dennis of the Jamesburg Police Department and Sergeant Deon McCall of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, founded that Kitchen had recently returned to Jamesburg from Georgia to live with his father, Clifford Kitchen Jr., but soon after his arrival the father and son began having significant issues. This erupted into a physical altercation that resulted in Jaree Kitchen fatally stabbing both his father and another resident of the home, Gregory Fisher to death on November 4, 2019. On November 6, 2019, in an effort to destroy and cover up the murders that occurred within the home, Jaree Kitchen set the residence of 7 Sheridan Street on fire.
Kitchen was subsequently indicted for two counts of first-degree Murder, second-degree Aggravated Arson, two counts second-degree Desecrating Human Remains, two counts of third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, two counts of fourth-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and two counts of fourth-degree Tampering with Evidence.
Following the presentation of evidence by Assistant Prosecutors Amber Gibbs and Caitlin Lavery, Kitchen was convicted by a jury on June 1, 2022. Kitchen was sentenced by the Honorable Thomas J. Buck, today, October 28, 2022. Kitchen was sentenced to 60 years pursuant to the No Early Release Act for the two counts of Murder and 10 years for the charge of Aggravated Arson, to run consecutively, for a total of 70 years.
Jamesburg man found Guilty by Jury of Double Murder and Aggravated Arson
Jaree Kitchen, 24, Jamesburg, Photo from Facebook
October 28, 2022
PRINCETON, NJ (MERCER)–Princeton Police Department reports that on October 28, 2022, at 10:38 a.m., a 2010 Kia Forte driven by Linda Simmins, 73 of Lawrenceville, was traveling south on Mercer Road. The pedestrian/victim, Salvatore Esposito-Dimarcant, 70,of Ewing was performing landscaping work in the 900 block of Mercer Road. Preliminary on-scene investigation revealed that Esposito-Dimarcant was standing in the southbound lane of Mercer Road when he was struck by the Kia Forte. Esposito- Dimarcant was transported to the Bristol Myers Squibb Trauma Center at Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he later succumbed to his injuries
The Police Department is requesting that anybody who witnessed the crash contact Ptl. Jonathan Myzie at (609) 921-2100 ext. 1875
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. An additional press release will follow when new information becomes available.
Many Law and Public Safety Divisions Will Play a Key Role in Ensuring a Fair, Free, and Smooth-Running Election
October 28, 2022
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced several key measures the Department of Law and Public Safety will be taking during the 2022 General Election to help ensure a fair, free, and smooth-running election, to protect the right to vote, and to assist voters, election officials, and law enforcement in resolving any emergent voting-related legal matters.
Early voting in New Jersey will begin on Saturday, October 29 and will end on Sunday, November 6. During that time and on Election Day on Tuesday, November 8, many divisions of the Department of Law and Public Safety will have a role in ensuring free and fair elections in the State of New Jersey.
To safeguard the fundamental right to vote, the Attorney General announced that the Office of the Attorney General and the Division on Civil Rights are establishing a Voter Protection Initiative for the 2022 general election. This Initiative will focus on identifying and addressing any voting rights or civil rights violations, including under the New Jersey Civil Rights Act and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, that may arise during early voting and on Election Day.
The Attorney General’s Voter Protection Initiative will work with community stakeholders and partners to identify and address voting access issues. The Voter Protection Initiative will operate independently of the attorneys in the Division of Law who represent county elections officials and the Secretary of State.
“The right to vote is sacred, and we will do everything in our power to safeguard that right,” said Attorney General Matthew Platkin. “Now more than ever, it is critical that we ensure that New Jerseyans do not face intimidation, discrimination, or harassment when exercising their constitutional right to vote. Our Department’s initiatives to protect the right to vote during this election will ensure that every eligible voter will be able to cast a ballot, and that anyone who attempts to interfere with the voting process will be held accountable to the full extent of the law.”
The Attorney General also announced that, as in prior elections, hundreds of attorneys from the Division of Law will be working in shifts to answer emergent questions from county elections officials to ensure that all eligible voters can cast their ballots quickly, freely, and fairly in accordance with New Jersey’s election laws.
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (“OPIA”) will monitor voter intimidation, electioneering, elections fraud, and other criminal violations, and will direct reports of election interference to local and federal law enforcement as needed and the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (“NJCCIC”) will also be monitoring for election security threats—both cyber and physical.
In preparation for the 2022 General Election, OPIA has also issued the Attorney General’s Law Enforcement Guidance for Elections to local law enforcement officials across the State. View Guidance
Moreover, the Department of Law and Public Safety has also created a webpage that provides New Jersey residents voting-related resources and answers to frequently asked questions regarding the right to vote. The webpage explains how voters can report any problems they encounter during early voting or on Election Day: www.njoag.gov/electionprotection
In addition to this newly created webpage, the New Jersey Division of Elections website, located at https://www.state.nj.us/state/elections/index.shtml, provides a list of county-level election office contacts, as well as other useful elections-related information.
Any person who believes his or her right to vote has been interfered with, or who wishes to report other voting-related problems or concerns, can call the State’s Voter Information and Assistance line toll-free at 1-877-NJVOTER.
Members of the public also can direct election-related questions to their County Superintendent of Elections and County Board of Elections.
Any member of the public who has been subject to discrimination or harassment in connection with voting may also report the issue to the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights through the NJ BIAS online portal, available at https://bias.njcivilrights.gov, or by calling 1-800-277-BIAS (1-800-277-2427). Depending on their urgency, complaints regarding possible discrimination or harassment filed with the Division on Civil Rights may be addressed during the election or after the election.
Attorney General Platkin also reminds the public that it is a criminal offense to solicit or electioneer voters within a “protective zone” as they enter or exit a polling location.
The “protective zone” extends 100 feet from the outside entrance of any polling site. Attempts to interfere with voters within this zone are usually handled by law enforcement officers from the appropriate agency.
October 27, 2022
MOUNT LAUREL, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw and Evesham Township Police Chief Walt Miller announced that a Mount Laurel police officer has been charged with hacking into the social media accounts of an Evesham woman and distributing nude pictures she took of herself to those on her contact and friends lists.
Ayron Taylor, 22, of Delran, was charged with three counts of Computer Crime (one Second Degree, two Third Degree), two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (one Second Degree, one Third Degree) and Invasion of Privacy (Third Degree).
The investigation began last month after the victim contacted the Evesham Township Police Department and reported that her Snapchat and Facebook accounts had been accessed by an unknown person who then sent nude photos she had taken of herself to her Snapchat contacts, messaged them to her Facebook friends, and posted them on her Facebook wall.
Communications Data Warrants were secured, and the investigation revealed Taylor had illegally accessed the accounts and distributed the photos. The Endangering the Welfare of a Child charges were brought against Taylor because some of the photos he sent of the victim were taken when she was a minor.
Taylor was arrested on October 21 and lodged in the Burlington County Jail in Mount Holly. He was released following a first appearance in Superior Court.
Taylor became a full-time police officer with the Mount Laurel Police Department after graduating from the academy in October 2021. He has been suspended without pay and the department is seeking to terminate his employment.
The investigation, which is continuing, is being conducted by the BCPO High-Tech Crimes Unit and the Evesham Township Police Department. The lead investigator is ETPD Detective Christopher DeFrancesco, who is assigned to the BCPO High-Tech Crimes Unit as a Task Force Officer.
All persons are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Ayron Taylor, 22, of Delran, was charged with three counts of Computer Crime (one Second Degree, two Third Degree), two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (one Second Degree, one Third Degree) and Invasion of Privacy (Third Degree).
“Equinor and bp today announced an agreement with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to terminate the Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (OREC) Agreement for the Empire Wind 2 project, an offshore wind project in the US with potential generative capacity of 1,260 MW.“
January 3, 2024
NEW YORK, NY — In a press release today another offshore wind project located off the coast of New Jersey and New York named Empire Wind 2 has been terminated. According to a press release by Equinor and BP-British Petroleum.
The companies say that the decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.
“Commercial viability is fundamental for ambitious projects of this size and scale. The Empire Wind 2 decision provides the opportunity to reset and develop a stronger and more robust project going forward,” said Molly Morris, president of Equinor Renewables Americas.
The companies did not mention the status of Empire Wind 1 in today’s new release.
More about Empire Wind can be found here.
On October 31, 2023, the Board of Directors of Ørsted, decided to cease the development of U.S. Offshore Projects, Ocean Wind 1 and Ocean Wind 2 off the coast of New Jersey. Govenor Phil Murphy called that decision by Orsted to abandon its commitments to New Jersey outrageous and called into question the company’s credibility and competence.
BP and Equinor pull out of contract for offshore wind project off Monmouth County coastline
Over-stated value and benefits are exposed by the reality of economic costs, national security risks and environmental dangers
MIDDLETOWN—Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) today welcomed news that BP and Equinor have cancelled their contract for the “Empire Wind 2” offshore wind project located off the Monmouth County coastline:
“Just two months after Orsted pulled out of its huge taxpayer-subsidized deal approved by Governor Murphy, BP and Equinor have followed suit by terminating their contract for an offshore wind project off the Monmouth County coastline citing ‘changed economic circumstances on an industry-wide scale.’
The promise of benefits and jobs was always over-hyped and predicated on the backs of ratepayers. Now that taxpayers and boardrooms are getting an honest look, the projects simply don’t measure up to the hype.
According to an Equinor press release, ‘the decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.’
Despite the clear indication that these projects are economically unsustainable and pose serious dangers to our marine environment and national security, President Biden and Governor Murphy have rejected calls for objective studies, doubled down and insisted that these projects must continue—no matter the huge taxpayer subsidies they require and the credible predictions of big increases to ratepayers.
It’s long past time for Biden and Murphy to stop recklessly pushing these unsound and improperly vetted projects and trying to prop them up by irresponsibly throwing billions of US taxpayer dollars at these foreign corporations.
While this terminated contract marks another victory for concerned residents, commercial and recreational fishermen, and the environmentalists who have been working with me to expose the dangers inherent in the massive ocean industrialization of the Jersey Shore, we must continue to fight against Biden and Murphy’s extreme policies and put an end to ocean wind development off our beautiful shore. Enough is enough.”
Full press release from Equinor and BP below:
Equinor and bp today announced an agreement with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to terminate the Offshore Wind Renewable Energy Certificate (OREC) Agreement for the Empire Wind 2 project, an offshore wind project in the US with potential generative capacity of 1,260 MW.
This agreement reflects changed economic circumstances on an industry-wide scale and repositions an already mature project to continue development in anticipation of new offtake opportunities. The decision recognizes commercial conditions driven by inflation, interest rates and supply chain disruptions that prevented Empire Wind 2’s existing OREC agreement from being viable.
Equinor and bp believe offshore wind can be an important part of the energy mix and are committed to maintaining substantial contributions to the state and local economy.
“Commercial viability is fundamental for ambitious projects of this size and scale. The Empire Wind 2 decision provides the opportunity to reset and develop a stronger and more robust project going forward,” said Molly Morris, president of Equinor Renewables Americas. “We will continue to closely engage our many community partners across the state. As evidenced by the progress at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, our offshore wind activity is ready to generate union jobs and significant economic activity in New York.”
“bp is supportive of NYSERDA’s leadership and commitment to offshore wind, which we believe is a critical part of New York State’s and America’s clean energy future,” said Joshua Weinstein, bp’s president of offshore wind Americas. “Offshore wind can deliver reliable renewable power as well as economic benefits to the state and its communities.”
The Empire Wind 1 and Empire Wind 2 projects recently reached a key federal permitting milestone, having received the federal Record of Decision from BOEM; last month, Empire Wind 1 also received its Article VII Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need in New York.
About Empire Wind
Empire Wind is being developed through a 50-50 joint venture between Equinor and bp. Empire Wind is located 15-30 miles southeast of Long Island and spans 80,000 acres, with water depths of between approximately 75 and 135 feet. The lease was acquired in 2017. The project’s two phases, Empire Wind 1 and 2, have a potential capacity of more than 2 GW (816 + 1,260 MW). www.empirewind.com
About Equinor Renewables Americas
Equinor is one of the largest offshore wind developers in the world. Its work in the United States includes operating two lease areas off New York, Empire Wind and Beacon Wind. Equinor has also been awarded a lease on the Outer Continental Shelf off California. The United States is an attractive growth market for Equinor, with an ambition to install 12-16 GW of renewables capacity globally by 2030. www.equinor.com/NY
About bp
bp’s ambition is to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner, and to help the world get to net zero. We’re transforming bp from an international oil and gas company to an integrated energy company – and America is core to the strategy. bp has a larger economic footprint in the United States than anywhere else in the world, investing more than $145 billion since 2005 and supporting more than 275,000 jobs. For more information on bp in the US, visit www.bp.com/us.
Empire-Wind-1-and-2-Brochure-July-2022Download
Save LBI: “Promises and Realities -Wind Turbine Projects Off LBI Shores”
Are New Jersey’s Windmill Projects Killing The Whales?
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton firefighters responded to 268 Cortland Street yesterday January 1, 2025 around 3:00 p.m. for a fire in a row home. Not much is known about the fire but a second alarm was called before being brought under control. Additional information will be posted when available.
Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com
Empire-Wind-1-and-2-Brochure-July-2022Download
