EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — Multiple fire departments responded to Big Snow at American Dream Mall for a roof fire around 4:15 a.m. Upon arrival there was a reported “working fire” on the roof of Big Snow the indoor ski slope. Additional aid was called to the scene including Carlstadt, Secaucus, Wallington, Mahwah, Woodridge, Moonachie and many others. Fire crews charged a stand pipe system and charged hand lines to get water on the fire.
The fire went to three alarms before the main body of fire was knocked down just after 6:00 a.m. Fire crews are still on scene reporting that they have smoldering roof material on fire.
According to New Jersey State Police Sgt. Alejandro Goez, “The fire at the American Dream was reported at 4:15 a.m. inside the Big Snow ski slope. The fire was contained to the top of the ski slope and several area fire departments responded to extinguish the fire. The building was unoccupied at the time and there are no injuries reported. Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire has been deemed nonsuspicious at this time.”
Hugh Reynolds, a Big SNOW Representative said, “We can confirm that there was a fire at Big SNOW overnight. Thankfully there were no injuries as the incident occurred outside of our normal hours of operation. We are tremendously thankful for the quick response and efforts of the local fire departments in working to contain this fire. As such, Big SNOW will be closed today while we assess the damage. We will release more details soon.”
This is still a developing story, please check back for further updates. MidJersey.News has reached out to Big Snow, American Dream Mall and NJ Sports and Exposition Authority for additional information.
From the Big Snow website:
Please note that Big SNOW will be closed today, Saturday September 25th. We apologize for this inconvenience and any disappointment this unexpected closure may cause for those guests who were planning to visit today. If you had a pre-purchased reservation, we will be refunding your order. We look forward to welcoming you back to Big SNOW soon. Please contact [email protected] with any additional questions.
E905 to the American Dream mall for a working fire at Big Snow at 05:20 hours this morning.
— Wood-Ridge Fire Dept (@WRFire) September 25, 2021
Photos from Mahwah Res1cue Facebook Page MidJersey.News file photos of Big Snow American Dream
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–Trooper Brandi Slota from the New Jersey State Police, Public Information Unit told MidJersey.News that Troopers responded to a two vehicle crash on the NJ Turnpike southbound on the outer roadway in Robbinsville Twp, Mercer County at approximately 2:30 p.m.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a Kenworth tractor was pulling an enclosed trailer on the New Jersey Turnpike in the southbound outer Roadway and a Western Star tractor was pulling a flatbed trailer directly behind the Kenworth tractor.
In the area of milepost 59.9, the front of the Western Star tractor struck the rear of the trailer being pulled by the Kenworth tractor. The Western Star tractor struck the right concrete traffic barrier and the left guardrail. During the crash, the sheetrock load from the Western Star’s trailer was spilled onto the right lane and right shoulder. As a result of the crash, the driver of the Western Star, identified as Wilbert Normand, 50, of Wilmington, Delaware sustained fatal injuries.
Police also noted in their report that during the investigation of the CO leak, Engine 40 discovered numerous hazards, safety concerns in the dwelling. Specifically, it was observed that there were no CO carbon monoxide detectors, not enough smoke detectors, and many points of egress were blocked. Police noted in the report that a door was screwed shut to the frame, and another with two planks of wood mounted across it, preventing it from being opened. As a result, there was only one working point of exit for the occupants.
March 31, 2023
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)—According to documents obtained from an OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request by MidJersey.news it was revealed that an EMT’s carbon monoxide alarm sounded in a North Main Street home while treating a patient for a possible stroke. High levels of carbon monoxide were found in the dwelling. It was later revealed that the home was turned into a boarding house and housing thirty-three BAPS Temple volunteers. The building was evacuated, the Police, Fire Department, Construction Department and Fire Marshal responded.
According to reports, Robbinsville Ambulance 40, EMS workers responded to 93 North Main Street in Windsor on March 15, 2023 for a person believed to be having a stroke. When the ambulance crew entered the structure “A40 single gas CO monitor began to alarm.” Warning the ambulance crew of carbon monoxide present. The Fire/EMS report states “The patient was removed from the building and into the ambulance for further assessment. A40 transported with ALS to RWJ Hamilton. Squad 40 remained on scene and investigated the CO alarm.”
The Robbinsville Police Department report states police responded with Ambulance 40 and Engine 40 for a patient with possible stroke symptoms. As the EMT’s were evaluating the patient the EMT’s carbon monoxide detector emitted a warning about carbon monoxide levels in the dwelling.
The Robbinsville Police Department report also stated that the “building was currently housing thirty-three female work volunteers for the BAPS Temple (112 North Main Street).”
According the police record, Engine 40 investigated and confirmed that there was very high CO levels within the home. All occupants were evacuated immediately.
Police also noted in their report that during the investigation of the CO leak, Engine 40 discovered numerous hazards, safety concerns in the dwelling. Specifically, it was observed that there were no CO carbon monoxide detectors, not enough smoke detectors, and many points of egress were blocked. Police noted in the report that a door was screwed shut to the frame, and another with two planks of wood mounted across it, preventing it from being opened. As a result, there was only one working point of exit for the occupants.
Police notified the Robbinsville Township Engineer Construction Official and the Robbinsville Fire Marshal. The building was not allowed to be occupied until a inspection the following day.
The record states that, after Engine 40 had been able to properly vent the building and the carbon monoxide was at a safe level, the residents were allowed to retrieve their necessary belongings, and were then relocated by BAPS representatives. Once the residents all left, the building was secured and police tape was put across the doorways.
The report stated that the Township Engineer Construction Official did respond to the location to investigate and posted the building as an Unsafe Structure/Immediate Hazard due to the unapproved boarding and various code violations.
The Property Record Card indicates that the property is owned by PRAMUKH SWAMIJI LLC, 8005 Pulaski Highway, Baltimore, Maryland. It was purchased for $1,001,000 on December 20, 2017. The Property Class is 3A “Farm Property (Regular)”
The Construction Department issued a “Notice of Unsafe Structure” on March 16, 2023 states “Unapproved Boarding/Rooming House, Unsafe Equipment, No Smoke or CO Alarms”
The Construction Department “Notice of Violation and Order To Terminate” on March 16, 2023 states “Unapproved Boarding/Rooming House”
There are three “Notice of Violation and Order to Terminate” indicating that “Work Done Without A Permit”
There are also three “Notice and Order of Penalty” notices issued on March 16, 2023 with “failed to obtain construction permit” with an order to pay of $2,000 with a combined total of the three orders of $6,000. In penalties were issued.
UPDATE: Statement from Robbinsville Township Council Regarding BAPS Investigation
April 10, 2023
Members of Township Council are profoundly disturbed by the recent findings at dwellings on North Main Street and Voelbel Road. The conditions found within those buildings, the number of occupants residing there, along with the myriad of Fire Code and Uniform Construction Code violations are obviously unacceptable. The safety and well-being of all residents and visitors to Robbinsville Township is paramount, and we will continue to do everything within our power to hold the person(s) responsible for these violations accountable. As Mayor Dave Fried stated previously in media interviews, all the houses known to be boarding dozens of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha volunteers have been shut down with some deemed uninhabitable until all required repairs are completed, and inspections conducted. All Code violations found will be pursued in Municipal Court. Robbinsville Township Administration and the Police Department have referred the case to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office. While outside agencies are investigating, including the FBI, we ask for your patience as they carefully and methodically review the case. While we understand people want to know all the details as soon as issues occur, that is not always possible because those pieces of information could very well disrupt and even derail an investigation. There is a team of people working hard every day to keep everyone safe. Please keep in mind Robbinsville officials, with the help of residents, initiated these raids. Please continue to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Township Administration and our Police Department. Also feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
Charges Include Murder of 32-Year-Old Man, Attempted Murder of Police Officer
June 16, 2020
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal today announced first-degree criminal charges against 16 alleged members and associates of the “Get Money Boys” or “GMB,” a violent street gang linked to multiple shootings, including the December 2019 murder of Michael Barnes, a 32-year-old Trenton man, and the February 2020 attempted murder of a police officer. Fifteen GMB members and associates, including its alleged leader, Charles Willis, 27, are charged with first-degree racketeering, and 10 GMB members, including Willis, are charged with either murder, attempted murder, or conspiracy to commit murder. As alleged in court documents, Willis and GMB engaged in violent criminal conduct in furtherance of their heroin and cocaine distribution activities in the area of the Oakland Street Apartments in Trenton. GMB Members have been charged in connection with the following shootings:
Sept. 17, 2019 Shooting. Shaiquan Hearns, 21, is charged with attempted murder for allegedly shooting a man in the leg in the early morning hours of Sept. 17, 2019 on Lamberton Street in Trenton.
Dec. 27, 2019 Murder of Michael Barnes. Michael Barnes, 32, was shot in the face on Commonwealth Avenue in Trenton on the night of Dec. 27. Davion Fenderson, 25, is charged with the murder, and Willis, Hearns, Bobby Hood, 28, and Jayshawn Fisher, 26, are charged with conspiracy to commit murder.
Feb. 12, 2020 Shooting of Civilians and Attempted Murder of Police Officer. On Feb. 12, GMB members allegedly shot at two men, causing them to crash their car. When a police officer pursued the GMB members, they allegedly fired at him. He was not hit. Hearns, Dion Battle, 28, and Yahonatan Salter, 28 were charged on Feb. 12 with attempted murder in the shooting involving the officer. Those men and Willis are now charged with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder in the shooting involving the two civilian victims.
May 1, 2020 Shooting. On the night of May 1, 2020, five GMB members allegedly opened fire on a group of individuals on Sanhican Drive in Trenton, wounding two men. Willis, Hood, David Williams, 28, Shawn Anderson, 21, and Zaire Jackson, 24, are charged with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder in that shooting.
“Gang violence has taken the lives of too many young people in Trenton, and the Get Money Boys have been a major contributor to that violence,” said Attorney General Grewal. “We will continue doing everything we can to make our capital city safe for its residents.” “But we also know that arrests alone won’t stop the cycle of gang involvement, violence, and incarceration,” continued Attorney General Grewal. “That is why we plan to work closely with the community in the coming months to develop programs that have the power to turn young people away from the false glamor of gang life and show them a healthy and positive path forward.” “Through this collaborative investigation, we charged 16 alleged members and associates of this violent gang with first-degree charges carrying lengthy prison sentences,” said Director Veronica Allende of the Division of Criminal Justice. “Each time we take down a dangerous gang like this one, we make Trenton safer for residents and for the law enforcement officers who work heroically every day to protect them.” “These individuals have threatened Trenton’s hard working, law abiding citizens with their guns and drugs for too long. They pose a danger to the entire community, not just gang members, and I am extremely proud of the collective efforts and hard work of all of the agencies involved in this investigation,” Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri said. “My office will continue to work with state and local law enforcement to arrest and prosecute those assaulting our cities with acts of violence. We also intend to work with Attorney General Grewal and the community to cultivate programs and solutions that will give our youth population an alternative to gangs, drugs and violence.” “Street gangs like the Get Money Boys tear apart communities through their drug trade, violence, and murder, and by actively recruiting impressionable young people,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Our involvement will not stop with these arrests. We will continue to work cooperatively with our partners in the community to develop programs that present positive alternatives for the youth of our capital city.” The complaint charging Willis with conspiracy to murder Michael Barnes alleges that in 2019, Willis and other GMB members began targeting Barnes and that Willis threatened Barnes’ life on social media. It further alleges that Willis ordered GMB members to actively hunt for Barnes and kill him. It is alleged that Fenderson committed the murder at Willis’s direction on Dec. 27, 2019. When Willis was arrested at his home on June 2, 2020 in Willingboro with his girlfriend, DayshaM. Brown, 24, detectives seized a defaced firearm – which allegedly was within access of a toddler who lives in the home – and an illegal large capacity magazine. Willis and Brown were each charged with second-degree endangering the welfare of a child, fourth-degree possession of a defaced firearm, and fourth-degree possession of a large capacity magazine. Willis also was charged with possession of a weapon as a convicted felon. Additional details about the Feb. 12 attempted murder of a police officer and related charges are provided in the press release at this link: https://www.nj.gov/oag/newsreleases20/pr20200213b.html
In that incident, a Hamilton Township police officer assigned to the New Jersey State Police Crime Suppression Central Unit Task Force observed a shooting in progress in the area of West State Street and Parkside Avenue in Trenton. The officer, who was operating an unmarked vehicle, followed the suspect vehicle to the area of the Oakland Park Apartments on Coolidge Avenue, where he was fired upon by the occupants of the vehicle. Three guns were seized from defendants during the course of this investigation. On May 31, 2020, detectives executed a search warrant for a storage unit in Hamilton, Mercer County, rented by defendant Briana Blue, 22, where they seized 254 bricks of heroin, consisting of approximately 12,700 individual doses packaged in wax folds that were stamped with the brands “Dope Dick” and “Fruit Loops.” On the same date, detectives executed a search warrant for a car rented by defendant Tre Whetstone, 26, and seized 130 bricks of heroin, or approximately 6,500 doses, bearing the same stamps. The following 16 alleged GMB members and associates have been charged as indicated: Charles M. Willis, 27, of Willingboro, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
First- Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – Michael Barnes
First- Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – Michael Barnes
First-Degree Murder of Michael Barnes
Frederick Eustsey, 45, of Ewing, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
Second-Degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS
John Colvin, 23, of Trenton, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
Second-Degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS
David Williams, 28, of Camden, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
First-degree Attempted Murder – May 1 Shooting
First-Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – May 1 Shooting
Second Degree Aggravated Assault
Second-Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
Second-Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
Second-Degree Possession of Weapon as Convicted Felon
Second- Degree Solicitation, Recruitment of Juveniles to Join a Street Gang
Zaire Jackson, 25, of Trenton, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
First-degree Attempted Murder – May 1 Shooting
First-Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – May 1 Shooting
Second Degree Aggravated Assault
Second-Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
Second-Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
Shawn Anderson, 21, of Trenton, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
First-degree Attempted Murder – May 1 Shooting
First-Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – May 1 Shooting
Second Degree Aggravated Assault
Second-Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
Second-Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
Juvenile Male, 17, of Trenton, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
First-Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – May 1 Shooting
Jayshawn Fisher, 26, of Trenton, N.J.
First- Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder – Michael Barnes
Briana Blue, 22, of Princeton, N.J.
First-degree Racketeering
Second-Degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS
First-Degree Possession with Intent to Distribute CDS
Willis, Hearns, Salter, Battle, Colvin, and Fisher were previously in jail and were served with the charges outlined above while in jail. The other 10 defendants were arrested since June 5. Attorney General Grewal commended all of the prosecutors, detectives, investigators and officers who participated in the investigation for the Division of Criminal Justice, Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey State Police, Trenton Police Department, Trenton Shooting Response Team, and New Jersey Department of Corrections. Deputy Attorneys General Cassandra Montalto and Mohammad Mahmood are the lead prosecutors for the Division of Criminal Justice Gangs & Organized Crime Bureau, under the supervision of Bureau Chief Lauren Scarpa Yfantis and Deputy Bureau Chief Erik Daab. The detectives who conducted the investigation for the Division of Criminal Justice are Sgt. Brian Woolston, Sgt. Kevin Gannon, Detective Scott Caponi, Detective Zachary Grey, and other members of the Gangs & Organized Crime Central Squad, under the supervision of Lt. Brian Bruton, Deputy Chief of Detectives Frederic Moore, and Chief of Detectives Weldon Powell. Attorney General Grewal also thanked the following agencies that assisted with arrests and execution of search warrants: Hamilton Township Police Department, Ewing Township Police Department, West Windsor Police Department, Falls Township Police Department (Pennsylvania), U.S. Marshals Service New Jersey/New York Regional Fugitive Task Force, and Mercer County Tactical Response Team. First-degree murder carries a sentence of life in state prison, including 30 years of parole ineligibility, while the first-degree charges of attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder carry a sentence of 10 to 30 years in state prison. The other first-degree charges carry a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison and fine of up to $200,000. The racketeering charges carry a period of parole ineligibility equal to 85 percent of the sentence imposed. Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000. Possession of a weapon as a convicted felon carries a mandatory period of parole ineligibility of five years, and unlawful possession of a weapon carries a mandatory period of parole ineligibility equal to one-third to one-half of the sentence imposed or three years, whichever is greater. Third-degree crimes carry a sentence of three to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000. The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Defense AttorneysFor Tre Whetstone: John Furlong, Esq., Furlong & Krasny, Ewing, N.J.For Shawn Anderson: Arun Lavine, Esq., Lawrenceville, N.J.For Shaiquan Hearns: Mark Fury, Esq., Mount Holly, N.J.For Dion Battle: Rukiya Blackwell, Esq., Mount Holly, N.J. A number of defendants are currently represented by the Public Defender’s Office.
EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–East Windsor Police report, on Monday November 7, 2022, at approximately 9:09 a.m., members of the East Windsor Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office responded to the Bear Brook, located off of Oak Creek Road, for a report of an unattended death. Investigators located the body of Julia McDaid, 18, of East Windsor. The East Windsor Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office are actively investigating the incident, however preliminary investigation indicates no signs of foul play.
ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–In Allentown “Speed Enforcement Zones” have started, and signs are posted on both North and South Main Street. According to Allentown Mayor Fritts in a post this afternoon stated, “Anyone caught violating our speed limits, will be required to appear in court which will mandate additional fines above the speeding violation.”
Do not speed in Allentown, NJ. According to the post additional measures will be announced in the coming days.
June 1, 2021 Allentown Meeting Minutes Meeting Agenda from June 1, 2021 Allentown
Message from Allentown Mayor Fritts:
Good afternoon Allentown residents,
It has been a long time coming but our speed enforcement zones have started. Our first two signs are installed on North and South Main Street. Additional signs will be installed on Church and Waker.
Speed enforcement signs are permanent and renewed annually through resolution. Anyone caught violating our speed limits, will be required to appear in court which will mandate additional fines above the speeding violation.
We are working hand and hand with the Allentown Police department and will proactively be tracking metrics that we will share with the community. Please tell your family members, neighbors and visiting guests. Our priority is to take care of our families, children walking to and from school and visiting guests to our community. Additional measures will be announced in the coming days.
The alarming number of recent whale deaths has prompted 30 mayors of New Jersey coastal towns to call for immediate moratorium on all offshore wind activity pending a thorough investigation by federal and state authorities. In a letter to federal and state officials, the mayors express their concern about “the unprecedented number of whales that have washed ashore recently.” Copies of the letter have also been sent to President Joe Biden and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy.
Concerns that acoustic surveys related to offshore wind development may be a contributing factor in the 9 recent whale deaths that occurred since early December – more than has ever been recorded in the State of New Jersey in such a short amount of time – have brought strong opposition from local environmental groups and residents. On February 13th, the 9th dead whale in the New Jersey and New York area washed ashore in Manasquan, New Jersey. The US Coast Guard at Barnegat Light has also reported several more dead floating whales off the New Jersey coast, an indication that not all of the whale deaths have been accounted for.
The mayors’ letter emphasizes that “While we are not opposed to clean energy, we are concerned about the impacts these projects may already be having on our environment.” Offshore wind developers have obtained permits for the “incidental taking” of whales, which would typically be illegal under federal law. This could include potential injury to whales, such as damaging their hearing, or by causing behavioral disruptions in feeding and migration. In response to similar concerns, Benjamin Laws, Deputy Chief for the Permits and Conservation Division with the NOAA Fisheries Office of Protected Resources, says that “there is an expectation that the work will impact marine life, including whales.” NOAA and other self- described environmental groups denounce the lack of evidence about the cause for these recent whale deaths and nevertheless encourage the wind industry and Governor Murphy to press on with his plan to install 11.5 GW of offshore wind projects in New Jersey.
The mayors, who represent over 359,168 full-time residents in New Jersey and welcome tens of millions of visitors annually to their beaches and communities, call for an immediate moratorium on all offshore wind activity pending a thorough investigation by federal and state agencies “that confidently determines” the offshore wind activities are not a contributing factor in the recent whale deaths.
The officials represent the communities of Atlantic Highlands, Avon by the Sea, Barnegat Light, Bay Head, Beach Haven, Berkley Township, Brick Township, Brielle, Brigantine, Deal, Harvey Cedars, Linwood, Little Egg Harbor Township, Long Beach Township, Mantoloking, Margate City, North Wildwood, Ocean City, Point Pleasant Borough, Point Pleasant Beach, Sea Girt, Seaside Park, Ship Bottom, Spring Lake, Stafford Township, Stone Harbor, Toms River, Ventnor City, Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest.
Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
2 Photos above provided
Photos and video by: Ryan Mack, Jersey Shore Fire Response
Are New Jersey’s Windmill Projects Killing The Whales?
TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Assemblyman Alex Sauickie left a State Police headquarters briefing Wednesday on the ongoing drone sightings in New Jersey with more questions than answers, expressing frustration over the lack of information and a coherent response plan from state authorities. “The public deserves to know that their safety is being actively protected,” said Sauickie (R-Ocean). “After sitting through that briefing, I am gravely concerned. We still don’t know who is behind these drone flights, where they are coming from, or what the state plans to do to figure it out. This level of uncertainty is unacceptable.” State Police officials provided limited details about the nature of the drone sightings, offering no clear timeline or actionable strategy for identifying the operators or mitigating future threats. Officials from the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness appeared unprepared and failed to present a plan, deepening Sauickie’s concerns. “When our homeland security experts can’t provide even basic assurances about what’s happening in our airspace, it sends a chilling message about our preparedness,” Sauickie added. Sauickie, a New York City commuter on September 11, 2001, reflected on how critical intelligence failures can have devastating consequences. “I was in lower Manhattan on 9/11. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when we aren’t vigilant about emerging threats,” he said. “We cannot afford complacency when unknown aircraft are operating above our communities. New Jerseyans deserve better than vague answers and shrugged shoulders.” Sauickie called on Gov. Phil Murphy, who did not attend the briefing, to prioritize a swift and transparent investigation into the drone activities, urging federal and state agencies to work together more effectively.
“The time for vague briefings and indecisiveness is over. We need action, accountability, and real answers before something serious happens,” Sauickie concluded.
Assemblyman Alex Sauickie. Photo by Assembly Republican Office/Jennifer Peacock.
Assemblymen Clifton & Sauickie
Our Message on the Drones Over New Jersey
Today’s legislative briefing on the drone activity across our state was disappointing. The governor didn’t attend which underscored the lack of seriousness being given this matter. We take this matter seriously as we know our constituents do, and despite hoping to get answers to share with you, we left feeling that our state administration and the federal administration are not effectively communicating and do not have an organized effort to solve this mystery. The State claims they can’t do anything without federal assistance or direction, and until we know where these drones are coming from, who is operating them, and what their intent is, the federal representative from the Department of Homeland Security clearly is not treating this with the level of seriousness it deserves. Both of us will continue to fight for all of you to get the answers you deserve, and will not let up until then.
Congressman Van Drew Sounds the Alarm on Potential National Security Threat Posed by NJ Drones
Washington, DC –Today, Congressman Van Drew joined Harris Faulkner on Fox News to discuss his serious concerns over the potential link of the drones flying over New Jersey to adversarial nations, such as Iran, and the urgent need to immediately take action to neutralize the threat. He also testified at a Subcommittee on Aviation hearing, where he emphasized the increasing threats posed by vulnerabilities in our airspace and expressed the need for the U.S. to advance drone detection and security technologies.
Critical Update on the Mysterious Drone Activity
Today, I attended an in-person briefing in Ewing with representatives of the NJ State Police and the NJ Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness. While the meeting provided some insights, it also raised more alarming questions. Here are the key takeaways:
• Congressman Chris Smith from South Jersey reported drones following Coast Guard ships. The Coast Guard witnessed 50 drones flying from the ocean to land and back.
• No known credible threat, according to the NJ Office of Homeland Security, but the situation remains unresolved.
• State Police have been investigating for three weeks:
• First sighting: November 18th
• Last night: 4 sightings
• Night before: 180 sightings
• The drones:
• Fly for 6-7 hours at night.
• No RF signals, so they can’t be detected.
• Lights shut off when approached.
• No daytime sightings reported.
• State Police lack the authority to take them down—only federal agencies can act.
I asked the tough questions:
Can you confirm these drones have nothing to do with the U.S. military? They said yes.
Can you confirm these drones aren’t tied to large tech companies like Google, Amazon, or Elon Musk? They said yes.
Are you telling me that in this day and age, drones of this size can fly over us and we have no idea who they belong to, where they’re taking off from, or what their purpose is? They said we don’t know.
Adding insult to injury, Governor Phil Murphy didn’t even attend the meeting. We’re dealing with unidentified drones entering our airspace, and our state leader doesn’t show up to address it.
During the Cuban Missile Crisis, the mere presence of missiles 100 miles from our shores brought us to the brink of war. Yet today, drones can hover over our neighborhoods, and we remain complacent. This generational gap in recognizing threats is alarming.
If these drones’ payloads were to change, our lives could change instantly. This is a wake-up call that we cannot afford to ignore.
We must demand answers. The safety and security of our community depend on it. If you have any information or footage, call 18664SAFENJ to report it.
— Mayor Ryan Herd
SHERIFF URGES GOVERNOR TO DECLARE STATE OF EMERGENCY AMID MYSTERIOUS NIGHTTIME DRONE SIGHTINGS
Monmouth County: Sheriff Shaun Golden is calling on Governor Phil Murphy to take immediate action in response to the escalating concerns regarding unidentified drones over New Jersey. He is urging the Governor to declare a State of Emergency and issue an Executive Order banning recreational drone use during nighttime hours.
“Residents are increasingly alarmed by the surge in drone activity after dark, raising concerns about public safety and security,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden. “We cannot wait any longer. The Governor must act now, and the Air National Guard needs to step in to protect our communities. In addition, we are asking Congress to immediately pass federal legislation for state police and sheriff’s offices nationwide which would enable them to address this issue head on.”
The proliferation of recreational drones has created a host of challenges for law enforcement and emergency response teams. Nighttime drone activity makes it difficult to identify operators and assess potential risks, including illegal surveillance, interference with critical infrastructure, and aviation hazards. Therefore, de-drone equipment must be made available at the state level.
The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and partners in law enforcement need swift and decisive action from the State of New Jersey. A State of Emergency will help address these growing concerns and restore peace of mind in communities.
NJ Senate Republicans Demand Immediate Federal Action on Drone Sightings in New Jersey
“First and foremost, our top priority is the safety and security of New Jersey residents. Unfortunately, today’s briefing provided no additional clarity, leaving us frustrated and with no further information regarding these troubling incidents since they began. New Jersey State Police and local law enforcement have done an incredible job with the limited information they have, but their efforts to intervene have been severely hampered by the Federal Government’s jurisdiction over engagement with these aircraft. This restriction, along with the Biden Administration’s slow-rolled response, has fueled growing concerns and left residents to speculate the worst-case scenario as they await answers.”
“It is irresponsible for federal representatives to assert that there is no threat to public safety while simultaneously asserting they have no information about who is operating the drones, where they originate, or where they are going. This contradiction is eroding public trust and only deepens the sense of uncertainty that many of our constituents have expressed.”
“We share the frustrations of our constituents and feel the same urgency to act. That is why we are calling on Governor Murphy to demand, in the strongest terms possible, the full support of the Federal Government. He must insist that the Biden Administration immediately provide the tools and resources needed to safeguard our state—up to and including authorization to neutralize any drone that poses a threat to our residents. New Jerseyans deserve swift and effective action to ensure their safety and the security of our nation.”
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:
‘Uniform Public Expression Protection Act’ Establishes Expedited Process for Dismissal of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP)
September 7, 2023
TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed the ‘Uniform Public Expression Protection Act’ to protect people from meritless lawsuits intended to intimidate them for exercising their free speech rights. Powerful entities and individuals often use lawsuits and litigation threats to punish and silence those who might speak unfavorably about them. The bipartisan legislation will enable defendants to seek the expedited dismissal of such lawsuits, commonly referred to as ‘Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation’ (SLAPP), which have historically been used against journalists, academics, advocates, and whistleblowers – among others.A SLAPP is generally used to silence individuals or organizations from publicly criticizing or bringing legitimate issues to light about an individual or entity with greater power and resources.
“For far too long, the powerful have abused the justice system to suppress free speech through illegitimate lawsuits,” said Governor Murphy. “By pursuing meritless court cases, these powerful parties aim to silence their critics by making it impossible for those with fewer resources to spend the time and money necessary to legally defend themselves. This law will expedite the process to get these cases dismissed on behalf of the journalists, small businesses, activists, and countless others who have been unfairly targeted by these lawsuits over the years.”
If a SLAPP is initiated, the bill (S-2802/A-4393) now allows eligible defendants to file paperwork requiring the plaintiff to demonstrate the basis for the lawsuit and requiring the court to consider the issues in an expeditious manner. This process will enable these kinds of cases to be dismissed quickly, and at less expense to the defendant, rather than being drawn out in court.In addition to the expedited timeline, other related legal proceedings may be paused until the request for an expedited dismissal is resolved. The bill also allows defendants in some cases to recover legal fees if the lawsuit is dismissed.
“People should be able to speak their mind on the issues that matter most to them without the fear of becoming ensnared in an expensive, time-consuming lawsuit,” said First Assistant Attorney General Lyndsay V. Ruotolo. “The law signed by Governor Murphy today makes it much more difficult to use the legal system as a weapon, with the intent to bully individuals into silence. New Jersey is proud to become the latest state to enact a law that discourages, and creates a streamlined process to dismiss, baseless lawsuits that improperly target the lawful exercise of free speech.”
With this bill signing, New Jersey joins a host of other states in adopting an anti-SLAPP law and becomes the sixth state to specifically enact particularly strong protections based on the Uniform Law Commission’s ‘Uniform Public Expression Protection Act.’Sponsors of the legislation include Senator Joseph Lagana and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, as well as Senator Jon Bramnick and Assembly members Carol Murphy and Kevin J. Rooney.
“Lawsuits should not be weaponized as a means of silencing someone speaking out about a controversial issue,” said Senator Lagana. “This legislation will protect residents against frivolous, ill-intentioned lawsuits and insulate them from the financial hardships these cases can produce.”
“Money and power shouldn’t be tools to muzzle the voices of critics and whistleblowers,” said Assemblyman Mukherji. “While our democracy thrives on free speech, frivolous SLAPP lawsuits aim to stifle that freedom. With this law, we’re handing back the microphone and the pen and providing a powerful remedy so that journalists and citizens can confidently speak up without fear of unwarranted retribution.”
“Many states throughout the country have enacted laws specifically aimed at discouraging SLAPP suits. Until today, those statutes did not exist in New Jersey,” said Senator Bramnick. “Anti-SLAPP suit laws allow the defendant in a suit to file a motion that permits the court to dismiss the lawsuit for being without merit. This legislation will enact something similar in New Jersey so that people can exercise their First Amendment rights without the fear of getting bogged down in legal proceedings.”
“Too often SLAPP suits have been used to silence criticism through costly and time-consuming legal proceedings. It’s a shame that bad actors have exploited our legal system to effectively strip outspoken New Jersey residents of their First Amendment rights,” said Assemblywoman Murphy. “Today, we are taking a stand by expediting the dismissal of these lawsuits, doing away with this intimidation tactic, and protecting freedom of speech in our state.”
“I am a proud champion of diverse discourse. New Jersey must discourage those who weaponize the legal system to intimidate detractors, because it impedes healthy debate,” said Assemblyman Rooney. “Free speech in New Jersey is protected under the Constitution, but with this bill signing, the law will stand up for the vocal citizens who are too often silenced by money and power.”
“I am thrilled that New Jersey has enacted the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act (UPEPA), a strong anti-SLAPP bill that protects filmmakers, journalists, and everyday citizens from attacks on their First Amendment rights,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association. “Under the leadership of Governor Murphy and the state legislature, New Jersey has become a major hub of film and television production, making it ever more urgent and important that the state protect the principles of free speech and artistic freedom on which a thriving creative ecosystem depends. Thank you, Gov. Murphy and the bill sponsors, Senator Joseph Lagana and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji, for working to enact UPEPA. On behalf of the MPA and our member studios, we look forward to further strengthening our excellent relationship with the Garden State.”
“The right to free speech is a cornerstone of our democracy, and we commend Governor Murphy and the bill sponsors for protecting this foundational right by making this bill law,” said ACLU of New Jersey Executive Director Amol Sinha. “This bill will help protect the public against serious and continuing threats to free speech in New Jersey by limiting the harms that people can face for speaking out on important public issues. The ACLU-NJ fights for New Jerseyans’ rights every day and we are proud to say that our rights have stronger protections today.”
“The enactment of the ‘Uniform Public Expression Protection Act’ represents a significant milestone for the State of New Jersey,” said Peggy Arbitell, Executive Director of the New Jersey Press Association. “This legislation, which enables early resolution of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP), is designed to thwart lawsuits intended to intimidate or punish those engaged in constitutionally protected activity. The New Jersey Press Association strongly and enthusiastically supports this legislation, which now places New Jersey with the majority of States that recognize the importance of robust anti-SLAPP laws.”
“Anti-SLAPP laws provide essential protections for journalists and news organizations to be able to quickly dismiss meritless lawsuits from powerful parties seeking to intimidate, punish, or chill their reporting,” said Lisa Zycherman, Deputy Legal Director of Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press. “Journalists must be able to report stories about matters of public interest without fear that the subjects of their coverage will target them or their newsroom with costly, baseless legal proceedings. These kinds of protections are vital to preserving the unflinching journalism that informs communities, exposes wrongdoing, and holds public figures and officials accountable.”
“This new law will protect the constitutional rights of those who engage in public protest or who advocate on issues of public importance. Too often, unjust lawsuits known as Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPP), are filed not for the purpose of seeking justice but to punish or prevent people from exercising their constitutional rights,” said Patricia M. Giordano, Esq., President of the New Jersey Association for Justice. “We thank Governor Murphy for supporting the right to free speech and signing this important legislation into law. We also thank Senators Lagana and Bramnick, Assemblymen Mukherji and Rooney, and Assemblywoman Murphy for shepherding this important affirmation of constitutional rights through the legislative process.”
“After unanimous passage in both the Assembly and Senate, New Jersey municipalities appreciate the Governor signing this legislation that protects the local government’s ability to function, without hampering the ability for residents to communicate, and ensuring that the threat of frivolous lawsuits is greatly diminished,” said Michael Cerra, Executive Director of New Jersey League of Municipalities.
“We thank Governor Murphy for signing this important legislation that will protect the rights of communities to fight back against development proposals that have a detrimental environmental impact on their neighborhoods,” said Allison McLeod, Policy Director for the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. “Unscrupulous developers have long utilized SLAPP suits as a way of silencing local voices. This law will enable community groups to voice their opinions on critical issues involving warehouse sprawl, water quality, and other conservation matters.”
Photos from Mahwah Res1cue Facebook Page 
MidJersey.News file photos of Big Snow American Dream
June 1, 2021 Allentown Meeting Minutes 
Meeting Agenda from June 1, 2021 Allentown
Critical Update on the Mysterious Drone Activity 
Can you confirm these drones have nothing to do with the U.S. military? They said yes.
Can you confirm these drones aren’t tied to large tech companies like Google, Amazon, or Elon Musk? They said yes.
Are you telling me that in this day and age, drones of this size can fly over us and we have no idea who they belong to, where they’re taking off from, or what their purpose is? They said we don’t know.
