March 17, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the New Jersey State Police, the Division of Criminal Justice, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Trenton Police Department today announced the arrest of a 26-year-old man suspected of three murders in Pennsylvania and two carjackings.

Law enforcement officials in New Jersey and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, were looking for Andre Gordon Jr., in connection with the fatal shootings of three people, including a 13-year-old girl, in two separate locations in Falls Township, Pennsylvania, on the morning of Saturday, March 16, 2024.

Gordon allegedly carjacked a vehicle in the parking lot of Donnelly Homes in Trenton around 8:40 a.m., drove to Falls Township and committed a series of shootings, carjacked a second vehicle in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, and returned to Trenton. He entered a residence on Phillips Avenue and was later apprehended on New York Avenue at approximately 5 p.m. Gordon is being lodged at the Mercer County Correction Center. 

“The string of violent acts that took place yesterday, allegedly at the hands of a single armed individual, alarmed and terrorized communities in Bucks and Mercer counties. It is the latest in a horrific litany of illustrations of how illegal guns and assault rifles can empower one aggrieved and disturbed actor to do immense damage and leave a trail of tragedies in their wake,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “I am grateful to all the brave law enforcement officers who mobilized in the face of grave danger and helped ensure this incident ended without further harm. We will pursue justice for the victims and hold the defendant accountable for his reprehensible actions.”

“As law enforcement officers, we rely on our professional training and experience when handling events like this. These situations are challenging and show the dangers law enforcement officers face daily,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “I’d like to thank all of the agencies involved in safely bringing this violent and tragic incident to an end.”

“Yesterday’s events are a profound tragedy and a shock that instilled fear in many residents in two states,” said J. Stephen Ferketic, director of the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice. “Thankfully, they ended with the apprehension of the suspect without further gunfire. We will work closely with our partners in Bucks County to ensure that the defendant answers for his alleged crimes in both Trenton and Falls Township.”

“I’d like to extend my sincere appreciation to our federal, state, and local partners for their overwhelming response and assistance in apprehending this extremely dangerous individual,” said Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri. “We’ve been in constant contact with Bucks County authorities and will work expeditiously to ensure that Andre Gordon is returned to Pennsylvania to face his murder charges.”

“My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the victims and their families,” said Police Director Steve Wilson of the Trenton Police Department. “I’d like to thank the local, county, and state authorities for their immediate deployment of additional resources that helped prevent further injury and loss of life to the public and to any law enforcement officer. We are pleased that this incident ended with the peaceful apprehension of the suspect.”

Approximately 60 officers from the Mercer County Rapid Response Partnership (MCRRP) responded to assist. They included officers from East Windsor, Ewing, Hamilton, Hightstown, Hopewell, Lawrence, Princeton, Robbinsville, West Windsor, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, The College of New Jersey, the New Jersey State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Gordon was charged by New Jersey authorities with first-degree carjacking, second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, second-degree unlawful possession of an assault firearm, third-degree unlawful possession of a firearm without a serial number, third-degree receiving stolen property, fourth-degree unlawful possession of large-capacity ammunition magazines, and fourth-degree possession of hollow-point ammunition.

The charges in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

First-degree carjacking carries a sentence of up to 30 years in New Jersey state prison and a fine of up to $200,000. Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of up to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000, third-degree crimes carry a sentence of up to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000, and fourth-degree crimes carry a maximum sentence of 18 months and a fine of up to $10,000.

The potential sentences are provided solely for informational purposes, as any potential sentence is determined by a judge.

Andre Gordon Jr., 26-year-old man suspected of three murders in Pennsylvania and two carjackings.

Law enforcement officials in New Jersey and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, were looking for Andre Gordon Jr., in connection with the fatal shootings of three people, including a 13-year-old girl, in two separate locations in Falls Township, Pennsylvania, on the morning of Saturday, March 16, 2024.

Yesterday’s sory:

UPDATE: SUSPECT IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING FATAL SHOOTINGS, CARJACKING IN FALLS TOWNSHIP

UPDATE: Andre Gordon Jr was taken into custody in Trenton around 5 p.m. He will be charged in Bucks County at the appropriate time.

Law enforcement officials in Bucks County and New Jersey are actively looking for 26-year-old Andre Gordon Jr., for the fatal shootings of three people, one of them a 13-year-old girl, Saturday morning at two separate locations in Falls Township.

Gordon, who is currently homeless, was later tracked to Trenton, New Jersey. As of 3:30 p.m., Gordon was barricaded inside a home in the 100 block of Phillips Street.  On Saturday, March 16, 2024, at approximately 8:52 a.m., Falls Township Police were dispatched to the unit block of Viewpoint Lane, Levittown, to investigate the report of a shooting. 

The preliminary investigation determined that Gordon, driving a stolen vehicle, which was carjacked in Trenton, New Jersey, earlier in the morning, forcibly broke into the residence after which he shot and killed his 52-year-old stepmother, Karen Gordon, and his 13-year-old sister, Kera Gordon, who live at that residence. There were three other residents, including a juvenile, inside who were able to hide and avoid Gordon as he went through the house.   Following the shooting, at approximately 9:01 a.m., Gordon drove to the unit block of Edgewood Lane, Levittown, where he forcibly broke into a residence after which he shot and killed 25-year-old Taylor Daniel, with whom he had two children.  Following the shooting he fled the scene.  At the time of the shooting, there were four other individuals present inside, one of which was injured after being bludgeoned by Gordon with the assault rifle.  She was transported to Jefferson Hospital, Torresdale Campus, for injuries.  

At approximately 9:13 a.m., Gordon committed a carjacking at gunpoint of a 44-year-old male Morrisville resident, in the parking lot of the Dollar General, Bristol Pike, Morrisville, the operator of the vehicle did not suffer any injuries as a result.   Police issued a shelter in place a short time later. At approximately 11:38 a.m., the Honda CRV was located, unoccupied, in the 100 block of Miller Street, Trenton, New Jersey.  At approximately 12:22 p.m., police received information that Gordon was barricaded, with hostages, inside a residence, in the 100 block of Phillips Street, Trenton, New Jersey.  All information regarding that aspect of the investigation is being referred to the Trenton City Police Department. At approximately 12:25 p.m., Falls Township police lifted the shelter in place order.   This is an active and ongoing investigation, and more information will be released when available.

October 27, 2023

HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–On Thursday, October 26, 2023 at approximately 12:40 P.M., Officers from the Hamilton Police Anti-Crime Unit were in the area of Nottingham Way and Greenwood Avenue when they observed a Toyota Corolla commit a motor vehicle violation. The vehicle pulled into a gas station on the 1600 block of Nottingham Way. While speaking to the driver of the vehicle he told Officers that the front passenger had a firearm on his person but had a permit to carry the weapon. Officers then spoke to the passenger who admitted to having a handgun in his right hip area but he had a permit for the weapon. Officers disarmed him of the weapon until they could confirm the validity of his permit. He was identified as Martique Perry, 22, of Hamilton.

Further investigation revealed Perry did not have a permit for the weapon and did not own the weapon. He was then placed under arrest.

Perry was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose. Perry was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.

Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Hamilton Police Division Anti-Crime Unit at (609) 581-4102 or the Hamilton Police Crime Tip Hotline at (609) 581-4008.

Martique Perry, 22, of Hamilton was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose. Perry was transported to the Mercer County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.

Signs International Zero Emission Vehicle Declaration to Reaffirm Commitment to ZEV Future in Alignment with Paris Agreement

COP26 declaration on accelerating the transition to 100% zero emission cars and vans

The Office of Administrative Law is expected to publish the proposal in the August 21 New Jersey Register, starting a public comment period that will run through October 20, 2023.

July 17, 2023

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Governor Phil Murphy today announced the filing of the Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII) proposal with the Office of Administrative Law. ACCII requires vehicle manufacturers to make zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) an increasing percentage of their new light-duty vehicle sales, ramping up to 100% ZEVs by 2035. The rule does not impose any obligations on consumers or car dealers, and provides compliance flexibilities for manufacturers, including a credit trading mechanism. During his 2023 Climate Address in February, Governor Murphy directed the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to begin stakeholdering on ACCII in order to propose the rule this year. The Office of Administrative Law is expected to publish the proposal in the August 21 New Jersey Register, starting a public comment period that will run through October 20, 2023.

Additionally, Governor Murphy today announced that New Jersey has signed on to the Accelerating to Zero Coalition’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Declaration, a landmark global agreement launched by the UK at the 26^th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in November 2021 and signed by 41 national governments and 74 cities, states, and regional governments so far. New Jersey has signed on to Section 2C of the Declaration, which commits the state to a zero emission vehicle future in alignment with the Paris Agreement goals.

“By filing the ACCII proposal, we build upon our nation-leading record of bold climate action while delivering on our promise to utilize every tool at our disposal to combat the intensifying climate crisis,” said Governor Murphy. “Our commitment to bringing the ACCII proposal to fruition is a commitment to every New Jersey family and the air they breathe, air that will be cleaner and healthier tomorrow thanks to the steps we’re taking to reduce emissions today. That commitment is underscored by our signing of the ZEV Declaration, which recognizes that New Jersey is just one crucial piece of our global response to climate change.”

“Under Governor Murphy’s leadership and through the tireless work of the DEP, New Jersey is one step closer to turning our vision for a zero emission future into a reality,” said Catherine Klinger, Executive Director, Governor’s Office of Climate Action and the Green Economy. “Reducing emissions from the vehicle sector, which accounts for more than 40% of emissions in New Jersey, will deliver considerable public health and climate benefits for generations to come. And, as a signatory of the ZEV Declaration and a global leader in climate action, New Jersey is proud to stand alongside more than 100 governments around the world in our fight against the urgent climate crisis.”

The Administration’s recently adopted budget includes a new $10 million appropriation to support the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road. The DEP will use these funds to meet demand for installation of charging stations at businesses, multi-unit residential buildings, and public locations. The FY24 budget appropriation is only a portion of the $75 million investment in EVs and charging stations made this week from the Murphy Administration.

“As New Jersey continues experiencing the adverse impacts of climate change, we have the power and obligation to reduce its effects by limiting the emissions of climate pollutants,” said Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “Through the adoption of zero-emissions vehicle standards, New Jersey can reduce its greatest source of climate damaging emissions, improve air quality and public health, and support a growing cleantech marketplace that will create even more green jobs in New Jersey and beyond.”

“The actions the Administration is taking today to increase the number of electric vehicles on the road are vitally important to fighting the ravages of climate change,” said Board of Public Utilities President Joseph L. Fiordaliso. “As we know, the state’s transportation sector accounts for more than 40 percent of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. Filing the ACC II proposal with OAL and signing the COP 26 declaration will go a long way toward providing a cleaner, healthier environment for all New Jerseyans for generations to come.”

“New Jersey can no longer ignore the urgent reality of the climate crisis,” said Alex Ambrose, Policy Analyst with New Jersey Policy Perspective. “Record-breaking heat waves and dangerous air quality are a threat to everyone in the state, especially those living in already overburdened communities. The rapid adoption of Advanced Clean Cars II will reduce air pollution and bring us closer to a cleaner future. Thank you to Governor Murphy and Commissioner LaTourette for taking this important step to improve air quality and bring relief to families across New Jersey.”

“Today’s announcement on ACCII is just one necessary tool in reducing climate- and health-harming emissions that come from the cars we drive,” said Pamela Frank, CEO of ChargEVC-NJ. “Timing matters. It is notable today that the Governor follows through in his announcement last February to get these regulations in place.”

“With so many New Jersey communities suffering from poor air quality from car and truck pollution, we need policies in place to address the issue,” said Kathy Harris, Senior Clean Vehicles and Fuels Advocate, NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council). “It’s exciting to see New Jersey begin the rulemaking process on the Advanced Clean Cars II and sign on to the COP26 zero emission declaration to address the greenhouse gases and other pollution emitted from transportation. The Advanced Clean Cars II rule will undoubtedly provide many benefits to New Jersey, including improved public health and vehicle owner savings.”

“We are extremely excited for New Jersey’s adoption of Advanced Clean Cars II, getting thousands more electric vehicles on the road while solidifying New Jersey’s role as a climate leader. This rule adoption will directly lead to improved air quality, public health, climate safety, and financial savings,” said Allison McLeod, Senior Policy Director, New Jersey LCV. “Furthermore, since the majority of New Jerseyans – particularly low-income drivers – purchase used vehicles, it will also help with the purchase of affordable vehicles in the secondary market.”

“Two decades ago, New Jersey took bold action by passing the Clean Cars Act. Today’s Advanced Clean Cars II rule proposal from the Murphy Administration moves us closer to a cleaner, electric transportation future that gets us off oil and fights the largest source of climate pollutants. Amidst a world-wide heat wave, there are clear benefits of New Jersey adopting this program this year which will lead to getting more electric vehicles on our roads and joining other leading Clean Car states,” said Doug O’Malley, Director, Environment New Jersey.

“The Advanced Clean Car II program is one of the most important policies for New Jersey to adopt. The electrification of our cars is our present and our future. The EV market is already here, the manufacturers are committed and the public wants the options. For New Jersey, we need to jump in now. The faster the state makes its commitment to achieve 100% sales of new zero emission vehicles, the easier our transition and the greater the consumer choice,” said Anjuli Ramos-Busot, New Jersey Director of the Sierra Club. “The Advanced Clean Cars II targets in New Jersey can help build and maintain market leadership, which is critical to growing jobs. We thank NJDEP and Governor Murphy for moving forward on this important rule and we are eager to see it adopted before the end of the year.”

COP26-declaration-ENGLISH-Download

Press Pool File Photos

December 6, 2023

TRENTON — The Attorney General’s Office is investigating a fatal police-involved shooting that occurred on December 5, 2023, in Manchester, New Jersey. One adult male sustained fatal injuries. His identity is not being released at this time.

According to the preliminary information, officers from the Manchester Township Police Department responded to Elizabeth Avenue after a 9-1-1 call was received at approximately 8:28 p.m. last night, Tuesday, December 5. Officers located the subject, and two officers fired their service weapons at approximately 9:10 p.m., fatally wounding the subject. A firearm was recovered near the subject.

A 2019 law, P.L. 2019, c. 1, requires the Attorney General’s Office to conduct investigations of a person’s death that occurs during an encounter with a law enforcement officer acting in the officer’s official capacity or while the decedent is in custody. It requires that all such investigations be presented to a grand jury to determine if the evidence supports the return of an indictment against the officer or officers involved.

The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.

September 20, 2023

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–The Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Police Department are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred this weekend in the city, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported.

Just before midnight on Saturday, September 16, 2023, Trenton police responded to the area of Brunswick Avenue and Middle Rose Street for multiple ShotSpotter activations.  Upon arrival, officers located a male victim in a sidewalk area in the center of Middle Rose Street suffering from numerous gunshot wounds.  The victim, identified as Balil Lewis, 37, of Trenton, was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead a few hours later.

No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Jacob Schor at (609) 414-1179 or OIC William Jett Jr. at (609) 331-5010.  Information can also be emailed to [email protected].

Names of the 2023 Trenton Homicide Victims

1. 1/16/2023 Donnell Williams, 29, Trenton, Shooting.
2. 2/12/2023 Stephanie Vil, 34, of Burlington, Shooting.
3. 2/16/2023 Khalil Glanton, 23, Trenton, Stabbing.
4. 3/24/2023 Harold Rosario, 19, Trenton, Shooting.
5. 3/26/2023 Nyeisha Saunders, 41, Trenton, Shooting.
6. 4/09/2023 Jhosse Tolentino, 23, Trenton, Shooting
7. 4/12/2023 Jared Anderson, Trenton, Shooting (died May 29)
8. 4/14/2023 Daniel Garvin, 46, Trenton, Shooting
9. 4/20/2023 Ralph Conquest, 43, of Lawrence, Shooting
10. 5/14/2023 Roger Martinez-Rodriguez, 27, Trenton, Stabbing
11. 5/14/2023 Justin Reed, 24, of Ewing, Shooting (died May 22)
12. 5/26/2023 Sherief Treadwell, 36, Trenton, Shooting
13. 6/09/2023 Markell Biggs, 20, Trenton, Shooting
14. 6/11/2023 Shaquan Brown, 23, Trenton, Shooting
15. 6/15/2023 James Junior Journigan, 36, Shooting
16. 6/15/2023 Louis Washington, 38, Trenton, Shooting, (died June 17)
17. 6/19/2023 Ernest Denard, 61, Stabbing
18. 6/22/2023 Guillermo Sanchez, Shooting
19. 7/01/2023 Precious Saunders, 32, of Trenton
20. 8/23/2023 Taquan Foxworth, 29, of Trenton, Shooting 8/19
21. 9/02/2023 Ronald Taylor, 40, of Trenton, Shooting
22. 9/16/2023 Balil Lewis, 37, of Trenton, Shooting

August 18, 2024

BARNEGAT LIGHT, NJ (OCEAN)–Barnegat Light Volunteer Fire Company #1 reported they were dispatched to the South Jetty along with Barnegat Light First Aid Squad and U.S. Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light for two adult males stuck on the Jetty. The fire company had two jetskis in the water and one of the rescuers swam over to the rocks and assisted two males up the jetty marker light tower. A United States Coast Guard helicopter lowered a rescue swimmer down to the males in distress. The two were evacuated to shore line. One of the two men suffered minor injuries. The fire company reported that great inter-agency work resulting in a successful rescue.

Update from U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City:

Yesterday evening (Sunday, August 19th 2024) at 6:11 p.m. EST a good Samaritan reported seeing two persons in distress on the South Jetty of Barnegat Inlet. Coast Guard Station Barnegat Light launched a 47’ Motor Life Boat (MLB) to quickly respond, but once on-scene determined that the sea state was too large to get close enough to the jetty to retrieve the distressed persons.

As a result, a rescue swimmer was deployed from the 47’ MLB and was able to assist the persons to safety at the top of the jetty tower while they waited to be rescued by an MH-65E Dolphin helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Atlantic City.

Barnegat Volunteer Fire Company additionally responded to the scene via jet skis and were able to get an EMT on the jetty to wait with the distressed persons and provide them lifejackets until the helicopter arrived on-scene.

The helicopter arrived on-scene at 7:08 PM and both persons were hoisted into the helicopter and transferred to Atlantic Ocean Beachfront to receive further medical care from EMS.

No medical concerns were reported.

February 10, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri recently announced the promotion of Alicia Phillips to victim witness coordinator for the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.  Phillips succeeds Susan Meyer, who recently retired from the prosecutor’s office after more than 25 years of service.

As coordinator, Phillips will oversee a staff of eight victim witness advocates.  The prosecutor’s Office of Victim Witness Advocacy is dedicated to providing direct, personal service to crime victims, witnesses and their families.  The staff advocates for victims and promotes their rights within the criminal justice system.  It also provides emotional support, crisis intervention, referrals, court accompaniment and information to victims and witnesses.  The office maintains strong partnerships with allied professionals, other victim service providers, and leaders in the community to ensure that a comprehensive network of services and support is available.

“Alicia has been an avid champion of victims in Mercer County,” Prosecutor Onofri said. 

She works tirelessly to ensure that victims of crime are treated with fairness, compassion and respect by the criminal justice system.  I look forward to working with her in this essential, supervisory role.”

Phillips has been with the prosecutor’s Office of Victim Witness Advocacy for 22 years as a victim advocate and most recently as a supervising victim advocate.  As an advocate, she has worked in various units including domestic violence, homicide, special victims, juvenile, economic crime, trial, grand jury and serious collision response.  As a supervisor, Phillips oversaw the activities of victim witness staff responsible for providing services to crime victims, witnesses and their families.

She currently serves as an instructor of the Victim Witness Assistance Program at the Mercer County Police Academy.  Phillips is also involved in writing both Victims of Crime Act and Violence Against Women Act grants, helping to secure funding for the Victim Witness program.

During her time with the prosecutor’s office, Phillips has received National Organization for Victim Assistance Crisis Response Team certification and is working toward her certification as a trauma-competent family professional through the Institute for Family Professionals.

Phillips attended York College of Pennsylvania and graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science and a minor in English.  During college, she interned with the York Children and Family Counseling Center, where she worked with troubled youth and their families and assisted in implementing the Families and Schools Together program in local public elementary schools.

Prior to joining the prosecutor’s office, Phillips worked as a community education specialist for the Mercer County Division of Mental Health, where she conducted suicide prevention trainings for volunteers and professionals throughout the community.

April 26, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–It’s back! Mark your calendars for Art All Night Trenton 2024, presented by
Artworks Trenton. This 24-hour event will feature art, music, and more for the whole family.

In-person programming will take place at the Trenton War Memorial on Saturday, June 29th
from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. and begin again on Sunday, June 30th from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. A virtual component will take place for the full 24 hours and be accessed on the Art All Night website and socials.

“Art All Night will happen this year! This event has been a huge fundraiser for Artworks. We are looking for donations, volunteers, and most importantly art submissions from the community. Since Art All Night is at the War Memorial, we want to highlight the local businesses and restaurants in the area,” said Craig Shofed, Managing Director of Artworks Trenton.

“I am thrilled to see the return of Art All Night, a beloved tradition that celebrates the vibrant creativity of our community,” Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora said.  “This event not only showcases the incredible talent within the capital city area, but also serves as an economic engine and opportunity to support our local business and restaurants. I encourage everyone to mark their calendars for June 29th and 30th to experience the incredible art, music, and culture, that will be on display at the War Memorial.”

Not only is Art All Night Artwork’s biggest fundraiser but it encompasses what the creative hub does all year round in one event. Artworks strives to provide artists of all skill levels a
professional platform and diverse interactive programming accessible to all. Overall, inspiring, empowering and inviting the world to witness the incredible artistry and culture within the Capital City.

“Art All Night can only happen with the support of our sponsors, donors, and most importantly, the volunteers. Things will look a little different this year in our beautiful new home, the Trenton War Memorial, but you can expect all the fan favorites like hundreds of pieces of art, master classes and demos, musical performances, the film festival, and more!” said Addison Vincent, Artistic Director of Artworks Trenton.

To find out more info, become a sponsor, volunteer, donate, and submit art, please go to
www.artallnighttrenton.org

File photos: Art All Night 2018

July 7, 2023

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on July 7, 2023, Matthew Marinelli, 23, of Point Pleasant Borough, was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Witness Tampering in connection with incidents that occurred in April and May of 2023.  

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit determined that Marinelli – while employed as a substitute teacher at Point Pleasant Borough High School – sent nude photographs of himself and engaged in communications that were sexual in nature with a student in one of his classes.  The communications were made through internet messaging applications.  The investigation also revealed that after being terminated from his employment at the high school, Marinelli contacted the victim multiple times asking that she deny having contact with him, and to delete any communications and photographs he had sent to her.  

On July 7, 2023, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit executed a court-authorized search warrant at Marinelli’s residence.  As a result, Detectives seized multiple electronic devices that Marinelli possessed at the residence.  Marinelli was taken into custody and transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is currently lodged pending a detention hearing.  

“I would encourage parents to have a conversation with their children if they had Mr. Marinelli as a substitute teacher at Point Pleasant Borough High School.  If anyone has additional information regarding Mr. Marinelli or this investigation, please contact Detective Jason LaRaia of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extension 3758,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.   

Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.    

The charges referenced above are merely accusations and the press and public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. R.P.C. 3.6(b)(6).

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

November 8, 2023

UPDATE:

Livonia, NY, Man Struck and Killed On I-295 in Lawrence Township

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–A serious crash involving a pedestrian was reported on I-295 south bound near mile post 66.8 in Lawrence Township just before the Hamilton Township border around 6:15 p.m. NJ State Police, Lawrence Township Police, Hamilton Fire, Hamilton EMS, and Captial Health Paramedics responded to the scene. There were reports of “traumatic cardiac arrest” and CPR was in progress. The victim was rushed to the Trauma Center at Captial Health Regional Medical Center in Trenton.

Currently there is a 1-mile traffic delay and additional traffic backing up on the Route 1 ramp for I-295 south.

511NJ reports right lane and shoulder closed for a crash investigation with a 5-to-10-minute traffic delay.

Avoid the area if possible until the traffic investigation is complete.

No further details are available at this time.

Crash investigation on I-295 southbound South of Exit 67 – US 1 (Lawrence Twp) 1 Right lane and shoulder of 3 lanes closed 5-10 minute delay use caution https://t.co/0NzsSriCWl

— 511NJ I295 (@511nji295) November 8, 2023

November 8, 2023

Plumsted Township Police Department has removed the post from their Facebook page, so the subject has possibly been identified.

PLUMSTED TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Plumstead Township Police posted photos of a man seen with a gun in a wooded area and are attempting to identify the subject. No reason was given why they are seeking the identification of the subject. If you know this person, contact Plumsted Township Police Department at (609) 758-7185.

Posted to Facebook:

**ATTEMPT TO IDENTIFY** If you know the subject in the attached pictures, please contact the Plumsted Township Police Department at (609) 758-7185.

Plumsted Township Police Department has removed the post from their Facebook page, so the subject has possibly been identified.

November 8, 2023

TRENTON, NJ – This fall, the Capital Health Foundation received a $50,000 gift from the Pennington Area First Aid Squad to support Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative (TNI), a progressive five-year program.

Pennington First Aid Squad’s donation will benefit those interested in pursuing EMS careers, as well as furthering the education of seasoned Capital Health emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

“The generosity of the Pennington First Aid Squad has a three-fold impact,” said Alex Lewinsky, director of EMS Capital Health. “We are able to enroll, train and outfit up to 12 new EMT Academy interns this fall and provide current EMTs at Capital Health the opportunity to pursue paramedic training. Adding to our workforce and supporting advanced training has a positive impact on the communities we serve in times of crisis and need.”

Capital Health’s EMT Academy trains future EMTs and transitions them to positions as full-time employees, supporting the TNI goal of mitigating social determinants of health such as socioeconomic status or access to training. The program is open to anyone who wants to pursue a new career or is just starting out.

“For currently employed Capital Health EMTs, professional development – specifically paramedic training – is important,” said Lewinsky. “Paramedics are more highly trained EMTs and they are capable of more advanced medical procedures, such as providing oral and intravenous medication, monitoring electrocardiograms (EKGs), and performing advanced airway techniques.”

The gift from the Pennington First Aid Squad allows Capital Health to structure a program for current EMTs to remain full-time in the workforce while attending a two-year, accredited paramedic program. Upon their successful credentialing, the employed paramedics commit to a minimum of three years of service to Capital Health communities. For many, this opportunity will also have a generational impact on local families.

The Pennington First Aid Squad provided emergency medical services to local communities from 1954 until February, 2023 when they responded to their last 911 call.

For more information about the EMT Academy at Capital Health, contact Alex Lewinsky at [email protected]. To make a gift of support to Capital Health’s Trenton Neighborhood Initiative, contact Jennifer M. Antinoro at [email protected].  For more information about the Trenton Neighborhood Initiative visit www.tnitrenton.org.

November 10, 2023 UPDATE

Jamesburg Police report that Gregory Yetman, of Helmetta NJ, wanted by the FBI, has turned himself in to local authorities. He is currently in police custody. As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Yetman are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

November 8, 2023

JAMESBURG, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Jamesburg Police Department reports that the FBI Newark SWAT, Jamesburg Police Department, and Middlesex County Prosecutors Office, are currently searching for a man named Gregory Yetman, wanted in connection with the January 6th attack on the US Capitol, in Helmetta, NJ. We are asking the public with information on his whereabouts to call FBI Newark at (973) 792-3000.”

Jamesburg Police report that Gregory Yetman, of Helmetta NJ, wanted by the FBI, has turned himself in to local authorities. He is currently in police custody. As is the case with all criminal defendants, the charges against Yetman are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

November 8, 2023

EDISON, NJ (MIDDLESEX)–Late yesterday afternoon November 7, 2023, emergency personnel responded to the 300 Block of Mill Road for a building collapse. Upon arrival of first responders they found that a dividing structural wall and roof that collapsed at a warehouse with several workers reporting injuries. Edison firefighters called second alarm bringing several mutual aid departments and Urban Search And Rescue companies to the scene.

Police say that a shelf that came off a load bearing wall. The shelf caused the wall to fall and the debris came down on 62 workers. One worker was hospitalzed.

Photos by: NJ Public Safety News Alerts

November 8, 2023- Story by: Mike Ratcliffe

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER) – A woman and two children were rescued by city firefighters from their burning residence in the 100 block of Passaic Street early this morning (Wednesday, Nov. 8).

It was about 2:40 a.m. when Engines 1, 8 and 10, Ladder 4, Rescue 1 and Battalion 5 were dispatched in response to the first 911 call about the fire. The address given was 112 Passaic Street and it was reported that a woman, seen in an upper-floor window, was trapped inside. 

As firefighters were responding, additional 911 calls were received reporting that at least three people were trapped. Based on those reports, the “All Hands” signal for a working fire was transmitted before firefighters even arrived on scene and the remaining units of the full first alarm (Engine 9, Ladder 1, Special Services 1, and Battalion 1) were sent.

Smoke was pouring from the first floor of the three-story semi-detached dwelling when first-due Engine 1 arrived. Firefighters mounted an aggressive interior attack, putting two hoselines in service to knock down flames on the first floor. According to fireground radio transmissions, a woman and two children were rescued from the third floor by members of Rescue 1. They were passed to Trenton Emergency Medical Service personnel and transported to hospital. No information was available on the extent of their injuries.

A fourth person was also reportedly removed from the first floor by the crew of Ladder 1, No details were available about that person’s injuries.

The fire was officially declared under control at 3:05 a.m. The cause of the fire is being investigated by Trenton fire officials. Due to the civilian injuries. a representative of the state Division of Fire Safety was also called to the scene to assist with the investigation.

The Red Cross was also called to the scene to assist displaced residents. An ambulance from Lawrence Township responded as well to support Trenton EMS personnel.

November 8, 2023

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ (MERCER)–The Township Council candidate slate of incumbent vice president Mike Todd, longtime Councilwoman Chris Ciaccio, and political newcomer Amit Chopra emerged victorious when the dust settled in Tuesday’s General Election.

Unofficial numbers just after midnight had Mr. Todd (2,539), Ms. Ciaccio (2,468) and Mr. Chopra (2,329) securing four-year seats. The “Committed to Community” slate defeated first-time candidate Lea Borghard (1,550) and Kiran Agrahara (1,270).

Results are not final and official until all votes are counted and the election is certified by the Mercer County Clerk.

“We would like to thank residents all over Robbinsville for their support in this year’s Township Council race,” Mr. Todd said on behalf of his slate. “The three of us all live in this amazing community and consider it an honor to continue serving on Council. We’ve been fortunate to earn the trust of our neighbors – many of whom we now call friends. Our bond with the Robbinsville community has only grown stronger over time, as has our desire to make Robbinsville an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Despite the three available Council seats, much of the focus in this year’s General Election was on the two ballot questions.

Municipal Question 1 called for a 1-cent increase in the open space tax. That passed by a margin of 2,208 to 1,833 after failing last November.

Maintaining it had no other viable option, the Robbinsville Board of Education voted unanimously August 9 to place Public Question 2 on the November ballot, asking voters for nearly $5 million in the form of tax increases to cover anticipated deficits in upcoming school budgets. That highly controversial question failed 2,188 to 1,828, per the unofficial Mercer County tally.

“Thank you, Robbinsville,” Mayor Dave Fried said of the Open Space passage. “This was never about any one property. This was about making sure we secure the funding to maintain our open space legacy, which we are extremely proud of. This will go a very long way, and the Township thanks residents for their faith and trust. We understand this was a very difficult ask in a particularly tough budget year for many.”

Maintaining it had no other viable option, the Robbinsville Board of Education voted unanimously August 9 to place a public question on the November general election ballot, asking voters for nearly $5 million to cover anticipated deficits in upcoming school budgets. 

The new Township Council of President Debbie Blakely, Mike Cipriano, Vice President Todd, Ms. Ciaccio and Mr. Chopra, who replaces retiring longtime Councilman Ron Witt on the governing body, will be seated on January 15, 2024.

The three top vote-getters to earn seats on the Board of Education were Amanda Hill D’Angelo (2,457), Harry Ray (2,229) and Nadia Bandukda (2,208).

File Photo

November 8, 2023

LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Police say that on November 7, 2023, at approximately 2:43 p.m., the Lawrence Township Police Department responded to the area of Fackler Rd and Deer Run for a report of a vehicle that crashed into a tree.

The driver of the vehicle (Jared Fowler, 78-year-old male, Pennington, NJ) was transported to Capital Health System – Regional Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries. The passenger of the vehicle (Janne Fowler, 78-year-old female, Pennington, NJ) sustained significant non-life-threatening injuries.

The cause of the crash appears to be medically related.

The Lawrence Township Police Department was assisted by the Lawrence Township Fire Department & Emergency Medical Services, Capital Health System Advanced Life Support and Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.

Witnesses to the crash are asked to contact the investigating officer, Officer Thomas Everist @ 609-896-1111 / [email protected] or Detective Dean Sawasky @ 609-844-7127 / [email protected].

File photo