The highly anticipated center reopens after a five-year hiatus 

August 25, 2023

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–On Thursday, August 24th the West Ward Recreation Center reopened after five years of renovations. In celebration, the City of Trenton hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony, featuring performances by students of the Sprout University School of Performing Arts, and three Trenton vs. Philadelphia basketball games in honor of Kobe Bryant Day at the newly restored Center.      

“Many of you remember the floors were peeling and this facility’s deplorable condition was not representative of the great Capital City that we all love. We are extremely grateful that we were able to renovate this recreation center using grant funding from the County and the State,” Mayor Reed Gusciora said.      

New amenities at the Center include; a teaching lab for media production, acting, t-shirt printing, a computer lab, a kitchen, new offices and restrooms, a laundry area, a new gym floor colored purple and gold in honor of the late Kobe Bryant, and new rims and nets for the basketball courts.      

“This is for the City of Trenton. This is what greatness looks like. This is what you deserve and when you know you deserve something you accept nothing less and nothing less comes to you,” Trenton City Council President and West Ward Councilwoman Teska Frisby stated. “Princeton, Robbinsville, Lawrence, they are not the Capital City. We are and we’re going to show up that way, look that way, and we’re going to honor it that way.”      

The most popular of the four rec centers in Trenton due to its full-sized basketball court, the West Ward offers programming five days a week, including a popular afterschool program, basketball clinics, homework help, financial literacy, STEM and Arts programs, and summer camps.      

From 3-6 p.m. the center is open for kids ages 6-12 and from 6-8 p.m. for teens ages 13-18. The Center is also looking to add Saturday programming to help keep youth engaged and provide access to technology and assistance in their learning and development.

April 3, 2024

A month-long investigation into cocaine distribution in Mercer County culminated recently with four arrests and the seizure of $500,000 in narcotics, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported yesterday.

A few weeks ago, the Mercer County Narcotics Task Force received information from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and an investigation ensued.  The investigation led law enforcement officials to the Motel 6 in Lawrence Township the evening of March 21.  Detectives executed a search warrant and located William Adrover Rodriguez inside a room on the first floor with approximately 5.1 kilograms of powder cocaine.  The street value of the confiscated narcotics is approximately $500,000.

Rodriguez was taken into custody without incident.  Three additional individuals involved in the conspiracy to distribute cocaine were arrested nearby.

Members of the Mercer County Narcotics Task Force and the DEA Tactical Response Team executed the search warrant at the motel.  The Ewing, Hamilton, Lawrence and Trenton police departments and the FBI also assisted with the investigation.

William Adrover Rodriguez, 38, of Galloway, Ohio, is charged with multiple first-degree narcotic offenses.  Jamie Acevedo-Correa, 42, of Riogrande, NJ, Manuel Castro Velazquez, 46, of Trenton, NJ, and Elvin Perez-Medina, 34, of Puerto Rico, are each charged with second-degree conspiracy.  The prosecutor’s office is filing motions to detain all four men pending trial. 

Despite having been charged, all persons are presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

William Adrover Rodriguez

William Adrover Rodriguez, 38, of Galloway, Ohio, is charged with multiple first-degree narcotic offenses. 

Manuel Castro Velazquez, 46, of Trenton, NJ

Jamie Acevedo-Correa, 42, of Riogrande, NJ, Manuel Castro Velazquez, 46, of Trenton, NJ, and Elvin Perez-Medina, 34, of Puerto Rico, are each charged with second-degree conspiracy. 

October 27, 2023

Trenton, N.J. — Trenton Water Works (TWW) announced today a delay in sending bills to allcustomers in Ewing Township and some in Trenton as it completes some administrative changes.“TWW is transitioning to a new billing vendor, which will cause billing delays. We apologize to ourvalued customers for the inconvenience of a late-arriving water bill,” said Sean Semple, Director ofthe city’s Department of Water and Sewer, which operates Trenton Water Works. “Our customers inTrenton and Ewing Township will not be penalized, charged a late fee, or be impacted negatively inany way due to this billing delay.”

August 27, 2024

TRENTON, N.J. – A Mercer County, New Jersey, couple today admitted their roles in a conspiracy to prepare and submit fraudulent asylum applications, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Zuwairul Ameer, aka “Zuwairul Thowfeek,” 61, and Claudette Ameer, aka “Claudette Pieries,” 63, both of Lawrence Township, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp in Trenton federal court to count one of an indictment charging them with one count of conspiracy to commit immigration fraud.

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

Applicants for asylum in the United States must show that they have suffered persecution in their country of origin on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, or have a well-founded fear of persecution if they were to return to that country. The process requires an application that is reviewed by an asylum officer with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), who makes an initial determination whether to grant asylum. If the application has been prepared by someone other than the applicant, the preparer must disclose his or her name and address and must sign the application.

Since at least 2007, Zuwairul Ameer has been in the business of preparing fraudulent asylum application on behalf of his non-citizen clients. Claudette Ameer has managed that business, acting as the primary point of contact for clients, arranging meetings, and mailing completed applications to USCIS. With Claudette Ameer’s assistance, Zuwairul Ameer met with clients, listened to their stories of mistreatment in their countries of origin, and drafted applications on their behalf that were fraudulent because they: exaggerated the stories of mistreatment; falsely omitted Zuwairul Ameer’s name as the preparer; or both.

The conspiracy charge to which the Ameers have pleaded guilty is punishable by a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 25, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, New York Field Office, under the direction of under the direction of Assistant Director in Charge James Smith, and immigration officers with of the USCIS Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate at the New York Asylum Office, under the direction of Director Mathew Varghese, with the investigation.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron L. Webman of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

24-324 

Defense counsel:Zuwairul Ameer: Mark G. Davis Esq., Hamilton, New Jersey

Claudette Ameer: Michael R. Rosas Esq., East Brunswick, New Jersey

Photo by EKATERINA BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

August 27, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Trenton Police say that on Friday, August 23, 2024, at approximately 11:50 p.m., Trenton Police Patrol Bureau officers were detailed to Route 1 South bound near the Perry Street exit for a motor vehicle crash. Upon arrival they discovered that the 19-year-old driver of a 2007 Yamaha YZF motorcycle was transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center with serious injuries. The driver of a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, a Trenton resident in his 60’s, stated his vehicle was struck by the motorcycle as he was driving south bound on Route 1.  The Malibu had obvious damage to the passenger side rear quarter panel.  The right lane and shoulder of Route 1 South was closed down. The motorcycle driver was in critical condition and required immediate surgery.  Trenton Police Department Fatal Crash Unit Detective Joseph D’Ambrosio was contacted to investigate. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team was also contacted and responded to assist with this investigation. Witnesses indicated the motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed. The motorcycle driver, a resident of Vineland, suffered multiple external and internal injuries including a jaw that was fractured and nearly dislocated, a collapsed lung, and numerous broken bones. He is still intubated and in critical but stable condition.  

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, at approximately 6:59 p.m., Trenton Police Communications received several calls reporting an unresponsive female in front of 603 Cass Street near McDonald’s. Reports indicated the female was involved in a motorcycle crash.  Officers arrived, located the female, a 33-year-old Trenton resident, on the ground, unresponsive, and bleeding heavily from her face.  The victim was immediately transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. Officers located a male, a 41-year-old Trenton resident who was operating an unregistered Taizhou Qianxin  electric motorcycle. The male indicated a vehicle cut him off, against the red light, as he was crossing Cass Street at Route 129. This sudden stop caused him to lose control of the motorcycle, throwing the victim onto the street. 

 Trenton Police Department Fatal Crash Unit Detective Joseph D’Ambrosio was contacted to investigate. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office Serious Collision Response Team was also contacted and responded to assist with this investigation.  The investigation has determined that several motorcycles were driving on Cass Street at the time, crossing Route 129, when the light appears to change. The driver of the motorcycle continued to attempt to cross Route 129, and had to stop suddenly between vehicles lawfully turning onto Cass Street. The motorcycle skidded out of control and the passenger’s body struck the ground with enough force to cause a facial fracture and minor brain bleed. The victim is in stable condition. 

February 20, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri reported today that an investigation into online child exploitation has resulted in the arrest of two Trenton men and the seizure of cocaine, a 9mm handgun and $10,480 in cash.

In November 2023, detectives with the prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an individual in Mercer County was uploading items that portrayed the sexual exploitation or abuse of a child.  An investigation was initiated, and Marcus Roberts was identified as a subject. 

On Friday, February 16, 2024, members of the Mercer County Tactical Response Team, with assistance from the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations Trenton, executed a search warrant at Roberts’ Trenton residence, where detectives seized multiple items of evidentiary value. Roberts, 32, was taken into custody without incident.  He is charged with one count of third-degree possession of child sexual abuse material.  The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Roberts pending trial.

During the search warrant execution, detectives also located approximately 55 grams of cocaine, a loaded, 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a digital scale, and $10,480 in cash in a bedroom belonging to Jared Roberts, Marcus’ brother.  Jared Roberts, 36, was also taken into custody and charged with drug and weapons offenses.  The Prosecutor’s Office has also filed a motion to detain Jared Roberts pending trial.

Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000.  Third-degree crimes carry a sentence of three to five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

Prosecutor Onofri urged anyone with information about suspected improper contact by unknown persons communicating with children via the internet or possible exploitation or sexual abuse of children to please contact his Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit at (609) 989-6568 or the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force tip line at (888) 648-6007.

Despite having been charged, every defendant is presumed innocent until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Marcus Roberts

Jared Roberts

October 31, 2023

STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Stafford Township Police Chief Thomas Dellane announced that in the early morning hours of October 31, 2023, the Stafford Township Police Department were summoned to a residence on Neptune Drive for a report of an explosion that developed into a structure fire.  Responding Officers found a male victim on the front lawn of the residence, later identified as the homeowner, Kevin Thomas, 45, with serious burns to his upper torso.  Mr. Thomas was airlifted to Temple Burn Center in Philadelphia, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Stafford Township Detective Bureau, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit was able to determine that the origin of the explosion was the southwest corner bedroom of the residence and that the cause of the explosion was the release of propane from a tank to an open flame.

Prosecutor Billhimer and Chief Dellane would like to acknowledge the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit-Arson Squad, Stafford Township Police Department, Stafford Township Detective Bureau, Ocean County Fire Marshal’s Office, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit and the Berkeley Township Hazmat Unit for their collective assistance in this investigation.

Stafford Township Police Facebook Photo

June 7, 2024

EAST WINDSOR TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)– Mayor Janice S. Mironov, and Council Members Marc Lippman, Denise Daniels, Anthony Katawick, David Russell, Johnnie Whittington and John Zoller, joined by members of Mercer County Moms Demand Action, issued a Mayoral Proclamation recognizing June 7 as “National Gun Violence Awareness Day,” to raise awareness about the impacts of gun violence and to encourage responsible gun ownership and use. Mercer County Moms Demand Action is a grassroots movement seeking to raise awareness about the impacts of gun violence and keeping families safe.

Mayor Mironov stated, “Gun violence is a tragic reality nationwide, with more than 120 Americans killed each day. ‘National Gun Violence Awareness Day’, is an opportunity to focus together to honor and remember all victims and survivors of gun violence and to recommit ourselves to doing all that we can to reduce the impacts of senseless gun violence in our community and in our nation.” Mayor Mironov added,

“Irregardless of anyone’s views, there are many things we all can agree on and do, such as responsibly using gun locks when storing weapons.”

The Mayoral Proclamation issued by Mayor Mironov states, “Americans are 26 times more likely to die by gun homicide than people in higher-income nations. The Township renews our commitment to reduce gun violence and pledge to do all we can to keep firearms out of the wrong hands, and encourage responsible gun ownership to help keep all of our citizens and children safer.”

Mayor Janice S. Mironov and Council Members present Proclamation recognizing June 7 a “National Gun Violence Awareness Day” to members of Mercer County Moms Demand Action. Pictured (from left to right) are: Deputy Mayor David Russell; Council
Member Marc Lippman; Council Member Denise Daniels; Sherry Hurwitz; Mayor Janice Mironov; Patricia Clark; Council Member John Zoller; Council Member Johnnie Whittington and Council Member Anthony Katawick.

August 4, 2024

JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–According to Township Officials a body of a 29-year-old man from Old Bridge who was kayaking, went missing yesterday when the kayak overturned. Police, numerous fire departments, EMS and dive teams were called to Prospertown Lake Wildlife Managment Area around 2:30 p.m. for the missing kayaker. The search was suspended last evening due to thunderstorms and resumed at 6:00 a.m. this morning. The body of the missing man was recovered around 4:00 p.m. this afternoon. No additional details are available at this time.

MidJersey.news file photo

June 12, 2024

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on June 10, 2024, Salvatore Umek, 46, of Point Pleasant Beach, pled guilty to Theft before the Honorable Dina M. Vicari, J.S.C., relative to his former position as Treasurer for the Point Pleasant Beach Fire Company Number 2. At the time of his sentencing on September 20, 2024, the State will be seeking a term of five years New Jersey State Prison, as well as restitution in the amount of $107,517.

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department revealed that between February 2019 and November 2021, Umek – in his capacity as Treasurer for the Fire Company – unlawfully transferred funds from the organization’s bank account to pay off personal credit card debt in the amount of approximately $100,000.  Umek also transferred a sum of money directly into his personal bank account, and utilized the funds for his own benefit.

On July 12, 2023, Umek surrendered himself to Point Pleasant Beach Police Headquarters.  He was processed and served with the charge via summons pending an upcoming first appearance in Ocean County Superior Court.

Prosecutor Billhimer acknowledges the diligent efforts of Senior Assistant Prosecutor Christopher Heisler who is handling the case on behalf of the State, and commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad and Point Pleasant Beach Police Department for their collaborative assistance in connection with this investigation, leading to Umek’s guilty plea, and soon his state prison sentence.

Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

June 12, 2024

EWING, NJ (MERCER)–Ewing Township proudly celebrated its first Pride flag-raising event on June 11, marking a historic and joyous occasion for the community. The event, held at the Ewing Township Municipal Building and led by Mayor Bert H. Steinmann, brought together residents, officials, and supporters in an upbeat display of unity and inclusivity.

The ceremony featured heartfelt remarks by the Mayor, Council President Kevin Baxter, the Rev. Kim Wildszewski of the Washington Crossing Universalist Unitarian Church, and Ewing resident Elvin Montero of the Mercer LGBTQ Democratic Caucus, fun music, sweet treats, and the raising of the colorful Pride flag, symbolizing the township’s commitment to supporting and honoring the LGBTQ+ community. The event was a testament to Ewing Township’s dedication to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents.

“This flag is a powerful symbol of love, resilience and pride,” Mayor Steinmann said. “It stands for our commitment to equality and the belief that everyone, and I mean everyone, deserves to live their truth openly and without fear.”

“We are overjoyed to have hosted our inaugural Pride flag-raising event,” Mayor Steinmann said. “This celebration is a significant step in promoting love, diversity, and acceptance in our community. We are proud to stand with our LGBTQ+ residents and advocate for equality and inclusion.”

Ewing Township Council President Kevin Baxter also shared his enthusiasm. “This celebration is a significant step in promoting love, diversity and acceptance in our community, and is a beautiful reminder of the strength and unity within our township.”

Joining Mayor Steinmann to raise the flag were township employees Miguel Martinez, Alex DeAngelis and Abe Conesa. Refreshments were provided, and the atmosphere was filled with joy, camaraderie, and a shared sense of purpose.

The success of this first Pride flag-raising event highlights Ewing Township’s ongoing efforts to celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. The township looks forward to making this an annual tradition, reinforcing its commitment to equality for all.

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this memorable event. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive Ewing Township.

About Ewing Township:

Ewing Township is dedicated to maintaining a quality place of life for its residents through excellent public services, community engagement, and continuous improvement. For more information, visit our website at www.ewingnj.gov.

Ewing Township. Where Community Meets Progress