June 23, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Amid the ongoing heat wave, city firefighters fought a two-alarm blaze involving several homes in the 400 block of Elmer Street, near Chestnut Avenue, Sunday evening (June 23, 2024).

The fire was reported about 6:35 p.m. It was declared under control an hour later.

Among those who fought the blaze were several “probationary” (rookie) firefighters working their first shift since completing their fire academy training.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Red Cross was contacted to assist several residents displaced by the fire.

December 23, 2023

TRENTON (Mercer) – Several people were displaced by a blaze that damaged two rowhouses Saturday afternoon (Dec. 23, 2023). It was the third working fire in Trenton in less than 24 hours.

It was just after 3 p.m. on Saturday when Trenton firefighters were alerted to a possible structure fire in the 100 block of Washington Street. A column of smoke rising up over the area signaled a working fire to responding firefighters.

Heavy smoke was billowing from the second and third floors of 133 Washington Street as firefighters from Engines 7, 3, 10 and 6, Ladders 4 and 2, Rescue 1 and Special Services 1 arrived on scene.

While all visible fire was quickly extinguished, firefighters spent some time opening up walls to expose and then douse hot spots after it was confirmed the fire had spread to the attached home at 131 Washington Street. The blaze was officially declared under control at 3:31 p.m.

While there were no reported injuries, the Red Cross was called out to assist a woman and four men who were left temporarily homeless because of the blaze.

On Friday night (Dec. 22), Trenton firefighters responded to a working fire in the rear of the vacant house at 13 Trent Street, and then fought a stubborn and very smoky blaze in an abandoned commercial building in the 300 block of North Olden Avenue.

The Trent Street blaze was reported just after 5:05 p.m. Friday as several companies of firefighters were already in the area investigating a reported odor of natural gas in a home in the 1500 block of Princeton Avenue.

As a result, crews from Rescue 1 and Engine 10 – released from the Princeton Avenue assignment – arrived on Trent Street very quickly and were able to easily subdue the blaze. They were assisted by Engines 8, 7 and 3, Ladders 4 and 2, and Special Services 1.

Later on Friday, just after 7:40 p.m., firefighters were alerted to a reported fire in a commercial building in the area of Dickinson Street and North Olden Avenue.

Coincidentally, several city fire companies were already busy investigating another odor of natural gas at a high-rise apartment building in the 500 block of Greenwood Avenue, so it was Engines 6, 1, 8 and 10, Ladders 4 and 1, Rescue 1 and Special Services 1 that were sent to the reported fire.

Those companies arrived to find smoke issuing from an abandoned commercial property that at first was believed to have a Taylor Street address but was eventually identified as 323 North Olden Avenue.       

Firefighters had to cut a fence to gain access to the property. They soon confirmed that the fire was not in the large structure that dominated the site but was instead in a smaller, separate building on the property.

The incident commander reported that a large quantity of trash was burning in a pit inside the building and that heavy machinery from the city’s public works department would be needed to break up the pile to allow firefighters to get water on the material smoldering at the bottom of the pile.

Firefighters operated on scene for over three hours. Some companies were released, while others – including Engine 8 and Ladder 2 – were rotated in to assist with suppression operations. The blaze was officially declared under control about 10:45 p.m., a little over half-an-hour after a public works backhoe arrived to tear apart the pile of trash.

The causes of all three blazes were under investigation by city fire and police officials.

13 Trent Street

300 block of North Olden Avenue

100 block of Washington Street

August 2, 2024

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP, NJ (MERCER)–Police reported that early Sunday Morning, July 28, 2024 over 30 vehicle burglaries occurred in the Northeast section of Hopewell Township and in Hopewell Borough. The burglaries included locations on Taylor Terrace, Cedar, View Point, Crestview, Bailey Dr, Van Dyke Rd, and Howard Way.

Investigation on scene revealed that no vehicles were stolen, however, items from inside some of the vehicles were taken. These items included credit cards and driver’s licenses, all other items were left or discarded. Some car keys were recovered, as they were thrown or left behind by the suspects as they left the area.

There were no forced entries made into the vehicles, as all vehicles that were broken into were left unlocked. Residents are reminded to lock their vehicles overnight or when left unattended.

Detective Collins is handling the investigation and is currently following active leads in pursuit of the suspects involved. Please call HTPD if you observe suspicious activity or vehicles in your neighborhood. HTPD will continue to provide additional presence in residential areas of Hopewell Township and Hopewell Borough. Hopewell Township Police Department 609-737-3100

Multiple Car Burglaries Reported Overnight in Robbinsville

March 24, 2024

FLORENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ (BURLINGTON)–Firefighters were dispatched to 1008 &1010 West Third Street for a house fire at 2:50 p.m. Upon arrival firefighters found heavy fire conditions on one side of the duplex. Firefighters made multiple attacks on the fire and were evacuated twice from inside the fire building. The fire eventually climbed to two-alarms before being declared under control at 4:36 p.m.

The fire is currently under investigation and there is no word on the cause of the fire.

LONG BRANCH, NJ (MONMOUTH) – Governor Phil Murphy today signed a series of bills to continue the fight to combat auto theft in New Jersey. The four bills strengthen the criminal penalties associated with auto theft, with a particular focus on persistent, repeat offenders and large-scale automobile trafficking networks.

“Every person should be able to feel safe and secure in the communities they call home. That is why over the past year we have taken serious steps to crack down on the troubling rise in auto thefts,” said Governor Murphy. “Today’s comprehensive bill signing is an additional step in the right direction. I am grateful to our legislative leaders for recognizing the seriousness of this issue and for taking swift action to bring these bills to my desk. Together, we will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement to keep New Jerseyans safe.”

“More than 1 million vehicles are stolen across the U.S. every year. In New Jersey, we are focused on reducing those numbers and this incredibly comprehensive package of bills will give law enforcement the means to do just that,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “Thank you to Gov. Murphy and the Legislature for recognizing the need to give our law enforcement officers and agencies these additional tools. Working with our partners at the local, state and federal level, we are in a greater position to cut the number of vehicle thefts and better protect our residents.” 

A4930/S3390 expands criminal penalties related to the illegal use of motor vehicle master keys. Motor vehicle master keys are key fobs or computer programs that have the ability to operate the locks or start a motor vehicle. Under the bill, individuals who knowingly possess one of these devices or programs for unlawful purposes or advertise these devices or programs knowing that such items are commonly used for unlawful purposes will be guilty of a fourth-degree crime. These provisions do not apply to law enforcement personnel, insurance organizations, or leasing business entities.

A4931/S2284 establishes the crimes of theft of a motor vehicle and receiving a stolen motor vehicle as separate statutory provisions resulting in either a second- or a third-degree crime, depending on the value of the car. Additionally, the bill provides for extended sentences for certain persistent motor vehicle offenders. If an individual has been convicted on two or more prior, separate occasions of carjacking theft, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, or receiving stolen property that is a motor vehicle, then that individual may be subject to an extended term of imprisonment upon request of the prosecutor. 

A5034/S3006 expands the crime of “leader of auto theft trafficking network” by amending the definition of said “leader” to include persons who conspire with others as participants to engage for profit or to commit other criminal activity in a scheme or course of conduct to unlawfully take, dispose of, distribute, bring into, or transport motor vehicle or motor vehicle parts as stolen property. The bill also establishes that the “participant in auto theft network” will result in a third-degree crime.

A5189/S3777 eliminates the presumption of pretrial release for defendants charged with certain motor vehicle theft offenses if the defendant was arrested or convicted of a prior motor vehicle theft offense within the 90-day-period preceding the charge. Under the bill, the presumption of pretrial release would not apply to an eligible defendant charged with theft of or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle or receiving stolen property where the property involved is a motor vehicle if on one or more prior and separate occasions during the 90-day-period preceding the charge, the defendant was arrested for or convicted of theft of or unlawful taking of a motor vehicle; receiving stolen property where the property involved is a motor vehicle; or a crime under any statute of the United States, this State, or any other state that is substantially equivalent to any of the crimes listed above.

In the past year, the Murphy Administration has taken several steps to address the problem of auto thefts.Earlier this year, the Governor signed S249/A2210, making it more difficult for bad actors to sell stolen catalytic converters to scrap yards and making it easier for law enforcement to identify, locate, and prosecute violators. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin also announced in April 2023 that 34 law enforcement agencies in 21 counties and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) will receive grant funding to acquire or expand automated license plate recognition (ALPR) technology across the state, building on Governor Murphy’s 2022 $10 million investment in the technology to reduce violent crime and auto theft in New Jersey through the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) State Fiscal Recovery Fund.Auto theft measures taken in the last year have proven to be successful, resulting in a 10 percent decrease in auto thefts from January through May of this year compared to that same period last year, and a 10 percent decrease in auto thefts for the last four months of 2022 compared to those same months in 2021.In the recently signed Fiscal Year 2024 budget, $2 million more was allocated to increase the investment in statewide pretrial services, which will expand social service offerings and on-ramps to programming support for people awaiting trial.The primary sponsors of these bills, which passed unanimously in both houses, were Senator Gopal, Senator Lagana, Senator Sarlo, Senator Codey, Senator Bucco, Assemblyman Tully, Assemblywoman Swain, Assemblyman Atkins, Assemblywoman Speight, Assemblywoman Flynn, and Assemblyman Thomson.

“The rate of auto-thefts over the past two years threatens the property and safety of New Jersey residents and places an added strain on law enforcement,” said Senator Vin Gopal. “It’s crucial we take decisive and creative action to deter car thieves while also providing additional support to the law enforcement departments and our prosecutors’ offices who are already working hard to curb this disturbing trend.”

“In New Jersey, the vast majority of residents depend on their cars to get back and forth to work, to get their kids to school, or to go wherever they need to be. These bills offer new ways of thinking, and new ways of attacking the car theft problem in our state, by focusing resources on several fronts, and, when necessary, strengthening laws to make would-be perpetrators think twice before stealing another person’s automobile,” said Senator Joseph Lagana.

“Car thefts and related crimes are an ongoing threat to the safety and security of diverse communities throughout the state,” said Senator Paul Sarlo. “This legislation will work to crack down on offenders, prevent thefts, and take down the criminal networks of car thieves.”

“In recent years, our communities have been plagued with the crimes of car thefts, with the thefts primarily being done by repeat offenders,” said Senator Richard Codey. “These are sophisticated, well-financed, well-organized business operations, more or less corporations. If we want to get serious about busting up these operations and making headway on car thefts, we must go after the captains of these rings, and not merely be content with arresting the teen-age perpetrators who may be in their service.”

“I am pleased that Governor Murphy signed this bipartisan legislation to address the epidemic of motor vehicle thefts in New Jersey. This law sends a powerful message that if you commit the crime, you will be caught and you will serve time,” said Senator Minority Leader Anthony M. Bucco. “Unlawful activities related to car thefts and stolen car parts have rapidly increased throughout the state since 2020. With the signing of this legislation, we are enacting a plan to hold auto theft traffickers and their criminal networks accountable for their heinous crimes.”

“Since the onset of the pandemic, our State has seen the most significant increase in auto thefts to date,” said Assemblyman Christopher Tully. “New Jersey residents deserve immediate protection, which is why we have taken steps to develop smart, sensible policies that safeguard our residents and their property while punishing those responsible. The measures being signed into law today will strengthen our laws and keep our neighborhoods safe.”

“The majority of families in New Jersey rely on their cars to get where they need to go, be it for work, school or leisure. That is why it is critical to respond to the recent surge in car thefts with thoughtful, effective policies that will stop repeat offenders who lead car theft trafficking networks,” said Assemblywoman Lisa Swain. “These new laws take aim at car theft rings that for too long have preyed upon New Jersey communities, clearly sending the message that actions have consequences.”

“The uptick in car thefts throughout the state has created serious cause for concern among law enforcement officers and New Jersey families,” said Assemblyman Reginald Atkins. “People deserve to feel safe and secure in their communities, but that isn’t possible when the threat of property theft looms over them. By updating our laws, we are addressing technological advances that aid in these crimes and giving our courts the tools needed to put an end to car thefts.”

“Over the past few years, law enforcement officers throughout New Jersey have felt the added strain caused by car thefts and our residents have worried that their property could be the next target,” said Assemblywoman Shanique Speight. “I am proud to sponsor legislation being signed into law today. This is a start to ending car thefts and giving New Jersey families peace of mind.”

“This new law thoughtfully targets the car theft crisis occurring throughout New Jersey communities by providing the necessary support law enforcement has called for to address the ‘catch and release’ policies that have enabled car theft rings to flourish,” said Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn. “Tackling the rise in car thefts was one of the first issues I took on as a member of the Legislature, so it is particularly rewarding to see this bill signed into law. Protecting the hardworking people of New Jersey and their property is a commitment I will continue to honor as I celebrate this significant step toward a safer tomorrow.”

“Empowering the courts to close the door on repeat car thieves will help put an end to the crime cycle in New Jersey,” said Assemblyman Ned Thomson. “In order to provide residents the peace of mind they deserve and protect them from falling victim to career criminals, New Jersey must take a tougher approach. The signing of this law demonstrates how both sides of the aisle can come together to prioritize public safety and ensure the justice system holds these offenders accountable.” 

“Car thefts are a personal and sometimes violent attack on an innocent victim,” said Peter Andreyev, Executive Vice President, New Jersey State PBA. “The bills signed today will allow law enforcement to target the leaders of these theft rings and make sure that repeat offenders are properly adjudicated. On behalf of the New Jersey State PBA, I would like to thank Governor Murphy and the bill sponsors for their support on this serious public safety issue.”

“I commend the Governor and Legislature for taking swift action to combat this very important bipartisan issue,” said Long Branch Mayor John Pallone. “In Long Branch public safety is our primary responsibility and with these laws in place, it gives our law enforcement officers the ability to protect and serve our town and ensure auto theft offenders are brought to justice”

“I applaud the Senate and the Governor for approving the set of bills that will greatly enhance the safety and security of residents,” said Mine Hill Mayor Sam Morris. “These bills will help crack down and bring accountability to those who prey on the public.  The legislation goes far toward beating the technical and skilled car thieves advanced technology. Good job to everyone involved.”

“New Jersey is plagued by an epidemic of auto theft. I commend the legislature for taking action and the governor for signing these bills into law,” said Mount Arlington Mayor Michael Stanzilis. “I urge the public to help stem the tide of auto theft by locking their cars and not leaving the keys and key fob in their automobiles.”

“I would like to thank our Legislature for passing these package of bills and to Governor Murphy for signing this important legislation to help combat the out of control auto theft crimes in our State,” said Jefferson Mayor Eric F. Wilsusen. “As a retired Deputy Chief of Police, I know these new laws will give our law enforcement a few more tools in their toolbox better control auto theft that has affected all our communities throughout New Jersey.”

“Kudos to our legislators and to our Governor for passing and signing this critical legislation into law which is long overdue,” said East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo. “It is essential for both law enforcement officers and prosecutors who can now better work together to make all of us safer.”

“These bills aptly address our ongoing concerns for our municipality’s public safety,” said Millburn Mayor Maggee Miggins. “We find the unanimous approvals very meaningful and we are grateful to both the Governor and the Legislature.”

“The auto thefts have reached epidemic proportions. It cannot be addressed solely in the communities where the thefts are occurring, it must be addressed from the cities where the young are recruited, to suburbs where the cars are stolen to the final destination of the vehicles,” said Madison Mayor Robert H. Conley. “This series of bills does exactly that. As a mayor in a community that has been hit with the rash of thefts, these bills are the support we need. I thank the legislature for their overwhelming support for the bills and for Governor Murphy for signing them into law.”

“I believe these bills, once they become law, will assist law enforcement and prosecutors in trying to curb the theft of autos and auto parts,” said Totowa Mayor John Coiro.

“I thank Governor Murphy and our State Legislature for recognizing and working to address a problem in a bipartisan way that Mayors and local police departments have been combatting for a while,” said Hamilton Township Mayor Jeff Martin. “Repeat offenders, and those profiting off their crimes, will now face far more significant penalties for their choices and be less likely to be released on bail to continue to commit these crimes.”

“I want to thank Governor Murphy for taking these important steps towards strengthening auto theft prevention laws,” said Prospect Park Mayor Mohamed Khairullah. “This is one issue where Republicans and Democrats alike are united and gives our law enforcement community the necessary resources to stop auto thefts, protect our residents and ensure public safety in our town and every town across the state.”

“It’s no secret that communities across New Jersey have been struggling to combat widespread auto thefts for years,” said Morris Township Mayor Mark Gyorfy. “I applaud the passage of these bipartisan measures by our state lawmakers and thank Governor Murphy for his support to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to stem this concerning trend and make communities like Morris Township safer for all residents.”

“As Mayor, representing the Montville Township Committee, we support legislation that has a positive impact on crime,” said Montville Mayor Matt Kayne. “Auto theft continues to be occurring at a high incident rate. These bills are a positive step forward in the effort to fight auto theft. I support these bills and want to thank our lawmakers for this body of work.”

“The bills that Governor Murphy is signing is a big step in assisting Law Enforcement in combating the on-going crime of auto theft,” said Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano. “These bills give law enforcement the ability to specifically ensure that the repeat offenders committing auto theft are not automatically released through pretrial release and are held accountable after conviction.  As the Chief of Police for the Montville Township Police Department, I support these bills and applaud our legislators for their efforts”

“Auto theft has become a major concern across the State of New Jersey.  It’s an issue we hear about from residents every single day,” said Woodland Park Mayor Keith Kazmark. “I thank Governor Murphy and the State Legislature for working on and signing this series of bills to address this important issue.  Safety must be our number one priority, without it we have no quality of life.”

“Over the past few years, we have witnessed a rise in auto thefts, an issue that is not subject to just one community in our state,” said Ewing Mayor Bert Steinmann. “I am grateful to Governor Murphy and the state legislature for their continued efforts to support us as we work to combat this epidemic here in Ewing.”

“The bipartisan measure from Trenton to raise the stakes for major crime rings who focus on auto theft is welcome news to all communities across New Jersey,” said Mendham Borough Mayor Christine Glassner. “Law enforcement officials now have a powerful new tool to combat auto theft and bring criminal accountability to the leaders of these pyramid crime schemes and throw them in prison where they belong. In addition to supporting our cops working the streets and prosecutors who use the full scope of their authority to reduce violent and costly crimes in our state, all New Jerseyans can appreciate this important step to fight crime by our leaders in Trenton.”

“I applaud Governor Murphy for signing the bills sponsored by Senators Codey, Bucco, Sarlo, Lagana and Gopal.  Stiffening the consequences for actors who commit these crimes is paramount to giving municipalities and law enforcement the upper hand in combating auto theft.    It is refreshing to witness our state legislators collaborate for the betterment of our residents regardless of party affiliation,” said Roseland Mayor James Spango. “The statewide auto theft issue affects all municipalities and NJ residents and puts the safety of the public and police at risk everyday.  Harsher penalties for those committing these crimes will improve the quality of life for all of us.”

“I want to thank Governor Murphy and the Legislature for working together in a bipartisan effort to address this critical issue affecting not just Long Hill but towns across New Jersey,” said Long Hill Mayor Scott Lavender. “These laws will empower our law enforcement officers and prosecutors to effectively protect our communities and ensure criminals are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law”

July 18, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–On Saturday, July 20th at 11:00 a.m. there will be a street sign dedication ceremony for Tre’Devon Lane at the corner of Kirkbride Ave and New Willow Street.

On September 22, 2012, Tre was shot and killed after sacrificing his life to save two young ladies while sitting on his grandmother’s porch on New Willow Street. At the time of his death he was 19 years old. Tre’ attended Mercer County Community College in West Windsor in pursuit of a degree in social work, while also working part-time as a security guard. He loved basketball and is remembered by his infectious smile.

In honor of his act of courage and his life, Tre’ Devon Lane Foundation was formed. The organization strives to serve the young people and their families in Trenton, providing them with opportunities and scholarships to help them realize their full potential on the road to a satisfying career and productive future as responsible and caring citizen. The foundation has started programs multiple programs including “Sisters Inspiring Sisters” girls Mentoring Program and “Project M.E.N.S ( Men Empowering New Seeds)” boys mentoring program, developing young girls and boys into the future leaders of our community.

Since its inception the Tre’Devon Lane Foundation has hosted the 2013 & 2014 Memorial Classic Basketball Tournament, was the 2016 and 2017 Recipient of the I AM Trenton Grant, presented 34 Community Service Awards to recipients, presented two Tre’ Lane Hero Awards to recipients, presented five Scholarships to recipients, honored six fathers in 2016 who lost children to gun violence, honored seven mothers in 2015 who lost children to gun violence, hosted an Anti-Violence march, from the Battle Monument to Trenton’s City Hall (September, 2017), met with elected officials, organized a petition drive on Change.org. to support Assembly Bill A3626 & Senate Bill S2849, fighting for stronger protections for Witnesses (Fall, 2016). (A3626 was created by Assemblywomen Angela McKnight Shavonda Sumter; S2849 was sponsored by Senator Linda Greenstein-D, Co-sponsored by Senator Shirley Turner-D.), recorded a PSA with Trenton Now. Participating in the PSA with our Foundation was BENS Way, The Cornelius Foundation and Assemblywoman Angela McKnight, traveled to Washington, DC and spoke on the steps of Capital Hill to support tougher Gun Control Laws (July, 2016, and the Foundation was a 2016 Honoree and recipient of the Fierce and Fearless Award for all the work they are doing in the community.

City officials including honorable Mayor Reed Gusciora and City Council members will be in attendance. Opportunities for photos, videos, and interviews will be available. 

July 4, 2024

FREEHOLD – A former teacher at Wall Township High School has been arrested and criminally charged with having a sexual relationship with a student, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago and Wall Township Police Chief Sean O’Halloran jointly announced Thursday.

Julie Rizzitello, 36, of Brick Township, who submitted her resignation earlier this week, is charged with two counts of second-degree Sexual Assault, third-degree Witness Tampering, and three counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact.

An investigation involving members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Bureau and Wall Township Police Department, assisted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and the Brick Township Police Department, revealed that the alleged criminal conduct by Rizzitello began earlier this year. On multiple occasions and in at least three jurisdictions – Belmar, Brick, and Wall – Rizzitello allegedly engaged in various sexual acts with the victim.

The collaborative investigation resulted in charges being filed both in Monmouth (on the Belmar and Wall offenses) and Ocean (on the Brick offenses) counties. Rizzitello was arrested without incident yesterday and transported to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution (MCCI), where she remains incarcerated pending a detention hearing to take place in Monmouth County Superior Court.

Anyone with information about Rizzitello’s activities is being urged to contact MCPO Detective Jose Rodriguez at 800-533-7443 or Wall Township Police Department Detective Devin Corso at 732-449-4500.

This case is being prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Danielle Zanzuccki, Director of the MCPO Special Victims Bureau. Rizzitello is being represented by Francis R. Hodgson, Esq., with an office in Toms River.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

July 4, 2024

TRENTON, NJ (MERCER)–Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri announced today that an investigation conducted by the Mercer County Homicide Task Force (MCHTF) and the Trenton Shooting Response Team has resulted in the arrest of a Trenton man for the shooting death of Samier Vincent.

Divon Ray, 24, of Trenton, is charged with one count of first-degree murder, eight counts of first-degree attempted murder and numerous weapons offenses including certain persons not to possess a weapon.  He was arrested in Trenton on Wednesday.  The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Ray pending trial.

Just after 1:30 a.m. on 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 23, 2024, Trenton police responded to the 100 block of Walnut Avenue on a Shot Spotter activation for multiple rounds.  Upon arrival, officers located a total of four adult victims suffering gunshot wounds.  The victims were transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment.  Samier Vincent, 30, of Trenton, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head/neck area, died on June 27 as a result of his injuries.  An adult male and an adult female victim who sustained single gunshot wounds were treated and released from the hospital.  A 29-year-old female victim remains hospitalized in serious condition.

The investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with information is asked to contact MCHTF Detective Jennifer Eyster 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.

Divon Ray, 24, of Trenton, is charged with one count of first-degree murder, eight counts of first-degree attempted murder and numerous weapons offenses including certain persons not to possess a weapon.  He was arrested in Trenton on Wednesday.  The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Ray pending trial.

30-Year-Old Trenton Man Dies from June 23 Shooting

Names of the 2024 Trenton Homicide Victims

1. 01/13/2024 Eduardo Lopez-Cruz, 38, of Trenton, Shooting
2. 01/16/2024 Stefon Locke, 33, Shooting on 1/16 died 2/8/2024
3. 02/28/2024 Shawn Moore, 45, Trenton, Shooting
4. 03/19/2024 Donnell Jenkins age 52, Stabbing
5. 04/04/2024 Jose Alfredo Azcona Garcia, 46, of Trenton, Shooting
6. 05/01/2024 Jerome Francis, 43, of Hamilton
7. 05/01/2024 Chevaughn Fagan, 28, of Trenton
8. 05/19/2024 Stephon Fisher, 18, of Trenton, Shooting
9. 05/26/2024 Dwayne Penix, 20, of Trenton, Shooting
10. 06/11/2024 Johnathan Applegate
11. 06/23/2024 Samier Vincent, 30, of Trenton, Shooting, died 6/27/2024

July 4, 2024

MANCHESTER, NJ (OCEAN)–Chief Antonio Ellis is proud to announce the promotion of several veteran Manchester Township Police Department officers to new leadership roles within the agency during a ceremony held on July 3, 2024: Lt. Albert Vega to Captain, Sgt. Charles Brooks to Lieutenant, Sgt. Paul Bachovchin to Lieutenant, Ptl. Michael Guarino to Sergeant, Ptl. Steven Wendruff to Sergeant, and Ptl. Ryan Saul to Corporal. Mayor Robert Arace had the honor of administering the Oaths of Office in the presence of family, friends, police, and township personnel.

“These officers lead by example and have consistently proven their dedication to this agency and our residents,” said Chief Ellis. “They take an immense amount of pride in putting on the Manchester Township Police Department uniform. I’m proud of the strong foundation of exemplary leadership that is in place within our department.”

Taking his oath first was Capt. Vega, who holds a master’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Administrative Science and most recently as Lieutenant oversaw the Investigations Bureau. Capt. Vega has earned and achieved over 20 awards and commendations throughout his service to include two Chief’s Awards, two Chief’s Commendation Awards, two Drug Enforcement Seizure Awards, two Exceptional Duty Awards, and seven Unit Citations.

Next to take his oath was Lt. Brooks, who earned his bachelor’s degree in public administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University and had served as Sergeant since 2011. Among his many awards and commendations, Lt. Brooks was recognized with two Chief’s Award, Lifesaving Award, and Exceptional Duty Award.

Next, Lt. Bachovchin, who has a master’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Administrative Science and served as Sergeant since 2017, took his oath. Lt. Bachovchin has served in numerous roles in our department, from D.A.R.E officer, Part time Traffic Safety officer, Radar instructor, Child Passenger Safety Technician, Honor Guard member, Field Training Officer, and Municipal Alliance Chairman.

July 4, 2024

JACKSON TOWNSHIP, NJ (OCEAN)–Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer announced that on July 3, 2024, Michael Vulpis, 26, of Freehold Borough, was charged with Attempted Murder, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and being a Certain Person Not to Possess a Weapon or Ammunition, in connection with an incident that occurred in Jackson Township on June 27, 2024.

On June 27, 2024, at approximately 12:20 a.m., Officers from the Jackson Township Police Department responded to the area of Larsen Road for a report of a male having suffered a gunshot wound. Responding Officers found a 27-year-old male with a gunshot wound to his face. The victim was transported to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune for treatment of his injuries; he was treated and subsequently released.

An investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Jackson Township Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, revealed that the victim and a female were sitting in a parked vehicle outside of a residence on Larsen Road. A blue sedan then parked in front of the vehicle – blocking it in. Two males exited the blue sedan, approached the vehicle and knocked on the window. As the victim was exiting the vehicle, one of the assailants began to strike him. During the assault, one of the assailants shot the victim in the face. The assailants then fled the area.

Further investigation revealed that Vulpis was the individual who shot the victim. On July 3, 2024, Vulpis was taken into custody at his residence in Freehold Borough without incident. He was transported to the Ocean County Jail, where he is presently lodged pending a detention hearing.

Prosecutor Billhimer commends the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Tech Crime Unit, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Emergency Response Team, Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Jackson Township Police Department, Jackson Township Police Department Detective Bureau, Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Freehold Township Police Department, and Freehold Borough Police Department, for their combined and cooperative 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).

July 4, 2024

EAST WINDSOR, NJ (MERCER)–The Robbinsville Township Fire Department, NJ State Police and EMS responded to the north bound outer lanes of New Jersey Turnpike near mile post 64.1 in East Windsor Township at 12:36 p.m for a motor vehcile crash. The crash appeared to have no serious lifethreating injuries. The injured were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The crash was aproxamilty 2 miles south of Exit 8 near the East Windsor-Robbinsville border and caused a minor traffic delay in the north bound lanes until the vehicles were towed away. No additional details are available about the crash.

July 24, 2024

TOMS RIVER, NJ (OCEAN)–Police say that on July 24, 2024 at approximately 1:50 a.m., officers responded to St. Regis Court for a report of a male wearing a white t-shirt and khaki shorts attempting to enter vehicles parked in the driveway.  As officers checked the area, Ptl. Pinto located the subject seated in a vehicle parked in the driveway on Feldmus Lane.  The male fled on foot into the woods but was subsequently located in the retention basin.  The male was identified as Kristopher Fudali and arrested for multiple vehicle burglaries and theft.  The investigation is continuing and additional complaints are pending.  Fudali also had an active warrant for his arrest relating to vehicle burglaries committed on 6-29-2024 and investigated by Detective Grob. 

In addition, the Toms River Police Department has investigated and arrested Fudali multiple times this year for the fraudulent use of credit cards, which were stolen from resident’s vehicles.  If anyone has any additional information pertaining to this individual or related crimes, please contact Detective Grob at 732-349-0150 Ext 1319

June 26, 2024

The Mercer County Association of School Administrators (MCASA) has recognized East Windsor Regional School District’s chief school administrator, Mark Daniels, as the 2024 Mercer County Superintendent of the Year.

Mr. Mark Daniels has served Mercer County and the East Windsor Regional School District proudly for the past five and a half years. Amongst Mr. Daniels numerous accomplishments is leading the EWRSD community through a 5-Strategic Planning process (2024-2029), engaging the EWRSD community through an identity rebrand process resulting in an updated brand narrative and district logo, successfully guiding the district through the 23-24 NJQSAC Review, leading the district related to all concerns and challenges related to COVID-19, and recently received the Best Communities for Music Education Award (5th time since 2019).

Under Mr. Daniels leadership EWRSD has completed a districtwide Equity Audit to identify programmatic barriers that may impede a student’s full participation, access, and opportunity for academic growth. Furthermore, in an effort to support the academic progress of our Multilingual Learners, supported the in-depth training of more than 100 EWRSD educators in the SIOP approach (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol). In addition, EWRSD has committed to training elementary special education teachers in the Orton Gillingham multisensory reading approach.

Mr. Daniels has served as the Mercer County Association of School Administrators President since 2023.

Dr. Aderhold, Superintendent of West Windsor – Plainsboro Regional School District shared, “Mr. Daniels is a highly respected district leader. His work and leadership during the past five school years is a testament to Mr. Daniels’ dedication to the students and staff of EWRSD. He is an outstanding selection as the 2024 Mercer County Superintendent of the Year and we offer him our thanks and congratulations on his recognition.”

The Mercer County Association of School Administrators (MCASA) has recognized East Windsor Regional School District’s chief school administrator, Mark Daniels, as the 2024 Mercer County Superintendent of the Year.

Conspirator worked closely with another conspirator who owned a used car dealership in Florence, NJ

A California man was convicted on six counts related to the theft of over $23 million dollars from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), money destined for one of its jet fuel suppliers, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.

Sercan Oyuntur, 40, of Northridge, California, was convicted on April 28, 2022, of one count of conspiracy to commit wire, mail and bank fraud; two counts of bank fraud; one count of using an unauthorized access device to commit fraud; one count of aggravated identity theft; and one count of making false statements to federal law enforcement officers, following an eight-day trial before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez in Camden federal court.

According to documents filed in this case and the evidence presented at trial:

A corporation that had a contract with the DoD to supply jet fuel to troops operating in southeast Asia employed an individual in New Jersey, who was responsible for communicating with the federal government on behalf of the corporation through a government computer system. Through a complex phishing scheme, Oyuntur and criminal conspirators in Germany, Turkey, and New Jersey targeted the corporation and the individual so that the conspirators could steal money that DoD intended to pay to the corporation for providing jet fuel.

Oyuntur’s conspirators created fake email accounts in other people’s names and designed fake webpages that resembled the General Services Administration’s (GSA) public-facing website. From June to September 2018, the conspirators caused phishing emails to be sent to various DoD vendors, including the individual from New Jersey who represented the corporation, to trick these vendors into visiting the phishing pages. These emails appeared to be legitimate communications from the United States government, but were actually sent by the conspirators, and contained electronic links that automatically took individuals to the phishing pages. There, they saw what appeared to be a GSA website and were prompted to enter their confidential login credentials, which were then used by the conspirators to make changes in the government systems and ultimately divert money to the conspirators.

As part of his participation in the scheme, Oyuntur worked closely with another conspirator, Hurriyet Arslan, who owned a used car dealership, Deal Automotive Sales, in Florence, New Jersey. Arslan opened a separate shell company based in New Jersey for use in the criminal scheme, obtained a cell phone number for the shell company, hired another person to pose as the shell company’s owner, and opened a bank account in the name of the shell company.

On Oct. 10, 2018, based on the fraudulent activities of Oyuntur and his conspirators, DoD transferred $23.5 million that had been earned by the victim corporation into Arslan’s Deal Automotive bank account. Arslan went to the bank and was able to access some of this money, but the bank would not release all of the funds to Arslan. That same day, a conspirator in Turkey sent Arslan an email with an altered government contract that falsely indicated Deal Automotive had been awarded a DoD contract valued at approximately $23 million dollars. Oyuntur instructed Arslan to take this fake contract into the bank to explain why he had received the money, so that Arslan could convince the bank to release the remaining funds.

The conspiracy and bank fraud counts of which Oyuntur was convicted each carry a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison. The count of using an unauthorized access device to commit fraud carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison. The false statement count carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison. The aggravated identity theft count carries a statutory mandatory consecutive term of two years in prison. The conspiracy and bank fraud counts each carry a maximum fine of equal to the greatest of $1 million or twice the gross profits or loss resulting from the offense, whichever is greatest; the remaining counts carry a $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. Oyuntur will be sentenced on a date to be determined.

Arslan pleaded guilty in January 2020 to conspiracy, bank fraud, and money laundering and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 21, 2022.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited criminal investigators of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Thomas Mahoney; special agents of the General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Eric D. Radwick; special agents of the U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Northeast Field Office and the Cyber Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Patrick Hegarty and Special Agent in Charge Kenneth A. DeChellis; and special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jason J. Molina in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s conviction.

The government is represented by Senior Trial Counsel Jason M. Richardson of the Civil Rights Division in Camden and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara A. Aliabadi of the Special Prosecutions Division in Camden.

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Defense counsel: Megan J. Davies Esq., Haddonfield