Prosecutor Breaking News

Police Shooting in Mountain Lakes was Justified

2012-02-10T06:43:00.002-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the conclusion of the investigation
concerning the shooting which took place on Friday, October 14, 2011 in Mountain Lakes, New Jersey that resulted in the death of Christine King.

At approximately 4:44 pm, the Morris County Communications Center and New Jersey State Police received numerous 911 calls reporting shots fired at a business complex located at 100 Route 46 in Mountain Lakes, New Jersey.

The Mountain Lakes Police Department along with the Parsippany and Denville Police Departments responded to these initial calls. They were ultimately assisted by other law enforcement agencies in the area.

The preliminary investigation revealed that upon the arrival of the responding patrols, they learned that a male shooter had shot and killed a female employee from one of the businesses within the business complex located at 100 Route 46 in Mountain Lakes. They also determined that this male subject was in a vehicle which was located in an adjacent parking lot. As the suspect was approached by the officers, he opened fire shooting directly at the officers. The officers returned fire killing the suspect.

At the time of the response, numerous employees within the business complex had barricaded themselves within three buildings on the property for their own safety. Tactical teams from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and Morris County Sheriff's Office cleared all of the buildings to make sure that another shooter was not on the property. As part of the tactical process, all of the individuals which were encountered within the three buildings of the business complex were handcuffed. This was a safety measure to insure that no other suspects were supplanted within the civilian population and were ultimately rescued by tactical team members. Once it was clear that the civilians were not armed and/or involved in the shooting, the handcuffs were removed. All of the barricaded civilians were brought to safety.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit, New Jersey State Police Crime Scene Unit along with the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office and the Department of Law and Public Safety were all involved in the
joint investigatory process.

Both the victim and suspect were removed from the scene by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office and autopsies of both individuals were conducted.

The female victim was identified as:

Christine King
DOB: 11/63
W/F
Oak Ridge, NJ

The male suspect was identified as:

Leonardo Parera
DOB: 03/72
W/M
Kearny, NJ

The victim and suspect were both
determined to be employees of Exit Realty Gold located at 100 US Highway 46, Suite A-01, Mountain Lakes, New Jersey. Christine King was employed as an office manager and Leonardo Parera was employed as a part-time real estate broker. Both Christine King and Leonardo Parera were working in the office the day before the shooting.

The investigation revealed that Mr. Parera entered Exit Realty Gold where he shot and killed Christine King while she was seated at her desk. Mr. Parera then exited the building, called 911 and reported that he had shot and killed someone. He also indicated that he was heavily armed and would shoot anyone who approached him. Mr. Parera entered his vehicle and remained in
the lot. When responding patrols arrived, he fired shots at police and engaged them in gun fire exchange. Numerous rounds were discharged before Parera was
shot and killed.

The comprehensive follow-up investigation revealed no evidence of any contact from Christine King to Leonardo Parera. The investigation involved an extensive forensic examination of Christine King’s computer and phone records, both of which revealed no contacts from her to him. The computer of Mr. Parera did not reveal any contact with Christine King.

The investigation revealed that Leonardo Parera arrived at Exit Reality Gold at approximately 3:15 p.m. on the day of the shooting operating a white Honda Civic.

The investigation revealed that he left the office, only to return a short time later. At that time,
he was armed with a fully-loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol. Ms. King was seated at her desk in the vicinity of the front door. It appears that Mr. Parera entered the office, and then fired 15 shots at Ms. King, killing her instantly.

The findings of the autopsy conducted by the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office indicated that Ms. King appeared to have been shot from behind.

Another employee was inside the business at the time of the shooting. That person called 911 and reported the shooting. The suspect had no contact with that individual.

During the course of the police response, Parera moved his automobile into the back center portion of an adjacent parking lot, which was part of The Villa at Mountain Lakes, a catering hall. Upon the arrival of the responding officers, Parera opened fire on one of the responding police
vehicles. As other responding officers arrived at Exit Realty, they quickly established a perimeter.

Other Morris County police agencies inclusive of the New Jersey State Police dispatched officers to assist. Members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Tactical Team along with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Team also responded.

After shooting and killing Ms. King, the suspect called 911 and admitted that he had just killed a person. He stated that he was going to shoot and kill any police officers who
responded. He falsely claimed that he had a long gun. He then terminated the call.

Ballistics analysis showed that one of Mr. Parera’s projectiles hit Building C of 100 US Hwy 46. Other shots were directed at responding officers. After verbal commands to surrender were ignored, the suspect fired again on the police. Ballistics analysis showed the suspect fired at least 8 shots at the police.

Civilians who were interviewed reported seeing the suspect fire a weapon from his car at the police officers who responded. A total of 10 police officers returned fire. Some of the officers were armed with police issued handguns. Some were armed with police issued rifles. One officer was armed with a police issued shotgun.

Videotape footage obtained during the investigation captured some of the exchange of gunfire between suspect and the police.

Autopsy findings indicated that Mr. Parera had been shot 11
times in the 23-second period that the police fired upon him and the car. Numerous other shots hit the car. On the recording, cease fire orders are clearly audible and obeyed once it became
apparent that Mr. Parera was no longer a threat.

Numerous items of ballistic significance were submitted for analysis to the New Jersey State Police, including all of the weapons fired by the police, the weapon which was possessed by the suspect, and all projectiles, fragments, casings and shells that were collected at both
the scene of Ms. King’s murder and those associated with the police shooting.

The forensic analysis concluded that Mr. Parera’s gun was the sole weapon used to kill Ms. King. Forensic analysis further showed that the 10 officers who stated they were involved were the only officers to have fired their weapons.

The autopsy and ballistics testing showed Mr. Parera was hit by fire from multiple officers. 58 casings were collected at the scene which matched the police officer weapons. Approximately 65 shots were fired in total by the police in the 23-second period.53 shots hit the vehicle which was
occupied by Mr. Parera.

The suspect had additional ammunition that was recovered from his automobile. All police officers involved were interviewed. Each interview was recorded. The MCPO has
concluded that Mr. Parera committed the homicide alone.

The case was presented to the Grand Jury. The Grand Jury determined that the police
actions in shooting Mr. Parera were justified under New Jersey law.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

“The actions of these officers were nothing short of heroic. They put their lives at risk and showed tremendous restraint and appropriate force to neutralize a man who committed a homicide and who was intent on engaging the police in a gun battle.

My prayers and sympathies to Ms. King’s family, as well as the police officers involved. No officer, even when use of force is justified as is the case here, enjoys being responsible for taking another person’s life.

These officers were compelled to use deadly force for the protection of themselves, as well as the citizenry who were present in a well populated area. Simply put, the police response was textbook and exhibited great skill and training in the face of lethal force being employed against them.”

Office Creeper Arrested in New Jersey

2012-02-10T06:38:00.002-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the arrest of Gerald Broadwater, age 61, date of birth 10/29/1950, who resides in Lithonia, GA.

Mr. Broadwater (aka “The Office Creeper”) was arrested at 7:20 a.m. on Thursday, February 9, 2012 at a residence in Newark, New Jersey by the United States Marshals Regional Fugitive
Task Force which involved a member of the New Jersey State Police.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force, along with the
Florham Park and Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Departments have been involved in
an extensive investigation which focused on Mr. Broadwater’s involvement in commercial burglaries taking place in Morris County.

At the time of Mr. Broadwater's arrest, he was a wanted fugitive with outstanding criminal charges in the states of Georgia, North Carolina and Ohio. Recently, Mr. Broadwater was being investigated by the state of Pennsylvania for similar
crimes in the Allentown-Bethlehem area.

Mr. Broadwater remains in the custody of Morris County Law Enforcement
pending additional charges. He is being held on $100,000 bail with no 10%.

Florham Park and Parsippany complaints include the following charges:
· Burglary
· Burglary, theft of moveable property

Mr. Broadwater remains a suspect in burglaries which occurred in Denville,
Roseland, East Hanover, Livingston, Cranbury, Morristown, Bergen County,
Somerset County, Union County, Middlesex County and other areas throughout New
Jersey as well as Pennsylvania.

Additional charges are in the process of being evaluated by members of
the Morris County Prosecutor's Office legal team.

Anyone with information on Mr. Broadwater is asked to contact the Morris County
Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force at (973) 285-6200 or the
Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her
rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Jose Feliciano Guilty on all Counts

2011-12-22T11:56:00.003-05:00

Defendant Jose Feliciano who was charged with the homicide death of 61 year old Roman Catholic Pastor, Father Edward Hinds, in Chatham Borough on October 22, 2009 was found guilty earlier today on all counts which included:

Murder
Felony Murder
Robbery (2 counts)
Possession of a Weapon
Unlawful Possession of a
Weapon
Hindering Apprehension

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:

“I am proud and honored to have been part of a process to vindicate Father Hinds’
murder and the slander of his reputation, which obviously the jury soundly did not believe. I can think of no greater Christmas gift to Father Hinds’ soul, and for those that loved and respected him that this conviction happens at Christmas time.”

Former Denville Township Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Stealing Drugs from Evidence Room

2011-11-30T12:10:00.010-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the guilty plea of Denville Police Officer Eugene Blood, age 38.

In April 2011, Lieutenant Paul Nigro of the Denville Township Police Department contacted the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit to report that he suspected that someone was tampering with the Denville Township Police Department's evidence room.

A subsequent covert investigation involving the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and Technical Assistance Response Unit (TARU) was conducted. In addition, a member of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office ProfessionalStandards Unit was assigned to the Denville Township Police Department for a four month period for the purpose of conducting this probe.

The investigation resulted in the below listed criminal charges being filed against Officer Eugene Blood.

Official Misconduct – 2nd degree (2 counts)
Burglary – 3rd degree
Attempted Burglary – 3rd degree
Theft of CDS – 3rd degree
Attempted Theft of CDS – 3rd degree
Criminal Mischief - DP

Officer Blood was hired by the Denville Township Police Department on 1/1/03.

Officer Blood served in the following areas and positions:

1-1-03 – 2007 Patrol pision
2007 – 2010 Detective Bureau and Police Department Evidence Custodian.
12/10 – Patrol pision

The investigation which was jointly conducted between the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and the Denville Township Police Department alleges that Police Officer Blood broke into the Denville Township Police Department’s evidence room and allegedly stole controlled dangerous substances that were in evidence.

On November 30, 2011 Eugene Blood plead guilty to one count of Official Misconduct (3rd degree), by admitting he unlawfully obtained the key to the department’s evidence room and stole drugs from the department's evidence room for his personal use. Although the thefts began while he was the department’s evidence custodian, they continued after he was re-assigned to patrol duties through the use of a stolen key.

Eugene Blood accepted the state's offer of three years New Jersey State Prison with a mandatory period of parole ineligibility of two years. In addition, Eugene Blood executed a Consent Order whereby he forfeited his current position and any right to a public pension, and is barred from future public employment.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

“This plea strikes the balance of severely punishing this conduct, but also takes into consideration that the defendant immediately accepted responsibility for his actions. Mr. Blood has lost his job and profession, will serve a minimum of 2-5 years in State prison and is forever barred from future public employment. This case sadly demonstrates how drug addiction, and the havoc an addictions causes, unfortunately exists at all levels of society.

I commend Chief Christopher Wagner and Lieutenant Paul Nigro of the Denville Township Police Department who immediately brought this matter to the attention of our Professional Standards Unit. A joint investigation was initiated and they were a great assistance to my office. This demonstrated the Denville Township Police Department is not only an ethical and well run department, but also shows that they will not tolerate misconduct. They should be applauded in how they handled this difficult situation and I continue to have the utmost confidence inthe Denville Township Police Department. To be clear, this matter is limited to this one officer, and is by no means a reflection of the Denville Township Police Department.

Chief Wagner and Lieutenant Nigro have been involved in every aspect of this investigation. They have professionally and admirably represented the otherwise fine officers of the Denville Township Police Department.”

Chief Christopher Wagner stated:

“We immediately brought forward this matter as soon as we identified that we had an issue. We have been involved in this investigation since its inception in April of 2011. I am extremely disappointed in the actions of Eugene Blood. I do however stand by all of the other fine officers of the Denville Township Police Department who wear the uniform with pride and go out each and every day to serve the residents of Denville Township with honor and integrity and we will continue to do just that.”

Inmate charged with Attempted Murder Faces Additional Charges

2011-11-04T15:09:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the arrest of David A. Noll an inmate at the Morris County Correctional Facility on charges of Witness tampering and Contempt of Court.

On November 18, 2010 at approx 6:28 a.m., the Rockaway Township Police Department responded to 7 Woodsend Trail on a report of a shooting. Upon the arrival of the police department they observed the victim age (51) in the driveway of her residence. The victim had been shot multiple times. The victim was treated at the scene by officers from the Rockaway Township Police Department and Rockaway Fire and Rescue company No. 3. The victim was
airlifted to Morristown Memorial Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit along with the Morris County
Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section responded to the scene.

The defendant who was identified as David Noll was arrested at the scene and ultimately lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility.

Defendant
David Noll
DOB 4/7/1959
Morris County Correctional Facility.

Charges:
Attempted Murder, 1st degree
Possession of a Weapon for an
Unlawful Purpose (firearm), 2nd degree
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 2nd degree

Judge Thomas V. Manahan
P.J.S.Cr. set bail at $500,000 cash.

On November 4, 2011 David Noll was additionally charged with the following:

Charges:
Witnesses Tampering
Contempt
Contempt (Provision of the Prevention of
Domestic Violence Act)

Judge Stuart A. Minkowitz, J.S.C. set bail at $75,000 with 10% option (cash only)

Everyone is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial. Everyone has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Denville Police Officer Charged in connection with Evidence Theft

2011-10-27T17:22:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the charging of Denville Police Officer Eugene Blood, age 38, with Official Misconduct and other criminal offenses.

In April 2011, Lieutenant Paul Nigro of the Denville Township Police Department contacted the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit to report that he suspected that someone was tampering with the Denville Township Police Department's evidence room.

A subsequent covert investigation involving the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and Technical Assistance Response Unit (TARU) was conducted.

In addition, a member of the Morris County Prosecuto's Office Professional Standards Unit was assigned to the Denville Township Police Department for a four month period for the purpose of conducting this probe.

The investigation resulted in the below listed criminal charges being filed against Officer Eugene Blood.

Official Misconduct – 2nd degree (2 counts)
Burglary - 3rd degree
Attempted Burglary – 3rd degree
Theft of CDS – 3rd degree
Attempted Theft of CDS – 3rd degree
Criminal Mischief - DP

Officer Blood was hired by the Denville Township Police Department on 1/1/03.

Officer Blood served in the following areas and positions:

1-1-03 – 2007 Patrol Division

2007 – 2010 Detective Bureau and Police Department Evidence Custodian.

12/10 – Patrol Division

The investigation which was jointly conducted between the Morris County Prosecutor's
Office Professional Standards Unit and the Denville Township Police Department alleges that Police Officer Blood broke into the Denville Township Police Department’s evidence room and allegedly stole controlled dangerous substances that were in evidence.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:
“These allegations are very serious in and of themselves, as well as the fact that it compromised numerous criminal prosecutions. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Denville Township Police Department have spent the past four months examining every piece of evidence on every case in the Denville Township Police Department's evidence room to determine what cases have been compromised. On cases that may have been compromised in Superior Court, this office is in the process of notifying all affected defendants and/or their attorneys of the investigation. The same will occur in Municipal Court, as well.

I commend Chief Christopher Wagner and Lieutenant Paul Nigro of the Denville Township Police Department who immediately brought this matter to the attention of our Professional Standards Unit. A joint investigation was initiated and they were a great assistance to my office. I continue to have the utmost confidence in the Denville Township Police Department. To be clear, this matter is limited to this one officer, and is by no means a reflection of the Denville Township Police Department. Chief Wagner and Lieutenant Nigro have been involved in every aspect of this investigation. They have professionally and admirably represented the otherwise fine officers of the Denville Township Police Department.”

Officer Blood will be scheduled to appear for his First Appearance/Arraignment in the near future.

Chief Christopher Wagner stated:
“We immediately brought forward this matter as soon as we identified that we had an issue. We have been involved in this investigation since its inception in April of 2011. I am extremely disappointed in the actions of this one officer. I do however stand by all of the other fine officers of the Denville Township Police Department who wear the uniform with pride and go out each and every day to serve the residents of Denville Township with honor and integrity. Officer Blood has been suspended without pay from the Denville Township Police Department since the end of August 2011. The investigation is on-going so additional comment would not be appropriate at this time."

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Murder trial scheduled to start on 10/20/11

2011-10-19T14:13:00.005-04:00

On Wednesday, October 19,2011 a jury was impaneled by Superior Court Judge Thomas Manahan in connection with the trial of Jose Feliciano who is charged in connection with the homicide death of 61 year old Roman Catholic Pastor, Father Edward Hinds, which occurred on October 22, 2009 in Chatham Borough, New Jersey.

The case will be prosecuted by Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Assistant Prosecutor David Bruno, Esq. Opening statements are scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, October 20, 2011 at 8:30 AM.

Members of the media will need to make arrangements with the Trial Court Administrators Office by calling 973-656-3999 to be permitted access into the courtroom. Judge Manahan will allow one TV camera with the requirement that the data is pooled to the remaining group.

Still photographers will be permitted access to the court. The form will need
to be completed and signed by the media representative.

All members of the media will need to remain behind the court divider and no photographs of the Judge will be permitted.

Members of the media will not be permitted access to the court unless you have been previously cleared.

Mountain Lakes Shooting 911 call 10-14-11

2011-10-18T11:31:00.007-04:00

911 call between Leonardo Parera and the New Jersey State Police Communications Operator which occurred at 4:42pm on Friday, October 14, 2011.

Play audio:

Download audio (link fixed 10/24/11)

Howell man charged in connection with death of Mount Arlington police officer

2011-10-16T14:42:00.006-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the arrest of Michael Cassella, age 29 of Howell New Jersey in connection with the death of Mount Arlington Police Officer Joseph Wargo, age 38, which took place on Sunday, October 16, 2011.

At approximately 12:12am, the Morris County Communications Center received a report of a Motor Vehicle entrapment involving a marked police vehicle from the Mount Arlington Police Department which occurred on Route 80 eastbound.

The New Jersey State Police along with other area law enforcement agencies, fire, rescue and medical units were dispatched to the scene along with Atlantic Air One (Medical Helicopter) from Morristown Memorial Hospital.

Upon the arrival of the New Jersey State Police they identified a 2011, white four (4) door Mitsubishi Lancer, disabled and in the third lane from the left, positioned perpendicular to the direction of travel on the East Bound side of the highway. The driver and sole occupant of this vehicle was identified as Michael Cassella.

The responding officers also determined that a second vehicle was involved in the crash. The second vehicle was a 2011, Mount Arlington Police Department, Ford Crown Victoria driven by Police Officer Joseph Wargo of the Mount Arlington Police Department.

Officer Wargo's marked patrol vehicle was located further eastbound of the Mitsubishi in the woods off of the roadway. The vehicle suffered extensive front end damage. Officer Wargo was the sole occupant.

Officer Wargo was transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital by Atlantic Air One (helicopter). Dr. DeFazio of Morristown Medical Center pronounced Officer Wargo deceased at 1:25 a.m.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit and Vehicular Homicide Unit responded to the scene to jointly conduct the investigation with the New Jersey State Police Fatal Accident Investigation and Crime Scene Units. The preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle being operated by Michael Cassella which was traveling west at a high rate of speed, lost control and slid sideways across the center median into the East bound lanes of Route 80 impacting the police car which was heading eastbound in a non emergency mode of travel.

As a result of the investigation, Michael Cassella was charged with the following:
Aggravated Manslaughter
Vehicular Homicide
Driving while intoxicated
Reckless Driving
Speeding

Superior Court Judge David H. Ironson set bail at $500,000 no 10% (cash only). Mr. Cassella will be housed in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic and senseless death of Officer Wargo. He died proudly serving his community. Officer Wargo’s death, as well as the shooting at the officers in Mountain Lakes on Friday, again underscores the dangers that all of our police officers face each day. While Morris County enjoys a safe community, the fact is that each day every police officer knows that at any moment a situation could arise that places their life in danger. On behalf of the men and women of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the entire law enforcement community, I extend our prayers and condolences to Officer Wargo's family, friends, and the Mount Arlington Police Department.

The accident remains under active investigation. Anyone that has information or anyone that may have witnessed this incident is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-2900, the New Jersey State Police at (973) 347-1000 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Gunman killed by police after shooting rampage

2011-10-15T14:13:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the joint investigation into a shooting which took place on Friday, October 14, 2011.

At approximately 4:44pm, the Morris County Communications Center and New Jersey State Police received numerous 911 calls reporting shots fired at a business complex located at 100 Route 46 in Mountain Lakes, New Jersey.

The Mountain Lakes Police Department along with the Parsippany and Denville Police Departments responded to these initial calls. They were ultimately assisted by many other law enforcement agencies in the area.

The preliminary investigation has revealed that upon the arrival of the responding patrols, they learned that a male shooter had shot and killed a female employee from one of the businesses within the business complex located at 100 Route 46 in Mountain Lakes.

They also determined that this male subject was sitting in a vehicle which was located in an adjacent parking lot.

As the suspect was approached by the officers, he opened fire shooting directly at the officers. The officers returned fire killing the suspect.

At the time of the response, numerous employees within the business complex had barricaded themselves within three buildings on the property for their safety.

Tactical teams from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and Morris County Sheriff's Office cleared all of the buildings to make sure that another shooter was not on the property. As part of the tactical process, all of the individuals which were encountered within the three buildings within the business complex were handcuffed. This was a safety measure to insure that no other suspects were supplanted within the civilian population and ultimately being rescued by tactical team members. Once it was clear that the civilians were not armed and/or involved in the shooting, the handcuffs were removed. Ultimately, all of the barricaded civilians were brought to safety.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit, New Jersey State Police Crime Scene Unit were on site all night and they remain on site processing the scenes.

The Morris County Medical Examiner's Office and the Department of Law and Public Safety have been on the scene as well.

Both the victim and suspect were removed from the scene late last evening by the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office and the autopsies of both individuals is currently in progress.

The female victim was identified as:

Christine King
DOB: 11/63
W/F
Oak Ridge, NJ

The male suspect has been identified as:

Leonardo Parera
DOB: 03/72
W/M
Kearny, NJ

The victim and suspect have both been determined to be employees of Exit Reality Gold located at 100 US Highway 46, Suite A-01Mountain Lakes, New Jersey

Christine King was employed as a receptionist and Leonardo Parera was employed as a realtor.

Both Christine King and Leonardo Parera were working in the office yesterday.

The preliminary investigation has revealed that Mr. Parera entered Exit Realty Gold where he allegedly shot and killed Christine King while she was seated at her desk.

Mr. Parera then exited the building, called 911 and reported that he had shot and killed someone. He also indicated that he was heavily armed and would shoot anyone who approaches him. Mr. Parera entered his vehicle and remained in the lot. When responding patrols arrived, he fired at police and engaged them in gun fire exchange. Numerous rounds were discharged before Parera was shot and killed.

The incident remains under active investigation.

We will make arrangements to release the 911 call to the media this coming week.

Anyone that has information concerning this incident is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-2900 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Husband and Accomplice Charged with Murder of Wife

2011-08-19T12:16:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Boonton Police Chief Michael W. Beltran announce the arrest of two individuals in connection with the murder of Nazish Noorani.

Kashif Parvaiz (Husband and Father of the Victims) has been charged with the following:

· Murder, a crime of the first degree.
· Conspiracy to Commit Murder, a crime of the first degree
· Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, a crime of the second degree (2 Counts)
· Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution, a crime of the third degree
· Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a crime of the second degree

Antoinette Stephen has been charged with the following:

· Murder, a crime of the first degree.
· Conspiracy to Commit Murder, a crime of the first degree
· Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, a crime of the second degree (2 Counts)

On August 16, 2011, at approximately 11:13 p.m. EST, several 911 calls were placed to the Boonton Police Department to report gunshots having been fired on the 400-block of Cedar Street in Boonton, New Jersey. Patrol officers immediately responded to the location and discovered two (2) individuals that appeared to have sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

A female, later identified as, Nazish Noorani, was discovered in the roadway opposite the residence located at 408 Cedar Street. Alongside the victim was a stroller that contained her son, who appeared to be unharmed.

A male, later identified as the victim’s husband, Kashif Parvaiz was discovered across the roadway in front of the residence located at 408 Cedar Street.

Officers rendered aid to the victim. Despite their efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 11:41 p.m. Officers simultaneously rendered aid to the suspect, who was then removed from the scene and transported, via ambulance, to the Morristown Medical Center for treatment.

During the course of the subsequent investigation, and while Kashif Parvaiz was being treated as a victim, it was stated that he and his wife were allegedly shot by one (1) black male, one (1) white male, and a third unknown male. Who were allegedly shouting slurs about “terrorists.” The men were reported to be armed. It was also reported that the males subsequently fled the scene on foot in the direction of William Street.

A subsequent exhaustive investigation by law enforcement determined that Kashif Parvaiz and Antoinette Stephen allegedly plotted the murder of Nazish Noorani for a significant period of time. As a result, these defendants were criminally charged.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

“I am extremely proud of these arrests on many levels. The attorneys, detectives and support staff from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, as well as myself, have been working on this case day and night from its inception, so as to bring some measure of justice to this victim and her family.

Working alongside the Morris County Sherriff's Office and the Boonton Police Department our team has spared no expense or manpower as we hunted down the alleged perpetrators of this horrific crime. In addition to the primary investigative agencies, we had significant assistance from Chief Daniel Rosa and the members of the Billerica Police Department in Massachusetts. The Chief and his staff have been extremely accommodating to all of our investigative needs and we are very appreciative. The same is true for the members of the New York City Police Department who assisted us as well.

Initially, upon learning from the defendant/husband that this may have been a bias crime, we were particularly concerned, as we are dedicated to the principal that we are all entitled to live in this country free from the social ills of prejudice, bias and bigotry.

We want our Islamic community, our brothers and sisters, to be assured that we would never tolerate any bias crime and would stop at nothing to ensure that this community was protected from any form of bias or prejudice. After considerable investigative analysis law enforcement quickly concluded that this was not a bias crime.

Within hours of the crime, it was obvious to investigators that this was sadly the alleged handy work of the victim's husband who allegedly did the unthinkable and plotted to murder his wife, after a religious celebration.

Within hours the husband was arrested and we pursued the co-conspirator who allegedly assisted him with an investigation that spanned three states, eventually leading to the alleged co-conspirator’s arrest in Boston, Massachusetts late last evening.

The complexity of this investigation made revealing details publicly unfeasible, both to ensure that we captured those responsible, as well as to protect detectives that were in pursuit, so as to limit the potential for a deadly encounter with law enforcement and the defendant in Massachusetts. Again, we are sympathetic to the public and the media wanting to know information, but my role is different in that my primary concern is arresting the perpetrators, building solid cases that can withstand the rigors of a courtroom, and always ensuring that my officers and staff are safe.

We as a law enforcement community are especially saddened over many issues pertaining to this case. The violence of the matter, coupled with the death of this beautiful woman in front of her child was especially compelling to all of us.

And, the fact that the victim was celebrating Ramadan, a time dedicated in the Islamic faith to the worthy goals of patience, spirituality, humility and submissiveness to God, made this case especially compelling to us. So too, that this matter was allegedly so well thought out, planned, plotted and orchestrated is chilling to say the least.

Regardless of our differences in religion, this country is founded upon respect for peoples of all faiths and religions. I can assure the community at large that on behalf of the Morris County law enforcement community, our prayers and sympathies are humbly extended to the family, friends, as well as the Islamic community, who lost such a precious jewel in their lives.

This case once again underscores the fact that domestic violence knows no divisions of faiths or backgrounds. We encourage all that are abused by their partners to find the courage to end the cycle of mental, physical, and emotional violence before it is too late.”

This is an ongoing investigation. We release these details and ask the public’s assistance in providing any information that may be relevant to the defendants charged, or this investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-2900 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Prosecutor Charges Two in Connection with Lincoln Park Murder

2011-08-11T12:54:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Lincoln Park Acting Police Chief Mark West announce the arrest of Carlos Rojas (DOB 10/11/1990) of North Bergen, New Jersey, and Oscar Benedicto-Aleman (DOB 2/20/66) of Fairview, New Jersey, in connection with the Murder of Esteban Hernandez-Vazquez.

Carlos Rojas has been charged with the following:

· Murder, a crime of the first-degree
· Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, a crime of the third-degree
· Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, a crime of the fourth-degree
· Disturbing, Desecrating Human Remains, a crime of the second degree
· Hindering Apprehension, a crime of the fourth degree (charged on August 6th)

Oscar Benedicto-Aleman has been charged with the following: (August 9, 2011)

· Disturbing, Desecrating Human Remains, a crime of the second degree
· Endangering the Welfare of a Child, a crime of the second degree
· Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution of Another, a crime of the third degree

On August 4, 2011, at approximately 8:00 AM, a civilian walking in the area of Ryerson Road in Lincoln Park, New Jersey, flagged down a Lincoln Park Police Officer who was traveling in the area. The citizen reported a vehicle which was observed in the woods off of Ryerson Road.

Members of the Lincoln Park Police Department subsequently located a 1996 White, Toyota Camry, four door, with New York State license plates in a wooded area off Ryerson Road in Lincoln Park.

Upon further inspection, officers discovered the deceased body of what they believed to be a Hispanic male in the trunk of the vehicle. The male appeared to be in his late twenties to early thirties. He was later identified as twenty-seven (27) year old Esteban Hernandez-Vazquez (DOB12/25/1983) with a last known address in North Bergen, New Jersey.

An autopsy was performed on August 4, 2011 by Deputy Morris County Medical Examiner Dr. Carlos Fonseca. Doctor Fonseca determined that the victim sustained blunt force trauma to his head. The cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma and the manner of death was determined to be homicide.

A comprehensive, joint investigation commenced with the Lincoln Park Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force, Technical Assistance Response Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and ultimately the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, Bergen County Sheriff's Office and the Fairview Police Department.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

“Through a number of complex investigative leads, Carlos Rojas and Oscar Benedicto-Aleman emerged as the primary suspects. The investigation resulted in significant pieces of evidence being seized. The investigation revealed that the murder of Esteban Hernandez-Vazquez allegedly occurred on August 3, 2011 at the residence of Oscar Benedicto-Aleman located in Fairview, New Jersey (Bergen County).

The investigation revealed that Carlos Rojas allegedly repeatedly struck Esteban Hernandez-Vazquez in the head while they were both at the residence of
Oscar Benedicto-Aleman

The investigation also revealed that the two defendants allegedly placed the victim in the trunk of his own (victim’s) vehicle. It is also alleged that Carlos Rojas drove the victim’s vehicle while Oscar Benedicto-Aleman allegedly drove Rojas’ vehicle to Lincoln Park, New Jersey where the vehicle was ultimately located.

Detectives, attorneys and support staff workers from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, as well as officers from the Lincoln Park Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, Bergen County Sheriff's Office, Fairview Police Department and the North Bergen Police Department worked around the clock for the past week skillfully pursuing complex leads that ultimately solved this case.

Their skills were impressive and I am once again proud of their collaborative work. I am currently in the process of evaluating the case facts to determine if additional charges will be lodged against Oscar Benedicto-Aleman.

While it is alleged that the homicide occurred in Fairview, Bergen County, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office will be the prosecuting agency as we move the matter to trial."

Lincoln Park Police Department Acting Chief Mark West stated:

“My sincere gratitude is extended to all of the law enforcement agencies and officers who participated in this investigation for the excellent and professional job that was performed. Every officer involved, starting with the Lincoln Park Police Department patrol officers, Detective Bureau, Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, Bergen County Sheriff's Office, Fairview Police Department and the North Bergen Police Department did a tremendous job. Their tireless effort resulted in the quick apprehension of the two defendants.”

Fairview Police Department Chief Frank DelVecchio stated:

“Thanks to the efforts of each law enforcement agency working together, we were able to apprehend those allegedly responsible for this heinous crime.”

Carlos Rojas was initially remanded to jail in lieu of $100,000 bail. Oscar Benedicto-Aleman was remanded to jail with bail set by Judge Minkowitz at $150,000 with no 10%.

Earlier today, Judge Ironson increased the bail of Carlos Rojas to one million dollars based on the newly filed charges.

This is still an active investigation. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285 -6200, Lincoln Park Police Department at (973) 694-5533 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and the New Jersey Constitution, and all relevant state law.

Suspicious death in Lincoln Park

2011-08-04T17:10:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Lincoln Park Acting Police Chief Mark West announce the joint investigation into the suspicious death of a male subject who was found earlier this morning in Lincoln Park, New Jersey.

On August 4, 2011 at approximately 8:00am a civilian was walking in the area of Ryerson Road when they flagged down a Lincoln Park Police Officer who was traveling in the area. The citizen reported a vehicle which was observed in the woods off of Ryerson Road.

Members of the Lincoln Park Police Department responded and located a 1996 white, four door, Toyota Camry, with New York license plates.

Upon further inspection of the vehicle, a male subject who is believed to be Hispanic and in his 20s or early 30s was observed deceased within the truck of the vehicle.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Lincoln Park Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiners Office are currently investigating.

The cause of death is pending an autopsy by the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office. At this time the victim has not been identified.

We are asking anyone with information to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200, Lincoln Park Police Department at (973) 694-5533 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Mt. Arlington Man Charged with Murder

2011-07-19T09:37:00.007-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Huyler of the Morris County Park Police and Acting Chief of Police Keith Licata of the Mount Arlington Police Department announce the arrest of Danny Cole, age 38, who resided at 61 Mountain Avenue, Mount Arlington, New Jersey, in connection with the Homicide death of Barbara Wilson. Mr. Cole is currently incarcerated in the Morris County Correctional Facility.

At approximately 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 6, 2011, the Mount Arlington Police Department responded to the residence of Barbara Wilson, a 77 year old Mount Arlington resident, located at 421 Howard Boulevard in Mount Arlington, New Jersey, to conduct a welfare check. Upon the arrival of law enforcement, police officers entered the residence and found Barbara Wilson deceased inside her residence.

The investigation revealed that Ms. Wilson was widowed, lived alone and was discovered in her spare bedroom having suffered obvious trauma to her head and face. The victim was bound.

The investigation further revealed that a substantial number of items were missing from the victim's residence. The missing items were recovered from the defendant’s apartment at 61 Mountainview Avenue, Mt. Arlington, New Jersey.

An autopsy was conducted by Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Carlos Fonseca. The manner of death was determined to be homicide and the cause of death to be blunt force trauma.

A substantial number of the seized items were submitted to the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section as well as the New Jersey State Police Forensic Laboratory. Significant forensic processing has been conducted and additional processing is pending analysis.

The defendant was charged with the following crimes:
Murder, a crime of the first-degree
Felony Murder, Two (2) counts a crime of the first-degree
Robbery, a crime of the first-degree
Burglary, a crime of the second-degree
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, a third-degree offense
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, a fourth-degree offense
Possession of a Prohibited Device (stun gun), a fourth-degree offense

Superior Court Judge David H. Ironson set bail at one million dollars no 10%

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285 -6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and

Randolph Man Charged with Murder in Connection with Death of Father

2011-07-08T11:06:00.013-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi., Esq. and Randolph Township Chief of Police Robert Mason announce the arrest of Brendon Matos, age 25, who resides in Randolph, NJ. Mr. Matos has been charged in connection with the death of his father Nelson Matos, age 56 of Randolph, New Jersey.

At approximately 8:36 pm on Thursday, July 7, 2011, the Human Services Police Department at the Greystone Psychiatric Hospital observed a vehicle which appeared to be abandoned within the Greystone Complex on Central Avenue. A check with the New Jersey Motor vehicle Commission database determined that the vehicle was registered to a residence in Randolph, New Jersey.

At approximately 10:45pm a request was made to the Randolph Township Police Department to go to the Randolph residence for the purpose of conducting a welfare check. Upon the arrival of the Randolph Police, they observed what was believed to be a bullet hole in a kitchen window. When they looked through the rear sliding glass door, they observed the body of an individual who was later determined to be Nelson Matos lying on the kitchen floor in a pool of blood. Mr. Matos was deceased.

It was also determined that the victim’s car which was located on the property of Greystone was missing from the victim’s residence.

A comprehensive search of the Greystone complex as well as various road closures was conducted by the following agencies:

New Jersey Human Services Police
Morris County Prosecutor's Office
Morris County Sheriff's Office
Morris County Park Police
Parsippany Troy Hills Police
Randolph Township Police
Morris Plains Police
Morris Township Police
New Jersey State Police
United States Marshalls
Mendham Borough Police
Mendham Township Police
Chester Township Police

At approximately 6:55 A.M. on July 8, 2011, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Officer Gerritt Tosh saw a white male hiding in the bushes on Old Dover Road in Parsippany. This is within the Greystone area. Officer Tosh stopped and determined that this individual was Brendon Matos the son of the victim. Brendon Matos was taken into custody without incident.

A joint investigation is currently in progress with the above listed agencies as well as the Morris County Medical Examiner.

Brendon Matos was charged with the following:

Murder - 1st degree
Felony Murder - 1st degree
Armed Robbery - 1st degree
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose - 2nd degree
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon - 2nd degree
Certain Person Not to Carry a Firearm - 2nd degree
Hindering Apprehension - 2nd degree
Theft - 3rd degree

Superior Court Judge Thomas V. Manahan set bail at One Million Dollars (Cash Only)

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Randolph Township Police Department at 973-989-7010, the Morris County Prosecutorss Office at 973-285-2900 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stoppers Program at 973-COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

One Subject in Custody in Connection with Murder of Jefferson Gas Station Owner

2011-06-26T14:18:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Jefferson Township Chief of Police Kevin Craig announce the arrest of Lake Hopatcong resident Ronnie Fedo, DOB: 5/21/1977, who was charged with Felony Murder (1st degree), Robbery (1st degree) Aggravated Manslaughter (1st degree) Death by Auto (2nd degree) and Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death (2nd degree).

On Saturday, June 25, 2011 at approximately 1:45 p.m. the Jefferson Township Police Department received a 911 call reporting a man (victim) hanging onto the side of a vehicle that was driving out of the Getty Gas Station in Jefferson Township. The Getty Gas Station is located at 650 Route 15 South, Jefferson Township, Morris County, New Jersey.

Initial reports indicated that the victim was hanging off of the side of a gold sports utility vehicle after having been struck by the vehicle. The reports also indicate that the man had been dragged by the vehicle and that the vehicle kept going without stopping after striking the victim.

The Jefferson Township Police Department responded to the scene and observed the victim who was identified as Nisan Ambaroglu, DOB 1/15/1946, lying in the roadway of Route 15 South.

Medical personnel responded to the scene and attempted to revive the victim. The victim was transported to St. Clare’s Hospital, Dover Campus, where he was pronounced dead at 2:31 p.m.

A review of the gas station video, depicts a male dressed in a white shirt, blue jeans, white sneakers, and an Oakland A’s baseball cap, exiting a champagne/tan colored Toyota Highlander and entering the convenience store.

At the time, the victim was located in the area of the gas pumps. The male actor is then observed removing lottery tickets without paying for them, by reaching over the counter, and placing them in the back pocket of his jeans.

Moments later, the victim is observed entering the convenience store and stepping behind the counter. A hand to hand exchange is observed between the male actor and the victim for an unrelated purchase.

The male actor was then observed on video exiting the store and re-entering the vehicle. Moments later, the victim exited the convenience store and approached the driver’s side window of the vehicle, he was observed being dragged by the suspect vehicle through the parking lot.

All available information was released to the media in an effort to solicit the help of the public. At approximately 10:00 p.m. on June 25, 2011, the Jefferson Township Police Department received a call from a nearby business which is located approximately one half mile from the Getty Gas Station, where this incident took place. The employee reported seeing the photographs/videos provided to the media, and immediately recognized the suspect.

Additional investigative efforts jointly conducted by the Jefferson Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Morris County Sheriff's Office resulted in the vehicle and defendant being located. The vehicle was identified as a 2002 Toyota Highlander color champagne/tan/gold. The vehicles as well as the defendant were located in Lake Hopatcong late last evening.

The defendant was charged with the following:

CHARGES
Felony Murder (1st degree),
Robbery (1st degree)
Aggravated Manslaughter (1st degree)
Death by Auto (2nd degree)
Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death (2nd degree)

The defendant was transported to an area hospital where he was admitted for a leg infection which is unrelated to this incident.

Bail was set at $750,000 no 10% by Judge Minkowitz,

The defendant will be lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility at the conclusion of his treatment.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

"It is always a pleasure working with the Jefferson Township Police Department. They are extremely skilled and capable. They along with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and Morris County Sheriff’s Office were instrumental in the quick resolution of this case. Ultimately, with a citizen’s assistance we were able to affect an arrest in a timely manner.

We continue to endeavor to bring our citizens into the law enforcement process to help us solve crimes and provide information and intelligence to assist us in making their communities safer."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-2900, Jefferson Township Police Department at (973) 697-1300 or the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Remigio Gonzalez Pleads Guilty

2011-06-24T17:00:00.001-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announced today a guilty plea to two counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault in the case of Remigio Gonzalez, age 33.

Gonzalez’s plea will call for him to be exposed to five to ten years in New Jersey State Prison.

Gonzalez pled guilty before Judge Minkowitz this afternoon.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated on the matter:

“This office continues to aggressively prosecute those intent upon harming our children. We refused to negotiate this case for anything other than a State Prison sentence with Megan's Law. After the defendant has completed his state prison sentence, the state will seek to have the defendant deported from the United States.”

Morris County Prosecutor's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Makes Arrest

2011-06-15T17:10:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:

"Salvatore Iacopelli, age 39 of Seacaucus was arrested today on charges of Second Degree Attempted Sexual Assault, Third Degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of Children and Third Degree Attempted Promoting Obscene Material to a Person Under 18.

The investigation was handled by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. This newly implemented unit was recently launched after we sent a detective for extensive training with the New Jersey State Police to train on the latest investigative techniques to catch adults who attempt to lure children for otherwise illegal purposes. We are very proud to launch yet another valuable unit within the prosecution dynamic of our office that invariably protects our children from those intent upon harming them."

In this matter, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) conducted an online undercover investigation which resulted in the above arrest.

Bail was set at $200,000 no 10%, Cash bail, no contact with children under the age of 16 (except his own) by Judge Ironson.

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff’s Crimestopper Program at 973-267-2255.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Authorities Seek the Public's Assistance in Identifying this Individual

2011-06-10T11:41:00.010-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Roxbury Township Chief of Police Mark Noll, along with Morris County Sheriff Edward V. Rochford and John R Sette, Commissioner of the Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stopper Program announce the offer of $11,000 for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons involved in the homicide of 71 year-old Chafic “Steve” Ezzeddine, in Roxbury Township.

The investigation is ongoing and includes the following agencies: Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office/Criminal Investigation Section, Roxbury Township Police Department and the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

On Saturday, May 28th, 2011 at approximately 6:35 PM, a 911 call was received by the Morris County Communications Center reporting the discovery of Chafic “Steve” Ezzeddine deceased in his business (Kenvil Diner) located at 405 Route 46 West in Roxbury.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, “Currently, authorities are seeking any information regarding this incident. Anyone who may have information on the identity of this individual is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Roxbury Township Police Department at 973-448-2100, or the Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stopper Program at 973-267-2255. The Crime Stoppers Program can also be reached on the internet at www.morriscrimestoppers.org.

Videos

Crime Stoppers Offers $11,000 Cash Reward

2011-06-02T10:33:00.002-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Roxbury Township Chief of Police Mark Noll, along with Morris County Sheriff Edward V. Rochford and John R Sette, Commissioner of the Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stopper Program announce the offer of $11,000 for information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons involved in the homicide of 71 year-old Chafic “Steve” Ezzeddine, in Roxbury Township.

The investigation is ongoing and includes the following agencies: Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office/Criminal Investigation Section, Roxbury Township Police Department and the Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

On Saturday, May 28th, 2011 at approximately 6:35 PM, a 911 call was received by the Morris County Communications Center reporting the discovery of Chafic “Steve” Ezzeddine deceased in his business (Kenvil Diner) located at 405 Route 46 West in Roxbury.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, “Currently, authorities are seeking any information regarding this incident. Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Roxbury Township Police Department at 973-448-2100, or the Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stopper Program at 973-267-2255. The Crime Stoppers Program can also be reached on the internet at www.morriscrimestoppers.org.

Elderly Woman Dies in Hanover Twp Residential Fire

2011-05-29T17:17:00.002-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Hanover Township Chief of Police Stephen Gallagher announces the investigation into the fatal residential fire which resulted in the death of an 86 year-old Hanover Township resident earlier this morning.

The identity of the victim is not being released at this time pending the appropriate notification to the next of kin.

The fire was reported, via 911, by neighbors at 0202 hrs. Upon arrival at the Longview Drive, single family residence, the first arriving officers and firefighters encountered a heavy smoke condition and heavy fire conditions in the rear of the structure.

During the fire fighting operations, firefighters discovered the body of a female fire victim inside the residence.

The investigation is being conducted by the Hanover Twp Police Department, Cedar Knolls and Whippany FD's and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit.

In addition to the Whippany Fire Department, Mutual-aid was provided by the following Fire Departments:

Cedar Knolls, Morris Twp, Morris Plains, Morristown, Parsippany Dist 1(Mt Tabor), Parsippany Dist 6, Florham Park, Madison, as well as Morris Minute Men First Aid Squad and the Morris County Fire Coordinator.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

“Our preliminary assessment does not indicate that the circumstances surrounding the fire are suspicious at this time. The investigation is ongoing.”

Kenvil Diner Owner Murdered

2011-05-29T17:14:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Roxbury Township Chief of Police Mark Noll, announce the investigation into the homicide of 71 year-old Chafic Ezzeddine, in Roxbury Township.

The investigation is ongoing at this hour and includes the following agencies: Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office/Criminal Investigation Section, Roxbury Township Police Department and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

On Saturday, May 28, 2011 at approximately 6:35 PM, a 911 call was received by the Morris County Communications Center reporting the discovery of Chafic Ezzeddine deceased in his business (Kenvil Diner) located at 405 Route 46 West in Roxbury.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, "Currently, authorities are seeking any information regarding this incident. Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Roxbury Township Police Department at 973-448-2100, or the Morris County Sheriff's Crimestopper Program at 973-267-2255."

Former Attorney Sentenced to Five Years in Prison

2011-05-27T10:49:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the sentencing of former attorney, Pieter DeJong. Mr. DeJong was sentenced to five years in New Jersey State Prison.

In December 2009, the Morris County Prosecutorss Office received a referral from the Office of Attorney Ethics against former attorney Pieter DeJong, alleging criminal wrongdoing.

On January 26, 2005, Mr. DeJong acted as the settlement agent and attorney for a buyer purchasing a residential property. As a result of the real estate transaction, the victim received a check in the amount of $264,551.57 and another check at the time of the closing in the amount of $1,000.00.

The victim passed away on February 20, 2005, without having endorsed either check.

In August, 2007, an attorney was appointed the administrator of the victim’s estate. The attorney learned that the two checks were never negotiated and requested that Mr. DeJong turn over the proceeds by March 25, 2008. However, Mr. DeJong did not comply with the attorney’s demands.

Following an investigation conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Mr. DeJong was charged by indictment with one count of Theft (2nd degree), one count of Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition (2nd degree), and one count of Misapplication of Entrusted Property (2nd degree).

Mr. DeJong was disbarred on September 20, 2009 due to the allegation of misappropriation of funds and failure to cooperate with the ethics investigation.

Mr DeJong appeared before Superior Court Judge Stuart A. Minkowitz earlier today when he was sentenced.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated;

"An attorney is trusted to guard the funds of their client. This defendant flagrantly abdicated that responsibility and the prosecution believed that a state prison plea was the only acceptable deterrent for this egregious transgression. I applaud the attorney ethics board that took decisive action against the defendant’s license and referred this matter to this office. Our attorney profession is an honorable one and most attorneys fulfill their responsibilities in an ethical fashion. This case once again demonstrates the ethics committee and Morris County Prosecutors Office’s commitment to ferret out those attorneys who otherwise sully our profession to an already suspecting public."

Prosecutor - Man Pleads Guilty - Will face 30 Years with Mandatory 15 Years to be Served

2011-05-19T05:52:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announced a guilty plea to multiple counts of burglary in the case of Kerry J. Honan, age 36, of Sparta, New Jersey.

Honan’s plea will call for thirty years in New Jersey state prison with a 15 year period of parole ineligibility. Honan committed burglaries and thefts in the 2009 timeframe in the municipalities of Jefferson, Mt. Olive, Rockaway Borough and Parsippany Troy Hills.

Honan plead guilty before Judge Minkowitz on Tuesday, May 17th.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated on the matter:

“This plea again represents our aggressive stance on those who commit burglaries in Morris County. I commend the cooperative investigative efforts of The Jefferson Twp, Mt. Olive Twp, Rockaway Borough and Parsippany Troy Hills police departments who along with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Burglary Task force and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Section were all instrumental in achieving this excellent result. The coordinated efforts of numerous agencies working together, is again illustrative of how our countywide crime plan is channeling and coordinating our intelligence to achieve maximum results all at a cost savings to the public.”

Dover Video Store Owner Pleads Guilty to 7 Years in Prison

2011-03-23T13:24:00.006-04:00

DOVER — A local video store owner plead guilty today to being the leader of an organized retail theft enterprise in connection with the storage and sales of stolen electronics at his downtown shop and will serve up to 7 years in state prison.

Manuel Flores, 64, who owns Dover Video on 15 Bassett Highway, was charged with being the leader of an organized retail theft enterprise, two counts of receiving stolen property, one count of fencing, one count of conspiracy to commit theft, one count of conspiracy to receive stolen property, seven counts of conspiracy to commit fencing, six counts of attempt to commit theft and five counts of attempt to commit to receiving stolen property.

Members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and other law enforcement agencies hauled over one thousand cardboard boxes that contained everything from within the store. The items were confiscated following an investigation which was part of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Municipal and County Law Enforcement Initiative into stolen merchandise allegedly being stored and sold from that location.

Leading the investigation was Detective Dan Coleman from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Burglary Task Force along with Detective/Sergeant Timothy Driscoll of the Roxbury Township Police Department and Detective Keith Smith of the Dover Police Department.

The investigation also involved Police Officers from the following Law Enforcement Agencies as well as other organizations:

Morris County Sheriff's Office

Morris County Park Police

Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety

Morris County Communications Division

Morris County Office of Emergency Management

New Jersey Department of Treasury Division of Taxation

Office of Criminal Investigation

Harding Township Police Department

Chatham Township Police Department

Chatham Borough Police Department

Long Hill Township Police Department

Boonton Township Police Department

Madison Borough Police Department

Mount Arlington Police Department

Lincoln Park Borough Police Department

Jefferson Township Police Department

Motion Picture Association of America

Target (Loss Prevention)

Recording Industry Association of America, Northeast Region

The fenced goods -- including electronics, phones, cigarettes -- were allegedly stolen during home burglaries or retail store thefts. Thieves came to know Dover Video as a place where they could sell their stolen goods.

The investigation was part of the prosecutor's office's Municipal and County Law Enforcement initiative, in which the Prosecutor reached out to all Morris County Municipal Police Departments to learn what their top concerns were and found a common thread. That common thread was that the county is experiencing a significant increase in residential and commercial burglaries and theft related incidents.

This operation represents the largest dismantling of an alleged fencing operation in the history of Morris County.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated:

"This is another example of how our countywide crime plan and use of intelligence led policing model can solve crime and translate into significant state prison sentences, even with property related crimes, such as this. Working with local agencies as a whole, and identifying countywide the criminals that represent a significant crime risk, has led to this successful arrest and prosecution. In this operation, we targeted the people that made numerous thefts and burglaries profitable by providing a haven for them to be paid for the property they steal from our citizens. I am extremely proud of the successes of our crime plan where we are working as a coordinated whole with law enforcement in the county to have effective and meaningful cases and prosecutions that better protect the community and actually saves law enforcement resources as we are directing our attention on the greatest dangers and persons committing the most serious and/or repeated offenses."

Dover Murder - Two Arrested

2011-03-22T09:07:00.008-04:00

Julian Mero

Ramon Pacheo

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi., Esq. and Dover Police Chief Harold Valentine announce the arrest of Ramon Pacheco, age 26, a Mexican National and Non US Citizen who resides in Dover, NJ. and Julian Mero, age 24, Randolph NJ. Ramon Pacheco and Julian Mero have been charged in connection with the death of Edwin Alexander Chavez, age 26 of Los Angeles, California.

At approximately 1:32 am on Monday, March 21, 2011, the Dover Police Department responded to East Blackwell Street on a report of a man lying in the roadway.

Upon the arrival of the Dover Police Department they found the male victim unconscious and unresponsive.

The victim was transported by the Dover Emergency Squad to Saint Clare's Hospital (Dover) where he was pronounced dead at 2:17am by Doctor Stephanie Ortega, M.D.

A joint investigation was conducted by the Dover Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

The investigation revealed that Edwin Alexander Chavez was allegedly assaulted by Ramon Pacheco and Julian Mero while outside Mero's Lounge located at 337 East Blackwell Street, Dover.

Morris County Medical Examiner Doctor Ronald Suarez determined that the Cause of Death was Blunt Force Trauma and the Manner of Death is Homicide.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Dover Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office are still actively investigating this incident.

Charges Ramon Pacheco

Murder
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.
Bail was set by Superior Court Judge Stuart A. Minkowitz at $750,000 no 10% cash only with a source hearing.

Charges Julian Mero

Aggravated assault
Endangering an injured victim

Bail was set by Superior Court Judge Stuart A. Minkowitz at $75,000 no 10% cash, bond, property. As a condition of bail, the defendant must surrender his passport.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated:

"I commend the patrol officers and detectives from the Dover Police Department. They quickly secured the crime scene and gathered crucial information from witnesses that was critical to ascertaining what allegedly occurred. The subsequent joint investigation conducted by the Dover Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit legal and detective staff, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office led to additional information of significance being gathered. All of this information led to the allegations filed against these two defendants.”

Anyone with information can contact the Dover Police Department at 973-366-0302, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-2900 or the Morris Sheriff's Office Crime Stoppers Program at 973-COPCALL.

Press Conference Video - Arrest of Morris County Sheriff's Officer Jason Campbell

2011-02-17T14:21:00.011-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., held a press conference on Wednesday, February 16, 2011 to announce the arrest of Morris County Sheriff's Officer Jason Campbell. The video of the press conference is now available on the Morris County Prosecutor's YouTube Channel.

Morris County Sheriff's Officer Arrested

2011-02-15T17:49:00.003-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the arrest of Morris County Sheriff's Officer Jason Campbell.

The arrest, which took place on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at approximately 4:38pm, was the result of an undercover investigation that was jointly conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office with assistance from the Parsippany Police Department.

Mr. Campbell was taken into custody by members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Tactical Team without incident.

As a result of Mr. Campbell’s arrest, he was charged with the following:

(2) counts - Aggravated Arson – 2nd degree
(1) count - Burglary – 3rd degree
(4) counts - Official Misconduct – 2nd degree
(1) count - Attempted Aggravated Arson – 2nd degree
(2) counts - Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Arson – 2nd degree

Mr. Campbell was working for the Morris County Sheriff's Office at the time of the alleged incidents and was responsible for the supervision of the Explorer Program as well as other responsibilities. In addition, he was a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Parsippany-Troy Hills District Five Fire Company.

The undercover investigation revealed that Jason Campbell allegedly deliberately set fires at 12 Ute Avenue in Parsippany on June 6, 2010 and at 116 Old Bloomfield Avenue in Parsippany on September 14, 2008.

Jason Campbell was the Acting Chief of the District Five Fire Company on the dates of both fires.

The investigation also revealed that Jason Campbell was a supervisor of the Morris County Sheriff's Office Explorer Program. It has been alleged that Jason Campbell while in his supervisory capacity utilized a Morris County Sheriff's Office Explorer to deliberately set fire to 116 Old Bloomfield Avenue in Parsippany.

Mr. Campbell was transported to the Sussex County Jail where he was incarcerated in lieu of $50,000 bail no 10%.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated;

"It is of course disturbing when any member of law enforcement or fire service allegedly violates their oath to honorably serve the public. However, the public should also be assured of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office's commitment to eradicate those alleged to have breached that public trust.

These allegations, for which the defendant is presumed innocent, are in no way a reflection of the excellent workers at the Morris County Sheriff's Office, who honorably serve each and every day. Rather, it is reflective of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office's obligation to aggressively eradicate that small percentage of individuals working in all professions who choose to violate the law and sully the reputation of an otherwise excellent agency.”

Anyone with information is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Everyone is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial. Everyone has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Dover Police Dispatcher pleads guilty to Official Misconduct

2011-02-10T16:20:00.003-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the guilty plea of Manny Santana III who was employed as a Communications Operator (Dispatcher) for the Town of Dover Police Department.

Mr. Santana was identified engaging in criminal activity during an undercover probe which was jointly being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force and Professional Standards Unit in cooperation with the Town of Dover Police Department.

As a result of the undercover probe, Mr. Santana resigned from his position with the Town of Dover Police Department after he met with representatives of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office.

Mr. Santana pled guilty today before the Honorable Thomas J. Manahan, P.J.S.C to Official Misconduct, a crime of the third degree.

It is alleged that on diverse dates between 2004 and 2010, in the Town of Dover, Manny Santana while employed as a Communications Operator (Dispatcher) and public servant, did knowingly disclose confidential information regarding ongoing police investigations and disclosed the identity of a cooperating source who was working with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and the Town of Dover Police Department.

In addition, it is also alleged that Manny Santana while in his official capacity as a Communications Operator (Dispatcher) did illegally obtain criminal histories and/or driver registrations and abstracts for non-law enforcement purposes.

Finally, it is alleged that Many Santana while in his official capacity as a Communications Operator (Dispatcher) did inappropriately award towing business to Benjamin Valle, an individual with a towing business based in the Town of Dover, in exchange for discounted services for his benefit.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated:

"I commend Chief Harold Valentine of the Dover Police Department who immediately assigned a Detective to this joint investigation. I continue to have the utmost confidence in the Dover Police Department.

This unfortunate incident is limited to Mr. Santana and is by no means a reflection of the entire Dover Police Department.

A member of the Dover Police Department has been involved in every aspect of this investigation. That officer has professionally and admirably represented the otherwise fine officers of the Dover Police Department.

Mr Santana abridged his duties to the public, compromised officer safety, and dishonorably attempted to scuttle an investigation. This significant sentence should serve to send the message that public officials will be harshly dealt with when they violate their obligations to the public. "

Mr. Santana will be sentenced to a term of incarceration of four years State Prison with two years of parole ineligibility when he is sentenced.

Homicide Investigation in Mt. Arlington

2011-02-07T10:28:00.003-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi released the following information:

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office along with the Morris County Park Police, Mount Arlington Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Morris County Medical Examiner's Office and the Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety are currently investigating what has determined to be a homicide in Mount Arlington, New Jersey.

At approximately 1:00 pm on Sunday, February 6, 2011, the Mount Arlington Police Department responded to the residence of a 77 year old Mount Arlington resident to conduct a welfare check. Upon the arrival of the police, they found the female resident deceased inside her residence.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., is asking residents to be vigilant with regard to their safety and to report any suspicious activity to the police. Additionally, we are asking any residents or individuals who frequent the Howard Boulevard area to contact law enforcement if they have any information of any individuals who were in the neighborhood offering services for the past week, or were going "door to door" for any reason.

Anyone with information can contact the Mount Arlington Police Department at 973-398-2100, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-2900 or the Morris Sheriff's Office Crime Stoppers Program at 973-COPCALL.

The investigation is currently ongoing.

Woman Injured in Rockaway Twp Shooting

2010-12-10T14:42:00.002-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Rockaway Township Police Chief Walt Arden announce the following:

On Thursday, December 9, 2010 at approximately 6:21 p.m., The Rockaway Township Police Department received a 911 call reporting a shooting at a residence within the Townsquare Village complex located on Mt. Pleasant Avenue in Rockaway Township.

The Rockaway Township Police Department along with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit responded.

Upon the arrival of the responding patrol units, they came in contact with a 46 year old female resident who suffered injuries sustained as a result of a shooting which is believed to be from a shotgun. The weapon was discharged from outside the residence, striking the victim who was inside her residence. The victim was transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital where she is in stable condition being treated for non life-threatening injuries.

The investigation is currently in progress by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Rockaway Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

"While this incident appears not to be random, but against this victim specifically, we are still asking people to be vigilant. I have along with Chiefs Arden and Schievella, as well as, a team of attorneys and detectives from the MCPO and Rockaway Township PD have been working on this case since the shooting occurred. We have been interviewing witnesses, collecting forensic evidence and aggressively pursuing leads."

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Rockaway Township Police Department at (973) 625-4000, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Investigation of Shooting in Rockaway Township Results in Arrest

2010-11-18T09:54:00.007-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Rockaway Township Chief of Police Walt Ardin, Jr. announce the arrest and ongoing investigation into an alleged shooting which occurred earlier this morning in Rockaway Township.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi and Chief Walt Ardin jointly stated;

"On November 18, 2010 at approx 6:28 a.m., the Rockaway Township Police Department responded to 7 Woodsend Trail on a report of a shooting. Upon the arrival of the police department they observed the victim age (48) in the driveway of her residence. The victim had been shot multiple times. The victim was treated at the scene by officers from the Rockaway Township Police Department and Rockaway Fire and Rescue company No. 3. The victim was airlifted to Morristown Memorial Hospital where she underwent emergency surgery.

The victim is currently in stable condition at Morristown Memorial Hospital.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit along with the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section responded to the scene.

The defendant who was identified as David Noll was arrested at the scene and transported to the Rockaway Township Police Department.

There is no cause for alarm within the community and no other individuals are being pursued in connection with this incident which is allegedly domestic in nature.

Defendant
David Noll
DOB 4/7/1959
7 Woodsend Trail, Rockaway Township, NJ

Charges:
Attempted Murder, 1st degree
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose (firearm), 2nd degree
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 2nd degree

Judge Thomas V. Manahan P.J.S.Cr. set bail at $500,000 cash. Mr. Knoll was remanded to the Morris County Correctional facility in lieu of bail.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Rockaway Township Police Department at (973) 625-4000, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL."

Everyone is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial. Everyone has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Dover Video Store Owner Arrested for Moving Stolen Property

2010-07-15T09:21:00.009-04:00

DOVER — A local video store owner was charged Tuesday with leading an operation involving storage and sales of stolen electronics at his downtown shop. Manuel Flores, 64, who owns Dover Video on 15 Bassett Highway, was charged with being the leader of an organized retail theft enterprise, two counts of receiving stolen property, one count of fencing, one count of conspiracy to commit theft, one count of conspiracy to receive stolen property, seven counts of conspiracy to commit fencing, six counts of attempt to commit theft and five counts of attempt to commit to receiving stolen property.

Members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and other law enforcement agencies on Tuesday and Wednesday hauled over one thousand cardboard boxes that contained everything from within the store. The items were confiscated following an investigation which was part of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Municipal and County Law Enforcement Initiative into stolen merchandise allegedly being stored and sold from that location.

Leading the investigation was Detective Dan Coleman from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Burglary Task Force along with Detective/Sergeant Timothy Driscoll of the Roxbury Township Police Department and Detective Keith Smith of the Dover Police Department. The investigation also involved Police Officers from the following Law Enforcement Agencies as well as other organizations:

Morris County Sheriff's Office
Morris County Park Police
Morris County Department of Law and Public Safety
Morris County Communications Division
Morris County Office of Emergency Management
New Jersey Department of Treasury Division of Taxation Office of Criminal Investigation
Harding Township Police Department
Chatham Township Police Department
Chatham Borough Police Department
Long Hill Township Police Department
Boonton Township Police Department
Madison Borough Police Department
Mount Arlington Police Department
Lincoln Park Borough Police Department
Jefferson Township Police Department
Motion Picture Association of America
Target (Loss Prevention)
Recording Industry Association of America, Northeast Region

The fenced goods -- including electronics, phones, cigarettes -- were allegedly stolen during home burglaries or retail store thefts. Thieves came to know Dover Video as a place where they could sell their stolen goods.

The ongoing investigation is part of the prosecutor's office's Municipal and County Law Enforcement initiative, in which the Prosecutor reached out to all Morris County Municipal Police Departments to learn what their top concerns were and found a common thread. That common thread was that the county is experiencing a significant increase in residential and commercial burglaries and theft related incidents.

This operation represents the largest dismantling of an alleged fencing operation in the history of Morris County. We have a tremendous amount of property which is still in the process of being reviewed for evidential purposes. We are reaching out to the following retail establishments to assist with the identification of items which have allegedly been stolen. Those retail establishments are as follows:

• Walmart • Target • Rite-Aid

• Home Depot • Kmart • Pathmark

• Macy's • Best Buy • Five Below

• TJ Maxx • A&P • ShopRite

Manuel Flores was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $250,000 bail.

We are asking anyone with information to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Prosecutor Announces Murder Charge in connection with Denville Death

2010-06-29T14:39:00.003-04:00

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Denville Township Police Chief Christopher Wagner announce the arrest of Anthony Novellino on a charge of murder, possession of a weapon (sharp object) for an unlawful purpose, and unlawful possession of a weapon (sharp object) in connection with the death of Judith Novellino. Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Anthony Novellino is the former husband of Judith Novellino whose lifeless body was discovered by her daughter at 16 Cliffside Trail, Denville, New Jersey on June 19, 2010.

On Saturday, June 19, 2010 at 7:02 PM, a 911 call was received by the Denville Township Police Department reporting that the victim had been located deceased within the residence. The Denville Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office responded.

The investigation determined that the victim was stabbed multiple times and killed within the residence and that the manner of death was a homicide.

At that time, Mr. Novellino was classified by this office as a "person of interest" in this investigation. He was also charged out of the Town of Boonton on a terroristic threat charge that had been filed the day after the homicide by the former attorney of the victim. A warrant for that charge was issued by the Boonton Municipal Court.

Mr. Novellino was found and arrested in Washington State and returned to New Jersey on Monday evening, June 28, 2010. He waived extradition and was returned to New Jersey by Morris County Prosecutor and Denville Police detectives late last night. He is currently being held in the Morris County Jail in lieu of $750,000 bail no 10% on the terroristic threats charge and one million dollars no 10% on the new charges.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"For the past 10 days, attorneys and detectives have been working around the clock to investigate this alleged crime. The cooperative efforts of those agencies, including the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Denville Township Police Department, US Marshalls service, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Pierce County Prosecutor's Office, Puyallup Police Department, and Morris County Medical Examiner, Dr. Ronald Suarez, have all been vital to this investigation.

Our collective sympathies are extended to the family and friends of Ms. Novellino who have suffered such a great loss in such a brutal way."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Former Morris County Corrections Officer Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison

2010-06-29T12:14:00.011-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the sentencing of former Morris County Corrections Officer Lon Sainato.

Mr. Sainato appeared before the Honorable Judge David H. Ironson earlier today. Sainato plead guilty to Sexual Assault and Official Misconduct.

Sainato was sentenced to 6 years in New Jersey State Prison with a mandatory term of incarceration of 5 years before he is eligible for parole.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"This sentencing sends a clear and undeniable message that those government officials who commit acts of Official Misconduct will pay severely for their transgressions.

The public who pays for government services has a right to expect that these services they pay for are performed professionally and honestly. When they are not, the public has a right to expect that Prosecutors will respond to protect that interest and send a clear message that violations of the law will not be tolerated."

See the video announcement on our YouTube channel

Denville resident Anthony Novellino returns to New Jersey

2010-06-29T06:55:00.012-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Denville Township Police Chief Christopher Wagner announce the return of Anthony Novellino to New Jersey on a charge of allegedly making Terroristic Threats.

Anthony Novellino is the former husband of Judith Novellino whose body was discovered by a family member at 16 Cliffside Trail, Denville, New Jersey.

On Saturday, June 19, 2010 at 7:02 PM, a 911 call was received by the Denville Township Police Department reporting that the victim had been located deceased within the residence. The Denville Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office responded.

The investigation determined that the victim was stabbed multiple times and killed within the residence.

Mr. Novellino returned to New Jersey on Monday evening, June 28, 2010. He is currently being held in the Morris County Jail. In lieu of $750,000 bail no 10%.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Denville Resident Anthony Novellino Captured in Washington State

2010-06-25T09:23:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Denville Township Police Chief Christopher Wagner announce the arrest of Anthony Novellino on a charge of allegedly making Terroristic Threats.

Anthony Novellino is the former husband of Judith Novellino whose body was discovered by a family member at 16 Cliffside Trail, Denville, New Jersey.

On Saturday, June 19, 2010 at 7:02 PM, a 911 call was received by the Denville Township Police Department reporting that the victim had been located deceased within the residence. The Denville Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office responded.

The investigation determined that the victim was stabbed multiple times and killed within the residence.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi Esq. stated:

"A joint effort by the Morris County Prosecutorss Office, Denville Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office and the United States Marshalls has led to the capture of Mr. Novellino late Thursday evening in Washington State.

Mr. Novellino was arrested on a warrant issued out of the Town of Boonton for terroristic threats which were allegedly made against Judith Novellino’s former divorce attorney.

For the past five days, we have been pursuing numerous leads to find Mr. Novellino. He was captured without incident by the United States Marshalls and Puyallup Police Department after his car was located at a hotel in Washington State.

Mr. Novellino is currently being held in Pierce County pending extradition.

Detectives from both the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and Denville Township Police Department have been working with myself, Chief Wagner, and numerous assistant prosecutors on this case throughout the night. Detectives are currently traveling to Washington State to continue with the processing of Novellino for the Terroristic Threat charge and to continue with the homicide investigation.

Our attorneys and detectives from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and Denville Township Police Department are also working with local authorities in Pierce County who are assisting us with the legal process needed in Washington State to continue with this investigation.

The homicide investigation is on-going and additional details will be made available as soon as it is appropriate to do so."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Murder in Denville

2010-06-21T06:32:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Denville Township Police Chief Christopher Wagner announce the ongoing investigation concerning the homicide death of sixty-two year old Denville Township resident, Judith Novellino, whose body was discovered by a family member at 16 Cliffside Trail, Denville, New Jersey.

On Saturday, June 19, 2010 at 7:02 PM, a 911 call was received by the Denville Township Police Department reporting that the victim had been located deceased within the residence. The Denville Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office responded.

The investigation determined that the victim was stabbed multiple times and killed within the residence.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi Esq. stated:

"The results of the autopsy which was conducted this morning by Morris County Medical Examiner Doctor Ronald Suarez indicate that the victim died from blunt force trauma and that the manner of death is homicide. Over 80 stab wounds were inflicted during what can only be described as a very brutal and violent encounter. Detectives and Assistant Prosecutor's from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office along with the Denville Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section in cooperation with the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office worked into the early morning hours gathering evidence and processing the scene where significant pieces of evidence have been recovered.

We are currently following viable leads as to the perpetrator. We are looking to speak with Mr. Anthony Novellino, DOB March 25, 1947 as a "person of interest." Mr. Novellino is the ex-husband and recently divorced from the victim. Mr. Novellino had been residing at the Cliffside Trail residence in Denville.

Mr. Novellino was last seen operating a 1992 Mazda Miata, further described as black with a tan convertible roof. If anyone sees Mr. Novellino, we encourage members of the public to immediately contact law enforcement via 911. Mr. Novellino should not be approached. We are also interested in speaking with anyone that may have dealt with Mr. Novellino recently.

It is preliminarily believed that the death occurred Saturday afternoon."

The investigation is currently being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Denville Township Police Department, The Morris County Sheriff's Department Criminal Investigations Section, along with the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit at (973) 285-6200, Denville Township Police Department at (973) 627-4900 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL (973) 267-2255.

Attached is a photo of Mr. Novellino along with a photo of a vehicle similar to that of the above described 1992 Mazda Miata.

Police seize handgun and arrest man for Attempted Murder in Morristown

2010-04-13T08:21:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Morristown Chief of Police Peter Demnitz announce the arrest of Roberto Miranda, date of birth January 23, 1990 who was charged with Attempted Murder, a first degree crime; Possession of a Weapon (firearm) for Unlawful Purpose, a second degree crime; Unlawful possession of a weapon, to wit a firearm, a second degree crime; Prohibited Weapons and Devices, a fourth degree crime. The arrest took place early this morning.

On April 12, 2010 at approximately 5:45 P.M., Morristown Police Officers responded to the Evergreen Cemetery on a report of gunshots fired. Officers located a vehicle. Additionally, Officers also identified an individual who was located in the East end of the cemetery.

The investigation revealed that three males had allegedly advanced towards others in the cemetery, when one individual allegedly fired a gun. During the course of the investigation, Officers obtained a description of the alleged shooter. In addition, it was determined that a fight was allegedly supposed to take place on Abbett Avenue earlier in the day, but instead everyone had allegedly traveled to Evergreen Cemetery.

During the course of the investigation, the Florham Park Police Department contacted the Morristown Police Department and advised that a Florham Park resident had responded to the Florham Park Police Department to report that a family member (reporting parties son) (defendant) allegedly stole from his father a Browning 9 mm pistol with a 15 round magazine that was fully loaded earlier in the day.

As the investigation progressed, officers received information indicating that the alleged defendant was at the Burger King, near the Twenty-Four Hour store. The information was broadcasted over the radio and patrols responded to the location. All entrances and exits at the lot of 66 Morris Avenue were blocked. Patrols responded into the Burger King restaurant, where the alleged defendant was taken into custody in the hallway near the bathroom. A Browning 9 mm pistol and a magazine with five 9 mm hollow point rounds were located under the toilet in the men’s restroom by the Burger King Manager.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:

"I again commend the first responding Morristown police officers and their detective bureau with so quickly and diligently making this arrest. They have made the community safer by removing yet another firearm from the streets, as well as, arresting someone who is alleged to have been willing to unlawfully use that firearm. "

Roberto Miranda was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility where he is being held in lieu of $500,000 bail.

The investigation is on-going. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Eugene Baum Jr. Faces 60 Years in Jail for Deaths of Two Teens

2010-02-18T12:39:00.006-05:00

Eugene Baum Jr. was found guilty today of the aggravated manslaughters and vehicular homicides of two cousins he killed in a drunken driving crash in Kinnelon in 2006.

Baum, 48, of Dover, now faces up to 60 years in state prison when he is sentenced on March 26 for causing the deaths on April 20, 2006, of pedestrians Athear Jafar, 16, of Jefferson and Mayada Jafar, 15, of Kinnelon.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"We are elated that we were able to secure a conviction on all charges on behalf of these young children who needlessly lost their lives and their families who must live with this despicable and senseless tragedy. We will be seeking the maximum period of incarceration of 60 years at the time of sentencing."

17 Year Old Randolph High School Student Struck and Killed by Motor Vehicle

2010-01-06T10:19:00.005-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and Randolph Township Police Chief Robert Mason announce the death of a 17 year old female Randolph High School Senior and resident of Randolph.

On Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at approximately 8:46 p.m. the Randolph Township Police Department received numerous 911 calls reporting that a pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle in the west bound lane of Route 10 at the intersection of Route 10 and Center Grove Road.

The Randolph Township Police and Emergency Response units responded to the scene. The investigation revealed that a 1981 Mercedes Benz which was being operated by a 59 year old Morris Township woman was traveling on Route 10 west bound in the left lane.

The vehicle struck a 17 year old female Randolph High School student. The student had just finished her shift at the Randolph Diner and proceeded to cross Route 10 from the east bound side. The victim walked to the center median of Route 10 which separates the highway in the east and west bound direction and was struck by the vehicle traveling in the west bound left lane.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by the Morris County Medical Examiner at 9:30 p.m. The investigation was conducted by the Randolph Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Vehicle Homicide Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Section along with the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the pedestrian was stuck in the left lane while the driver had a green light at that intersection. The driver of the vehicle voluntarily consented to the submission of blood and urine samples which is pending toxicology results.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated, "While the Randolph Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office will continue this investigation, preliminarily it appears that this was a tragic accident and that no criminal negligence of the driver contributed to this fatality. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family and friends of this young woman."

Arrangements have been made with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Victim Witness Unit to assist the family during this tragic time.

Both the Randolph Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office have been in touch with the Superintendent of the Randolph School District as well as the Principal of the Randolph High School and the school has made arrangements for counseling services for the start of school today for the students and staff at the high school.

Prosecutor Announces Morris County Drug Arrests

2009-12-03T16:07:00.010-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., in conjunction with Chief of Investigations William Schievella, New Jersey State Police Colonel Rick Fuentes, Town of Dover Chief of Police Harold Valentine, Randolph Township Chief of Police Robert Mason, and State of New Jersey Department of Human Services Police Deputy Director Donald Haynes announce the conclusion of a two and a half month undercover gang, gun and drug investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, which targeted a gang, gun and drug network based in and operating within Morris County.

The investigation is a continuing effort of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force, New Jersey State Police Netcong Barracks, Street Gangs Unit and the New Jersey State Police T.E.A.M.S, Morris County Sheriff's Office (SERT, CIS & K-9 Units), Morris County Park Police, Dover Police Department, Randolph Township Police Department and the State of New Jersey Human Services Police Department. The investigation is part of an on-going Morris County initiative which follows an Intelligence Led Policing Model.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement and Intelligence Crime Task Force Unit(s) in partnership with the above listed agencies engaged in a short term investigation which took place over the past two and a half months.

The Task Force of partnering agencies worked in a collaborative effort to address an alleged gang, gun and street level drug network that was based in Victory Gardens, New Jersey due to complaints received by citizens regarding street level narcotics distribution, supported by the possible use of handguns.

This operation was a high impact street initiative targeting gang, gun and drug violence with meaningful and measurable results. Ultimately, the investigation targeted those violent offenders that pose a risk to the safety and security of our county.

Specifically, the investigation targeted a network of individuals who were based in the Victory Gardens, Dover, and Randolph area.

This operation resulted in the dismantling of this open-air drug and weapon enterprise which was operating throughout Morris County and based within Victory Gardens.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is currently working with the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as well as the New Jersey State Police to determine if the seized weapons were used in any other violent crimes throughout the state.

On Friday evening, November 20, 2009, at approximately 7:00 p.m., the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Tactical Narcotic Team (TNT) in conjunction with the New Jersey State Police Street Gangs Unit, New Jersey State Police T.E.A.M.S., Morris County Sheriff's Office (SERT, CIS & K-9 Units), Morris County Park Police, Dover Police Department, Randolph Township Police Department and the New Jersey Human Services Police Department executed six simultaneous search warrants in Victory Gardens and Dover, New Jersey. As part of this operation two handguns were seized.

The following individuals were arrested between Friday evening, November 20, 2009 and Wednesday, December 2, 2009.

Sherrod Arrington
57 Passaic Street, Dover, New Jersey
DOB: 05/31/1976

Swade Jones
49 Polk Avenue, Victory Gardens, New Jersey
DOB: 03/27/1969

Priamo Rafael Lopez-Toro
924 E. 22nd Street, Paterson, New Jersey
989 E. 19th Street, Paterson, New Jersey
DOB: 01/25/1975

(JUVENILE)
Dover, New Jersey
Age 17

Felipe A. Holguin
309 Washington Avenue, Apt. N-5, Victory Gardens, New Jersey
DOB: 08/18/1982

Raynell L. Hall
123 Monroe Street, Victory Gardens, New Jersey
DOB: 03/01/1974

SHERROD ARRINGTON: (Arrested on 11/20/09)
(5) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine
(5) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute
(5) counts Distribution of CDS
(3) counts Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine
(3) counts Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
(3) counts Conspiracy to Distribute CDS Cocaine
(1) count Employing a Juvenile in a Drug Distribution Scheme (Second Degree)
BAIL: $175,000 set by Judge Ahto

SWADE JONES: (Arrested on 11/20/09)
(3) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine
(3) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute
(3) counts Distribution of CDS
(3) counts Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine
(3) counts Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
(3) counts Conspiracy to Distribute CDS Cocaine
(1) Count Possession of CDS with Intent to Distribute (Second Degree)
over one-half ounce
(1) Count Distribution of a CDS (Second Degree)
over one-half ounce
BAIL: $150,000 set by Judge Ahto

PRIAMO RAFAEL LOPEZ-TORO: (Arrested on 12/2/09)
(2) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine
(2) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute
(2) counts Distribution of CDS
(2) counts Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine
(2) counts Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
(2) counts Conspiracy to Distribute CDS Cocaine
BAIL: $200,000 set by Judge Dangler (ICE detainer in place)

(JUVENILE)
Age 17
(Arrested on 12/2/09)
(2) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine
(2) counts Possession of CDS Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute
(2) counts Distribution of CDS
(1) count Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine
(1) count Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
(1) count Conspiracy to Distribute CDS Cocaine
Morris County Youth Detention Center

FELIPE A. HOLGUIN: (Arrested on 11/24/09)
(1) count Possession of CDS Cocaine
(1) count Possession of CDS Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute
(1) count Distribution of CDS
(1) count Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine
(1) count Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
(1) count Conspiracy to Distribute CDS Cocaine
BAIL: $35,000 set by Judge Ahto

RAYNELL L. HALL: (Arrested on 11/23/09)
(1) count Possession of CDS Cocaine
(1) count Possession of CDS Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute
(1) count Distribution of CDS
(1) count Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine
(1) count Conspiracy to Possess CDS Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
(1) count Conspiracy to Distribute CDS Cocaine
BAIL: $100,000 set by Judge Dangler

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated: "This was a different operation from those conducted last year where numerous kilos of drugs, guns and arrests of gang affiliates were made. With this operation we sought out to do a short term initiative to shut down a street level distribution operation that the citizens complained of as affecting their quality of life. The undercover officers did an excellent job in achieving this goal."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Assistant Comptroller for Jersey City Arrested in Multi-County Sex Chat Sting

2009-11-13T05:41:00.012-05:00

Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, Esq., Passaic County Sheriff Jerry Speziale, and Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announce the arrest of 41 year-old Wall Township, New Jersey resident, Joseph Ambrosio.

Mr. Ambrosio, who is employed as an Assistant Comptroller for Jersey City, was charged with one count of Attempted Sexual Assault, a crime of the second degree; 6 counts of Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child, crimes of the third degree, and one count of Attempted Criminal Sexual Contact, a crime of the fourth degree.

The Attempted Sexual Assault charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in the New Jersey State Prison. The Endangering the Welfare of a Child charges each carry a maximum sentence of up to five years in the New Jersey State Prison. The Attempted Criminal Sexual Contact charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 18 months in New Jersey State Prison.

The joint investigation was conducted by the Passaic County Sheriff's Department, Passaic County Prosecutor's Office, Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office.

The Burlington County Prosecutor's Office, Hudson County Prosecutor's Office, Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office, Bayonne Police Department and the Jersey City Police Department provided assistance during this investigation.

Investigators from the various law enforcement agencies, acting in an undercover capacity, posed as female children in an online chat room. Joseph Ambrosio allegedly engaged the female "children" in sexually explicit chats.

Mr. Ambrosio was arrested on November 13, 2009 at 7:10 a.m. at his residence located in Wall Township.

Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, Esq., Passaic County Sheriff Jerry Speziale and Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. jointly stated:

"This arrest is another example of how interagency collaboration throughout the state can have a positive impact upon law enforcement. We are committed and unified in our mission to protect our youth and to vigorously investigate and prosecute those persons who attempt to cause them harm."

Morris County Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Smith, Esq., will be prosecuting the case with respect to the Morris County charges.

Passaic County Chief Assistant Prosecutor Joeph A. Del Russo, Esq., is prosecuting the case with respect to the Passaic County Charges.

Superior Court Judge John Dangler set bail at $200,000 no 10%, cash, bond, property and no unsupervised contact with children under the age of 16. (Bail for Morris County charges)

Despite these pending charges, they are merely allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Morris County Recognizes Veterans

2009-11-06T16:29:00.003-05:00

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit invite the public to attend the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Veteran's Day Program on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. The program will be held at Morris View Healthcare Center located at 540 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany, NJ.

This program is co-sponsored by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Department of Human Services and Morris View Healthcare Center in partnership with the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders and will honor the Veterans that reside at the Morris View Healthcare facility.

If you need additional information please contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit at (973) 285-6200.

18-Year Old Roxbury Resident Charged with Sex Assault

2009-11-02T11:57:00.005-05:00

Earlier this morning, Roxbury Township Police Detective Adam DelGuercio arrested 18-year old Gerard N. Palazzolo. Palazzolo was charged with one count of 2nd degree Sexual Assault and one count of 3rd degree Terroristic Threats. Palazzolo was processed at the Roxbury Township Police Department and is currently being held in the Morris County jail on $75,000 bail which was set by Superior Court Judge Thomas Manahan. The case will be prosecuted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Man Dies on 287

2009-10-28T13:50:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Chief William Schievella announce the death of a 27 year old Bernardsville resident after a 9-1-1 call from a motorist is received on Tuesday, October 27, 2009.

On Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 5:36 p.m. the Parsippany Troy-Hills Police Department (PTHPD) and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) received a
9-1-1 call from a motorist on Route 287. The individual making the call was later identified as the mother of the victim. The caller reported that her son who had been traveling in her vehicle was having a panic attack and they were on Route 287 North in Parsippany. The caller also reported that her son was threatening to run into the path of oncoming traffic.

The Parsippany Troy-Hills Police Department (PTHPD) and the New Jersey State Police responded to the scene as well as the Parsippany Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Parsippany Volunteer First Aid Squad. Parsippany EMS arrived at the scene first and observed a white male on foot on the north bound shoulder of Route 287.

Two family members were by his side attempting to keep the victim calm, along with two Parsippany EMS personnel who ultimately were able to convince the victim to lie down on the shoulder of the highway out of harm's way.

Soon after the victim laid down, three Parsippany Troy-Hills Police Department (PTHPD) Officers arrived at the scene and restrained the victim by placing handcuffs on his wrists and ankles as a safety measure. The victim was estimated to be approximately six feet tall and weighing over 300 pounds. The Parsippany Troy-Hills Police Officers were soon assisted by the New Jersey State Police who kept the victim restrained and in the prone position on the macadam shoulder, which was beyond a concrete Jersey barrier. The barrier had been temporarily placed there due to ongoing construction near the intersection of Route 80.

The victim became extremely combative while providing him aid and required the assistance of five people to restrain him due to his agitated mental state and girth.

While prone, the victim began lifting his head by arching his back. He then proceeded to slam his forehead down on to the hard macadam surface, doing this at least six times. The victim ignored multiple demands to stop this behavior. Our preliminary investigation revealed that the patrols attempted to cushion the self-inflicted blows by placing blankets and their jackets down underneath the victim's head and face.

The victim subsequently went into cardiac arrest while still on Route 287. Efforts to revive the victim were to no avail and he was pronounced dead at Morristown Memorial Hospital at 6:36 p.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Dr. Bilaniuk, M.D.

The investigation which was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit revealed that family members were driving the victim to Saint Clare's Hospital in Denville and were en route north bound on Route 287, just south of the Route 80 intersection.

The victim was seated in the right rear seat of the four door vehicle when he became extremely agitated. The victim did not want to go to the hospital.

As the vehicle slowed down to about 40 MPH to exit the highway, the victim kicked the right rear door open and jumped out of the moving vehicle and threatened to run into oncoming traffic. The vehicle was stopped on the north bound shoulder of the highway while family members chased after the victim. Soon thereafter, Parsippany Troy-Hills Police Department (PTHPD) and New Jersey State Police (NJSP) arrived and assisted in restraining the victim prior to his cardiac arrest. The investigation is continuing at this time.

The manner and cause of death is currently pending the Morris County Medical Examiners findings.

Homicide Death of Pastor Under Investigation

2009-10-23T16:08:00.002-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Chatham Borough Chief of Police John Drake, announce the investigation into the homicide death of a 61 year old Roman Catholic Pastor, Father Edward Hinds, in Chatham Borough. The investigation is ongoing at this hour and includes the following agencies: Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office/Criminal Investigation Section, Morris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team, Morris County Park Police, and both Chatham Borough and Chatham Township Police Departments.

At approximately 8:03 AM, a 911 call was received by the Chatham Borough Police Department from a St. Patrick's Church employee reporting the discovery of Father Hind's body in the rectory of the Church after he failed to arrive for mass at 8:00 AM.

The church is located at 85 Washington Avenue and is also home to St. Patrick's School. Upon arrival, officials worked with school administrators to initiate an incident alert to notify parents of the procedures established to reconnect them with their children in a safe and orderly manner. The school, which has roughly 412 students, had approximately 80 students off campus on a scheduled field-trip.

Prosecutor Robert Bianchi, Esq., joined by Chief of Investigations William Schievella, Chatham Borough Chief of Police John Drake and Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli of the Diocese of Paterson met with members of the media to express their deepest sympathy to parishioners as well as to the community

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, "Currently, authorities are seeking any information regarding this incident. Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office at 973-285-6200, the Chatham Borough Police Department at 973-635-8000, or the Morris County Sheriff's Crimestopper Program at 973-267-2255."

Honduran National Pleads Guilty in Sex Assaut of 8-year-old girl

2009-10-21T06:33:00.003-04:00

Manuel Antonio Fajardo-Santos, 31, plead guilty on October 20, 2009 to sexual assault of an 8 year-old girl on August 24, 2008, in Wharton. Morris County Prosecutor's Office Assistant Prosecutor LaJuan Tucker has requested the court to sentence Fajardo-Santos to a term of incarceration of seven years, with 85 percent of the term or nearly six years to be served before parole consideration. Sentencing is scheduled for January 29, 2010.

Prosecutor - Juvenile will be tried as an adult

2009-10-20T06:40:00.001-04:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office will pursue the prosecution of a 17-year-old who is accused of stabbing an individual who was a guest at a party in May in Roxbury. On Monday October 19, 2009 the juvenile was "waived up'" by Superior Court Family Division Judge Michael Paul Wright which will allow the youth to be tried as an adult in criminal court. The request was granted after Morris County Assistant Prosecutor Samantha DeNegri argued to have Budd Lake resident Skyler Gaines tried as an adult for the May 2, alleged attempted murder of the victim who was stabbed in the abdomen. Gaines, who turns 18 in February, continues to be held in the Morris County Youth Detention Facility at this time.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Two Randolph Township Police Officers lose their jobs and get admitted in the Pre-trial Intervention Program today.

2009-10-19T14:59:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and Randolph Township Police Chief Robert Mason announce the admission of two members of the Randolph Township Police Department into the Pre-trial Intervention Program today.
On the evening of August 21, 2009 at approximately 11:53 p.m., Officer Shawn Boyhan of the Randolph Township Police Department conducted a motor vehicle stop for a traffic violation on a black, 1995 Chevrolet automobile on South Salem Street in Randolph, New Jersey. During that stop, the officer believed that the operator of the vehicle was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested for driving while under the influence after the driver failed field sobriety tests. While en route back to the Randolph Township Police Department for processing, Officer Boyhan realized that the individual he had arrested was related to another officer of the Randolph Township Police Department. Officer Boyhan contacted Officer Steven Kepler, who was a senior officer and acting shift supervisor. Officer Boyhan advised Officer Kepler of the situation and as a result of this interaction, and after returning to the Randolph Township Police Department, the DWI suspect was released from custody without processing and without the filing of any charges, based solely upon the fact that he was related to an officer. In addition, no police reports were completed concerning the incident. However, Officer Boyhan had already impounded the vehicle that was being operated by the DWI suspect and the vehicle was being maintained at a towing company located in Dover, New Jersey. After the release of the arrested party, Officers Boyhan and Kepler had a conversation with the desk officer concerning the computer entry involving this incident and arrest. After considerable pressure was placed upon the computer operator, the computer system was manipulated and altered so it did not reflect the initial driving under the influence arrest. Thereafter, officers who were concerned about what had occurred advised the command staff of the Randolph Township Police Department who, realizing that a crime may have been committed, contacted the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated, "Police officers are not at liberty to "unarrest" individuals simply based upon who that defendant knows or is related to. They have an obligation to continue with the arrest and treat the offender as they would any other citizen. They also know that altering and manipulating official records to cover up any fact, is wrong and constitutes a violation of law, as well as, ethical police practices. While we do not believe that a term of imprisonment is appropriate here, we do believe that the officers' actions must have significant consequences. As a result, Officers Boyhan and Kepler will be admitted into the Pre-trial Intervention Program. They will be required to perform community service in excess of other defendants admitted into PTI. Most significantly, they will also lose their jobs and no longer be privileged to further serve the Randolph Township Police Department. These officers' credibility will forever be called into question with every case that they handle as a result of what occurred here. Under our discovery laws, it is very possible that defense attorneys would be entitled to information of this incident and learn of the fact that these officers manipulated official records. This would compromise every case these officers would handle in the future, if they were allowed to continue serving as police officers. While it is regrettable that a singular action could cause these officers to lose their job(s), it is nevertheless a reality that their effectiveness as officers who are truthful and file accurate reports, is now obliterated by their actions in this case, making their continued employment impossible. I commend Chief Robert Mason of the Randolph Township Police Department who immediately brought this matter to the attention of our Professional Standards Unit. A joint investigation was initiated and their internal affairs officer was a great assistance to my office. I continue to have the utmost confidence in the Randolph Township Police Department. This unfortunate incident is limited to those involved and is by no means a reflection of the entire Randolph Township Police Department. Chief Mason and his Internal Affairs staff have been involved in every aspect of this investigation. He and his Internal Affairs staff have professionally and admirably represented the otherwise fine officers of the Randolph Township Police Department."

Convent Station Woman Pleads Guilty and Faces 10 Years in Jail

2009-10-15T13:48:00.005-04:00

A Convent Station woman faces up to ten years in jail for comitting a fraud involving over $1 million dollars. Leigh O'Neill, 38, pleaded guilty in state Superior Court, Morristown today, to one count of theft by deception between July 2005 and Oct. 31, 2006.

Starting around July of 2005, Ms. O'Neill proposed a business venture to prospective investors. She represented she could locate homes on the verge of foreclosure. She would then locate potential buyers for these homes, use the investor's money to purchase the homes from the financially distressed owners, and then sell the homes at a profit to the potential buyers. Under the deal she proposed, O'Neill would take a portion of the profits and the investors would get the remainder.

Over the course of one year and two months, Ms. O'Neill identified a total of 14 properties to the investors/victims for them to invest in. She represented that four of the properties actually sold and paid the investors "profits" from the sales. Those "profits" were actually a portion of the money the investors had already given her. An investigation was conducted by Detective Steve Murzenski of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Fraud Unit which revealed that Ms. O'Neill was in no way involved the sale of any of the indentified properties; in fact, most of the property owners were able to avert foreclosure proceedings by renegotiating with their lender(s). In short, she collected money from the investors on properties she had no interest in and then paid "profits" from sales that never occurred. The investors believed these "profit" payments were from the sales of specific properties and as a result were induced into further investment. In reality, Ms. O'Neill was essentially giving them back a portion of their own money. Ms. O'Neill has already paid back about $435,000 and has agreed to make restitution of about $800,000 to 10 people as part of the plea.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated "Even though this defendant has paid substantial restitution, the fact remains that this continuing course of defrauding investors need to be punished, we will ask the court to impose a 10-year state prison sentence which we believe is appropriate considering the scope and breadth of this fraud."

Ms. O'Neill will be sentenced before Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto on December 10, 2009.

Califon Woman Dies in Washington Township Crash

2009-10-14T21:25:00.004-04:00

WASHINGTON TWP. - The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Vehicular Homicide Unit along with the Washington Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section are investigating the death of a Califon woman who died today after she crashed her vehicle into a tree while driving on Parker Road. The driver was identified as Robin Freeman age 67. The investigation revealed that Freeman was driving her 2006 Mercedes Benz east on Parker Road when she veered off the roadway and hit a mailbox at 153 Parker Road. She then continued down the road and veered off again striking a tree at 174 Parker Road. Freeman was the sole occupant of the vehicle. The accident occurred at 4:25 p.m.Freeman was pronounced dead by Doctor Koutcher of the St. Clare's Hospital in Sussex County via the Mobile Intensive Care Unit. The accident still is being investigated and Freeman's cause of death will be determined by the Morris County Medical Examiner's office. Also responding to the scene were the Washington Township Fire Department and the Long Valley First Aid Squad.

Dover man found guilty of robbery at trial

2009-10-07T21:05:00.000-04:00

Hector Lopez, 36, of Dover was convicted at trial of robbery by using force against a store security officer who tried to stop him from fleeing the Super Stop & Shop in Morris Plains with $406 worth of merchandise on March 2, 2008. The jury's verdict determined that Lopez was guilty of two counts of second-degree robbery and one count of receiving stolen property related to the stolen 1996 minivan which Lopez was operating when he fled from the supermarket. Morris County Assistant Prosecutor Kelley Lavery tried the case on behalf of the state. Lopez is exposed to a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced before Judge Thomas Manahan.

Montville woman sentenced to jail

2009-10-07T20:41:00.002-04:00

On October 6, 2009 Andora J. Needleman age 47 of Montville was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto to four years in New Jersey State Prison and her license to operate a vehicle was revoked for ten years for hitting a Montville Township police officer and two vehicles while driving drunk in Montville last year

On June 9, 2008 Andora J. Needleman was operating a vehicle in Montville Twp. At 2:30 in the afternoon when she struck two vehicles that were sitting in traffic due to construction. One of the passengers in the vehicle, a 5 yr old child suffered neck pain but was not taken to the hospital. The defendant proceeded to drive around traffic which was being monitored by Corporal Miley of the Montville Twp P.D., who was on foot directing the flow of traffic around the construction. Cpl. Miley motioned for the defendant's vehicle to stop. The defendant looked at the officer and accelerated, striking him with her car, causing serious bodily injury.

The defendant fled the scene and was apprehended a short time later as she was approaching her home. She was removed from the vehicle she was operating and placed under arrest.

On August 4, 2009 the defendant pled guilty to Assault by auto in the 3rd degree, assault by auto in the 4th degree, Driving While Intoxicated and leaving the scene of an accident.

The case was handled by Assistant Prosecutor Brian DiGiacomo, Esq.

Pompton Plains man was charged with four counts of criminal sexual conduct

2009-10-07T06:58:00.003-04:00

A Pompton Plains man was charged with four counts of criminal sexual conduct in connection with two female victims. Jeffrey Shrem, 53, was arrested shortly after 5 p.m on October 6, 2009 by Detective Kristi Allegretta of the Morris County Prosecutors Office Sex Crimes Unit and Detective Lisa DeLuca-Cannata of the Pequannock Township Police Department. Bail was set at 2,500 with a 10 percent option. Shrem was released after posting bail.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Prescription Drug Abuse - What's going on?

2009-10-07T06:05:00.006-04:00

In recognition of Red Ribbon Week, please join the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit and Madison Pharmacy's Frank Iannarone, III, RPh for an open discussion about Prescription Drug Abuse. Parents, Grandparents and Caregivers are welcome. Bring a friend, a neighbor and your questions.
Wednesday October 21st
8:30 to 9:30 AM
Harding Township Middle School
Sponsored by the Harding Alliance Against Substance Abuse and the Governor's Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse

Former Laywer is Sentenced for Forgery, Contempt of Court and Misapplication of Entrusted Funds

2009-10-06T10:35:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the sentencing of Paul J. Hirsh, Esq. who was previously indicted for Forgery, Uttering, Contempt of Court, and Misapplication of Entrusted Funds.

Mr. Hirsh has been licensed to practice law in New Jersey since 1974, is currently 61 years of age and is now living in Washington, DC (he was formerly a resident of Mendham, NJ) he had previously maintained law offices in Morristown and Parsippany, NJ

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated "The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Investigation commenced as a result of a referral from the New Jersey Office of Attorney Ethics following a financial audit. This resolution sends a clear message that those entrusted with the legal care of the citizens will be made to answer when they commit a crime. Mr. Hirsh will now have a criminal record and he will lose his privilege of practicing law, as he has proven himself unworthy of the trust needed to fulfill his duties as an attorney. As a result of this conviction, Mr. Hirsh was disbarred by Order of the New Jersey Supreme Court on September 9, 2009."

Hirsh entered a guilty plea on August 12, 2009 to 2 counts of Forgery (third degree), 1 count of Contempt Of Court (fourth degree) and 2 counts of Misapplication of Entrusted Funds (third degree).

The crime dates were between May 2004 and July 2005

Mr. Hirsh fraudulently endorsed 2 checks ($15,000.00; $24,998.17) made payable to his clients.

The Contempt of Court charge relates to Mr. Hirsh's deposit of a settlement check into his personal bank account in violation of a court order directing that the money be deposited with the Surrogate of Essex County on behalf of a minor client.

The Misapplication of Entrusted Funds charge relates to Mr. Hirsh's deposit of two settlement checks ($24,998.17; $7,500.00) into his personal bank account, as opposed to his trust account (in violation of New Jersey Supreme Court Rules) which resulted in the exposure of those funds to a substantial risk of loss.

Mr. Hirsh was sentenced before Judge Thomas Manahan to three years probation along with 180 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility which was suspended, 250 hours of Community Service and $1,500 in fines.

Morristiown hostage incident is determined to be a prank

2009-10-02T13:38:00.007-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Morristown Bureau of Police Chief Peter Demnitz announce the response to a potential hostage situation which occurred last evening, Thursday, October 1, 2009.
On Thursday, October 1, 2009 at 8:48 p.m., the Morristown Police Department received a telephone call from an unknown male who disclosed that his grandmother had a shotgun to the head of his sister. The unidentified male was said to be in a bedroom of an apartment located within the Blair House Apartment Complex at 2 Hamilton Road in Morristown, New Jersey. The Morristown Police Department Emergency Services Unit, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Crisis Negotiation Team along with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team (S.E.R.T.), Morris County Office of Emergency Management, Morris County Mobile Command Response Team, Morristown Fire Department, Morristown Ambulance Squad responded. The Harding Township Police Department and the Morris County Park Police also assisted at the scene. Certain portions of the Apartment Complex were evacuated to ensure for the safety of the residents. The residents were relocated to the lobby of the Morristown Municipal Building while the investigation was ongoing. Members of the Morris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team and members of the Morristown Bureau of Police Emergency Services Unit (E.S.U.) secured the interior and exterior of the building while Morris County Prosecutor's Office Crisis Negotiation Team members attempted to make contact with the residence. Ultimately, law enforcement officer's came in contact with the occupant of the residence who had no knowledge of the incident. The investigation revealed that the telephone call placed to the Morristown Bureau of Police was a "hoax." This type of hoax is commonly referred to as "swatting." This process resulted in a dispatch of emergency services and is perpetrated on unsuspecting people throughout the United States. Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated "Swatting is becoming an increasingly wide-spread problem for law enforcement nationwide and we take these incidents very seriously. This kind of activity wastes significant resources, and more importantly, can lead to serious injury and/or death to police or an unsuspecting and otherwise law abiding citizen who is the victim of this kind of prank. If we identify the individual responsible, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.
All response resources were cleared from the scene at 11:15 p.m. after it was determined that no one was in danger.

Former Madison Municipal Court Administrator Pleads Guilty

2009-09-23T13:29:00.004-04:00

Denis Murray age 66, of Madison, New Jersey plead guilty on September 23, 2009, to Theft By Deception in the third degree before New Jersey Superior Court Judge Thomas V. Manahan. The plea agreement called for a term of probation with 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility, forfeiture of any future public employment, and restitution of $2,700.00 to the Borough of Madison. The defendant was the Madison Municipal Court Administrator. Between September 2006 and April 2008 Denis Murray falsely submitted approximately 45 "call-outs" (after hour calls) that resulted in him being financially compensated. The investigation which was jointly conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and the Madison Borough Police Department determined that the calls that Mr. Murray was compensated for either did not require Mr. Murray to physically respond or did not exist at all. Mr Murray will be sentenced before Judge Manahan on November 13th, 2009.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated "Once again we sadly and regrettably witness the downfall of yet another public official, who while being well-compensated and placed in a position of trust, chose to defraud the taxpayers. I applaud the efforts of all of the otherwise fine public servants of Madison who assisted in this investigation and brought this matter forward to us."

Lincoln Park's former Chief Financial Officer was sentenced to jail

2009-09-22T11:26:00.006-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Lincoln Park Police Chief Sean Canning announce Lincoln Park's former Chief Financial Officer was sentenced today in connection with his guilty plea to second-degree Official Misconduct before Superior Court Judge Thomas Manahan.

Today, September 22, 2009, Dennis Gerber, age 59 of Saddle Brook was sentenced before Judge Thomas Manahan in connection with his guilty plea to one count of second-degree Official Misconduct. The sentencing requires Gerber to serve 5 years in New Jersey State Prison before he is eligible for parole. Gerber was also ordered to forfeit his pension and pay restitution in the amount of $20, 916.00 to the Borough of Lincoln Park. Additionally, he is barred from seeking future public employment

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated, "Public officials who have taken an oath to serve the public cannot abuse that trust given to them. We will continue to aggressively prosecute anyone who takes hard-earned taxpayer money and illegally uses it for their own personal gain. I applaud the work of Morris County Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Robert Weber, Esq. and Assistant Prosecutor Brian DiGiacomo, Esq., as well as, the Prosecutor's detectives, and the excellent police work of the Lincoln Park Police Department who brought this defendant to justice."

Undercover Sting Leads to Bust

2009-09-20T17:12:00.011-04:00

David Bell

William Gary

Hakim Shaheed

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Kinnelon Borough Chief of Police John G. Finkle announce the arrest of three individuals in connection with a violent statewide criminal group that targeted jewelry stores in a one million dollar gold coin scam.

In June 2008 Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. initiated a Jewelry Store Liaison Program in conjunction with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Burglary Task Force. The program was designed to share information with regard to questionable and/or suspicious jewelry transactions within Morris County while at the same time identify individuals who were suspected of committing burglaries throughout Morris County. As part of this program and its successful intelligence gathering, in excess of 100 burglaries have been solved during the first year in operation.

On 04/03/2009, The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force received a telephone tip that on 03/31/2009 a black male who was later identified by law enforcement entered a jewelry store with a 1 oz. gold Canadian Maple Leaf coin. The suspect indicated that he had 78 more he received as an inheritance and wanted to sell them for cash.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force initiated an investigation which determined that an organized criminal group was traveling hroughout New Jersey perpetrating what was described as a "confidence scam" which involved counterfeit Canadian Maple Leaf gold coins. The investigation determined that members of this organized criminal group would travel to jewelry stores throughout the State of New Jersey. An individual from the group would approach the jewelry store owner/employee and inform them that they wanted to sell a quantity of 1 oz. Canadian Maple Leaf gold coins. The individual who was engaged in the dialogue with the jewelry store owner/employee would present a real gold coin. In several instances the coin would be left with the jewelry store overnight in an effort to allow the jewelry store owner/employee to determine the authenticity of the coin. The group member would inform the jewelry store owner/employee that they had access to a large quantity of these coins should the store owner/employee be interested in the purchase. A general conversation would take place with regard to price' and an offer would be given that was generally below the fair market value for gold in order to entice the sale. When the cash deal was arranged, members of the group would arrive at the jewelry store with counterfeit coins and attempt to defraud the buyer by exchanging the counterfeit coins for the cash. In some cases the group would commit an armed robbery.

After identifying the activity of this group and tracking their activity in Morris County as well as throughout the State of New Jersey, the Morris County Prosecutor's Intelligence Crime Task Force, through proactive educational outreach, notified area jewelry stores of the activity of this group.

Through various law-enforcement agencies, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force has pieced together the following:

On 03/02/2009, a black male entered a jewelry store in Red Bank NJ. The male subject provided a 1 oz. gold Canadian Maple Leaf coin and informed the business owner that he had 100 more. The suspect informed the jewelry store owner that had received an inheritance and wanted to sell the coins for cash. The suspect left one gold coin, which was tested as pure gold, and the jewelry store owner agreed to purchase a quantity of coins. The suspect left his telephone number and returned on 03/09/2009 with another black male, in his 40s and provided a quantity of gold coins, which tested as counterfeit. The suspect then pulled out a black handgun and demanded the cash.

On 04/03/2009, the owner of a Rockaway Borough, NJ jewelry store contacted the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force. The owner reported that on 03/31/2009 a black male who was later identified by law enforcement entered his jewelry store with 1 oz. gold Canadian Maple Leaf coin and indicated that he had a large quantity that he received as an inheritance and wanted to sell them for cash.

On 04/13/2009, the owner of a Dover, NJ, jewelry store reported to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force that on 04/06/2009 or 04/07/2009 a black male known to law enforcement came into the business indicating that he had a large quantity of gold coins he received as an inheritance and he wished to sell them. The Intelligence Crime Task Force received similar reports of a black male attempting to sell a large number of gold coins from other Morris County jewelry stores.

On 04/16/2009 The Intelligence Crime Task Force received information that on 04/15/2009, a black male entered a Phillipsburg, NJ jewelry store with a 1 oz. gold Canadian Maple Leaf coin and indicated that he had had a large quantity that he received as an inheritance and wanted to sell for cash.

On 04/22/2009, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force received information that on that date, a black male entered a jewelry store in Passaic, NJ, and provided a 1 oz. gold Canadian Maple Leaf coin and indicated that he had a large quantity that he received as an inheritance and wished to sell for cash. The suspect left one gold coin with store owner which was tested as pure gold. The suspect left his telephone number. An undercover investigation which was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Special Enforcement Unit identified the suspects in this incident.

On 06/04/2009, the owner of a Jewelry store in Vineland, NJ contacted the Vineland Police Department to report that a black male suspect was in the jewelry store on that date and provided a 1 oz. gold Canadian Maple Leaf coin and indicated that he had a large quantity he wanted to sell for cash. An agreement was reached to purchase coins for $100,000. On 06/05/2009, David Bell and another black male arrived at the jewelry store with the large quantity of gold coins. The store owner tested a coin, determined it was counterfeit and declined to continue with the transaction. Vineland Police stopped Bell and his associate as they left the store. A Search Warrant was obtained for the briefcase carried by Bell, and it contained counterfeit gold coins. Bell was arrested by the Vineland Police Department.

On 09/15/2009 the owner of a jewelry store in Kinnelon, NJ, contacted the Kinnelon Police and reported that an individual following this same pattern of criminal activity was at his store attempting to sell Canadian Maple Leaf gold coins. As a result of this information and the on-going undercover investigation into this violent group, an operation was conducted in cooperation with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Team, Criminal Investigations Section and the Kinnelon Police Department.

On 09/19/2009, at approximately 11:25 a.m. a Chevrolet Impala bearing a New York Registration, being driven by a black male, with two other black male occupants was observed located at the Burger King parking lot on the northbound side of Route 23 in Kinnelon, NJ. A short time later the vehicle proceeded west on Kiel Avenue, crossed Route 23 and entered the Meadtown Shopping Plaza. As a result of the undercover probe all three vehicle occupants were ultimately arrested and transported to the Kinnelon Police Department.

The subjects were identified as:
David Bell, DOB: 08/01/1952
Newark, New Jersey
William Gary, DOB: 12/19/1956
Scotch Plains, New Jersey
Hakim Shaheed, DOB: 12/17/1953
Sicklerville, New Jersey

A search warrant executed on the subject's vehicle uncovered over 200 counterfeit gold coins, along with other items related to the scam. Also found during the search were items indicating the group has traveled to jewelry stores throughout New Jersey, New York and Maryland.

All subjects were charged with Theft by Deception and Conspiracy. They were processed at the Kinnelon Police Department and transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail, $100,000.00 for David Bell, $75,000.00 for Hakim Shaheed and $25,000.00 for William Gary.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

"This is a violent group of individuals who victimized jewelry businesses throughout the State of New Jersey. This group is suspected of participating in coin scams that total in excess of one million dollars. This is also another example of how working with other agencies and the public can yield intelligence and pool resources to make significant arrests that better protect the community. The investigation into this group is on-going. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Dan Coleman of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force at (973) 285-6366 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973 COPCALL."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Rutherford man sentenced to 4 years in jail and loss of driviers license for 41 years

2009-09-18T12:29:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Morris Township Police Chief Timothy Quinn announce the sentencing of Shaun P. Campbell, age 40, of Rutherford, New Jersey.

On Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 8:48 p.m., the Morris Township Police Department responded to the intersection of South Street and Spring Valley Road on a report of a head-on motor vehicle accident. The accident was reported by a Morris County Park Police Officer who was on patrol at Loantaka Park.

The investigation revealed that a 2008 Ford pickup truck occupied by a 48 year old man and his 4 year old daughter was struck head-on by a 1994 Ford Bronco operated by Shaun P. Campbell, age 39, of Rutherford, New Jersey.

Immediately following the crash, Mr. Campbell fled the scene on foot into Loantaka .

The Morris Township Police Department with the assistance of the Morris County Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit and the Harding Township Police apprehended Mr. Campbell in the park and placed him under arrest. His blood alcohol level was 0.288%.

The investigation also determined that Mr. Campbell had a $3,500 warrant out of Morris Township for fleeing from a crash in 2007.

Mr. Campbell was served with a summons, charging him with obstruction of justice and driving while intoxicated. Mr. Campbell was remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility on the warrant related to the 2007 incident. He later posted bail and was released.

Members of the Morris Township Police Department Detective Bureau and Traffic Safety Unit in furtherance of the accident investigation, met with Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi and members of his legal team. As a result, Prosecutor Bianchi stated:

"The Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Morris Township Police Department have added charges of assault by auto based upon the facts and law of this matter and we have already sought a significant increase in the defendant's bail. Considering the facts and law of this case, the defendant's prior demonstration of contempt and disregard for the judicial system and based upon the significant danger that he presents to the community. We asked Superior Court Judge John Dangler to set a $50'000 "cash only" bail, which the court has consented to.

Typically, bails for charges such as these are set at $2,500. Due to the seriousness of this matter, however, we argued that this significant increase in bail was justified."

As a result of this court action, Morris Township Police Detective Sergeant Martin Tessmer rearrested Mr. Campbell on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 9:46 p.m., while he was at a residence on Livingston Road in Morris Township within the Rose Arbor Condominium Complex, on the new charges and higher bail. The arrest took place at Livingston Road within the Rose Arbor Condominium Complex. Mr. Campbell was transported to the Morris Township Police Department where he was processed and ultimately remanded to the Morris County Correctional facility.

Earlier today Mr. Campbell appeared before Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto and was sentenced for his plea to numerous violations. He pled guilty to Assault by auto, a crime of the fourth degree and received the maximum sentence of 18 months in state prison. Additionally, he received the maximum 2 year license loss.

He pled guilty to the DWI out of Morris Township and received the maximum 180 days in jail and a ten year loss of his driving privileges.

He pled guilty to two additional DWI offenses out of Pequannock Township and out of Wayne Township. He received that maximum 180 days on each and ten year license loss on each. Additionally, he pled guilty to driving while suspended in Morris Township, Pequannock Township and Wayne Township and received the maximum penalty of 380 days in jail and 9 year loss of license. Mr. Campbell was ordered to serve each sentence imposed by the court consecutively.

In total, Mr. Campbell was sentenced to 4 years and 20 days incarceration and he is not permitted to operate a motor vehicle for 41 years.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"This defendant has been sentenced to the maximum allowable by law for his atrocious disregard of the law and the significant danger that he created to innocent persons traveling on the street."

Mr. Campbell remains in custody at the Morris County Correctional Facility

Patricia A. Schafer arrested by the Morris County Prosecutor's and Sheriff's Joint Fugitive Task Force

2009-09-16T09:40:00.008-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Chief William Schievella announce the arrest of fugitive Patricia A. Schafer.

On September 11, 2009 Superior Court Judge John Dangler issued an arrest warrant for Schafer charging her with eloping from a court authorized treatment facility. Schafer was previously charged with interference with child custody and fraudulent use of a credit card.

On Thursday January 8, 2009 Schafer, 38 and her two children were reported missing from their family home in East Hanover.

On Sunday January 11, 2009 Schafer was located in a mall in Maryland nearly 200 miles away from her East Hanover home. Patricia Schafer, 38, and her children ages 3, and 13, were stopped in their vehicle by Baltimore County police as they exited the Towson Town Center Mall and approached the Baltimore Beltway Interloop at 6:25 p.m. Detectives from the East Hanover Police Department and Morris County Prosecutor's Office determined that she was in the mall complex, prompting the call to mall security and the Baltimore County police. Mall security followed the vehicle until the Baltimore County police arrived.
The children were found in good health and their father picked them up and brought them home.

Detective/Supervisor Carmen Ferrante and Detective Mike Lowe from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and Morris County Sheriff's joint Fugitive Task Force arrested Schafer on September 16, 2009 at 8:30am at a residence in Long Branch, New Jersey. She was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a court appearance.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Police nab fugitive on the lam for 8 years

2009-09-04T09:38:00.009-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Parsippany Police Chief Michael Peckerman today announced the arrest of John Fernando Cordon, who has been a wanted fugitive following a sex assault in May 2001 in Parsippany.

Cordon, using the alias of Luis E. Rivera, was apprehended in Trenton at 6:50 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2009 without incident by members of the Parsippany Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office and United States Marshals Service.

Both Cordon and a codefendant in the case, Ruben Hector Vargas, were charged in 2001 and subsequently indicted in 2002 for sexually assaulting two minors in Parsippany and have remained at large since the allegations were reported.

The 2002 indictment charges both John Fernando Cordon and Ruben Hector Vargas each with first-degree aggravated sexual assault, second-degree sexual assault, third-degree terroristic threats and third-degree criminal restraint based on allegations that they sexually assaulted the minor females in May of 2001.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated, "This individual has finally been arrested through the coordinated and diligent efforts of law enforcement, specifically Parsippany Police Lt. Sean Clark and Detective Sgt. Richard Nicoletti working with the United States Marshals Service and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. Intelligence they developed led us to the identification of a wanted felon on serious allegations and their efforts should be commended. We are now looking forward to our long awaited prosecution of this defendant and bringing justice to our victims."

Cordon was lodged without bail in the Morris County Correctional Facility on a warrant charging him with Failure to Appear for an Arraignment Conference.

Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Smith will be representing the State before the court on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009 to address issues related to the bail for John Fernando Cordon.

Ruben Hector Vargas still remains a fugitive. Anyone with information on his whereabouts should contact Detective Sgt. Richard Nicoletti of the Parsippany Police Department 973-263-4300, Morris County Prosecutor's Office 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973 COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until
found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Probation, community service for phoney lawyer

2009-09-03T20:48:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Hanover Police Chief Stephen Gallagher announced today that a soon-to-be-disbarred attorney was sentenced to one year probation for illegally practicing law for more than two years.

Andrew M. Kimmel, 66, must also perform 100 hours of community service and was handed a one-day jail sentence and given credit for time served. Kimmel also agreed to permanently forfeit his law license as part of the disposition.

Kimmel was suspended by the state Supreme Court in May 2006 for failing to cooperate with an attorney ethics investigation. That ethics investigation arose from his suspected misappropriation of $53,255 from a trust for which he served as executor. Kimmel pleaded guilty in June to fourth-degree unauthorized practice of law.

The clients with whom he never should have met included a teacher who thought she was wrongfully terminated from her job; a woman seeking a divorce; a computer networking company whose president paid Kimmel $110,500 in legal fees between May 2006 and March 2008; a charter bus company owner; and the co-owner of a lawn service, authorities said.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated, "The fourth-degree charge of the unauthorized practice of law carries no presumption of incarceration for first offenders such as Kimmel. However, Mr. Kimmel is losing his livelihood with his conviction for a crime that will stay on his record permanently. He will be disbarred and will never be in a position to use his status as an attorney to cause injury to unsuspecting clients in the future."

Long Hill Township Drug Seizure

2009-09-03T13:35:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Long Hill Township Chief of Police Dan Hedden announce the arrest of Rene Marroquin-Moscosco in connection with a short-term undercover narcotic investigation which took place in Long Hill Township, New Jersey.

On Tuesday September 2, 2009 shortly after 12:00 p.m.,the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force along with the United States Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), United States Postal Service, United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Long Hill Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section,Morris County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit, Union County Prosecutor's Office and Union County Sheriff's Office K9 Unit concluded a short term undercover investigation which resulted in the arrest of Rene Marroquin-Moscosco, age 26, of Plainfield, New Jersey.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:
"The defendant was taken into custody at a local restaurant after he met with undercover officers. As a result of this investigation, law enforcement seized approximately two pounds of cocaine which has a street value in excess of $264,000.00.

This is another example of law enforcements coordinated efforts at a local, county, state and federal level, and I applaud all of the agencies that participated in this investigation".

Subject:
Rene Marroquin-Moscosco
DOB: 10/13/1982
Plainfield, New Jersey

Charges:
Possession of Cocaine in a quantity greater than 5 ounces (1st Degree)
Possession of Cocaine with intent to Distribute in a quantity greater than 5 ounces (2nd Degree)
Possession of Fraudulent Driver's License utilizing another person's identity (4th Degree)

The defendant was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $350,000 bond, no 10% bail.

We are asking anyone with information to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Morristown man arrested on sex assault charges

2009-09-01T19:02:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. along with Chief William Schievella and Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz announce an arrest in connection with a Sex Crime investigation. On Tuesday September 1, 2009 at 6:33 PM, The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit and the Morristown Bureau of Police arrested Juan Carlos Villa, 24 YOA, a citizen of Ecuador and currently a resident of Morristown, NJ on charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault (3 counts) Criminal Restraint and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Judge John Dangler set bail at $300,000. The Investigation was conducted by Detective Kristi Allegretta of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit and Detective Keith Cregan of the Morristown Police Department.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Jail, probation for Parsippany drug dealer

2009-08-28T09:44:00.014-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Parsippany Police Chief Michael Peckerman today announced the sentencing of a 25-year-old marijuana dealer caught with a little less than five pounds of marijuana and $96,190 in his apartment.

Cohen was ordered to serve 364 days in the Morris County Correctional Facility and complete four years of probation. He also must forfeit the $96,190 in drug dealing proceeds.

The penalties were part of his guilty plea to intending to distribute less than 5 pounds of marijuana and possession of marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school zone.

On February 23, 2009, a drug investigation led police to Cohen's apartment, where they found $76,190 in Cohen's bedroom closet and another $20,000 in a trunk in the bedroom.

Investigators had been keeping an eye on him after the U.S. Inspection Service at Newark International Airport Air Mail Center spotted a suspicious parcel mailed from a sender in El Cerrito, Calif. They soon determined the package contained nearly 5 pounds of marijuana.

Bianchi applauded Assistant Prosecutor Brad Seabury, who sought the maximum sentence allowable by law, and the many other law enforcement officers who worked on the case, stating, "The operation was the result of a collaborative effort that involved the Morris County Prosecutor's Special Enforcement Unit, U.S. Postal Inspector's Office, Parsippany police and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and K9 Unit."

Bail set at $500,000 for alleged attacker charged with attempted murder

2009-08-26T15:13:00.007-04:00

MORRISTOWN: A Morristown man charged with the attempted murder of a woman early Monday morning will remain in the Morris County jail after a Superior Court judge maintained his bail at $500,000, cash only today, authorities said.

Superior Court Judge Salem V. Ahto also ordered Jennri Martinez-Gonzalez to have no contact with the victim and surrender his passport, said Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq.

The Morristown Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section are currently investigating the stabbing, after police were called to the scene on reports of a woman screaming on Garden Street. Martinez-Gonzalez allegedly attacked the victim stabbing her just prior to 1 a.m. He was charged with attempted murder and robbery for stabbing the victim and for taking the victim's purse.

The victim suffered non-life threatening injuries, was treated and released from Morristown Memorial Hospital.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Rockaway Townsquare Mall Emergency Plane Landing

2009-08-26T13:13:00.004-04:00

On August 25, 2009 at 12:01 PM, the Rockaway Township Police Department received reports of a plane that had landed in the JC Penny's Parking Lot at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall. The plane, a Cessna 172 out of the Essex County Airport was piloted by a flight instructor and his student. The plane developed engine trouble and the flight instructor was able to make an emergency landing in the mall parking lot, causing minor property damage on the ground.
The flight instructor and student were transported to the Saint Clare's Dover Campus and treated for minor injuries. The aircraft sustained severe damage.
The Rockaway Police, Fire and EMS agencies were supported by mutual aid from the Picatinny Arsenal Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team, Morris County Hazardous Materials Team and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. The investigation into the incident is being conducted by the FAA with support from the Rockaway Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Section and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit.
The release of any additional information will be at the discretion of the FAA.

2009-08-25T08:58:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Morristown Chief of Police Peter Demnitz announce an ongoing attempted murder investigation in Morristown New Jersey.

The Morristown Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section are currently investigating the incident.

Morristown Police were called to the scene on reports of a woman screaming on Garden Street. After police arrived and found the victim, they found Martinez-Gonzalez hiding in another Garden Street residence.

Jennri Martinez-Gonzalez allegedly attacked the victim stabbing her outside his Garden Street home in Morristown early yesterday morning August 24, 2009 just prior to 1 AM.

Jennri Martinez-Gonzalez was charged with attempted murder and robbery for stabbing the victim and for taking the victim's purse. He remains in the Morris County Jail in lieu of $500,000 bail.

The victim suffered non-life threatening injuries, was treated and released from Morristown Memorial Hospital.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. credits the Morristown Police Department for their prompt response and subsequent investigation which led to the quick apprehension of Mr. Gonzalez.

We are asking anyone with information to call the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Man arrested on sex assault charges

2009-08-24T15:43:00.002-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Chief of Investigations William Schievella announced today the arrest of a 41-year-old Boonton man on sex assault charges involving a nine-year-old girl.

Kevin Ptashinski, 41, was charged during the weekend with aggravated sexual assault, sex assault and endangering the welfare of a child, they said. He remains in the Morris County Jail in lieu of a $150,000 bail.

The investigation is being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Three years probation for bilking bookkeeper

2009-08-21T10:33:00.004-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Rockaway Township Police Chief Walter J. Arden Jr. announced today the sentencing of the former treasurer of the Hibernia Fire Company No. 1 in Rockaway Township to three years probation for draining fire company bank accounts to the tune of $69,870.

Wanda Stopa, 58, also was ordered by Superior Court Judge Thomas V. Manahan to serve 100 hours of community service for dipping into the accounts between November 12, 1999 and August 9, 2006.

She must pay back the fire company $15,870, which is the amount still owed from the original $69,870 drained from the fire company bank accounts. An audit by the prosecutor's office and police revealed that Stopa had failed to repay all of the money she took from the fire department.

The judge also set a 180-day jail sentence, but suspended the sentence pending successful completion of her probationary term.

Stopa, who pleaded guilty to one count of third-degree theft on June 22, was a volunteer treasurer for the Hibernia fire company when she started withdrawing funds from various department bank accounts. An investigation began in July 2008 following a meeting between fire department officials, police and members of the prosecutor's specialized crimes division.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said, "She may not have been considered a public official by legal definition, but she was in a position that served the public and for seven years she helped herself to taxpayer money. That will never be tolerated and we promise the people who try to get away with such activity that they will be caught and they'll be prosecuted."

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Madison Bank Robbery

2009-08-20T10:37:00.008-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and Madison Borough Police Chief John Trevena announce the investigation involving a bank robbery in Madison.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, Madison Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are currently investigating a bank robbery which occurred today at The Union Center National Bank located at 300 Main St. in Madison, New Jersey.

At approximately 9:44 AM on August 20, 2009 the Madison Police Department and surrounding departments responded to a report of a bank robbery at the Union Center National Bank.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a black male with dreadlocks in his mid-twenties, 5'9 wearing a white button-down shirt with blue vertical stripes, blue baggy jeans, tan boots with blue tips a blue baseball cap with a "C" on the center entered the bank and brandished two (2) handguns before he departed the bank on foot with an undisclosed amount of money.

A search of the area was conducted with the assistance of area police departments and the New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit.

The investigation revealed that the suspect may have exited the Madison Plaza operating a vehicle shortly after the robbery. The suspect may have cut off another vehicle which was headed west bound on Main St. Prosecutor Bianchi and Chief Trevena are asking anyone who may have been cut off by a vehicle on Main St around 9:30 AM or anyone with any other information to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force at (973) 285-6200, Madison Police Department at (973) 593-3000 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL (973-267-2255).

Blairstown man pleads guilty to bribing mayor

2009-08-19T09:33:00.008-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Hanover Police Chief Stephen Gallagher announced today a Blairstown man pleaded guilty to bribing Hanover's former mayor with a $20,000 payoff in return for help with zoning approval to build a Quick Chek.

Michael Sesera, 69, pleaded guilty in Superior Court to third-degree bribery and agreed to forfeit the $20,000 he handed off to then-Mayor Ronald Francioli in November. The money was supposed to buy the mayor's help to pave the way for a rezoning of Sesera's property at the corner of Parsippany and Whippany roads.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., noted, "This office investigates aggressively all allegations of public corruption, as well as, those who attempt to bribe our hard working government officials. Town hall is not for sale in Morris County and those who try to trade money for favors will learn that lesson the hard way."

"Corruption cases also have to be attacked by the prosecution of those individuals who are willing to offer bribes to public officials," the prosecutor added.

Under terms of the plea, prosecutors are recommending Sesera serve a period of probation and 364 days in the county jail. Superior Court Judge John Dangler will sentence Sesera September 25.

Sesera tried to bribe the former mayor, Ronald Francioli, between April 2, 2007 and Nov. 10, 2008. Instead of accepting the bribe, Francioli had notified the prosecutor's office about the matter, prompting the probe.

The investigation was headed by Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Robert Weber and Lt. Michael Rice and Detectives Daniel Henderson and Steve Murzenski with the prosecutor's office, Hanover Township Detective Chris Thompson and Rockaway Township Detective Rob Randzio.

(This report was filed Aug. 19, 2009 by Agent Bill Swayze.)

Morris Township Murder

2009-08-18T14:37:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Morris Township Chief of Police Timothy Quinn announce an ongoing murder investigation in the Collinsville Section of Morris Township New Jersey.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated: "At about 10:15 a.m. on August 16, 2009, a caller reported to the Morris Township Police Department an emergency on Highland Avenue in Morris Township. When Morris Township Police Patrolman Christopher Vargas-Villa and other members of the Morris Township Police Department arrived they observed an unconscious, unresponsive four year old female child on the lawn. A neighbor was administering CPR to the child while another neighbor was caring for another six year old female sibling who was conscious but lethargic. Both children were transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital for treatment.

At 11:06 a.m. on August 16, 2009, the four year old female child was pronounced dead at Morristown Memorial Hospital. The six year old is being treated for non life threatening injuries.

The investigation has resulted in the arrest of the children's mother Jenny Lizette Erazo-Rodriguez, DOB 5/16/76, of 62 Highland Avenue, Morris Township New Jersey.
Charges: Murder, Attempted Murder, Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
Bail: $1,000,000 set by Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto.

This is an absolute tragedy and I join Chief Timothy Quinn in extending our deepest sympathies to the family of this young child who passed away. We are asking anyone with information to call the Morris Township Police Department at (973) 539-0777, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL (973-267-2255)."

The investigation is being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Morris Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Paul J. Hirsh, Esq., Pleads Gulty

2009-08-12T09:11:00.005-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi announces the entering of a guilty plea by Paul J. Hirsh, Esq. who was previously indicted for Forgery, Uttering, Contempt of Court, and Misapplication of Entrusted Funds.

Mr Hirsh has been licensed to practice law in New Jersey since 1974, is currently 61 years of age and is now living in Washington, DC (he was formerly a resident of Mendham, NJ) he had previously maintained law offices in Morristown and Parsippany, NJ.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated "The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Investigation commenced as a result of a referral from the New Jersey Office of Attorney Ethics following a financial audit. This resolution sends a clear message that those entrusted with the legal care of the citizens will be made to answer when they commit a crime. Mr. Hirsh will now have a criminal record, will now face at sentencing going to jail for his offenses, and he will lose his privilege of practicing law, as he has proven himself unworthy of the trust needed to fulfill his duties as an attorney."

Hirsh entered a guilty plea today (August 12, 2009) to 2 counts of Forgery (third degree), 1 count of Contempt Of Court (fourth degree) and 2 counts of Misapplication of Entrusted Funds (third degree).

The crime dates were between May 2004 and July 2005

Mr. Hirsh fraudulently endorsed 2 checks ($15,000.00; $24,998.17) made payable to his clients.

The Contempt of Court charge relates to Mr. Hirsh's deposit of a settlement check into his personal bank account in violation of a court order directing that the money be deposited with the Surrogate of Essex County on behalf of a minor client.

The Misapplication of Entrusted Funds charge relates to Mr. Hirsh's deposit of two settlement checks ($24,998.17; $7,500.00) into his personal bank account, as opposed to his trust account (in violation of New Jersey Supreme Court Rules) which resulted in the exposure of those funds to a substantial risk of loss.

Mr. Hirsh will be sentenced on September 25.

Media Contact: Captain Jeffrey S. Paul

Drowning at Cedar Lake in Denville

2009-08-11T10:13:00.001-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Denville Township Police Chief Christopher Wagner announce the ongoing investigation concerning the death of twenty-six year old Princeton New Jersey resident, Fatima Younes, whose body was recovered from the Cedar Lake in Denville Township on August 10, 2009 at 11:57PM.

On Monday, August 10th, at 8:22 PM, numerous 911 calls were received by the Denville Township Police Department reporting screams, frantically requesting that someone call the police. Upon the arrival of the Denville Township Police, Fire and Rescue personnel, it was determined that three women, the victim, along with a twenty-two year old Ogdensburg resident and a twenty-eight year old Rockaway resident got into a row boat, and made their way to a floating dock on Cedar Lake.

The investigation determined all three women got off work at approximately 6:00 PM, traveled to Rockaway Boro, where they changed into swim attire, and from there, proceeded to Denville. One of the individuals was a former resident of the Cedar Lake community, and had obtained permission from a former neighbor to use the row boat. The three women after arriving at the floating dock, jumped into the water to swim, however one of the individuals, victim Fatima Younes went under the water and never surfaced.

The investigation is currently being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Denville Township Police Department, The Morris County Sheriff's Department Criminal Investigations Section, along with the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

The following agencies responded and participated in the recovery operation: Denville Fire Department, Parsippany/Troy Hills Rescue and Recovery Dive Team, Boonton Fire Department Dive Team, Jefferson Township Fire Department Dive Team, Pequannock Township Fire Department Dive Team, Rockaway Boro Fire Department and The Picatinny Arsenal Dive Team, NJ State Police Aviation (Helicopter).

Anyone with information is asked to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL (973-267-2255).

Man convicted of Butler sex assault

2009-08-10T12:20:00.003-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Butler Police Chief Edward M. Card announced today a guilty verdict in the case of Andrew Pena, who sexually assaulted a woman in Butler two years ago.

A jury in Morristown deliberated only 75 minutes before announcing a verdict, finding him guilty of all five counts in the indictment. The charges Pena was convicted of include first-degree aggravated sexual assault and second-degree burglary.

Pena will be sentenced Sept. 18, 2009. He faces between 30 and 40 years in prison.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said, "We are very satisfied that this jury found this man guilty. This defendant represents the greatest fear a woman can have. Alone and in the dark of night, he cowardly robbed the victim of her sense of peace, security and dignity.

"We will now respond by asking the court at sentencing to take away from him his freedom to walk the streets for as long as is legally possible so ne never can victimize another woman again," Prosecutor Bianchi said.

Pena assaulted the then 19-year-old woman in the early morning hours of January 28, 2007. Pena, 41, of Vernon, was found guilty of luring the victim to the rear of the business establishment where he exposed himself, dragged her out of the vehicle she was driving and then violently sexually assaulted her.

Executive Assistant Morris County Prosecutor Robert Lane and Assistant Prosecutor Meg Rodriguez said in court that Pena ran off when two of the victim's friends interrupted the assault. Pena left his fingerprints on the car that the victim was driving, and the victim later positively identified him both from a line up and while in court.

(This report was filed Aug. 10, 2009. Media Agent Bill Swayze can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Thirty years behind bars for head of drug dealing network

2009-08-07T08:56:00.005-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Carlos "Carlito" Gonzalez Jr. was expanding his narcotics distribution network, reaching into the suburbs of Morris and Essex counties with a steady supply of cocaine, intimidation and violence.

"Then came a knock at the door, a swarm of police in tactical gear, the end of his drug dealing operation and today the end of his freedom for up to 30 years," Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said.

Prosecutor Bianchi and Chief of Investigations William Schievella today announced the sentencing of Gonzalez Jr., to 30 years in prison. He must serve a minimum of 13 and 1/2 years behind bars before he is eligible for parole.

When this case first unfolded a year ago, culminating in an aggressive sweep and numerous arrests in December 2008, New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram was quick to point out the success of the operation, calling it an example of proactive police thinking -- exactly what is needed to shut down gangs and ruin their illicit gun and drug dealing businesses.

Milgram said at the time, "Targeting violent criminals and street gangs is a top priority because the citizens of New Jersey deserve to live in their communities and in their neighborhoods free of the terror of gangs, free of the drug dealing and the gun trafficking. Prosecutor Bianchi has forged a strong partnership among state, federal, county and local law enforcement agencies to move against a major drug trafficking network."

He was sentenced today for second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose as well as possession of more than 5 ounces of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of a weapon during a drug deal.

"This significant prison term was the result of a partnership with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Denville, Dover, Randolph, and Wharton Police Departments, as well as, the Morris County Sheriff's Office, New Jersey State Police and the Human Services Police Department," Prosecutor Bianchi said.

Bianchi said, "This is the result of our targeting the most violent and dangerous offenders who make our streets unsafe. We had excellent detective and attorney work by the members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and local police departments and an intelligence-led policing strategy that targets the most serious offenders and goes after them."

The sentencing of Gonzalez is a highlight of the prosecutor's successful crackdown on gang activity. The prosecutor's office has made it a top priority to send a message to gangs -- don't get comfortable in Morris County. The office has held seminars for law-enforcement and educators and has reached into the schools to have influence with kids, especially those kids who are the most likely to join a gang.

"The operation was another phase of our aggressive and on-going focus targeting the upper echelon of the narcotic distributors and gang members in Morris County. It is our goal to eradicate illegal narcotics, gangs and guns in Morris County," Bianchi said.

The investigation was launched in October 2007, following a shooting at a Rockaway Borough Laundromat. The investigation revealed that two young men argued over a female. One man displayed a semiautomatic handgun and eventually there were gunshots. Investigators followed the trail of names to Carlos G. Gonzalez, Jr., age 20, of Jefferson Township, and his competition: Carlos Gonzalez, Sr., age 51, of Wharton. Turns out Gonzalez, Jr. was involved in a drive by shooting that occurred on August 14, 2008.

The investigation was ongoing through August 15, 2008. Seized during the investigation were two .22 caliber pistols, one sawed off shot gun, one .40 caliber semi automatic hand gun, one .45 caliber semi automatic hand gun, one .9 millimeter semi automatic handgun; over four kilograms of cocaine valued at greater than $200,000.00; over two thousand packages of heroin valued at greater than $30,000.00; over 130 individual packages of cocaine prepared for street distribution valued at over $6,500.00; numerous scales, packaging materials, and cutting agents; over $10,000.00 in United States currency; and over 50 grams of marijuana.

(This report was filed Aug. 7, 2009 by Media Agent Bill Swayze.)

Morris Township gasoline tanker truck accident ongoing

2009-08-06T11:10:00.006-04:00

MORRIS TOWNSHIP: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Morris Township Police Chief Timothy Quinn announce an update in the ongoing investigation into a gasoline tanker truck accident yesterday afternoon in Morris Township, N.J.

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009 beginning at 3:36 p.m., numerous calls were made to the Morris Township Police Department reporting a gasoline tanker truck accident at the Whippany Road and Lindsley Drive intersection in Morris Township.

The one-vehicle accident resulted in road closures and cleanup efforts coordinated by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Morris County Hazardous Materials Team.

The gasoline discharged from the tanker is preliminarily estimated to be approximately 7,000 gallons. The gasoline impacted the Whippany River, respective wetlands and some Morris County Frelinghuysen Arboretum property.

The following is an update about the status of the cleanup, road closures and investigation:

• Morris Avenue and the eastbound lanes of Columbia Turnpike were reopened at 11:15 p.m.

• The tanker truck was lifted upright at 12:03 a.m. and removed from the scene at 1:00 a.m.

• The remaining closed roadways with the exception of Lindsley Drive were reopened at 2:25 a.m.

• The hazardous materials cleanup continued on Lindlsey Drive overnight and Lindlsey Drive was reopened at 5 a.m.

• The accident investigation was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit.

• The driver was issued a summons by the Morris Township Police Department for careless driving.

Driver Identification:

• Eric T. Majette
• DOB 4-5-71
• Resident of Ewing, N.J.
• Mr. Majette was treated and released from Morristown Memorial Hospital for minor injuries sustained in the accident.

Vehicle Description:

• 1995 Mac Truck, operated by Lee Transport Systems LLC, based in Elmer, N.J.

This accident remains under investigation and the cleanup of the gasoline that leaked from the tanker is ongoing.

Additional details about the cleanup operation will be provided by the Department of Environmental Protection and representatives of the Morris County Hazardous Materials Team.

(This report was posted Aug. 6, 2009. The media contact is Captain Jeffery S. Paul, who can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Younger Zarate brother sentenced to life in prison

2009-07-31T09:41:00.004-04:00

MORRIS COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE
ROBERT A. BIANCHI, ESQ.
PROSECUTOR
Administration & Records Bldg.
P.O. Box 900
Morristown, New Jersey 07963-0900
___________________________
Telephone: 973- 285-6200
Fax: 973- 285-6226
www.morrisprosecutor.org
prosecutor@co.morris.nj.us

NEWS RELEASE

July 31, 2009

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the sentencing of James Zarate who is sentenced today to 76 years in prison for the murder and dismemberment of Jennifer Parks, who was a teenage girl living next door to Zarate in Randolph in 2005.
Today, July 31, 2009, Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto, who presided over the trial and sentencing, ordered Zarate, age 18, to serve 76 years in New Jersey State Prison without parole eligibility. Zarate was convicted along with his older brother Jonathan for the murder of Jennifer Parks in the basement of Zarate's family residence in Randolph on July 30, 2005.
Prosecutor Bianchi applauded the excellent police work by the Secaucus Police Department, Randolph Police Department, Morris County Prosecutors Office as well as the tireless efforts of Morris County Executive Assistant Prosecutor Robert Lane Esq. and Assistant Prosecutor Dave Bruno, Esq. who spent countless hours preparing and ultimately taking this case to trial. This was truly a team effort and the results speak for themselves.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "For the rest of his life he is going to live in a twelve-foot-by twelve-foot prison cell for the vicious cold-blooded murder of a sweet, trusting girl who couldn't have imagined the evil intentions the Zarate brothers planned to unleash the night she was lured over to their house and brutally murdered and dismembered."

The homicide conviction marked the seventh homicide conviction for the Morris County Prosecutors Office, two of which were against the Zarate brothers.

Prosecutor Bianchi once again extends his condolences to the Parks family for their loss as Jennifer will never be forgotten.

Morristown worker's road to trouble: Buying car parts on the town's tab

2009-07-24T14:08:00.008-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz announced a local public works department employee today plead guilty to using the town's business account to buy automobile parts.

Mark Gerardi, 39, admitted in Superior Court that he made unauthorized purchases from automobile parts vendors who did business with the town. Those parts included oil filters, oil and dry gas. He used those parts to make personal car repairs.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office was notified about the theft on Feb. 6. Investigators examined purchase orders placed by Gerardi. The orders included purchases for items that would not fit any of the vehicles owned by the Morristown Department of Public Works. All told, the purchases added up to $684.35.

Gerardi plead guilty to third-degree theft and, as part of the plea agreement, he will forfeit his current position and any future public employment. He faces probation, 364 days in jail, 100 hours of community service and restitution of the $684.35 when he is sentenced on Aug. 28.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated, "For $684.35 in automobile parts, Mr. Gerardi has cost himself his job and he faces going to jail. When you work for the public you cannot abuse the public's trust and illegally use hard-earned taxpayer money for your own personal gain."

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Man convicted of drug dealing in front of police headquarters

2009-07-20T16:16:00.004-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Dover Police Chief Harold Valentine today announce a guilty verdict in case against Rogelio Chaparro, who orchestrated a drug deal across the street from Dover police headquarters.

A jury in Morristown deliberated about 20 minutes before finding the 59-year-old Chaparro guilty of nine drug-related cocaine possession and distribution charges he was facing following his arrest in 2007.

Those counts included distribution of cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school and within 500 feet of the public park.

The prosecutor's office will ask the court to sentence Chaparro as a persistent offender due to his numerous convictions. He could spend in excess of 20 years in New Jersey State prison. He will be sentenced on August 21.

"I am satisfied with this verdict. A clear message is sent to those who choose to push drugs in our community that this office is serious about aggressivly prosecuting drug dealers for their crimes, securing their conviction at trial, and seeking the maximum jail time allowable by law," Bianchi said.

Chaparro helped facilitate a drug deal involving his then-girlfriend Melinda Milliron, 28, on June 10, 2007, selling crack cocaine to a Dover man in a location inherently bad for business – in front of town hall.

They were unaware that two police officers witnessed the transaction from a distance along with a detective. Chaparro, Moore and Milliron were later arrested by the Dover police officers.

(This report was filed July 20, 2009 by Agent Bill Swayze, who cab be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Mt. Lakes Bank Robbery Suspect Arrested

2009-07-18T19:19:00.007-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and Mountain Lakes Police Chief Robert A. Tovo announce an arrest in connection with a bank robbery which occurred on July 17, 2009 in Mountain Lakes.

On July 18, 2009 at approximately 2:00pm the following individual was arrested:

John Marano
DOB 10-8-83
Resident of Jefferson, New Jersey

Charges
Robbery - During the course of committing a theft from the PNC bank, threaten bank employees with immediate bodily injury a crime of the 2nd degree carrying a potential term of incarceration between 5 and 10 years in State prison.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, Mountain Lakes Police Department and the F.B.I. conducted the investigation relating to the bank robbery which occurred yesterday at the PNC Bank located in Mountain Lakes, New Jersey.

The incident occurred at 12:26 p.m. on July 17, 2009 Authorities have also located and seized the black Dodge Durango, 4 door, with tinted windows that was used at the time of the robbery.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

"The arrest was the result of information which was called into the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program. This information led to the quick capture of the individual who was allegedly responsible for this offense. The information provided was critical for our assistant prosecutor and investigative staff of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office to pursue leads with the Mountain Lakes Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and I am proud of the diligence, perseverance and skill of the team."

Shortly after 2:00pm today John Marano was arrested in Boonton Twp by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Boonton Township and Mountain Lakes Police Departments not far from the location of the PNC bank in Mountain Lakes.

John Marano was transported to the Mountain Lakes Police Department and ultimately to the Morris County Correctional Facility where he will be housed pending a bail determination by the courts.

We have identified the 2^nd individual who was at the bank with John Marano. The investigation is ongoing with regard to the role of this individual if any."

Anyone with information to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force at 973-285-2900 or via email at intel@co.morris.nj.us or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program. at 973-COPCALL (973-267-2255).

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Mountain Lakes Bank Robbery

2009-07-17T15:13:00.001-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and Mountain Lakes Police Chief Robert A. Tovo announce the investigation involving a bank robbery.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, Mountain Lakes Police Department and the F.B.I. are currently investigating a bank robbery which occurred today at the PNC Bank located in Mountain Lakes, New Jersey.

The incident occurred at 12:26 p.m. Authorities are looking for a newer model black Dodge Durango, 4 door, with tinted windows and New Jersey Plates. The vehicle was occupied by two white males.

Subject description: One white male entered the bank and approached the teller. The male who entered the bank is described as a White/Male, Height range between 5'8"-5'9", 25 to 30 years of age, wearing a beige color hat with black sunglasses on top of his hat. The subject was wearing a long sleeve blue shirt with a white shirt underneath. The white shirt was visible at the collar. The suspect had a mustache and was unshaven with growth on the side of his face and chin area. The investigation is on-going and the description of the 2nd individual is pending.

Prosecutor Bianchi is asking anyone with information to call the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force at 973-285-2900 or via email at intel@co.morris.nj.us or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL (973-267-2255).

Judge sentences man convicted of brutal sex assault to 27 years behind bars

2009-07-10T15:37:00.003-04:00

Morristown: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Parsippany Police Chief Michael Peckerman announce the sentencing today of Eric Rangel to 27 years in New Jersey State Prison for the brutal sexual assault of an 18-year-old woman in Parsippany two years ago.

Superior Court Judge Salem V. Ahto sentenced Rangel, 22, to the maximum penalty for first-degree aggravated sexual assault and a consecutive 7 years on second-degree aggravated assault, for a total of 27 years.

He was found guilty by a jury in March of physically attacking and sexually assaulting the victim on April 22, 2007 at 3 a.m. as she walked home from a birthday party. The assault was interrupted by Parsippany Patrolman Allan Griffin.

Rangel must serve at least 85 percent of the 27 years in prison before becoming eligible for parole. He must also must have parole supervision for life and register pursuant to Megan's Law. Assistant Prosecutors Meg Rodriguez and LaJuan Tucker handled the case.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said, "This predator has now been convicted of all offenses and is now sentenced to this lengthy prison term. He will no longer pose a danger to the public, which is now safer with him taken off the streets."

(This report was filed by Agent Bill Swayze on July 10, 2009. He can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Suspect captured in Roxbury Stabbing Incident

2009-07-09T09:02:00.004-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Roxbury Township Chief of Police Mark Noll, announce the investigation into a stabbing in Roxbury Township. The investigation is ongoing at this hour and includes the following agencies: Roxbury Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section, K-9, and Morris County Office of Emergency Management.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"At approximately 2:55 AM, a 911 call was received by the Roxbury Township Police Department reporting a stabbing at a Palmer Street Residence in Roxbury. Upon arrival, Roxbury Police discovered two victims outside the residence on the ground.

The victims have been identified as a 38 year old male, and a 40 year old female, both having sustained multiple stab wounds, and the female also appeared to have been "pistol whipped". A weapon was recovered at the scene.

The female victim was transported to a local hospital via MEDEVAC, and the male victim was taken for treatment by Roxbury Fire Department Co. 2. Both victims are reported to be in stable condition.

The suspect is 27 year old ROBERT A. TERC, also of Roxbury. The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, medium complexion; 5ft 8in, 140-160 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes

Our investigation suggests the attack was not random, but targeted, as the alleged actor and the female victim had a prior dating relationship. Area roads have been closed while the crime scene is being processed and while the area is being searched.

We utilized the Morris County Emergency Notification System for the purpose of alerting the public. Over 2,300 phone calls were made to both published and non published residential and commercial properties within a specific area within Roxbury, Netcong and the Flanders section of Mt. Olive. We wanted to notify the public that we had a safety concern. This defendant has allegedly committed the act while armed and was on the run. We wanted the public to be aware that he should be considered armed and dangerous so that they can take the appropriate precautions. Secondly, we wanted the community to act as our eyes and ears and reach out to law enforcement so we can capture him as quickly as possible. The public was informed not to confront the suspect, but to contact law enforcement immediately.

We got what we asked for...shortly after 4:00 P.M. we received a tip from a citizen leading to the capture of the suspect. Specifically, at 4:22 P.M. Robert A. Terc was taken into custody without incident by Det/Sgt Tim Driscoll of the Roxbury Township Police Department, Detective Michael Nunn and Detective Chet Kurdyla of the Morris County Sheriff's Office in a wooded area in close proximity to the Palmer Street residence where the crime occurred.

Charges:
2 counts attempted murder
2 counts possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose
1 count unlawful possession of a weapon (knife)

Bail - $500,000 no 10% Set by Superior Court Judge John B. Dangler

We continue to seek any information regarding this incident. Anyone who may have observed suspicious activity during the early morning hours or anyone who may be familiar with Robert Terc is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Roxbury Township Police Department at 973-448-2100, or the Morris County Sheriff's Crimestopper Program at 973-COPCALL".

New Jersey Transit, Netcong, Hopatcong and the Stanhope Police Departments assisted with the investigation.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Two Stabbed in Roxbury

2009-07-08T11:53:00.008-04:00

East Rutherford man admits to drunk driving crash, faces lengthy jail term

2009-06-30T14:28:00.008-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Shaun Campbell, the East Rutherford motorist whose record includes 12 DWI convictions and 78 suspended license violations, pleaded guilty today to driving while intoxicated and assault by auto after he injured a 48-year-old driver and his 4-year-old daughter in a head-on collision in April.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is seeking the maximum penalty allowable by law: 18 months in state prison for assault by auto plus 180 days in prison for the drunk driver charge and 180 days in prison for driving while his license was suspended, and an additional 90 days in prison as an enhanced penalty for driving while suspended. The total: More than 2-and-1/2 years behind bars.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said, "This defendant has plead guilty to the maximum time allowed under the law. We need to ensure that these cases are handled sternly to ensure, as best as possible, the safety of the community from the dangers of drinking and driving."

"This is especially so with a person who has shown an utter disregard for the law, as this defendant has," Bianchi, Esq. said.

The prosecutor added, "The Morris Township Police Department and Assistant Prosecutor Brian DiGiacomo did an excellent job investigating and negotiating this case."

Superior Court Judge Salem V. Ahto revoked Campbell's bail following a request by DiGiacomo in court. Campbell will be sentenced August 7, 2009.

Shaun Campbell, 40, had a 0.288 blood-alcohol level when he was behind the wheel of an SUV on April 23 in Morris Township. At the intersection of South Street and Spring Valley Road, Campbell drove head-on into a car, injuring the father and daughter. Campbell then fled the scene, running into nearby Loantaka Park trying to get away from police.

(This report was filed June 30, 2009 by Agent Bill Swayze, who can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Major player in drug dealing network pleads guilty to gun, drug charges

2009-06-25T17:44:00.005-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Carlos "Carlito" Gonzalez Jr., a major player in a drug dealing operation that competed with a drug ring run by his father, pleaded guilty today to gun and drug charges that could send him to New Jersey State Prison for up to 30 years with a minimum of 13 1/2 years before he is eligible for parole.

Gonzalez Jr. will be sentenced on Aug. 7 by Superior Court Judge John Dangler for second-degree possession of a weapon from an unlawful purpose as well as possession of more than 5 ounces of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of a weapon during a drug deal. Gonzalez Jr. must also forfeit $10,525 that was seized during the operation.

He was arrested as part of an aggressive mission to pull the plug on a gang, guns and drug-dealing network operating in Morris and Essex counties. The operation was headed by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. Assistant Prosecutor Brad Seabury was the attorney who conducted the investigation and handled the plea negotiations in court.

"This was a major success with our new intelligence-led policing model of investigations. A major player who represented a significant danger to the community has been taken off the streets," Assistant Prosecutor Seabury said.

"This operation would have been impossible without the support and guidance of Attorney General Anne Milgram, Director Jose Cordero, in conjunction with the significant assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Denville, Dover, Randolph, and Wharton Police Departments, as well as, the Morris County Sheriff's Office, New Jersey State Police and the Human Services Police Department., Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. said.

Bianchi said, "This conviction is the result of our targeting the most violent and dangerous offenders in the county who make our streets unsafe. This significant plea is the result of excellent detective and attorney work of members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, as well as, the indispensible partnership with local police departments and an intelligence-led policing strategy that targets the most serious offenders and goes after them."

Former Lincoln Park CFO Pleads Guilty to Misconduct

2009-06-25T16:18:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Lincoln Park Police Chief Sean Canning announce Lincoln Park's former chief financial officer plead guilty to second-degree official misconduct before Superior Court Judge Thomas Manahan.

Today, June 25, 2009, Dennis Gerber, age 58 of Saddle Brook, plead guilty to one count of second-degree official misconduct. The plea agreement calls for Gerber to serve 10 years with at least 5 years in New Jersey State Prison before he is eligible for parole.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated, "Public officials who have taken an oath to serve the public cannot abuse that trust given to them. They are not above the law and we will continue to aggressively prosecute anyone who takes hard-earned taxpayer money and illegally uses it for their own personal gain. In this case, the defendant's actions have negatively affected the entire community of Lincoln Park. I applaud the work of Morris County Assistant Prosecutors Robert Weber, Esq. and Brian DiGiacomo, Esq., as well as, the Prosecutor's detectives, and the excellent police work of the Lincoln Park Police Department who brought this defendant to justice."

James Zarate Convicted in Parks Murder

2009-06-25T11:21:00.005-04:00

MORRISTOWN: A jury in Morris County today found James Carl Zarate guilty of the murder and dismemberment of his 16-year-old neighbor Jennifer Parks with his older brother Jonathan Zarate in the basement of their father's Randolph home on July 30, 2005.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said, "I can not possibly thank enough the numerous police officers, detectives, lawyers and support staff that made this conviction of this man who committed these vile acts of inhumanity upon this sweet, innocent teen victim a reality.

"I am so thankful for the tireless and professional work of Assistant Prosecutors Robert Lane, David Bruno and case detective Chris Lombardi. The many weeks, late nights and never-ending commitment to prepare and try this case led to this our 7th homicide conviction at trial in the past 15 months. Finally, justice has been done to the extent permitted by law," Prosecutor Bianchi said.

James Zarate was found guilty of Murder, Weapons Possession For Unlawful Purpose, Unlawful Possession Of Weapon; Hindering His Own Prosecution; Unlawfully Disturbing Human Remains To Hinder Own Prosecution.

James Zarate was 14 at the time of the murder and is now 18. Although his attorney had argued that he only helped his older brother try to get rid of the evidence -- a footlocker containing the girl's body -- and did not participate in the murder, jurors rejected that defense.

James Zarate faces life in prison. Before he would be eligible for parole for the murder conviction, he must serve at least 63 years and 9 months of a maximum 75-year sentence. But he also faces an additional 43 years on the remaining convictions when he is sentenced July 31, 2009.

A jury in December found Jonathan Zarate guilty of the murder and dismemberment of Parks. He was sentenced in January to life in prison.

Jonathan Zarate had said that he was alone when he lured and killed the girl and asked his younger brother to help him get rid of the footlocker. The motive for the killing -revenge after she reported a bullying incident at school in 2003 that led to his removal from school and move Garfield where his mother lives.

As the pair were preparing to get rid of the body by throwing the footlocker into the Passaic River at about 3 a.m. on July 31, 2005, two Secaucus police officers drove by and stopped them. The girl's body was discovered in the trunk and in garbage bags in the vehicle.

Hanover police investigating home invasion

2009-06-10T18:45:00.002-04:00

HANOVER TWP.: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Hanover Township Police Chief Stephen W. Gallagher report details of a recent home invasion which took place last night in Whippany.

On June 9, 2009 at 6:38 p.m. Hanover Township Police responded to a residence on Polhemus Terrace in the Whippany section of Hanover Twp on a report of a Home Invasion.

The Hanover Township Police, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and K9, along with the Morris County Park Police and East Hanover Police Department responded.

The investigation revealed that two black males arrived at the front door indicating that they had a flower delivery. Once the resident opened the door, the two male subjects gained entry into the residence and assaulted the female resident thereafter taking various items from the home.

The victim suffered non life threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for treatment sustained as a result of the attack.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated "We are seeking assistance from the public. Anyone who may have observed two black males in a green or dark blue van with a flower business type sign taped on the passenger side of the vehicle indicating that the vehicle was associated with a flower delivery company is asked to contact the police."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Hanover Township Police Department at (973) 428-2512 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stoppers Program at (973) COPCALL.

2009-05-28T17:57:00.006-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Mount Arlington Borough Police Chief Richard Peterson announce the arrest of a school bus driver (Byram Bus Lines) on charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault, (1st degree); Sexual Assault, (2nd degree); and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (3rd degree).

On May 27, 2009 at 11:13 p.m. Edward M. Comperchio, date of birth 01/04/35, was arrested at his Hopatcong residence as a result of an investigation by the Mount Arlington Police Department involving a 12 year old female victim.

It is alleged that Edward M. Comperchio, while acting in his capacity as a school bus driver, committed the sexual assault while the student (victim) was on his bus. It is alleged that Mr. Comperchio would park his bus prior to the normal bus route and commit the alleged crimes.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated, "We will vigorously prosecute an individual whenever a child is a victim of a crime allegedly perpetrated by a person who is in a position of responsibility and required to protect them. This matter will be fully investigated and we are committed to doing what is legally necessary to ensure that our children are protected from individuals who prey on them or who have motive to harm them. Nothing is more important than the safety and security of our children."

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Mount Arlington Borough Police Department at 973-398-2100, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL or 973-267-2255.

Bail was set by the Honorable John B. Dangler of the Morris County Superior Court in the amount of $100,000, no 10% bail, no contact with the victim or her family and no contact with children under the age of 16 years old. Mr. Comperchio was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility on May 28, 2009.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law

Media contact: Captain Jeffery S. Paul

Kerry Rhodes

2009-05-25T21:24:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

"This statement is to correct misleading media reports that Jets player Kerry Rhodes is the target of a criminal investigation, specifically rape, by Morris County law enforcement authorities. Mr. Rhodes is not the target of any criminal investigation. Rumors and media reports to the contrary are untrue. Information which is being reported through the media that Mr. Rhodes is the subject of a rape investigation is factually untrue and wholly inaccurate and has the capacity to unfairly damage the reputation of Mr. Rhodes."

Cache of assault weapons, ammunition seized in Parsippany

2009-05-21T14:01:00.008-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., in conjunction with New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram, Esq., Statewide Director of Gangs, Guns and Violent Crime Control Strategies Jose Cordero, Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Parsippany Chief of Police Michael Peckerman announced today, May 21, 2009, the conclusion of a short term undercover gun investigation which was conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force in partnership with the Major Crimes Unit, Parsippany Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office. The investigation targeted an individual who had a cache of weapons in his residence.

The investigation is a continuing effort of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force, Major Crime Unit, Parsippany Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Department and the Morris County Park Police in accordance with Governor Jon S. Corzine's Strategy for Safe Streets and Neighborhoods, and at the Direction of Attorney General Anne Milgram and Director Jose Cordero.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Major Crime Unit in partnership with the Parsippany Police Department and Morris County Sheriff's Office engaged in an intelligence-led, data driven strategy. The partnering agencies worked in a collaborative effort to address this investigation.

On Thursday May 21, 2009 at approximately 12:15 a.m. heavily armed law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at the residence of Adam Coughlan located at 43 Roosevelt Avenue in the Lake Hiawatha section of Parsippany. As a result of the search warrant execution the following items were seized:

Numerous assault rifles and other high powered weapons
Numerous high capacity magazines
Thousands of rounds of ammunition

This operation resulted in the seizure of over 40 firearms many of which were loaded.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is currently working with the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as well as the New Jersey State Police and Morris County Sheriff's Office to determine if the seized weapons were used in any other violent crimes.

Arrested/Charges:

Adam Coughlan
43 Roosevelt Avenue, Lake Hiawatha, NJ
DOB: 06/30/1980

(3) counts Unlawful Possession of an Assault Firearm with a high capacity detachable magazine
Unlawful Possession of High-Capacity Magazines

BAIL: $200,000 cash/bond set by Judge John B. Dangler, JSC

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated: "This arrest again represents the benefits of pursuing an intelligence/community led policing strategy. Our collaborative partnership has resulted in the significant seizure of over 40 firearms. Within the past year, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office has removed from the streets of Morris County in excess of over 80 guns and assault firearms. This is in addition to numerous kilos of narcotics and sizable amounts of cash received from illegal activities.

The citizens of Morris County are safer today as a result of the efforts of these fine law enforcement personnel. This investigation is on-going and it will take us several days to sort through the voluminous amounts of evidence which was seized. Additional charges are anticipated."

New Jersey Attorney General Anne Milgram stated "This is another example of how important it is for law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, county and local levels to share information and resources and target the most dangerous suspects, I applaud Prosecutor Bianchi and the team he put together in this investigation in getting this cache of dangerous weapons off the streets."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

(For more information, please call Media Contact, Captain Jeffrey S. Paul at 973 285-6200.)

Smart policing solves Boonton jewelry store robbery

2009-05-04T16:34:00.008-04:00

MORRISTOWN: In a violent blur in the middle of the day, two armed, masked robbers rushed into the Park Jewelers in Boonton last month, shoving the store owner to the carpet and tying his hands.

In just minutes, the pair ransacked the shop, overturning trays, emptying the safe and stuffing their glittering take into a satchel. They disappeared into the streetscape that day with $135,000 in jewelry, leaving very little for the law to find them. Or so they thought.

A detective with a team of crime intelligence analysts with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and two tireless Boonton detectives knew otherwise.

One month after the crime, Boonton police and the prosecutor's staff collaborated, using institutional knowledge of street gangs and burglary activities to connect the dots of a complex case and arrest the alleged criminals.

The jewelry store owner was not injured during the April 2 robbery at 11:30 a.m. Some 28 days later, Boonton police got a tip that set the wheels in motion for a meeting with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force and Burglary Task Force.

Detectives and analysts shared information to make a solid connection to the suspects.

"This is exactly what I envisioned when we implemented both the Intelligence Crime Task Force and the Burglary Task Force. The information does not stay here. It gets evaluated, analyzed and put back into the hands of our municipal officers on the street. It is about a collaborative partnership. None of us can do this job ourselves. We need one another and this is an example of how 'intelligence-led policing' pays off in big ways." said Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi.

Boonton detectives Christian Trowbridge and Leroy Harris agreed. "The work they did definitely helped us. What we did in hours with their help would have taken us a much longer time."

The Intelligence Crime Task Force's partnership with Boonton police led to first-degree robbery charges against a 17-year-old juvenile and 32-year-old Jimmy St. Juste. The Boonton man was also charged with employing a minor in a criminal enterprise, criminal restraint, conspiracy to commit robbery and theft. He remains in the Morris County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.

The juvenile was additionally charged with conspiracy to commit robbery, theft and criminal restraint, and he remains in the Morris County Youth Detection Center.

Bianchi credited the efforts of his Intelligence Crime Task Force and Burglary Task Force staff along with the Boonton Police Department, and also noted that both the Dover and Randolph police played a role in the successful outcome. More arrests are expected, Bianchi said.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This report was filed by Agent Bill Swayze on May 4, 2009.

Kidnapping charges filed against alleged carjacker

2009-05-01T13:13:00.004-04:00

MORRISTOWN: A 21-year-old Morristown man was charged with first-degree kidnapping after authorities said he allegedly carjacked a woman at knifepoint last night, robbing her of $300 before she escaped from him at a Hanover gas station, Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said today.

Carlos Guaman also was charged with carjacking, robbery, aggravated assault and making terroristic threats following his arrest shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, authorities said, noting weapon possession charges also were filed.

Guaman and the 24 year old woman crossed paths at 8:30 p.m. Thursday night, when the victim was getting out of her new Lexus on Cattano Avenue in Morristown. Guaman approached and ordered her to drive him to an ATM. He brandished a large knife.

After they drove to Florham Park and she withdrew $300 from an ATM, she convinced the alleged carjacker she needed to get to a gas station because she was having motor vehicle problems.

But after she pulled into a Route 10 gas station, she ran from the vehicle into the station, locked the door and told the service station worker to call police.

When Hanover Township Patrolman Paul Jun arrived with other officers, Guaman was spotted walking away after pounding on the service station window, authorities said.

Prosecutor Bianchi credited the rapid response of the Hanover Township Police Department as well as the quick-thinking actions of the victim and gas station attendant, who quickly called 911.

Guaman remains in the Morris County Jail in lieu of $350,000 bail, authorities said.

Despite these pending charges every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Police look for sex assault suspect

2009-04-28T15:25:00.005-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Police are looking for an unidentified man who allegedly sexually assaulted a woman in Hanover Township on the side of a highway after abducting her from a street corner in Paterson, Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said today.

The 23-year-old woman was waiting for the bus at the intersection of Market and Main streets at approximately 5:00 a.m., Saturday, April 11, 2009, when the suspect approached her in a dark red or maroon colored four-door sedan and ordered her to get into the vehicle. The suspect told the victim that he had a gun. A firearm, however, was never exhibited by the suspect, Bianchi said.

The man drove onto the highway and eventually onto Route 287 south, where he pulled to the side of the road and subsequently sexually assaulted the woman. The victim was able to break free from the suspect and ran for help to a nearby residential neighborhood, Bianchi said.

The suspect is described as a dark skinned man, between 30 and 40 years old, with dark eyes. He was wearing a dark red or rust colored baseball cap, Bianchi said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200, Hanover Township Police Department at (973) 428-2512 or the Morris County Crime Stoppers Program at (973) 267-2255 or (973) COPCALL.