SEPTEMBER 2, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP OFFICER CLEARED IN FATAL SHOOTING
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
today announced that the Franklin Township police officer involved in
a fatal shooting on August 10, 2010 on Franklin Boulevard has been
cleared of any wrong-doing by a Somerset County Grand Jury following
presentation today of the evidence resulting from an exhaustive
investigation conducted by his office.
The incident occurred on August 10, 2010 at 8:45 p.m. when Franklin
Township police officers responded to a 9-1-1 call to a residence on
Franklin Boulevard for a domestic violence incident in progress. The
caller stated that her father was assaulting her mother. Franklin
Township Police dispatched officers to the scene who upon arrival
encountered the homeowner, identified as Arthur McDougald, age 60,
outside toward the rear of the residence. Mr. McDougald was upset at
just having been locked out of his residence by his wife and daughter.
The officers spoke to Mr. McDougald’s wife and after doing so advised
Mr. McDougald that he was being placed under arrest for domestic
violence. At this time he became angry and fled from the police. Mr.
McDougald ran to the front of the residence. While the officers
attempted to stop Mr. McDougald at the front of the residence, Mr.
McDougald drew a small caliber handgun. Upon producing his handgun and
pointing it directly at the officers, a 25-year veteran Franklin
Township police officer fired one round from his service weapon at Mr.
McDougald, striking him. Officers immediately began to administer
first aid to Mr. McDougald and requested Emergency Medical Technicians
who responded to the scene. Despite life-saving efforts, Mr. McDougald
was pronounced deceased at the scene. Following the shooting Mr.
McDougald’s wife told the officers that if the police did not respond
as they did, her husband (Arthur) might have used the gun on her or
her daughter. All three Franklin Township officers were transported to
a local hospital for medical evaluation where they were treated and
subsequently released.
Mr. McDougald’s weapon was recovered at the scene and subsequently
examined by a firearms expert employed by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office. The handgun, a North American Arms black handled
silver colored .22 caliber revolver, was found to be loaded with 3
live rounds of ammunition and it was found to be operable.
The Grand Jury determined that the officer acted in self defense once
Mr. McDougald pointed his firearm at the officers.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Franklin
Township Police Department, along with detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) and Forensics
Unit, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Shooting Response Team
and the New Jersey Northern Regional Medical Examiner’s Officer
responded to conduct the investigation.
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AUGUST 30, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP YIELDS SEIZURE OF
STEROIDS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce the
arrest of Todd Geoghan (26 YOA) of Cypress Lane in East Brunswick.
Defendant Geoghan has been charged with two counts of Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (steroids), 3rd degree and one count of
Possession of a Prescription Legend Drug, a Disorderly Persons
offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the arrest is the result of an
approximately one-month long narcotics investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force, along with the Franklin Township Police Department, U.S.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the U.S. Postal
Inspection Service.
Members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force received information from the U.S. Immigration
and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at Newark International Airport and the
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Unit that they intercepted a
package containing packets of two types of steroids - Oxandrogen and
Trenbolone Acetate - and generic Levitra that was being sent to
defendant Geoghan. Task Force members along with members of the
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Franklin Township Police
Department, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service then arranged for a
controlled delivery of the package.
The package was delivered to defendant Geoghan’s place of employment
in Franklin Township. Defendant Geoghan accepted and opened the
package. At that time, Task Force members approached defendant Geoghan
and placed him under arrest. The estimated street value of the seized
steroids is approximately $500.00.
Defendant Geoghan was released on his own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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AUGUST 25, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
UNDERCOVER NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS ONE ARREST
Somerville - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the arrest
of Megan Williams (24 YOA) of East Main Street in Somerville on August
24, 2010 after a four-month long narcotics investigation.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 26, 2010, defendant
Williams met with an undercover detective in the area of Easton Avenue
in Franklin Township where she sold a quantity of cocaine (under ½
ounce) to the undercover detective in exchange for U.S. currency.
On August 24, 2010, the undercover detective had contacted defendant
Williams, at which time they negotiated another narcotics sale.
Defendant Williams and the undercover detective arranged to meet on
Easton Avenue in New Brunswick at approximately 3:30 p.m. At that
time, defendant Williams was observed in the area of Easton Avenue and
was placed under arrest by members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force with the assistance of
the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force and
detectives from the New Brunswick Police Department. Upon searching
defendant Williams incident to her arrest, the police discovered three
plastic bag end knots containing cocaine.
As a result of this investigation, conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along
with the Somerville Police Department, defendant Williams was charged
with Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd
degree and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine),
3rd degree.
Defendant Williams was placed in the Somerset County Jail on August
24, 2010 with bail set at $10,000.00 with the 10% provision to apply
as per the Honorable John H. Pursel, P.J.Cr. of the Somerset County
Superior Court.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
ADDITIONAL CHARGES FILED AGAINST NEW YORK RESIDENT
LOUIS HULINGS
(CLICK TO ENLARGE IMAGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A.
Peter DeMarco, Jr. announces that upgraded criminal charges have been
filed against Louis Hulings, age 51 of Berkman Drive in Middletown,
New York, for sexual crimes committed upon a 14-year-old child known
to him in the course of a several-month period in 2008. Defendant
Hulings was charged by a Somerset County Grand Jury with one count of
Sexual Assault, 2nd degree and one count of Endangering the Welfare of
a Child, 2nd degree. The incidents occurred between April and August
of 2008 in Watchung, New Jersey.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Hulings was originally
charged in Indictment 10-05-00272-I, returned in May 2010 by a
Somerset County Grand Jury, with Endangering the Welfare of a Child,
3rd degree. Upon presentation of additional evidence to the Grand Jury
today, these new charges were returned. The defendant is currently out
on a bail of $50,000.00, with the 10% provision set on the original
charges by the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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AUGUST 24, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MANVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Manville Police Chief Mark Peltack announce that Robert J.
Wilson, age 43, of South 9th Avenue in Manville was arrested for
Aggravated Assault after an incident at his residence.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on August 21, 2010 at
approximately 11:24 p.m., Manville police officers responded to
defendant Wilson’s residence on a report of a domestic violence
incident involving a weapon. Upon arrival, police officers responded
to the rear of the residence and found defendant Wilson sitting on a
bench holding a hunting knife. For approximately fifteen minutes
police officers negotiated with the defendant to drop the knife and he
repeatedly verbally refused and requested that the officers shoot him.
The defendant then held the knife in front of him and began walking
aggressively toward a Manville officer. At this time, other Manville
officers tackled the defendant and forcibly removed the knife from his
hand as the defendant resisted being handcuffed. After a lengthy
struggle, the defendant was handcuffed and placed under arrest.
During the police investigation of the domestic violence incident it
was determined that the defendant earlier had physically assaulted T.W.
by hitting her in the head with a cooking pot, biting her leg and
throwing her bodily through a French door window.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Wilson has been
charged with Aggravated Assault, 2nd degree; Possession of a Weapon
for an Unlawful Purpose, 3rd degree; Unlawful Possession of a Weapon,
4th degree; Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons, 3rd degree; Resisting
Arrest, 3rd degree and Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement
Officer, 4th degree. Defendant Wilson was lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail set at $50,000.00 with the 10% provision to
apply by the Honorable Margaret Goodzeit, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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AUGUST 18, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
NEW YORK RESIDENT INDICTED FOR VEHICULAR HOMICIDE
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
announces that a Somerset County Grand Jury returned an Indictment
today charging Maurice A. Smith, age 37 of Patchogue, New York with
Vehicular Homicide, 2nd degree, Assault by Auto, 3rd degree, Driving
While Suspended and Causing Death, 3rd degree and Driving While
Suspended and Causing Serious Bodily Injury, 4th degree.
Prosecutor DeMarco said the Indictment resulted from the actions of
defendant on June 20, 2010. On that date, defendant was operating a
2009 Suzuki GSXR motorcycle on Route 78 eastbound in Bedminster New
Jersey at approximately 1:15 a.m. Defendant was traveling in excess of
100 miles per hour and had a blood alcohol content of .09 percent
weight by volume. As defendant was traveling in the left lane of the
highway, he moved to the center lane in an effort to pass a car that
was in front of him in the left lane of travel. Once defendant moved
to the center lane he struck a 2004 Harley Davidson motorcycle
operated by Paul M. Shelley, age 56 of Delta, Pennsylvania and
containing a passenger, Nicole C. Widener, age 45 of Stewartsville,
Pennsylvania.
As a result of striking the rear of the Shelley motorcycle, both
motorcycles fell to the roadway and all occupants were ejected. Mr.
Shelley suffered sever leg injuries and was treated at Morristown
Memorial Hospital for five days before being transferred to a hospital
in York, Pennsylvania for further treatment. Defendant was also
treated at Morristown Memorial Hospital for abrasions and released the
next day. Ms. Widener was struck by a vehicle after being thrown from
the Shelley motorcycle and as a result of her injuries, expired at the
scene.
The New Jersey State Police responded to the collision and detected an
odor of alcohol on defendant’s breath. A blood sample was drawn from
defendant at Morristown Memorial Hospital. The New Jersey State Police
Laboratory confirmed that defendant had a .09 percent weight by volume
amount of alcohol in his blood. It was also determined that defendant
was operating his motorcycle while his New Jersey driving privileges
were suspended.
This collision was investigated by the New Jersey State Police and the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office C.A.R. Team. Defendant is
currently out on bail of $50,000.00.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
FIVE CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH CARRIAGE PARK APARTMENT BUILDING FIRE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and Bound Brook
Acting Chief of Police Michael Jannone announced today that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Task Force, along
with members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad and detectives from the Bound Brook Police Department have
arrested five juveniles in connection with the fire that destroyed the
Carriage Park Apartment Building located at 100 Tea Street in Bound
Brook.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the incident occurred on Sunday,
August 15, 2010 at approximately7:19 p.m. when police and fire units
were dispatched to the Carriage Park Apartment Building and
encountered an active fire in the building’s third and fourth floors.
The Somerset County Arson Task Force responded to the scene and
conducted an origin and cause investigation that revealed that the
fire had multiple points of origin and was a result of a human act
involving the ignition of ordinary combustible materials. The Arson
Task Force was on scene for approximately ten (10) hours conducting
the origin and cause investigation. They were able to complete their
investigation even though they were placed in danger due to the
structure’s questionable stability. After determining that the fire
was arson, the investigation was then turned over to detectives from
the Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Bound Brook Police
Department for further investigation.
On August 16, 2010, two male juveniles from Bound Brook were arrested.
I.A. (age 10) and J.V. (age 12) were arrested and each has been
charged with one count of Arson, 3rd degree. The remaining three
juveniles, also from Bound Brook, S.R., a male juvenile, (age 12), G.Z.,
a male juvenile, (age 11) and G.C., a female juvenile, (age 12) were
each charged on August 17, 2010 with Arson, 3rd degree.
The investigation is ongoing. Acting Prosecutor DeMarco and Acting
Chief Jannone request anyone with information to contact the Bound
Brook Police Department at 732-356-0800, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
juveniles are presumed innocent until adjudicated delinquent.
THREE INDICTED AFTER POLICE SEIZE 1¾ KILOGRAMS OF COCAINE, $79,473.00
IN CASH AND A HANDGUN
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr
announces the indictments of defendants Roger Covil, Chris Hardley and
Keisha Hardley by the Somerset County Grand Jury. The indictment
stemmed from a narcotics investigation that began in the early morning
of Friday June 25, 2010 when the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Gangs and Guns Task Force received information that a kilogram of
cocaine was going to be delivered by a private carrier to an address
on Coventry Lane in Somerset, New Jersey. Detectives established
surveillance in the area of Coventry Lane and observed defendant Chris
Hardley circling the area in a vehicle. The package containing a
kilogram of cocaine was delivered and left leaning against the front
door of defendant Roger Covil’s residence. Police then observed
defendant Roger Covil arrive and walk toward his Coventry Lane
residence where the package had been delivered. Police observed
defendant Covil take possession of the package and briefly enter the
residence before attempting to walk out of the area carrying the
package. Police approached defendant Covil, who threw the package to
the ground and attempted to flee but was apprehended after a brief
foot pursuit. Defendant Hardley had parked his vehicle and began to
approach defendant Covil on foot after Covil retrieved the package.
Upon seeing the police arrest defendant Covil, defendant Hardley ran
to his vehicle and fled the area in his vehicle. Police followed
defendant Chris Hardley and arrested him a short distance away.
Police then executed Superior Court issued search warrants upon the
Coventry Lane residences of defendant Covil and defendants Chris
Hardley and Keisha Hardley. Inside defendant Covil’s residence police
seized U.S. currency in various denominations totaling $70,863.00.
Inside the bedroom of the residence of defendants Chris Hardley and
Kiesha Hardley police seized two safes. Police opened the safes and
found one to contain approximately 750 grams of cocaine and a scale,
and the other to contain U.S. Currency totaling $8,610.00 and a Colt
.45 caliber semi-automatic handgun.
Defendant Roger Covil (dob: 10/11/64, Coventry Lane, Franklin
Township) was indicted for 1st degree possession with intent to
distribute cocaine, 2nd degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled
dangerous substance, 4th degree resisting arrest by flight and
disorderly persons possession of drug paraphernalia. Defendant Chris
Hardley (dob: 12/17/67, Coventry Lane, Franklin Township) was indicted
for 1st degree possession with intent to distribute cocaine, 2nd
degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, 2nd
degree certain persons not to possess weapons, 2nd degree possession
of a handgun while violating 2C:35-5 and disorderly persons possession
of drug paraphernalia. Defendant Kiesha Hardley (dob: 12/7/72,
Coventry Lane, Franklin Township) was indicted for 1st degree
possession with intent to distribute cocaine and disorderly persons
possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail for defendant Roger Covil is
set at $250,000.00 cash only by the Hon. Margaret Goodzeit, J.S.C.
Defendant Kiesha Hardley’s bail is set at $100,000.00 cash or bond,
which she posted. Defendant Chris Hardley’s bail is set at $150,000.00
cash or bond, which he posted.
The street value of the cocaine seized in this case is approximately
$50,000.00.
The investigation was conducted with the assistance of the Somerset
County Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, the Franklin Township
Crime Suppression Unit, and the Franklin Township Detective Bureau,
the Hillsborough Township K-9 Unit, and the New Jersey State Police.
Special Deputy Attorney General Frank P. Kolodzieski, II handled the
case for the State.
NOTE: We are required by the Rules of Court to include
herein a statement explaining that the charges are merely an
accusation and that the defendants are presumed innocent until and
unless proven guilty
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AUGUST 11, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CALL LEADS TO FATAL POLICE SHOOTING
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick report that
a Franklin Township police officer was involved in a fatal shooting
which occurred on Tuesday evening, August 10, 2010 on Franklin
Boulevard, Somerset, New Jersey.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on August 10, 2010 at 8:45 p.m.
Franklin Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call to a residence on
Franklin Boulevard for a domestic violence incident in progress. The
caller stated that her father was assaulting her mother. Franklin
Township Police dispatched Officers to the scene who upon arrival
encountered the homeowner, identified as Arthur McDougald, age 60,
outside towards the rear of the residence. Mr. McDougald was upset at
just having been locked out of his residence by his wife and daughter.
The officers spoke to Mr. McDougald’s wife and after doing so advised
Mr. McDougald that he was being placed under arrest for domestic
violence. At that time he became angry and fled from the police. Mr.
McDougald ran to the front of the residence. While the Officers
attempted to stop Mr. McDougald at the front of the residence, Mr.
McDougald drew a small caliber handgun in his hand. Upon producing
this handgun and pointing it at the officers, a 25 year veteran
Franklin Township Police Officer fired one round from his service
weapon at Mr. McDougald striking him. Officers immediately began to
administer first aid to Mr. McDougald and requested Emergency Medical
Technicians who responded to the scene. Despite life saving efforts
Mr. McDougald was pronounced deceased at the scene. Following the
shooting three Franklin Township Police Officers were transported to a
local hospital for medical evaluation where they were treated and
subsequently released.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that Detectives from the Franklin
Township Police Department, along with Detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigations and Forensics Unit, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Shooting Response Team and the New
Jersey Northern Regional Medical Examiner’s Office responded to
conduct the investigation. An autopsy is scheduled to be performed by
the Medical Examiner’s Office on August 11, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Novick
states that the investigation is continuing and anyone with any
information is asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at (908) 231-7100, or the Franklin Township
Police Department at (732) 873-5533, or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers TIPS Line at 1-888 577-TIPS or online at www.888577tips.org
or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS
HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
2
ARRESTED IN MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP ARMED ROBBERY
VINCENT CAPUTO, JR.
KRYSTIN N. DONAHUE
(CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE)
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, and Montgomery Township Police Director Robert Palmer
announce that detectives from the Montgomery Township Police
Department in conjunction with detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad have arrested Vincent F. Caputo
Jr., age 20, of Kingsley Road, Kendall Park, New Jersey and Krystin N.
Donahue, age 24, of Falcongate Drive, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey
for an armed robbery which occurred on Symes Drive (Pike Run
Development), Montgomery Township, New Jersey on Monday, August 9,
2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Monday, August 9, 2010 at
approximately 6:45 p.m. Montgomery Township Police responded to a
reported armed robbery which occurred at approximately 6:00 p.m. on
Symes Drive in Montgomery Township. The victim, a 19 year old Belle
Mead resident reported to police that he along with another victim, an
18 year old Belle Mead resident met with defendants Caputo and Donahue
at a parking lot on Symes Drive. Both victims were instructed to enter
the rear seat of an orange Jeep vehicle which was being driven by
defendant Donahue. Defendant Donahue then proceeded to drive on Symes
Drive as defendant Caputo retrieved a folding knife out of his pants
and ordered the victims to empty their pockets. Defendant Caputo took
approximately $200 dollars in cash from the 19 year old victim and $28
dollars in cash from the 18 year old victim as well as a prescription
bottle containing prescription medication.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that after the robbery defendant
Donahue stopped the vehicle and defendant Caputo ordered both victims
out of the vehicle. Responding Montgomery police officers initiated a
county wide broadcast of the vehicle. The victims were able to provide
detectives with descriptions and vital information which subsequently
led to the identification and arrest of both defendants.
On Tuesday, August 10, 2010 detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad along with detectives from the
Montgomery Township Police Department and police officers from the
South Brunswick Police Department responded to a residence on
Falcongate Drive, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey where they located
defendants Caputo and Donahue. Both defendants were arrested without
incident. Detectives subsequently conducted a search of the residence
after being granted consent by the homeowner. Evidential items were
seized at defendant Donahue’s residence. Defendants Caputo and Donahue
were both charged with two counts of first degree robbery, two counts
of third degree Possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, and
two counts of fourth degree Unlawful possession of a weapon.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that Defendants Caputo and Donahue
were lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail set by the Honorable
Paul W. Armstrong J.S.C. at $100,000 cash only for each defendant.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Police Director
Palmer request anyone with information to contact the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100, or the
Montgomery Township Police Department at 908-359-3222, or the Somerset
County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
AUGUST 8, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
POLICE INVESTIGATE 2 EARLY MORNING SHOOTINGS IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
Somerville - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Acting Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad in conjunction with Franklin Township Police detectives are
investigating 2 separate shootings that occurred in the early morning
hours today in Franklin Township, New Jersey.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that at approximately 2:19 a.m.,
Franklin Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call regarding shots
being fired in the Holiday Inn hotel parking lot located on Davidson
Avenue. Responding police officers encountered several hundred people in the
parking and people 2 of whom needed medical attention. One victim, a
24 year old male from New Brunswick, N.J. was shot once in his left
thigh and the second victim, a 25 year old male from the Somerset
section of Franklin Township, N.J. had a broken left knee with
lacerations. Both victims were transported to a local hospital where
they were admitted and were listed in stable condition.
At approximately 3:54 a.m. Franklin Township Police received a phone
call from the New Brunswick Police Department advising that they were
contacted by a local hospital regarding a possible shooting victim who
was being treated at their facility. Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad detectives along with detectives from the
Franklin Township Police Department responded to the hospital. It was
ascertained that at approximately 3:15 a.m. the second shooting
occurred near the intersection of Rt.27 and Main Street in Franklin
Township. The victim, age 22 from New Brunswick was a front seat
passenger in a motor vehicle and was shot once in the left shoulder.
After being shot, the driver of the vehicle drove the victim to a
local hospital where the victim was admitted and listed in stable
condition.
The victims and witnesses in both incidents are not cooperating with
law enforcement authorities. The investigation is continuing.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco and Chief Novick request that anyone with
information pertaining to either shooting is asked to contact the
Franklin Township Police Department at (732) 873-5533, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at (908) 231-7100, or
the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477)
or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either
Crime Stoppers or TIPS HOTLINE. All calls are confidential.
Back
August 5, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
2 BRIDGEWATER TEENS ARRESTED FOR CAR BURGLARY
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Bridgewater Township Chief of Police Richard Borden
announce that Brian Johnston, age 18, of Chestnut Street, Bridgewater
Township, New Jersey and Douglas R. Uhler, age 18, of Vanderveer Road,
Bridgewater Township, New Jersey were charged on complaint on August
4, 2010 for Burglary, third degree, Conspiracy to Commit Buglary,
third degree and Theft, a disorderly persons offense. Those offenses
occurred on Oak Street in Bridgewater Township, New Jersey.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on July 31, 2010 at
approximately 3:39 a.m. Bridgewater Township Police received a 911
call from a neighbor regarding a fight in progress in the area of
Linden Street. Responding Bridgewater Police Officers observed two (2)
male individuals lying in the roadway who were later identified as
defendants Johnston and Uhler. The victims of the car burglary who
police identified as a 42 year old male and 38 year old female, Oak
Street residents, were also present. Officers were informed by the
victims that the suspects had broken into their vehicle. They were
awakened by the vehicle’s horn and observed that the interior light
had been activated. The male victim pursued the suspects onto Linden
Street where he was involved in a physical confrontation with both of
the defendants. Defendant Johnston was arrested at the scene and was
found to be in possession of items from the car burglary. Defendant
Uhler was unresponsive and the police officers immediately began CPR.
The Somerset Medical Center’s Mobile Intensive Care Unit along with
the Bradley Gardens Rescue Squad responded and transported defendant
Uhler to a local hospital for emergency treatment. Defendant Uhler
remains in critical condition.
Defendant Johnson was processed at the Bridgewater Township Police
Department Headquarters and released on his own recognizance.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Bridgewater
Township Police Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Unit responded to conduct the investigation which is
still ongoing. The investigation will remain open and will
subsequently be presented to a Grand Jury for any additional charges
on the parties involved.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Borden
request anyone with information to contact the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100, or the
Bridgewater Township Police Department at 908-722-4111, or the
Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or
online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either
“Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept
confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
FRANKLIN PARK MEN ARRESTED FOLLOWING MONTH LONG UNDERCOVER DRUG
INVESTIGATION
DANIEL LIGON
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr., Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman,
and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce the arrests
of Daniel Ligon (28 YOA) and Armando Whitener (22 YOA) both of Delar
Parkway in the Franklin Park section of Franklin Township, New Jersey.
Defendant Ligon has been charged with three counts of Distribution of
CDS (Heroin), 3rd degree and three counts of Distribution of CDS
(Heroin) while within 500 Feet of a Public Park, 2nd Degree. Defendant
Whitener has been charged with Resisting Arrest by Flight, 4th Degree;
and the disorderly persons offenses of Hindering Apprehension,
Possession of CDS (Marijuana) Under 50 Grams and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia.
On July 6, 2010, an undercover detective from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force met with
defendant Ligon in the area of Delar Parkway in Franklin Park. At that
time, the undercover detective purchased ten (10) bags of heroin from
defendant Ligon.
On July 12, 2010, the undercover detective again met with defendant
Ligon and negotiated another narcotics sale. At that time, in the area
of Delar Parkway in Franklin Park, defendant Ligon sold the undercover
detective another ten (10) bags of heroin.
On August 4, 2010, defendant Ligon met with the undercover detective
for a third time in the area of Delar Parkway in Franklin Park. At
that time, defendant Ligon sold the undercover detective twenty (20)
bags of heroin. At the culmination of this drug transaction, members
of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force, along with detectives and uniformed officers of
the Franklin Township Police Department, arrested defendant Ligon. All
three drug transactions occurred within 500 feet of Delar Park.
While the Task Force members were arresting defendant Ligon, they
approached another individual standing in the immediate area who was
later identified as defendant Whitener. Task Force members identified
themselves as police officers with their police badges exposed by raid
chains suspended from their necks. Defendant Whitener immediately
began to run from the Task Force members. As defendant Whitener fled,
detectives observed him throw two (2) small plastic bags of marijuana
and an empty plastic bag tied in a knot onto the ground. After a foot
pursuit, Task Force members were able to apprehend defendant Whitener
and place him under arrest. The Task Force then recovered one (1)
additional bag of marijuana on the sidewalk where Whitener was
arrested.
Defendant Ligon was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to be
set and defendant Whitener was released on his own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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AUGUST 3, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
LARGE DRUG SEIZURE NETS ARREST OF 2 PLAINFIELD
RESIDENTS
ROBERT TANNER
JOSEPH TANNER
(CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce the
arrest of defendants Robert Tanner (54 YOA), Joseph Tanner (64 YOA)
both of Monroe Avenue in Plainfield, New Jersey and Odell Allen (57
YOA) of Marc Drive, North Brunswick, New Jersey.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that in June 2010 the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force and the Franklin Township
Crime Suppression Unit received information that defendant Robert
Tanner was distributing large amounts of heroin, crack cocaine, and
powdered cocaine throughout Somerset County.
Acting on the information received, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Narcotics Task Force was able to introduce an undercover
detective to defendant Robert Tanner. The undercover detective
purchased under a half ounce of cocaine from defendant Robert Tanner
on four separate occasions during the months of June and July. The
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force subsequently
obtained a search warrant from a Superior Court Judge sitting in
Somerville, New Jersey for the person of defendant Robert Tanner, his
residence and outbuildings located on his property on Monroe Avenue,
Plainfield, New Jersey and the two vehicles defendant Tanner utilized
during the investigation.
At approximately 2 P.M. on August 3, 2010, members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force and the Franklin
Township Police Crime Suppression Unit observed defendant Robert
Tanner in a Toyota Camry on Dunham Avenue in Franklin Township. As
detectives approached the vehicle to execute the search warrant,
detectives observed defendant Robert Tanner place something in his
mouth which detectives later determined to be three bags of cocaine.
Police officers subsequently gained control of defendant Robert Tanner
and arrested him at that time. Also in the vehicle with defendant
Robert Tanner was defendant Allen, who was found to be a Fugitive from
Justice, wanted for a Violation of Probation on Possession of CDS, 3rd
Degree and Hindering Prosecution, 4th Degree all charges originating
out of Somerset County Superior Court.
Somerset County Task Force detectives subsequently responded to Monroe
Avenue in Plainfield and executed the search warrant on defendant
Robert Tanner’s residence and outbuildings located on his property.
Members of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Strike Force
and members of the Plainfield Police Department, who assisted in the
investigation, also responded to assist in the execution of the search
warrant. As a result of the search, a large amount of crack cocaine,
powdered cocaine, and heroin were located in three separate mens socks
in the residence. Detectives were granted permission by defendant
Robert Tanner to search a third vehicle at the Monroe Avenue location,
and four additional mens socks containing a large amount of crack
cocaine, powdered cocaine, and heroin were found inside the third
vehicle. Defendant Joseph Tanner was located in a garage on the rear
of the property. As a result of the search of the garage, a backpack
containing drug paraphernalia associated with cooking crack cocaine
and other items used to package and stamp heroin (boxes of wax folds,
heroin bag stampers, heat sources, mixing spoons, and measuring cups)
were seized.
The total amount of crack cocaine and powdered cocaine seized in the
investigation was over six (6) ounces, with an estimated street value
of $13,000.00. A total of 1,000 decs of heroin, with an estimated
street value of $10,000 was also seized. Task Force members also
seized two motor vehicles and over $7,500.00 in cash as result of the
search warrants.
Defendant Robert Tanner was charged with Possession of More than 5
ounces of Cocaine With The Intent to Distribute, 1st Degree,
Possession of Over ½ Ounce of Heroin With The Intent to Distribute,
2nd Degree, Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, 2rd degree and
Distribution of Cocaine, 3rd Degree. Defendant Joseph Tanner was
charged with Possession of More Than 5 Ounces of Cocaine With The
Intent to Distribute, 1st Degree, Possession of Over ½ Ounce of Heroin
With The Intent to Distribute, 2nd Degree, and Conspiracy to
Distribute Cocaine, 2rd degree. Defendant Odell Allen was arrested on
an outstanding Fugitive Warrant.
Defendants Robert Tanner and Joseph Tanner were lodged in the Somerset
County Jail. Bail was set for both defendants by the Honorable John H.
Pursel, P.J.Cr. at $150,000 cash or bond. Odell Allen was lodged as a
result of his outstanding warrants.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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AUGUST 2, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
POLICE INVESTIGATE MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP HOME INVASION
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, and Montgomery Township Police Director Robert E. Palmer
announce that detectives from the Montgomery Township Police
Department in conjunction with detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit are actively investigating a
home invasion robbery which occurred at a residence located on South
Wiggins Lane, Montgomery Township, New Jersey.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that at approximately 5:47 a.m. this
morning Montgomery Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call received
from a homeowner reporting that she was robbed inside her residence.
Montgomery Township Police Officers responded to the residence and met
with the victim, age 67, who was unharmed. The victim reported to
police that while sleeping in her bedroom she was awakened by an
unknown male intruder who subsequently ordered the victim to give him
money and jewelry. The victim complied with the intruder’s demands by
handing him an undisclosed amount of money and jewelry. The intruder
then ordered the homeowner into a bedroom closet as he fled from the
residence in an unknown direction of travel.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Police Director
Palmer request that if anyone saw anything suspicious, such as
individuals or vehicles on or around South Wiggins Way this morning to
contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at
908-231-7100, or the Montgomery Township Police Department at
908-359-3222, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will
be kept confidential.
BOUND BROOK MAN
ARRESTED FOR KIDNAPPING
MIGUEL GARZON, Jr.
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, and Acting Bound Brook Chief of Police Michael Jannone
announce the arrest of Miguel Garzon Jr., age 23, of West High Street,
Bound Brook, New Jersey for the kidnapping of a 13 year old Bound
Brook male.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at
approximately 1:00 a.m., Bound Brook Police Officers responded to a
residence located on West High Street on a report of a possible
kidnapping. Upon arrival police officers learned that a witness had
observed what appeared to be two individuals fighting on the front
lawn of a West High Street residence, and then observed one of the
individuals being forced into a car. While the police officers were
investigating, the reported victim, a 13 year old Bound Brook
resident, arrived and denied being kidnapped. The 13 year old boy
stated that he had gone for a walk with his girlfriend.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Sunday, August 1, 2010, at
approximately 7:00 p.m. the 13 year old male along with his parents
responded to the Bound Brook Police Department Headquarters and
reported that he had in fact been assaulted and taken by force from
his home by defendant Garzon, who is known to the victim. The victim
reported that defendant Garzon grabbed him by his arm and told him,
“you’re coming with me”, and punched him about the head and face
before forcing the victim into the backseat of a vehicle.
The victim reported being driven to a residence on Fairview Avenue,
Bound Brook, New Jersey where defendant Garzon then forced him into
the basement.
Once inside, defendant Garzon continued to assault the victim and
began to question him about an alleged incident involving defendant
Garzon’s niece. The victim reported that he was eventually led back
outside the residence, placed in the same vehicle, and dropped off
approximately four blocks from his residence. The victim then walked
home but misled police Officers initially for fear of retaliation.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Bound Brook
Police Department in conjunction with detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit responded to conduct the
investigation. Detectives subsequently located and interviewed
Defendant Garzon who was arrested without incident and charged with
second degree Kidnapping. Defendant Garzon was lodged at the Somerset
County Jail with bail to be set.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Acting Chief
Jannone request anyone with information to contact the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100, or the Bound
Brook Police Department at 732-356-0800, or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JULY 30, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
WOMAN INDICTED FOR PRACTICING UNLICENSED DENTISTRY AND UNLAWFUL
POSSESSION OF PRESCRIPTION LEGEND DRUGS
MARIA MEDEL
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr., announces that
defendant Maria Medel of Mountain Avenue in Bound Brook has been
indicted for Unlawful Practice of Dentistry, 3rd Degree and the
Unlawful Possession of Prescription Legend Drugs, 4th Degree (two
counts).
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Special Investigations Unit received a referral from the Bound
Brook Police Department that an unlicensed dentist was practicing in
the Borough of Bound Brook. The Bound Brook Police Department was
alerted by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, Division of
Consumer Affairs. The Division of Consumer Affairs was conducting an
investigation into the individual who was only identified as “Maria.”
A joint investigation was initiated by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit, Bound Brook Police
Detective Bureau and the Division of Consumer Affairs Enforcement
Bureau.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the investigation determined
that the individual named “Maria” was identified as defendant Medel.
The investigative team discovered that she was operating this
makeshift dentist office out of a room she rented in a residential
home on LaMonte Avenue in Bound Brook. It was revealed that defendant
Medel would then perform dental work for paying customers that came
to see her for dental services. An undercover detective made an
appointment with defendant Medel who preformed a consultation related
to work that she would perform on the undercover detective at a later
date.
The investigative team executed search warrants on defendant Medel’s
dental office and residence both located in Bound Brook, and recovered
various items used for dentistry such as dental drills, dental tools,
a dental chair and numerous dental molds as well as other commonly
used dental instruments. Detectives also seized in excess of five
dosages of two types of prescription Legend drugs, i.e., 17 carpules
of Mepivacaine Hydrochloride and 160 carpules of Xylocaine.
The investigation revealed that defendant Medel is not licensed in the
State of New Jersey to practice dentistry according to New Jersey
Division of Consumer Affairs.
Special Deputy Attorney General Frank P. Kolodzieski, II presented the
case to the Grand Jury.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JULY 29, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MANVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR AGGRAVATED ASSAULT AND WEAPONS OFFENSES
JUSTIN D. LEVINE
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Manville Police Chief Mark A. Peltack announce the arrest
of Justin D. Levine (22 YOA) of South 13th Avenue in Manville for an
aggravated assault which occurred on Wednesday, July 28, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at
8:49 p.m., the Bridgewater Township Police Department received a
cellular 9-1-1 call reporting a fight in progress at a residence
located on South 13th Avenue, Manville. Bridgewater Township Police
dispatchers notified the Manville Police Department who responded and
found the victim, a 22 year old male, who was suffering from a
laceration on his face near his right eye and a possible broken nose.
The victim immediately identified his attacker as Justine D. Levine
who had fled from the scene prior to the arrival of the responding
Manville Police Officers. The victim informed officers that defendant
Levine had attacked him from behind, punched him about the head, and
then tackled him onto the living room couch. The victim stated that as
he landed on the couch he observed a silver bladed kitchen knife in
one of defendant Levine’s hands while he was continuously being
punched in the face. The victim was able to escape from the residence
and dial 9-1-1 from a cellular phone. Detectives from the Manville
Police Department responded to initiate an investigation. The Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad was also contacted and
responded to assist in the investigation.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the victim was transported to a
local hospital where he received emergency treatment for his injuries
which were considered non-life threatening and he was subsequently
released.
Detectives were subsequently able to contact defendant Levine by
telephone who agreed to turn himself into the Manville Police
Headquarters. At approximately 2:10 a.m. on Thursday, July 29, 2010,
defendant Levine turned himself in at the Manville Police Department
where he was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault, 3rd degree;
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, 3rd degree and
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 4th degree. A warrant check also
revealed an active $2,500.00 warrant from Bridgewater Municipal Court
for failure to appear. Defendant Levine was lodged at the Somerset
County Jail with bail to be set.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Peltack
request anyone with information to contact the Manville Police
Department at 908-725-1900, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein
a statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 28, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MATAWAN FEMALE COUNSELOR ARRESTED FOR AGGRAVATED SEXUAL ASSAULT
JAYSI RODRIGUEZ
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
and Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman announce the arrest of Jaysi Rodriguez, age 31, of Oak
Knoll Drive, Matawan, NJ for the sexual assault of a 15 year old
female which occurred at a NJ Mentor Program residential home located
in Franklin Township. Defendant Rodriguez was employed as a Youth
Counselor at the home and was responsible for the supervision of the
victim. Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the victim told
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor Office that defendant
Rodriguez had performed oral sex and digital penetration upon her
between 8/13/2009 and 2/13/2010 when she was 15 years old. The victim
also stated that Rodriguez provided her with prescription medication.
The allegations were reported to the Somerset County Prosecutor's
Office by the Institutional Abuse Investigation Unit of the N J
Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS).
Defendant Rodriguez has been charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault,
1st degree, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 2nd degree and
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, 3rd degree.
Defendant Rodriquez was lodged in the Somerset County Jail. Bail was
set by the Honorable John H. Pursel, P.J.Cr. at $150,000 cash or bond
with the condition that the defendant Rodriguez is not to have contact
with the victim.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 27, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
MANVILLE NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS COCAINE SEIZURE AND THREE
ARRESTS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Manville Police Chief Mark Peltack announce the arrests of
Jose Crespo (59 YOA); Peggy Van Fleet (44 YOA); and Cristian Portillo
(35 YOA), all of whom reside on Kennedy Boulevard in Manville.
Defendants Crespo, Van Fleet, and Portillo all have been charged with
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the
Intent to Distribute, 3rd degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,
a disorderly persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the arrests are the result of a
two-month narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along
with members of the Manville Police Department. As a result of the
ongoing narcotics investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court
Search Warrant was obtained for the defendants’ residence as well as
for defendants Crespo and Van Fleet. At approximately 5:45 p.m. on
July 26, Task Force members along with detectives of the Manville
Police Department executed the Search Warrant. During the execution of
the search warrant, detectives located defendants Crespo and Van Fleet
in the residence, while defendant Portillo was found outside the
residence in the yard. Police officers searched the residence and
seized a plastic bag containing fourteen (14) individually wrapped
bags of cocaine, a suspected cutting agent, and U.S. currency in the
amount of eight hundred five dollars ($805.00). Defendants Crespo, Van
Fleet and Portillo were all arrested and charged with 3rd degree
possession with intent to distribute cocaine and disorderly persons
possession of drug paraphernalia.
The cocaine seized from the residence has an estimated street value of
approximately $1,500.00.
Defendants Crespo, Van Fleet, and Portillo all were lodged in the
Somerset County Jail pending bail to be set.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
ALTERNATE ROUTE ORIENTATION ON SEPTEMBER 8, 2010
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
and Somerset County Police Academy Director, Dr. Richard Celeste
announce that the Somerset County Police Academy will be conducting an
orientation for potential candidates in the Basic Police Recruit
Alternate Route Program. The program allows civilians to enter police
recruit training on their own without first being employed by a police
agency.
The Somerset County Police Academy was the first academy in the State
to offer such a program in 1993. The Somerset County Police Academy’s
Basic Police Alternate Route Program is certified by the New Jersey
Police Training Commission.
Candidates who are selected are enrolled directly into the 24-week
training cycle at the Police Academy, which is one of the longest and
most comprehensive in the State and can be best described as a blend
of military and college training. The environment is very challenging
and requires a commitment to excellence. During the training process,
recruits are taught in over 120 subjects to include: Police
Professionalism; Criminal Justice Systems; Criminal Law; Arrest,
Search and Seizure; Communications; Emergency Driving; Emergency
Medical Training; Firearms; Self-Defense; Patrol Practices; Motor
Vehicle Law; Accident Investigation; Criminal Investigation and
Physical Fitness.
Since its inception in 1987, the Somerset County Police Academy
developed a reputation for providing quality training in all topical
areas. Over 1600 police recruits have been trained at the Academy and
over 22,000 individuals have been trained in a variety of law
enforcement continuing education related topics. The Police Academy is
operated by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office in conjunction
with Raritan Valley Community College and law enforcement authorities
in Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset and Warren Counties.
Scholarships are available for those individuals with economic need.
Those applying will be presented with the particulars concerning the
scholarship opportunity. Do not let finances preclude you from
attending if law enforcement is your goal!
The requirements for all candidates include that you must be a
Somerset, Hunterdon, Middlesex or Warren County resident, possess at
least 60 college credits from an accredited college or university, as
recognized by Raritan Valley Community College, or possess two years
of full time active military duty or a combination of college and
military that equals two years, no criminal record, be at least 18
years of age and a citizen of the United States, possess a valid New
Jersey Driver’s license, have a good driving record and be in good
physical condition.
Candidates will have the opportunity to pre-register for the written
test from now until August 27, 2010 when registrations will no longer
be accepted. Pre-registration is done by completing the registration
form on the Somerset County Police Academy website. The Registration
forms and a $50.00 money order must be received at the Police Academy
by August 27, 2010 by 3:00pm. Money orders are made payable to
Somerset County Police Academy. No personal checks or cash will be
accepted. Registration and money orders may be either mailed or
hand-delivered to the Academy.
Mandatory Orientation will be held on Wednesday, September 8, 2010 at
6:00 PM at the Somerset County Police Academy located on the campus of
Raritan Valley Community College in North Branch, New Jersey at the
corner of Lamington Road and Route 28. The program will be held in the
Grand Conference Room in the Conference Center (Building # 11). The
written test is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, September 16, 2010
in the same room.
Individuals wishing to go to the Orientation for informational
purposes will be allowed to attend but pre-registration is required to
sit for the written test. There will be one police class scheduled for
2011.
Directions to the Academy and further information about the Alternate
Route Program can be obtained through the Raritan Valley Community
College Website, www.raritanval.edu/police , and clicking on recruit
training.
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JULY 23, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION IN WARREN TOWNSHIP LEADS TO ROBBERY CHARGE
AGAINST SUSPECT
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Warren Township Police Chief Russell Leffert announce the
arrest of defendant Daniel Yusim (18 YOA) of Geiger Lane in Warren.
Defendant Yusim was charged with Robbery, 2nd degree; Possession of
Brass Knuckles, 4th degree and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (marijuana) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, both of
which are disorderly persons offenses.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on July 22, 2010 members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime & Narcotics Task
Force along with members of the Warren Township Police Department were
conducting a narcotics investigation in the area of Whispering Way and
Geiger Lane in the Township of Warren. Information was received that
defendant Yusim was going be in possession of a quantity of marijuana
in the area of Whispering Way and Geiger Lane which he intended to
sell. As a result of receiving this information, members of the Task
Force established surveillance in the area.
After establishing surveillance, defendant Yusim was observed standing
on the corner of Whispering Way and Geiger Lane. At this time, an
undercover Task Force officer, posing as a marijuana buyer, approached
defendant Yusim. Upon seeing the undercover detective, defendant Yusim
walked towards the detective and pushed him. After the undercover
detective was pushed, the undercover detective and other Task Force
officers in the area identified themselves as police officers and
arrested defendant Yusim. A search of defendant revealed brass
knuckles in his pocket.
Further investigation revealed that Defendant Yusim did not have
marijuana to sell, but instead defendant Yusim planned the robbery of
the potential buyer and intended to utilize the proceeds from that
robbery for his personal use. Some of his intended uses of the
proceeds from the robbery included purchasing narcotics, cigarettes,
and a vehicle.
Task Force members and members of the Warren Township Police
Department subsequently obtained consent to search defendant Yusim’s
bedroom located in his residence. As a result of the search, Task
Force members seized one (1) small Ziploc bag containing marijuana and
drug paraphernalia (rolling papers and empty Ziploc bags).
Defendant Yusim was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to be
set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 20, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
BRONX RESIDENT PLEADS GUILTY TO AGGRAVATED SEXUAL ASSAULT
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
announces that on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, Issakah Giwah (29 YOA) of
Olinville Avenue, Bronx, New York pled guilty to an indictment
charging Aggravated Sexual Assault, 1st degree and Endangering the
Welfare of a Child, 3rd degree. The assaults occurred between 2005 and
2006, when defendant was temporarily residing in the victim’s home in
Franklin Township, Somerset County. The victim was between five and
six years of age. For reasons unrelated to the sexual assault in
November, 2006, the victim’s family asked the defendant to permanently
leave their home. Shortly thereafter, the victim told her mother that
defendant had been engaging her in sexual intercourse while her mother
and father were at work. Defendant Giwah was charged with first degree
aggravated sexual assault. Members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office located defendant Giwah in the State of New York and extradited
him from New York and lodged him in the Somerset County Jail, where he
has remained since August, 2009.
Pursuant to the terms of the plea agreement, the defendant faces up to
eight years in New Jersey State Prison, with eighty-five percent of
his prison term to be served without parole. Defendant must also
register as a sex offender under Megan’s Law. Upon his release from
prison, defendant will receive parole
supervision for life. Defendant is also subject to deportation
proceedings upon completion of his prison term, as he is not a legal
resident of the United States. Special Deputy Attorney General Merrill
Mezzacappa prosecuted the case on behalf of the State of New Jersey.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 29, 2010.
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JULY 15, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MANVILLE MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF A FIREARM AND NARCOTICS
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, and Manville Police Chief Mark Peltack announce the arrest of
Darrick Daughtry (33 YOA) of North Second Avenue in Manville.
Defendant Daughtry has been charged with Certain Persons Not to Have
Weapons, 2nd degree; Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(cocaine), 3rd degree; Possession of a Defaced Firearm, 4th degree and
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense. The
arrest is the result of a one-month long narcotics investigation
conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force along with the Manville Police Department.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that as a result of the ongoing
narcotics investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court Search
Warrant was obtained for the residence of defendant Daughtry. On July
14, 2010, at approximately 9:45 p.m., Task Force members and Manville
detectives and officers executed the Search Warrant on Daughtry’s
residence. Task Force members secured the residence and discovered a
defaced Colt 38 caliber revolver, a digital scale, numerous plastic
baggies and a plastic baggie containing cocaine residue inside the
residence. Defendant Daughtry, who was located inside the residence
during the search, was placed under arrest. A consent to search was
obtained for a rental car located in front of the residence that
defendant Daughtry had been observed operating during the
investigation. Seized from the vehicle was one plastic baggie of
cocaine located inside a cigarette pack.
Defendant Daughtry was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to
be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JULY 14, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
POLICE IDENTIFY DECEASED FEMALE LOCATED AT SOMERSET HOTEL
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce
that detectives from the Franklin Township Police Department, in
conjunction with detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad, have identified the body of the female who
was discovered deceased at the Crowne Plaza hotel located on Davidson
Avenue in Somerset on Wednesday morning, July 14, 2010 as Lynn Barrow,
age 50, of Deerfield Road in Somerset.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that at approximately 7:35 a.m.,
Franklin Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call reported by a
Crowne Plaza Hotel employee who stated that he had been informed by a
hotel guest that the body of an unresponsive female was observed lying
face down on the third floor roof top of the hotel. Franklin Township
police officers responded to the hotel where the female body was
discovered. Emergency Medical Technicians from the Somerset Medical
Center responded and pronounced Ms. Barrow as deceased at 7:59 a.m.
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the
Franklin Township Police Department responded to conduct the
investigation, along with personnel from the New Jersey Northern
Regional Medical Examiners Office, Newark, New Jersey. The decedent
was subsequently identified as a guest of the hotel staying in a room
on the 11th floor. Preliminary investigation has determined that Ms.
Barrow’s death is an apparent suicide. A post-mortem examination will
be performed by the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause
and manner of death.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman and Chief Novick
request anyone with information to contact the Franklin Township
Police Department at 732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
BOUND BROOK MEN ARRESTED FOLLOWING A MONTH-LONG
UNDERCOVER NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Acting Bound Brook Police Chief Michael Jannone announce
the arrests of Joseph Lonnie Stackhouse and Carl Giner on July 13,
2010 after a two-month long narcotics investigation.
As a result of this investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along
with the Bound Brook Police Department, defendant Joseph Stackhouse
(56 YOA) of Talmage Avenue in Bound Brook was charged with 3 counts of
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd
degree; 3 counts of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(cocaine) while within 1000 Feet of School Property, 3rd degree; 3
counts of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)
while within 500 Feet of a Public Park, 2nd degree; Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with Intent to Distribute,
3rd degree; Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)
with the Intent to Distribute while within 500 Feet of a Public Park,
2nd degree; and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute while within 1000 Feet of
School Property, 3rd degree.
Defendant Carl Giner (54 YOA) of Talmage Avenue in Bound Brook was
charged with Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(cocaine), 3rd degree; Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (cocaine) while within 1000 Feet of School Property, 3rd
degree and Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)
while within 500 Feet of a Public Park, 2nd degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 29, 2010, defendant
Stackhouse and defendant Giner met with an undercover detective on
Talmage Avenue in Bound Brook where they sold a quantity of cocaine
(under one half (1/2) ounce) in exchange for US currency to the
undercover detective. After purchasing the initial cocaine from
defendant Stackhouse, defendant Carl Giner handed the undercover
detective an additional quantity of cocaine (under one half (1/2)
ounce) culminating the initial sale.
On July 7, 2010, the undercover detective had further contact with
defendant Stackhouse at which time they negotiated another narcotics
sale. Defendant Stackhouse met with the undercover detective again on
Talmage Avenue in Bound Brook where he sold a quantity of cocaine
(under one half (1/2) ounce) in exchange for US currency to the
undercover detective.
On July 13, 2010, the undercover detective had further contact with
defendant Stackhouse at which time they negotiated another narcotics
sale. Defendant Stackhouse met with the undercover detective on
Talmage Avenue in Bound Brook where he sold a quantity of cocaine
(under one half (1/2) ounce) in exchange for US currency to the
undercover detective. At this time, detectives from Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along
with detectives and officers from the Bound Brook Police Department
arrested defendant Stackhouse. At the time of defendant Stackhouse’s
arrest, Task Force members seized fifteen (15) plastic baggie end
knots containing cocaine from his hand.
Task Force members subsequently located defendant Giner on Talmage
Avenue in Bound Brook and placed him under arrest without incident.
These undercover narcotics transactions all occurred within 1000 feet
of the Green Brook Academy and within 500 feet of West Main Street
Park. The cocaine seized during this investigation has a street value
of approximately five hundred dollars ($500.00).
Defendant Stackhouse was placed in the Somerset County Jail with bail
set at $50,000.00 cash only by the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C.,
and defendant Giner was placed in the Somerset County Jail with bail
to be set.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JULY 12, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
BEDMINSTER RESIDENT ARRESTED FOR BERNARDSVILLE ASSAULT
ELVIN A. HERNANDEZ
(CLICK TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, Bernardsville Borough Chief of Police Kevin Valentine, and
Bernards Township Chief of Police Brian Bobowicz announce the arrest
of Elvin A. Hernandez, age 31 of Klines Mill Road in Bedminster for an
assault which occurred on Old Colony Road in Bernardsville.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Monday July 12, 2010 at 3:39
a.m., Bernardsville Police received a 9-1-1 call by the homeowner, age
25,of Old Colony Road in Bernardsville reporting an assault of her and
a male friend, a 25 year old Gladstone resident. The homeowner stated
that they were being attacked by defendant Elvin A. Hernandez, a male
acquaintance, who had apparently broken into the residence in the
homeowner’s absence.
Defendant Hernandez fled prior to the arrival of responding officers.
Upon arrival, officers were given a detailed description of defendant
Hernandez, to include that defendant Hernandez was bleeding from a
self-inflicted injury resulting from his efforts to break back into
the home after an initial physical confrontation with the victims
inside the residence. The male victim was able to force defendant
Hernandez out through the front doorway during the initial assault but
defendant Hernandez forced his way back in moments later by breaking
through the rear door and once again attacking both victims. Defendant
Hernandez took a kitchen knife and forced the homeowner into the first
floor bathroom, where he verbally threatened to kill both victims.
Both victims were able to escape and seek refuge in a second-floor
bedroom where they called the police.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the
Bernardsville Police Department, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) and Forensics Unit were contacted
and responded to conduct the investigation. Bernardsville police
additionally contacted the following agencies for assistance: the
Readington Township Police K-9 Unit, the Somerset County Sheriff’s
Office K-9 Unit, the Bernards Township Police Department, the
Bedminster Township Police Department, the Harding Township Police
Department, the Bernardsville First Aid Squad and the Bernardsville
Fire Department.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that at approximately 5:08 a.m. a
Bernards Township police officer located defendant Hernandez in Olcott
Square on Anderson Hill Road in Bernardsville. The officer was
travelling on Anderson Hill Road when she observed a shirtless male
walking down the library stairs who matched the description of the
suspect. The officer apprehended defendant Hernandez without incident.
Defendant Hernandez was suffering from cuts on his arm and his blue
jeans were covered in blood. Defendant Hernandez was transported to
Morristown Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries and was
released back into police custody where he was transported and
processed at the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office. The injuries
sustained by both victims were minor and were treated by the
Bernardsville First Aid Squad.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Hernandez was charged
with Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, 3rd degree; two
counts of Terroristic Threats, 3rd degree; two counts of Burglary, 3rd
degree and two counts of Assault, both disorderly persons offenses.
Defendant Hernandez was lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail
to be set. Detectives notified the Department of Homeland Security,
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.). Defendant Hernandez is a
citizen of Honduras and an Immigration detainer was issued. An
investigation will be initiated to determine whether defendant
Hernandez is subject to removal/deportation from the United States.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, Chief Valentine and
Chief Bobowicz request anyone with information to contact the
Bernardsville Borough Police Department at 908-766-0037, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100, or the
Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or
online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either
“Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JUNE 30, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP RESIDENT ARRESTED FOR AGGRAVATED SEXUAL ASSAULT AND
ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announced the
arrest of Luis Rodriguez, age 18, of Berry Street in Franklin
Township. The alleged victim is a 12-year-old female, known to
Rodriguez, also from Franklin Township. The arrest occurred on June
29, 2010 within the Township of Franklin. The victim’s mother reported
to the Franklin Township Police on June 10, 2010 that her daughter had
been sexually assaulted. The victim disclosed in a statement to the
police that defendant Rodriguez had sexually assaulted her in Franklin
Township between April, 2010 and June, 2010.
Defendant Rodriguez has been charged with one count of Aggravated
Sexual Assault, 1st degree and one count of Endangering the Welfare of
a Child, 3rd degree and was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with
bail to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JUNE 29, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
FRANKLIN PARK MAN ARRESTED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ENDANGERING THE
WELFARE OF A CHILD
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce
the arrest of Adam Vitale, age 21, of Vermont Avenue in Franklin Park,
for the assault of a 13 year old Monmouth Junction resident which
occurred on the grounds of the Franklin Park Middle School in Franklin
Park, New Jersey, just after midnight on Sunday, June 27, 2010. The
victim’s mother reported to the Franklin Township Police on Sunday,
June 27, 2010 that her daughter had been sexually assaulted.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the victim told Franklin
Township detectives that she had sexual intercourse with defendant
Vitale. The victim in the assault was examined at a local hospital and
released.
Defendant Vitale has been charged with Sexual Assault, 2nd degree and
Endangering the Welfare of a Child, 3rd degree and was lodged in the
Somerset County Jail with bail to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
DISPOSITION OF JUVENILE WHO PLED GUILTY IN BRIDGEWATER HIGH SCHOOL
THREAT CASE
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
states that on June 29, 2010, juvenile K.L., who pleaded guilty to
offenses stemming from a threat made to the Bridgewater High School
Resource Officer in December 2009, appeared before the Hon. Julie M.
Marino, J.S.C., in Somerset County Family Court, for disposition on
charges of Attempt to Cause Widespread Injury or Damage, 2nd degree
and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (Explosive Device), 4th degree.
Pursuant to the plea agreement and disposition, juvenile K.L. was
ordered to serve three years at the New Jersey Training School for
Boys in Jamesburg and to be placed on probation for a period of three
years after his release. The disposition permits K.L. to petition the
Court for transfer to a secure treatment facility in the event that an
appropriate facility is located by entities involved in the treatment
of K.L.
The State was represented by W. Brian Stack, Assistant Prosecutor.
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JUNE 28, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
POLICE IDENTIFY BOY FOUND IN BERNARDS TOWNSHIP POND
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Bernards Township Chief of Police Brian Bobowicz announce
that the missing child who was located deceased in a retention pond
between Jamestown Road and Potomac Drive, Bernards Township on Sunday
June 27, 2010 has been identified as Adlai Kugblenu, age 8 of Potomac
Drive in Bernards Township.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Sunday June 27, 2010 at 2:26
p.m. Bernards Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call to the
victim’s residence on a report of a missing child. Responding officers
spoke with the victim’s father, Mr. Kugblenu, who stated that at
approximately 2:00 p.m. he noticed his son was missing from the
residence and immediately began to search for his son outside the
residence and near the retention pond with negative results prior to
contacting police. Officers immediately began a neighborhood canvass
which included the retention pond located near the victim’s residence
with negative results.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that while the canvass was being
performed, assistance was requested from the following agencies which
responded to the scene: The Somerset County Dive Team, Somerset County
Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit, Central Jersey Technical Rescue, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, Somerville Rescue
Squad, Hillsborough Rescue Squad, Morristown MICU 13, New Jersey State
Police NorthStar, New Jersey National Guard Aviation Unit, Liberty
Corner Fire and First Aid, Basking Ridge Fire and First Aid, Warren
Township Police and Long Hill Township Police Department. Divers from
the Somerset County Dive Team subsequently located Adlai Kugblenu at
the bottom of the pond near the floating aerator fountain which was
located near the center of the pond. Kugblenu was pronounced dead at
the scene and a positive identification was subsequently made. The New
Jersey Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, Newark, was contacted and
responded to the scene. An autopsy will be performed by the Medical
Examiner’s Office.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman and Chief Bobowicz
request anyone with information to contact the Bernards Township
Police Department at 908-766-1122, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
HOPEWELL WOMAN CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH FATAL MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and Montgomery Township
Police Director Robert E. Palmer report that at approximately 9:16
p.m. on Sunday June 27, 2010 a fatal motor vehicle collision occurred
on Cherry Hill Road in Montgomery Township. The crash occurred when a
2007 Chevy Tahoe, driven by Amy Locane-Bovenizer, age 38, of West
Prospect Street in Hopewell, struck the passenger side of a 2010
Mercury Milan driven by Fred Seeman as he was attempting to enter his
driveway on Cherry Hill Road. Defendant Locane-Bovenizer was driving
north on Cherry Hill Road when she struck the vehicle being operated
by Fred Seeman which was traveling south. The passenger, Helene Seeman,
was pronounced dead at the scene. Fred Seeman was airlifted by Medevac
to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital with serious injuries.
Defendant Locane-Bouvenizer sustained minor cuts to her right foot.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that responding officers detected the
odor of alcohol on defendant Locane-Bouvenizer’s breath and observed
other signs of impairment. Defendant Locane-Bouvenizer was arrested
for DWI and transported to Princeton Medical Center for treatment.
During the investigation it was discovered that defendant
Locane-Bovenizer was involved in a minor hit and run motor vehicle
accident in Princeton Township a few miles from Cherry Hill Road just prior to
the fatal collision. Defendant Locane-Bovenizer rear-ended another
vehicle at an intersection in Princeton. Both drivers exited the
vehicles, but when the other driver attempted to contact police to
report the incident, defendant Locane-Bovenizer got back into her
vehicle and left the scene. Defendant Locane-Bovenizer was followed by
the other driver and she was observed swerving and knocking down
several mailboxes prior to impacting the Seeman vehicle on Cherry
Road.
Defendant Locane-Bouvenizer has been charged with Vehicular Homicide,
2nd degree and Assault by Auto, 3rd degree and is lodged in the
Somerset County Bail was set at $50,000 cash or bond - no 10%. She faces 5 to 10 years in
State Prison with 85% of the term imposed to be served without parole
pursuant to the No Early Release Act.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco and Director Palmer state that the
Montgomery Police and the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office
Collision Analysis Reconstruction (C.A.R.) Team are continuing their
investigation and request that anyone with any information concerning
the crash please contact the Montgomery Township Police Department at
908-359-3222, the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office C.A.R. Team at
908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime Stopper's TIPS Line at
1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org . All calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
THREE ARRESTED AFTER POLICE SEIZE 1¾ KILOGRAMS OF COCAINE, $79,473.00
IN CASH AND A HANDGUN
CHRIS HARDLEY
KEISHA HARDLEY
ROGER COVIL
(CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and Franklin
Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce the arrests of
defendants Roger Covil, Chris Hardley, and Keisha Hardley, and the
seizure of one and three-quarter kilograms of cocaine, $79,473.00 in
cash and a handgun. The arrests and seizure stemmed from a narcotics
investigation that began in the early morning of Friday June 25th when
the Somerset County Gangs and Guns Task Force received information
that a kilogram of cocaine was going to be delivered by a private
carrier to an address on Coventry Lane in Somerset, New Jersey.
Detectives established surveillance in the area of Coventry Lane and
observed defendant Chris Hardley circling the area in a vehicle.
Police then observed defendant Roger Covil arrive and walk toward the
Coventry Lane residence where the package had been delivered. Police
observed defendant Covil take possession of the package and briefly
enter the residence before attempting to walk out of the area. Police
approached defendant Covil, who attempted to flee but was apprehended
after a brief foot pursuit. Upon seeing the police arrest defendant
Covil, defendant Chris Hardley fled the area in his vehicle. Police
followed defendant Chris Hardley and arrested him a short distance
away.
Police then executed Superior Court issued search warrants upon the
Coventry Lane residences of defendant Covil and defendants Chris
Hardley and Keisha Hardley. Inside defendant Covil’s residence police
seized U.S. currency in various denominations totaling $70,863.00.
Inside the bedroom of the residence of defendants Chris Hardley and
Kiesha Hardley police seized two safes. Police opened the safes and
found one to contain approximately 750 grams of cocaine and a scale,
and the other to contain U.S. Currency totaling $8,610.00 and a Colt
.45 caliber semi-automatic handgun.
All three defendants were arrested and transported to the Franklin
Township Police Department for processing. Defendant Roger Covil (dob:
10/11/64, Coventry Lane, Franklin Township) was charged with 1st
degree possession with intent to distribute cocaine, 2nd degree
conspiracy to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, 4th degree
resisting arrest by flight and disorderly persons possession of drug
paraphernalia. Defendant Chris Hardley (dob: 12/17/67, Coventry Lane,
Franklin Township) was charged with 1st degree possession with intent
to distribute cocaine, 2nd degree conspiracy to distribute a
controlled dangerous substance, 2nd degree certain persons not to
possess weapons, 2nd degree possession of a handgun while violating
2C:35-5 and disorderly persons possession of drug paraphernalia.
Defendant Kiesha Hardley (dob: 12/7/72, Coventry Lane, Franklin
Township) was charged with 1st degree possession with intent to
distribute cocaine, 2nd degree conspiracy to distribute a controlled
dangerous substance, 2nd degree possession of a handgun while
violating 2C:35-5 and disorderly persons possession of drug
paraphernalia. Bail for each defendant was set at $250,000.00 cash
only by the Hon. Margaret Goodzeit, J.S.C. The defendants were lodged
in the Somerset County Jail in lieu of bail.
The street value of the cocaine seized in this case is approximately
$50,000.00.
The investigation was conducted with the assistance of the Somerset
County Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, the Franklin Township
Crime Suppression Unit, and the Franklin Township Detective Bureau,
the Hillsborough Township K-9 Unit, and the New Jersey State Police.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty
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JUNE 25, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MANVILLE NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS COCAINE SEIZURE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Manville Chief of Police Mark Peltack announce the arrest
of Steven Hawthorne (30 YOA) of South Main Street in Manville.
Defendant Hawthorne has been charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, 3rd
degree; Possession of Marijuana (under 50 grams), a disorderly persons
offense and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, also a disorderly
persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the arrest is the result of an
approximately two-month long narcotics investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force along with the Manville Police Department. As a result of the
ongoing narcotics investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court
Search Warrant was obtained for the defendant’s residence and for
defendant Hawthorne’s person. On June 24, 2010, at approximately 7:40
p.m., Task Force members along with members of the Manville Police
Department, and the Manville Police Department K-9 Unit, executed the
search warrant on defendant Hawthorne’s residence. As a result of the
search, one small plastic bag containing marijuana, one plastic
sandwich bag containing numerous smaller Ziploc bags, one black
digital scale, two cellular telephones, fifty (50) small glass vials
containing cocaine and one hundred and seventy dollars ($170.00) in US
currency were seized from defendant Hawthorne’s residence. The cocaine
seized from the residence has an estimated street value of
approximately $1,000.00.
Defendant Hawthorne was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail
to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JUNE 23, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
WOMAN CHARGED WITH PRACTICING UNLICENSED DENTISTRY
MARIA MEDEL
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, Bound Brook Acting Chief of Police Michael Jannone and Acting
Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs Thomas Calcagni announce
that Maria Medel of Mountain Avenue in Bound Brook has been arrested
and charged with Unlawful Practice of Dentistry, 3rd Degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Special Investigations Unit received a referral from the Bound
Brook Police Department that an unlicensed dentist was practicing in
the borough. The Bound Brook Police Department was alerted by the New
Jersey Office of the Attorney General, Division of Consumer Affairs.
The Division of Consumer Affairs was conducting an investigation into
the individual who was only identified as “Maria.” A joint
investigation was initiated by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Special Investigation Unit, the Bound Brook Police Detective Bureau
and the Division of Consumer Affairs Enforcement Bureau.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the investigation began when an
individual who was previously treated by the defendant developed an
infection in his mouth. Given the individual’s discomfort the
individual sought treatment from a licensed dentist in Eatontown, New
Jersey. During the examination, the dentist became concerned about the
condition of the dental work that had been previously performed. When
asked, the individual informed the licensed dentist that the defendant
had performed dental work on his teeth in Bound Brook, New Jersey. The
individual provided the licensed dentist with the name and telephone
number of the defendant. The licensed dentist immediately reported the
activity to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs where an
investigation was initiated.
The investigation determined that the individual named “Maria” that
was operating a dentist office was defendant Medel. The investigative
team discovered that she was operating this makeshift dentist office
out of a room she rented in a multi-family home on Lamonte Avenue in
Bound Brook. It was revealed that defendant Medel would then perform
dental work on paying customers that came to see her for dental
services. An undercover detective from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office made an appointment with defendant Medel who
conducted a consultation of work that she would perform on the
undercover detective at a later date.
The investigative team executed search warrants on defendant Medel’s
“dental office” and residence in Bound Brook, and recovered various
items used in the practice of dentistry such as dental drills, dental
tools, a dental chair and numerous dental molds as well as other
commonly used dental instruments.
.
The investigation revealed that defendant Medel is not licensed in the
State of New Jersey to practice dentistry according to the New Jersey
Division of Consumer Affairs.
Defendant Medel was lodged in the Somerset County Jail. Bail has been
set by the Honorable Robert B. Reed, JSC at $5,000 ten percent option
to apply. Defendant posted bail on June 22, 2010.
Note: We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
SOMERSET ROBBERY
SUSPECT INDICTED
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
announced that defendant Richard Owens, age 39, of Georges Road in
North Brunswick was indicted today by a Somerset County Grand Jury for
Robbery, 1st degree; Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes, 3rd
degree, and Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 22, 2010 at approximately
4:26 p.m., Franklin Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call
reporting an armed robbery at the Akshar Pharmacy and a male bleeding
from his hands. Responding officers encountered an employee of the
pharmacy bleeding from both hands with what is described as defensive
wounds. The employee, a 78 year old Somerset resident, provided
officers with an account of the robbery. The victim relayed that after
the assailant robbed the pharmacy of an undisclosed amount of money,
he stated to the employee that he wanted more money and threatened the
employee with a knife by pointing it at the victim’s mid-section. The
victim was able to block the knife with his hands and received several
lacerations on both of his hands.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Franklin
Township Police Department, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad, and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit responded to the scene to conduct
the investigation. The victim was treated at a local hospital for his
wounds and subsequently released. The police investigation revealed
surveillance footage near the pharmacy which depicted the suspect
arriving in a silver Honda CRV and wearing a striped shirt and a dark
baseball cap with “Sox” written on it. The suspect vehicle and
description of the actor were broadcast to surrounding law enforcement
agencies.
On Monday, May 24, 2010 at approximately 6:39 p.m., Franklin Township
police responded to Hunters Crossing Road near Wilson Road on a report
of a single motor vehicle accident which struck a utility pole. The
caller reported to police that the driver of the motor vehicle was
seen abandoning the vehicle described as a silver Honda CRV and
fleeing on foot away from the scene of the accident. The caller
provided police with a description of the driver and direction of
flight. A Division of Motor Vehicle registration check revealed that
the vehicle had been reported stolen from Millburn Township, New
Jersey on May 7, 2010. Within minutes Franklin Township police
officers located the driver on Cedar Grove Road. The driver,
identified as defendant Richard Owens, was found to be in possession
of a large knife and placed under arrest. He was also wearing a black
baseball cap with “Sox” written on it. The officers requested that
emergency medical personnel respond for defendant Owens’ injuries
which apparently were sustained as a result of the motor vehicle
accident.
Responding Franklin Township officers immediately noticed that
defendant Owens was the individual that was responsible for the armed
robbery of the Akshar Pharmacy just days prior. Officers contacted
detectives from the Franklin Township Police Department and the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, who responded
to the scene. Defendant Owens was transported to an area hospital for
treatment and observation. Officers detected an odor of alcohol
emitting from defendant Owens. Defendant Owens’ BAC is pending blood
results. Defendant Owens was listed in stable condition and has been
released to the custody of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Tuesday, May 25, 2010,
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad, the Forensics and Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit, the
Franklin Township Police Detective Bureau, and the North Brunswick
Township Police Detective Bureau executed a Superior Court Ordered
search warrant at a motel room at the Farrington Inn located on Route
130 in North Brunswick. At the time of defendant Owens’ arrest, he was
found to be in possession of a room key to the aforementioned motel.
Detectives also discovered that defendant Owens had registered the
stolen vehicle on his registration check-in card. Inside the motel
room was a pair of wook boots with red stains on them. Inside a hamper
was a stiped shirt and four towels with red stains on them. The
investigation is on-going.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Somerset County Chief of Detectives
Stuart Buckman, and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick
request anyone with information to contact the Franklin Township
Police Department at 732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Defendant Owens remains in custody in lieu of bail in the amount of
$100,000.00 cash only. Given his extensive prior criminal history
defendant Owens faces a potential extended term of incarceration of up
to life imprisonment.
The matter was presented to the Grand Jury by Special Deputy Attorney
General Robert J. Hawkes.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 22, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MAN ARRESTED WITH LARGE AMOUNT OF COCAINE IN SOMERVILLE
Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr., Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman,
and Somerville Chief of Police Dennis Manning announce the arrest of
defendant Jose Almonte (34 YOA) of Phelps Avenue in New Brunswick.
Defendant Almonte was charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, 2nd
degree and Hindering Apprehension, 3rd degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 21, 2010 at
approximately 1:45 p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along with members of
the Somerville Police Department were conducting surveillance for
narcotics activity in Somerville. Members of the Task Force received
information that defendant Jose Almonte would be driving a black Honda
Accord and would be in possession of a quantity of cocaine in
Somerville. As a result of receiving this information, members of the
Task Force set up surveillance in the area of South Bridge Street.
Task Force members subsequently observed the aforementioned black
Honda being driven by defendant Almonte on Main Street. Defendant
Almonte was then stopped on South Bridge Street by a marked Somerville
Police unit and provided officers with the fictitious name of Gilberto
Badillo. Task Force members then approached defendant Almonte and
advised him of the narcotics investigation.
Defendant Almonte voluntarily provided Task Force members with consent
to search his vehicle. Subsequently, the Somerset County Sheriff’s
Department K-9 Unit was contacted and responded to the scene to assist
in the investigation. The K-9 conducted a sniff of the interior of the
vehicle and gave a positive indication for narcotics in the area of
the dashboard. Task Force personnel then searched the vehicle and a
secret compartment was located in the center of its dashboard. A
search of the compartment revealed approximately ninety-six (96) grams
of cocaine. Defendant Almonte was placed under arrest at the scene and
transported to the Somerville Police Department to be processed. While
being processed, it was confirmed that defendant Almonte was not
Gilberto Badillo and in fact was defendant Jose Almonte. Further
investigation revealed that defendant Almonte was a wanted person out
of Upper Marlboro, Maryland by the Prince Georges Sheriff’s
Department.
The estimated street value of the cocaine seized is approximately
ninety-six hundred dollars ($9,600.00).
Defendant Almonte was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail set
at $150,000.00 cash or bond by the Honorable Robert B. Reed. The
active warrant from Prince Georges Sheriff’s Department was lodged as
a detainer.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 21, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
DEFENDANT CHARGED WITH WEAPONS OFFENSES
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce
that on June 19, 2010 at 2:40 a.m., the Franklin Township Police
Department received a call reporting a man with a gun at the Toucan
Bar located at 1850 Easton Avenue, in the Somerset section of the
township. When a Franklin Township police officer arrived he found the
parking lot empty. He was approached by a witness who stated that as
the bar let out he observed two individuals in a heated argument. Both
individuals got into their vehicles and left the parking lot. Almost
immediately after they left, the witness heard multiple gunshots in
the area of World’s Fair Drive. He took the officer to the area where
he heard the shots, and several 9mm shell casings were found on
World’s Fair Drive about 100 yards north of Easton Avenue.
A short time later, Franklin Police received a call from the New
Brunswick Police Department advising that their officers were
contacted by additional witnesses from this shooting. One of these
witnesses identified the shooter as Ufuoma Edojah, age 26, of
Timberline Court in Monmouth Junction.
After receiving this information, officers from the Franklin Township
Police Department and the South Brunswick Police Department responded
to defendant Edojah’s residence. Defendant Edojah granted them consent
to search and officers found a cutout section of the ceiling within
his closet. In the cutout section officers recovered a 9mm Hi-Point
handgun as well as a box of 9mm ammunition that matched the casings
found on World’s Fair Drive. Defendant Edojah was taken into custody
without incident and transported to the Franklin Township Police
Department for processing.
The defendant was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 2nd
degree and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, 2nd degree.
Defendant Edojah is being held at the Somerset County Jail in lieu of
$50,000.00 bail.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
POLICE
INVESTIGATE FATAL FIRE IN MANVILLE
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Manville Chief of Police Mark Peltack announce that
detectives from the Manville Police Department, in conjunction with
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) and Forensics Unit, and the Somerset
County Arson Task Force, are investigating the circumstances involving
a residential fire which occurred on Harrison Avenue in Manville today
which claimed the life of an elderly female and her pet dog.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 21, 2010 at
approximately 11:31 a.m., Manville Police Officers responded to a
9-1-1 call via the Somerset County Communications Dispatch Center to a
structure fire on Harrison Avenue in Manville. Manville Police
Lieutenant Thomas Herbst, Sergeant Paul Meixner, and Officer Ryan
Steier were the first officers to arrive at the residence and even
though they encountered heavy smoke coming from the residence, they
entered the structure through a rear door. The officers were able to
locate the female victim on the kitchen floor and performed an
emergency rescue removing the victim from the residence. Emergency
personnel from the Somerset Medical Center attempted CPR on the victim
but were unsuccessful and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the victim is identified as Joan
M. Donohue, age 77, who resided at the residence along with her Saint
Bernard dog. The Arson Investigator’s preliminary investigation
indicates the cause of the fire as careless use/misuse of lighted
materials. The Regional Medical Examiners Office in Newark responded
to the scene and will determine the cause and manner of death
following an autopsy.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that emergency personnel from the
following agencies responded: Manville Fire Engine 12 and 13, Manville
Tower 42, Hillsborough Fire Engine 37-103, Finderne Fire Engine
30-102, Finderne 30 Rescue 1, Somerset Medical Center EMTs and
Somerset Medical Center Mobile Intensive Care Unit.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Peltack
request anyone with information to contact the Manville Police
Department at 908-725-1900, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
MAN CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH FATAL MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
announced the arrest of Maurice A. Smith (Age 36) of Dunton Avenue,
Patchogue, New York. Defendant Smith was charged with one count of
Vehicular Homicide, 2nd degree, and one count of Assault by Auto, 3rd
degree. These charges arose as a result of a motorcycle collision that
occurred on Route 78 eastbound in Bedminster Township at approximately
1:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 20, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the arrest was made following an
initial investigation by the New Jersey State Police, Perryville
Barracks, the New Jersey State Police Fatal Accident Investigation
Unit and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Collision Analysis
Reconstruction Team (CAR Team). Bail was set by the Honorable Fred H.
Kumpf, J.S.C. at $50,000.00 cash or bond. Defendant Smith is currently
admitted at Morristown Memorial Hospital where he is being treated for
his injuries sustained as a result of the crash.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the combined investigation
revealed that defendant Smith was operating a 2009 Suzuki motorcycle
traveling eastbound on Route 78 in excess of 100 miles per hour and
changing lanes without signaling. Smith struck the rear of another
motorcycle traveling in the same direction. That other motorcycle was
operated by Paul M. Shelley (Age 56) of Delta, Pennsylvania and
contained Nicole C. Widener (Age 45) also of Delta as a passenger.
As a result of striking the rear of the Shelley motorcycle, both
vehicles fell to the roadway. Ms. Widener was pronounced dead at the
scene as a result of the injuries she sustained. Mr. Shelley was taken
to Robert Wood Johnson Medical Center and underwent emergency surgery
to repair a near amputation of his lower leg. Defendant Smith was
taken to Morristown Memorial Hospital to be treated for abrasion
injuries he suffered as a result of sliding on the roadway.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco further stated that the responding trooper
detected an odor of alcoholic beverage on defendant Smith’s breath
while conducting the at-scene investigation. When asked if he had
consumed any alcoholic beverage, defendant Smith replied that he “had
a few”. The trooper arrested defendant Smith initially for Driving
While Intoxicated and obtained a blood sample at the hospital for
testing at the New Jersey State Police Laboratory.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco said that the investigation of the collision
is ongoing and additional charges against this defendant are possible.
Anyone with information concerning this collision is asked to
immediately contact Detective Michael Schutta at the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at (908) 231-7100, Trooper Pakom Patimetha at the
New Jersey State Police Perryville Barracks at (908)-730-7042 or the
Prosecutor’s Tips Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) all calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 18, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERSET MAN SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS FOR THE MURDER OF HIS EX-GIRLFRIEND
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
announced that on June 18, 2010, Alphonse Capell, age 34, of Ari Drive
in Somerset was sentenced by the Honorable John Pursel, P.J.Cr. to 30
years in prison for the killing and dismembering of his former
girlfriend. Defendant Capell will be required to serve at least 17
years before he is eligible for parole. On April 23, 2010, Capell had
pleaded guilty before Judge Pursel to one count of Aggravated
Manslaughter, 1st degree (as amended from First Degree Murder) and one
count of Desecration of Human Remains, 2nd degree.
Prosecutor DeMarco stated on October 25, 2007, the decomposing and
dismembered body of an unknown female was discovered wrapped in a
plastic bag and plastic tarp which were contained in a “Protégé”
luggage bag and clothes laundry bag in the rear of a white Ford
Mustang parked outside of 5D Ari Drive in Franklin Township. The
gruesome discovery was made by a tow truck driver and maintenance
worker from Somerset Mews apartment complex who were supposed to
remove the Mustang from the property. It was subsequently discovered
by detectives from the Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and
Franklin Township Police Department that the Mustang was the property
of defendant Alphonse Capell of 5D Ari Drive in Somerset. It was also
determined that defendant Capell had been incarcerated since August
20, 2007 at a Middlesex County Department of Adult Corrections
Facility.
On October 26, 2007 detectives along with the Regional Medical
Examiner were able to positively identify the remains as being Coty L.
Micklo. The investigation had also uncovered that Micklo and defendant
Capell had been in a relationship in the past. Interviews conducted by
detectives had shown that Micklo had not been seen alive by friends or
family since October 2006.
An intense investigation involving the tracking of cell phones,
countless hours of interviews, and numerous search warrants provided
detectives a wide array of evidence that led to the charges being
brought against defendant. In addition, defendant admitted to killing
Micklo and to dismembering her body, ultimately placing it in his car.
When defendant Capell pleaded guilty in April, he admitted to
strangling Ms. Micklo to death in October, 2006, during an argument in
a motel room in Seaside Heights and subsequently cutting her body into
pieces with a hacksaw, eventually putting her remains in his Mustang
where they were eventually discovered a year later.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Somerset County
Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin Township
Police Department.
The State was represented by Somerset County Special Deputy Attorney
General Robert J. Hawkes.
Back
JUNE 17, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
ELIZABETH MAN ARRESTED FOR ASSAULT IN SOUTH BOUND BROOK
GREGORY SMITH, JR.
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and South Bound Brook Chief of Police William King announce
the
arrest of Gregory Smith Jr., age 31, of Rebecca Place, Elizabeth, New
Jersey
for the assault of a 30 year old Plainfield resident which occurred at
a
residence on Prospect Street, South Bound Brook, New Jersey on
Wednesday
June 16, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 16, 2010 at
approximately
9:43 am South Bound Brook Police responded to an apartment on Prospect
Street, South Bound Brook, New Jersey on a report of a male who had
been struck in the head with a hammer. Upon arrival Officers observed
the victim sitting on the stairs in front of the apartment building
bleeding profusely from his head. The victim stated to the Officers
that while he was sleeping in the back bedroom of his girlfriend’s
apartment an individual he knew as “Juke”, who is his girlfriend’s
ex-boyfriend, entered the apartment and began to strike
him in the head with a hammer. The victim stated that “Juke”, who is
identified as Gregory Smith Jr., continued striking him with the
hammer and would not stop. The victim stated that at the time of the
assault he “played dead, and lay still”, at which time Smith stopped
the assault and fled from the scene. Officers
observed a large amount of blood throughout the entire apartment and
observed
a mallet hammer with a wooden handle on the floor in the kitchen next
to the
hallway that leads to the rear bedroom.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Somerset
County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad as well as the Crime Scene and
Forensics Unit responded to conduct the investigation. Detectives
searched for
Smith at various locations in Edison, Rahway, and Elizabeth with
assistance
from the Edison, Rahway and Elizabeth Police Departments. During the
evening hours on June 16, 2010 defendant Smith spoke with detectives
on the phone and agreed to turn himself into the Prosecutor’s Office
on June 17, 2010. Smith was arrested without incident at the
Prosecutor’s Office at approximately 10 am on June 17th, processed and
charged with Aggravated Assault, second degree and Possession of a
weapon for an unlawful purpose, third degree. Smith was lodged at the
Somerset County Jail with bail to be set.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the victim in the assault was
treated at a local hospital and received numerous staples and stitches
to his head and was subsequently released.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief King
request anyone with information to contact the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Unit at 908-231-7100, or the South Bound Brook
Police
Department at 732-356-0087, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’
Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”.
All
calls will be kept confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 11, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
WANTED FOR QUESTIONING IN SEXUAL ASSAULT
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SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Bridgewater Chief of Police Richard Borden are requesting
assistance from the public to help identify a suspect in a sexual
assault which occurred Saturday, May 22, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 22, 2010 at approximately
12:20 p.m. an unknown male wearing a while shirt sexually assaulted a
5 year old girl inside a Bridgewater restaurant. The suspect is
described as an Asian and/or Indian male, between the ages of 16 – 17
year old. In addition, the description of the suspect indicated that
he may possibly have a mental illness and/or a form of Autism. The
suspect’s stated his name was "Joey."
The second subject (also in picture above) was with the suspect and
may be a counselor/guardian. He is described as a white male
approximately early to late 50s. After exiting the restaurant, the two
subjects left the area in an unknown silver vehicle.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Borden
request anyone with information to contact the Bridgewater Township
Police Department at 908-722-4111, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Sex Crimes/Child Abuse Unit at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset
County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
UNLICENSED
CONTRACTOR CHARGED
SOMERVILLE – Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr. and Acting Chief
of Detectives Stuart Buckman announce that Roger Lazaro (DOB:
08/15/1950) of East Mountain Road in Hillsborough has been charged
with Theft by Deception, 3rd Degree; Uttering a Fraudulent Document,
4th Degree and being an Unlicensed Contractor, 4th Degree. Defendant
Lazaro turned himself in voluntarily today to detectives from the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that in November of 2009, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit
received a letter from an attorney regarding defendant Lazaro’s
failure to perform previously paid for contracting work for the
attorney’s clients. Detectives from the Special Investigations Unit
initiated an investigation into defendant Lazaro’s possible criminal
conduct. The investigation discovered that defendant Lazaro is the
owner and operator of Lazaro Contracting and had been hired by the
victims to perform work on their Franklin Township home. In March of
2007, defendant Lazaro provided the victims with a written estimate
and contract for the cost of remodeling their kitchen. Defendant
Lazaro estimated that the total cost for the construction would be
$16,943.00. Defendant Lazaro required an initial deposit of $8,200.00
and told the victims that he was going to use the $8,200.00 as a down
payment for kitchen cabinets.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Lazaro cashed the
check the following day according to bank records, and never returned
to the victims’ residence with the cabinets or any other materials.
The victims contacted defendant Lazaro numerous times at which point
defendant Lazaro stated that he was ill. The victims waited
approximately three months before reaching out to defendant Lazaro who
then stated during a telephone conversation that he had ordered the
cabinets. The victims sent defendant Lazaro a letter, via certified
and regular mail, demanding the return of their down payment.
Defendant Lazaro never responded. The victims again waited for a
period of time for defendant Lazaro to perform the remodeling work
before ultimately contacting an attorney to pursue the matter civilly.
On February 15, 2009, a Consent Order was entered into between the
victims’ attorney and the defendant’s attorney in which defendant
agreed to pay $320.00 per month directly to the victims in
satisfaction of a civil judgment. Defendant failed to satisfy the
judgment entered against him and failed to make payments pursuant to
the Consent Order entered into. The total amount of payments defendant
made to the victims in satisfaction of the judgment was less than
$1,200.00.
During the investigation, defendant Lazaro provided detectives from
the Special Investigations Unit with an invoice which purported to
confirm that the cabinets were ordered from John Lu Wholesale Kitchen
and Bath Cabinets of West 70th Street, New York, New York. A phone
number was also listed on the invoice. The invoice did not indicate
that the cabinets were being ordered for the victims’ residence.
Detectives then contacted the manager of the building at West 70th
Street and confirmed that the listed suite was never rented or leased
to a John Lu or to John Lu Wholesale Kitchen and Bath Cabinets.
However, it was discovered that the tenant of the listed suite is
defendant Lazaro’s sister.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the investigation further
determined that the telephone number used on the invoice provided by
defendant Lazaro had not previously been issued to anyone before
September 14, 2009 and that its current owner is not John Lu. On April
27, 2010, detectives received a certification from the New Jersey
Office of the Attorney General, Division of Consumer Affairs
confirming that defendant was not registered as a home improvement
contractor at the time he was dealing with the victims.
Defendant Lazaro was released on his own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 10, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
TWO MEN ARRESTED FOR RECEIVING ANABOLIC STEROIDS
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Hillsborough Chief of Police Paul A. Kaminsky announce
that on Wednesday, June 9, 2010, police arrested Scott R. Jacquish,
age 32, of Brennan Way in Hillsborough and David M. Reynolds, age 31,
of Amwell Road in Flemington, for receiving anabolic steroids.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 4, 2010, Federal Agents
from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland
Security notified Hillsborough Township Police Detectives that an
international package addressed to defendant Scott R. Jacquish
containing a quantity of the anabolic steroid Strombaject (Stanozolol)
was intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers
(Department of Homeland Security) and would be turned over to Hillsborough Township
Police for further investigation. Detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office were notified and a joint investigation was
initiated.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 9, 2010 an undercover
operation involving detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office, the Hillsborough Township Police Department and Federal Agents
from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Department of Homeland
Security), United States Postal Inspectors (United States Postal
Inspection Service), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (United
States Department of Justice) was conducted and resulted in the
execution of a Superior Court search warrant on defendant Jacquish’s
residence. Defendant Jacquish was arrested at his residence and
transported to the Hillsborough Township Police Department. Detectives
then located defendant David M. Reynolds at his residence, and he was
also questioned at the Hillsborough Township Police Department.
Detectives then obtained and executed a second search warrant on
defendant Reynolds’ place of business located on East Main Street in
Somerville.
As a result of the investigation, defendant Jacquish was charged with
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, 3rd degree, and
defendant Reynolds was charged with Attempt to Possess a Controlled
Dangerous Substance, 3rd degree. Both defendants were released on
their own recognizance.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Kaminsky
request anyone with information to contact the Hillsborough Township
Police Department at 908-369-4323, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip
Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”.
All calls are confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 3, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MAN CHARGED WITH THEFT BY DECEPTION AND UNLICENSED CONTRACTING
Somerville – Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr., Acting Chief of
Detectives Stuart Buckman and Bridgewater Township Chief of Police
Richard Borden announce that Dave Kober of Stephen Avenue, Perth
Amboy, New Jersey has been charged with Theft By Deception, 3rd Degree
and being an Unlicensed Contractor, 4th Degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Kober is the owner and
operator of a construction business named M&N Handyman out of
Woodbridge, New Jersey. On July 12, 2009, defendant Kober contracted
with the victim from Bridgewater, New Jersey for construction work on
the victim’s home and the victim’s father’s home. The victim
subsequently paid defendant Kober $4,600.00 as an initial down payment
for the projects. Defendant Kober then cashed the check on July 13,
2009. Defendant Kober has not performed any work on either of the
dwellings to date and has not refunded any money to the victims.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit checked with
the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs which revealed that on
July 12, 2009, neither defendant, nor his company, M&N Handyman, was
licensed as a home improvement contractor.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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JUNE 2, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
BRIDGEWATER WOMAN ARRESTED FOR WEAPONS OFFENSES
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Bridgewater Township Chief of Police Richard Borden
announce that Rosalyn M. Valachovic, age 69, of Mt. Prospect Road in
Bridgewater was arrested at her residence for an altercation involving
a firearm.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on June 1, 2010 at approximately
10:43 a.m., Bridgewater Township Police responded to Mt. Prospect Road
after receiving a 9-1-1 call reporting an assault in progress. The
caller advised police that she was attacked by her neighbor.
Bridgewater Police also received a second call minutes later from a 43
year old male, Bridgewater Township resident, reporting that an
elderly female neighbor had fired a weapon at him. The male caller,
who resides near defendant Valachovic, reported that the she departed
her residence armed with a loaded Smith and Wesson six shot .22
caliber revolver and fired the weapon in his direction. The male
victim was seated on a Kubota front loader tractor and operating it on
the roadway near the end of defendant Valachovic’s driveway. Defendant
Valachovic first pointed the firearm towards the ground near the front
loader and fired one round into the pavement. According to the victim,
defendant Valachovic then raised the firearm and pointed it towards
the direction of his head at which time the victim jumped from the
front loader, and attempted to grab the weapon that defendant
Valachovic was holding. A brief struggle ensued for control of the
firearm and during the course of the struggle another shot was fired
toward the victim. The victim was able to disarm defendant Valachovic
and proceed up the hill to his residence where he contacted
authorities. The victim maintained custody of the weapon until police
arrived. The firearm was turned over to a Bridgewater detective.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Valachovic was
arrested without any further incident and transported to a local
hospital for an injury to her right arm which she sustained as a
result of the struggle with the victim. Detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Forensics and
Crime Scene Unit (C.S.I.) responded to assist in the on-going
investigation. Defendant Valachovic was treated and released from the
local hospital and transported to the Bridgewater Township Police
Department for processing.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Valachovic was charged
with Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose, 2nd degree;
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, 2nd degree and Aggravated Assault,
4th degree. Bail for defendant Valachovic was set at $15,000.00 cash
or bond with a condition of bail that she is to have no contact with
the victim.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Borden
request anyone with information to contact the Bridgewater Township
Police Department at 908-722-4111, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 1, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
FORMER POLICE CHIEF PLEADS GUILTY
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
announced that Laurence Hess (age 41), former Chief of the Raritan
Borough Police Department, entered a plea of guilty today before the
Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C. to one count of Tampering with
Public Records or Information in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:28-7a(1), a
disorderly persons offense.
The charge resulted from an investigation by members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Internal Affairs Unit. The investigation
revealed that the Chief and one other officer had not qualified with
their service weapons for the second half of 2009 as required by the
New Jersey Attorney General’s Office. The Chief, however, submitted a
signed report to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office indicating
that every member of his department, including himself, had qualified
with their service weapons even though he knew that the information
contained in the report was false.
Pursuant to the terms of a plea agreement, approved by the Attorney
General’s Office, the State will recommend that defendant be sentenced
to a non-custodial probationary term. Defendant also signed a Consent
Order acknowledging that his employment as a municipal police officer
was forfeited pursuant to state statutes and since the offense
involved or touched upon his public office, position or employment,
that he was forever disqualified from holding any office or position
of honor, trust or profit under this State or any of its
administrative or political subdivisions. Sentencing is scheduled for
July 30, 2010.
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MAY 28, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
TWO HILLSBOROUGH MEN ARRESTED AS A RESULT OF PRESCRIPTION PILL
INVESTIGATION
Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr., Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman,
and Hillsborough Police Chief Paul Kaminsky announce the arrests of
defendants Daniel Martinez, Jr. (21 YOA) and Christopher Matisak (20
YOA) both of Merritt Drive in Hillsborough. Defendant Martinez has
been charged with two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (oxycotin), 3rd degree; Possession of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (oxycodone), 3rd degree; and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense. Defendant Matisak has
been charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(ecstasy), 3rd degree; Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(suboxone), 3rd degree; and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
disorderly persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that during the month of April 2010,
members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force, along with members of the Hillsborough Police
Department, received information that defendant Daniel Martinez, Jr.
was selling prescription pills from his residence on Merritt Drive in
Hillsborough. As a result of this investigation, an undercover
detective was able to make arrangements with defendant Martinez to
purchase a quantity of oxycontin from him on April 22, 2010. The
undercover detective subsequently purchased a quantity of oxycontin
pills from defendant Martinez in the area of Merritt Drive.
On May 12, 2010, an undercover detective again made arrangements to
purchase a quantity of oxycontin pills from defendant Martinez in the
area of Merritt Drive. The undercover detective responded to the area
of Merritt Drive and met with defendant Martinez, at which time the
undercover purchased a quantity of oxycontin pills from the defendant.
As a result of the undercover purchases, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force obtained
a Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant for defendant
Martinez’s person and his residence. On May 26, 2010, at approximately
6:00 p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with officers from the
Hillsborough Police Department, established surveillance in the area
of defendant Martinez’s residence. Task Force members observed
defendant Martinez arrive at his residence and placed him under
arrest. A search of defendant Martinez’s person revealed twenty-five
(25) oxycodone pills in his pant’s pocket.
Police then executed the Superior Court Search Warrant on defendant
Martinez’s residence. Task Force members seized three (3) ecstasy
pills, two (2) suboxone pills, a small quantity of marijuana, and drug
paraphernalia (digital scale and plastic baggies) from defendant
Matisak’s bedroom. Defendant Matisak was subsequently arrested at his
place of employment.
The total street value of all the pills seized in this investigation
is estimated to be approximately $1,000.00.
Once police completed processing the defendants, defendants Martinez
and Matisak were released upon their own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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MAY 26, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
SEARCH WARRANTS IN RARITAN AND SOMERVILLE YIELD FOUR ARRESTS, COCAINE
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the
arrests of Carmelo Gagliardi (21 YOA) of Central Avenue in Somerville,
Jeremy Scott Gabriel (18 YOA) of Walnut Street in South Plainfield,
Ramon Caballer, Jr. (21 YOA) of West Somerset Street in Raritan and
William Schwalenberg (43 YOA) of Cain Court in Bridgewater.
Defendant Gagliardi has been charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with Intent to Distribute, 2nd degree
and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Defendants Gabriel and Caballer have been charged with Possession of
Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Defendant Schwalenberg was arrested for a contempt of court warrant
out of Bridgewater Township.
The arrests are the result of a four-month long narcotics
investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with the Borough of
Somerville and Borough of Raritan Police Departments.
The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics
Task Force received information in February of 2010 that defendant
Gagliardi was distributing narcotics from two residences; one on
Central Avenue in Somerville and the other on LaGrange Street in
Raritan. As a result of the ongoing narcotics investigation, Superior
Court Search Warrants were obtained for these two residences. On May
25, 2010 at approximately 4:25 p.m., Task Force members and members of
the Raritan Police Department executed the search warrant at the
LaGrange Street residence in Raritan. Task Force members, upon
approaching the residence, located defendants Gabriel and Caballer in
the rear of the residence. Other Task Force members secured the
residence and subsequently located defendant Gagliardi walking towards
the residence.
Task Force members searched the residence and seized drug
paraphernalia (one empty fold of heroin and empty plastic baggies tied
in a knot). The Hillsborough Police Department K-9 Unit assisted with
the search of the residence. As Task Force members were searching the
residence, defendant Schwalenberg approached the rear of the home. A
warrant check revealed a contempt of court warrant out of Bridgewater
Township.
Task Force members, along with members of the Somerville Police
Department, then executed the search warrant at the Central Avenue
residence in Somerville. As a result of the search, police seized
thirty-two (32) individually wrapped plastic baggie knots containing
cocaine, drug paraphernalia (two digital scales, boxes of sandwich
bags and loose baggies) and sixteen hundred dollars ($1,600.00) in
United States currency. The cocaine seized from the Central Avenue
residence in Somerville has an estimated street value of approximately
$2,500.00.
Defendant Gagliardi was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail
to be set. Defendants Gabriel and Caballer Jr. were both released on
their own recognizance. Defendant Schwalenberg was lodged in the
Somerset County Jail on the outstanding Bridgewater Borough warrant
with a $2,500.00 bail.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
MANVILLE MAN INDICTED FOR ROBBERY AT MARKET IN MANVILLE
Somerville - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
announced that a Somerset County Grand Jury returned an indictment
today charging defendant Joseph J. Volpone (22) of South 15th Avenue
in Manville with Robbery, 1st Degree; Possession of a Weapon for an
Unlawful Purpose, 3rd Degree; and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, 4th
degree, as a result of threatening a convenience store clerk with a
knife during an attempted theft.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Monday, April 26th, 2010,
Manville Police received a call reporting an armed robbery had just
occurred at the Stop N Go Convenience Store located on South Main
Street in Manville. The clerk reported that a man, who was later
identified as defendant Volpone, had pulled a knife from his
sweatshirt pocket and told the clerk to give him all the money from
the register. The clerk did not give the man any money, but instead
informed him that he was going to call the police. The man fled from
the store without any of the money.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated responding Manville patrol officers
were provided a description of the suspect by the store clerk and
additional eyewitnesses. The Manville Police were subsequently able to
locate an individual who fit the description of the suspect in the
vicinity of another convenience store located on West Camplain Road in
Manville. The individual was found in possession of a black handled
steak knife. Manville Police then transported the individual back to
the scene where he was positively identified by the store clerk and
additional eyewitnesses as being the person responsible for the
robbery.
Defendant Volpone has been confined to the Somerset County Jail since
his arrest in lieu of $50,000.00 bail. Defendant Volpone faces a
potential maximum jail term of 20 years, with 17 years without parole
under the No Early Release Act.
This case was investigated by the Manville Borough Police Department
with the assistance of the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office Major
Crimes Squad. The matter was presented to the Grand Jury by Special
Deputy Attorney General Robert J. Hawkes.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Back
MAY 25, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERSET ROBBERY SUSPECT ARRESTED
RICHARD OWENS
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce
that defendant Richard Owens, age 39, of Georges Road in North
Brunswick was arrested on Monday evening, May 24, 2010 and charged
with the armed robbery of the Akshar Pharmacy located on DeMott Lane
in Somerset which had occurred on Saturday, May 22, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 22, 2010 at approximately
4:26 p.m., Franklin Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call
reporting an armed robbery at the Akshar Pharmacy and a male bleeding
from his hands. Responding officers encountered an employee of the
pharmacy bleeding from both hands with what is described as defensive
wounds. The employee, a 78 year old Somerset resident, provided
officers with an account of the robbery. The victim relayed that after
the assailant robbed the pharmacy of an undisclosed amount of money,
he stated to the employee that he wanted more money and threatened the
employee with a knife by pointing it at the victims’ mid-section. The
victim was able to block the knife with his hands and received several
lacerations on both of his hands.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Franklin
Township Police Department, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad, and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit responded to the scene to conduct
the investigation. The victim was treated at a local hospital for his
wounds and subsequently released. The police investigation revealed
surveillance footage near the pharmacy which depicted the suspect
arriving in a silver Honda CRV and wearing a striped shirt and a dark
baseball cap with “Sox” written on it. The suspect vehicle and
description of the actor were broadcast to surrounding law enforcement
agencies.
On Monday, May 24, 2010 at approximately 6:39 p.m., Franklin Township
police responded to Hunters Crossing Road near Wilson Road on a report
of a single motor vehicle accident which struck a utility pole. The
caller reported to police that the driver of the motor vehicle was
seen abandoning the vehicle described as a silver Honda CRV and
fleeing on foot away from the scene of the accident. The caller
provided police with a description of the driver and direction of
flight. A Division of Motor Vehicle registration check yielded that
the vehicle had been reported stolen from Millburn Township, New
Jersey on May 14, 2010. Within minutes Franklin Township officers
located the driver on Cedar Grove Road. The driver, identified as
defendant Richard Owens, was found to be in possession of a large
knife and placed under arrest. The officers requested that emergency
medical personnel respond for defendant Owens’ injuries which
apparently were sustained as a result of the motor vehicle accident.
Responding Franklin Township officers immediately noticed that the
stolen vehicle, and that defendant Owens was the individual that was
responsible for the armed robbery of the Akshar Pharmacy just days
prior. Officers contacted detectives from the Franklin Township Police
Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad, who responded to the scene. Defendant Owens was transported to
an area hospital for treatment and observation. Officers detected an
odor of alcohol emitting from defendant Owens. Defendant Owens’ BAC is
pending blood results. Defendant Owens was charged with Robbery, 1st
degree; Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd degree and Possession of a
Weapon for Unlawful Purposes, 3rd degree. Defendant Owens was listed
in stable condition and has been released to the custody of the
Somerset County Sheriff’s Office. He remains in the hospital under
guard. Bail was set at $100,000.00 cash only.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on Tuesday, May 25, 2010,
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad, the Forensics and Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit, the
Franklin Township Police Detective Bureau, and the North Brunswick
Township Police Detective Bureau executed a Superior Court Ordered
search warrant at a motel room at the Farrington Inn located on Route
130 in North Brunswick. At the time of defendant Owens’ arrest, he was
found to be in possession of a room key to the aforementioned motel.
Detectives also discovered that defendant Owens had registered the
stolen vehicle on his registration check-in card. The investigation is
on-going.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Novick
request anyone with information to contact the Franklin Township
Police Department at 732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 24, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
POLICE INVESTIGATE SOMERSET ROBBERY
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce
that detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad, in conjunction with detectives from the Franklin
Township Police Department, are actively investigating the armed
robbery of the Akshar Pharmacy located on Demott Lane in Somerset
which occurred on Saturday, May 22, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that at approximately 4:26 p.m.,
Franklin Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call reporting an armed
robbery at the Akshar Pharmacy and a male bleeding from his hands.
Responding officers encountered an employee of the pharmacy bleeding
from both hands with what is described as defensive wounds. The
employee, a 78 year old Somerset resident, provided officers with an
account of the robbery. The victim relayed that after the assailant
robbed the pharmacy of an undisclosed amount of money, he stated to
the employee that he wanted more money and threatened the employee
with a knife by pointing it at the victim’s mid-section. The assailant
began swinging the knife back and forth at the victim’s mid-section
and the victim was able to block the knife with his hands causing him
to receive several lacerations on both of his hands. The victim was
treated at a local hospital for his wounds and subsequently released.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that detectives from the Franklin
Township Police Department, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad, and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit responded to the scene to conduct
the investigation.
The suspect is described as being a caucasian male, medium height,
with a black mustache.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco, Acting Chief Buckman, and Chief Novick
request anyone with information to contact the Franklin Township
Police Department at 732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Back
MAY 21, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
WOMAN CHARGED WITH THEFT
SOMERVILLE - Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr. and Acting Chief
of Detectives Stuart Buckman announce that Vicki L. Elkins (DOB:
02/03/1964) of Hillsborough has been charged with Theft, 3rd Degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that an investigation conducted by
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit
revealed that defendant Elkins had misappropriated funds from the
Hillsborough Middle School Home and School Association (“HMSHSA”). In
June of 2008, defendant Elkins was elected Treasurer of the HMSHSA.
Detectives determined that between September 5, 2008, and October 15,
2009, defendant Elkins wrote checks totaling $16,850.00 from the
Hillsborough Middle School Home and School Association checking
account to herself, and used the proceeds for her own personal
benefit.
Defendant Elkins voluntary turned herself in to detectives from the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit at
approximately 10:30 a.m. today and was released on her own
recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 18, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
TWO ARRESTED AS A RESULT OF DRUG INVESTIGATION IN BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Bridgewater Township Police Chief Richard Borden announce
the arrests of Andrew Buckmire (23 YOA) of Salvatore Court in
Bridgewater and Kyle Corbin (24 YOA) of East Main Street in
Somerville. Defendant Buckmire was charged with Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the Intent to
Distribute, 3rd degree. Defendant Corbin was charged with Possession
of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) under 50 grams, a
disorderly persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 17, 2010 at approximately
3:00 p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force were conducting narcotics
surveillance in Bridgewater Township. Members of the Task Force
received information that defendant Buckmire was in possession of a
quantity of marijuana while he was operating a white colored Nissan.
As a result of the information, members of the Task Force located the
white colored Nissan operated by defendant Buckmire driving on
Promenade Boulevard. Task Force members approached the vehicle and
both defendant Buckmire and defendant Corbin were removed from the
vehicle and advised of the narcotics investigation.
Task Force members seized a small plastic bag of marijuana located in
plain view inside the vehicle and placed both defendants under arrest.
Defendant Buckmire provided consent to search the vehicle and Task
Force members seized approximately four (4) ounces of marijuana from
the trunk of the vehicle. The estimated street value of the marijuana
seized is approximately one thousand and six hundred ($1,600.00)
dollars.
Both defendant Buckmire and defendant Corbin were released on their
own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 14, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
UNDERCOVER INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST IN NORTH PLAINFIELD FOR
DISTRIBUTION OF ECSTASY PILLS
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and North Plainfield Police Department Chief William Parenti
announce the arrest of Marlwis Castro on May 13, 2010, after a
two-month long narcotics investigation. As a result of this
investigation, conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, defendant Marlwis Castro (23
YOA) of Watchung Avenue North Plainfield was charged with 2 counts of
Distribution of CDS (Ecstasy), Third Degree; 2 counts of Distribution
of CDS (Ecstasy) within 1000 feet of a School Zone, Third Degree; and
Possession of CDS (Ecstasy), Third Degree.
On May 7, 2010, defendant Castro met with an undercover detective in
the parking lot of Matricut Hair Salon, located on Watchung Avenue
North Plainfield, where he sold five (5) ecstasy pills to the
undercover detective in exchange for US currency. This narcotic
transaction occurred within 1000 feet of the Central Jersey Arts
Charter School located on Watchung Avenue in Plainfield.
On May 13, 2010, the undercover Detective had further contact with
defendant Castro at which time they negotiated another narcotic sale.
At approximately 3:30 pm, defendant Castro met with the undercover
detective in the parking lot of Matricut Hair Salon in North
Plainfield and sold six (6) ecstasy pills to the undercover detective
in exchange for US currency. At this time, members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
along with the North Plainfield Police Department arrested defendant
Castro. This narcotics transaction occurred within 1000 feet of the
Central Jersey Arts Charter School.
Members of the Task Force subsequently executed a Superior Court
Search Warrant for the person of defendant Castro and for the business
of Matricut, the location where defendant Castro was employed and
conducted his narcotics business. As a result of the search, police
seized six (6) ecstasy pills located on defendant Castro’s person.
The ecstasy seized in the investigation had a street value of
approximately $375.
Defendant Castro lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to be
set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of the Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
LARGE MARIJUANA SEIZURE IN HILLSBOROUGH
Somerville – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman, and Hillsborough Township Police Department Chief Paul
Kaminsky announce the arrests of defendant Michael Green of Fairfield
Lane, Hillsborough Township and defendant Daren Caesar of Woods Road,
Hillsborough Township on May 13, 2010, after a five month long
narcotics investigation. As a result of the investigation, conducted
by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force and the Hillsborough Township Police Department,
defendant Michael Green (21 YOA) was charged with Distribution of CDS
(Marijuana), Third Degree; Possession of CDS (Marijuana) with the
Intent to Distribute, Third Degree; and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense. Defendant Daren Caesar
(20 YOA) was charged with Possession of CDS (Marijuana) with the
Intent to Distribute, Third Degree and Obstruction of Justice, a
disorderly persons offense.
On May 13, 2010, members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and Hillsborough Police
Department received information that Michael Green was in possession
of a large quantity of marijuana at his residence. As a result of this
information, members of the Task Force and Hillsborough Police set up
surveillance at defendant Green’s residence.
At approximately 4 P.M., members of the Task Force observed a silver
Volkswagen arrive at the residence. The driver, later identified as
defendant Caesar, exited the vehicle and entered defendant Green’s
residence. Task Force members later observed defendant Caesar exit the
residence and remove a backpack from the trunk of the vehicle that he
had been operating. Defendant Caesar then re-entered the residence and
was later observed by Task force members exiting the residence and
returning the backpack to the trunk of the vehicle. Defendant Caesar
was subsequently observed entering his vehicle and departing from the
area. A moving surveillance was conducted on defendant Caesar and he
was stopped on Woods Road in Hillsborough Township. Defendant Caesar
was then approached by Task Force members and was advised of the
narcotics investigation. Defendant Caesar became agitated and did not
comply with the police and was placed under arrest. A Hillsborough
Township Police K-9 Unit responded to the location and conducted an
exterior sniff of the vehicle, which resulted in a positive indication
for the presence of narcotics. A Somerset County Superior Court Search
Warrant was obtained for defendant Caesar’s vehicle and later
executed. Seized from the trunk of the vehicle was a backpack
containing a large plastic sealed bag containing one pound of
marijuana and nine (9) cellular phones.
Additional Task Force members continued to maintain surveillance on
defendant Green’s residence. Police subsequently observed defendant
Green leave his residence in a Ford Expedition. A moving surveillance
was conducted on defendant Green and he was subsequently stopped on
Scott Drive in Hillsborough Township. Defendant Green was then
approached and advised of the narcotics investigation, at which time
defendant Green granted permission to search his person, the Ford
Expedition, and his bedroom located at Fairfield Lane. Seized from
defendant Green’s person was five hundred forty six dollars ($546.00)
in U.S. currency and three cellular telephones. Task Force members and
Hillsborough Police subsequently responded to defendant Green’s
residence and conducted the consent search. Located in defendant
Green’s bedroom was over four (4) pounds of marijuana and drug
paraphernalia (i.e. two digital scales, one food vacuum sealer and a
box of vacuum sealing bags). Defendant Green was subsequently placed
under arrest at the residence.
The Marijuana seized in the investigation had an estimated street
value of $30,000.
Defendants Green and Caesar were lodged in the Somerset County Jail
with bail to be set.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
MAN ARRESTED FOR BAD CHECKS
Somerville – Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr. and Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart announce
that Frank V. Marchello (DOB:11-18-1967) of Beekman Lane,
Hillsborough, New Jersey has been arrested and charged with Bad
Checks, 3rd Degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on October 29, 2009 Keith Gadek
of Somerset, New Jersey responded to the Somerset County Prosecutors
Office to make a complaint regarding three bad checks which had been
issued to him. Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Special Investigations Unit determined that Keith Gadek on or about
September 15, 2007 met with Frank V. Marchello the owner of “Top Soil
4 U” L.L.C. in Hillsborough, N.J. During that meeting defendant
Marchello gave Keith Gadek a check in the amount of $7,000.00 in
regards to a business dealing. The check #1045 dated September 15,
2007 was drawn on an account in the name of “Top Soil 4 U” L.L.C. with
PNC Bank and made payable to Keith Gadek Development. The check was
ultimately deposited by Keith Gadek into his bank account and returned
for insufficient funds. A review of the bank records for the PNC Bank
account for “Top Soil 4 U” L.L.C. revealed that the account did not
have sufficient funds to cover the check at the time it was issued.
In October of 2007 defendant Marchello gave Keith Gadek two checks.
The first check #1088 dated October 5, 2007 was in the amount of
$12,500.00 and the second check #1089 was dated October 12, 2007 in
the amount of $10,000.00. Both checks were drawn on an account with
PNC Bank in the name of “Top Soil 4 U” L.L.C. and both made payable to
Keith Gadek Development. Defendant Marchello instructed Keith Gadek to
deposit check #1088 at the end of January of 2008 and to wait two
weeks and then deposit check #1089. On January 31, 2008 Keith Gadek
deposited check #1088 in the amount of $12,500.00 into his account. On
February 13, 2008 Keith Gadek deposited check #1089 in the amount of
$10,000.00 into his account. Both checks were ultimately returned
because the account for “Top Soil 4 U” L.L.C. was closed.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on April 2, 2009 Keith Gadek
sent a letter by certified and regular mail to defendant Marchello
requesting payment for the outstanding checks. Keith Gadek advised
detectives that to date no payment has been received for the
outstanding checks.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Marchello was arrested
today without incident by detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit. Bail was set by the
Honorable Robert B. Reed at $5,000.00 with a 10% option.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 13, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
SOMERSET MAN ARRESTED FOR RARITAN ASSAULT
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.
and Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives
Stuart Buckman announced that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, in conjunction with detectives
from the Raritan Borough Police Department, arrested and charged
Eduard L. Albarillo, age 38, of Emerald Place in Somerset for
attempting to run over a 42 year old Raritan Borough resident with his
motor vehicle on Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at a parking lot located on
First Avenue in Raritan. Charina Manego, age 35, of North Second
Avenue in Raritan Borough was also charged with Obstruction of
Justice, 4th degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that Raritan police officers were
notified of the possible assault by auto. Responding officers secured
video surveillance depicting the alleged assault in which the victim
was nearly struck by a cream colored 4-door SUV. The investigation
revealed that the driver of the vehicle was identified as defendant
Albarillo. Also in the vehicle was a front seat passenger identified
as defendant Charina Manego. Detectives from the Raritan Borough
Detective Bureau and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad responded to defendant Manego’s residence in an attempt
to locate defendant Albarillo and speak with him in reference to the
incident. Upon arrival, detectives observed the vehicle involved in
the attempted assault parked in the driveway of the residence.
Detectives made contact with defendant Manego at her residence and she
indicated that defendant Albarillo was not present in the residence.
While speaking with defendant Manego, detectives noticed that
defendant Albarillo was hiding behind a kitchen door. Upon making
contact with defendant Albarillo he provided a fictitious name to the
investigating officers. Both defendants Albarillo and Manego were
placed under arrest and transported to the Prosecutor’s Office for
processing.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Albarillo was charged
with Aggravated Assault, 3rd degree and Obstruction of Justice, 4th
degree, and was lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail set at
$35,000.00 with a 10 % option.
Defendant Manego was charged with Obstruction of Justice, 4th degree
and was released on her own recognizance pending a Superior Court
date.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco and Acting Chief Buckman request anyone with
information to contact the Raritan Borough Police Department at
908-725-6700, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad at 908-2317100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line
at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”.
All calls are confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
MAN CHARGED WITH
THEFT BY DECEPTION
Somerville- Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.
announces the charging of James F. Hill (DOB: 10/19/1962) of East
Orange, New Jersey for Theft by Deception, 3rd Degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on March 8, 2010 the owner of
Gold & Silver Refinery located in Raritan Borough, New Jersey went to
the Raritan Police Department to report a theft that had occurred that
day. The owner described a male who entered his store attempting to
sell a clear Ziploc bag filled with gold chains. This individual was
ultimately identified as defendant Hill. The owner said that after
testing and weighing the gold chains that he told defendant Hill that
he would give him $12,000.00 in US currency for the items. Defendant
Hill stated that he would leave the store and consult with his wife
about selling the gold. Defendant Hill left the bag of gold chains at
the Gold & Silver Refinery while he allegedly went to speak with his
wife.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that later that day, defendant Hill
returned to the store. Defendant Hill picked up the bag of gold
chains, turned away, then turned back towards the owner of Gold and
Silver Refinery and stated that he wanted to proceed with the sale.
The owner advised that he took the bag of gold and gave defendant Hill
$12,000.00 in US currency. Defendant Hill took the money and left the
store. After defendant Hill left the store the owner retested the bag
of gold chains and determined that they were not made of gold and were
worthless.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 7, 2010 detectives from
the Raritan Borough Police Department learned that the Belleville
Police Department in Essex County had arrested James F. Hill for
attempting to commit a similar scheme. A review of the arrest photo of
James F. Hill revealed that defendant Hill was the same individual who
was depicted on the Gold & Silver Refinery’s surveillance tape on
March 8, 2010.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Hill is currently not
in custody. Anyone with any information on defendant Hill’s
whereabouts is asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Special Investigation Unit at 908-231-7100, the Raritan Borough
Police Department at 908-725-6700 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers Tips line at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or
“Crime Stoppers”. All calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
THREE
ARRESTED IN COCAINE SEIZURE IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE - Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco,
Jr., Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives
Stuart Buckman and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick
announce the arrests of defendants Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna, Gladys
Flete, and Ricardo A. Then–Flete, Jr. on May 12, 2010, after a
one-month long narcotics investigation. As a result of the
investigation, conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, defendant Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna
(24 YOA) of Phillips Road in Franklin Township (Somerset County),
defendant Gladys Flete (46 YOA) of Phillips Road in Franklin Township
(Somerset County), and defendant Ricardo A. Then-Flete Jr. (18 YOA) of
Phillips Road in Franklin Township (Somerset County) were all charged
with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with the
Intent to Distribute, 2nd degree; and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the investigation began when
Task Force members received information that an Hispanic male
identified as “Juan” and an Hispanic female identified as “Gladys”
were distributing narcotics out of a residence on Phillips Road in
Franklin Township. On May 12, 2010, at approximately 9:00 p.m.,
members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force established a stationary surveillance at the
residence of “Juan” and “Gladys.” Task force members subsequently
observed an Hispanic female, later identified as defendant Gladys
Flete, exit the residence and enter a vehicle. Task Force members
followed and subsequently stopped the vehicle out of the area. Task
Force officers then approached defendant Gladys Flete. At that time,
she granted police consent to search her residence.
Prior to responding to the residence to execute the consent search,
Task Force members observed defendant Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna exit
the residence and enter a vehicle. Additional Task Force members
conducted a moving surveillance and subsequently stopped the vehicle
on Norma Avenue. Defendant Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna was advised of
the narcotics investigation and he provided consent to search his
person. Police seized from defendant Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna two
hundred and forty ($240.00) dollars in U.S. currency.
At approximately 9:30 p.m., members of the Task Force executed the
consent search at the residence. Task Force members located defendant
Ricardo Then-Flete Jr. inside the residence during the search.
Defendants Gladys Flete and Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna were transported
to the residence during the search.
As a result of the consent search, police seized approximately 67
grams of cocaine and drug paraphernalia (i.e., digital scale, plastic
sandwich baggies, scissors, and a cutting agent). Defendants Ricardo
Then-Flete Jr, Gladys Flete, and Hector Y. Serrata-Fortuna were all
placed under arrest at that time.
The street value of the cocaine seized during this investigation is
estimated at approximately three thousand three hundred and fifty
dollars ($3,350.00).
Defendant Ricardo Then-Flete Jr. was released on his own recognizance.
Defendants Hector Serrata-Fortuna and Gladys Flete were lodged in the
Somerset County Jail with bail to be set.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
BEDMINSTER DEFENDANT CHARGED WITH ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF CHILDREN
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter
DeMarco, Jr. and Bedminster Police Chief William R. Stephens announce
the investigation regarding Robert Gundersen (21 YOA) of Bedminster
who was charged on May 11, 2010 with Criminal Sexual Contact, Criminal
Mischief and Lewdness is continuing.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on May 12, 2010 Bedminster
detectives executed Superior Court search warrants on defendant
Gundersen’s residence on Thosmor Road in Bedminster, New Jersey.
Detectives seized the defendant’s personal cell phone, digital camera,
laptop and desktop computers which contained child pornography.
Defendant Gunderson was charged with Endangering the Welfare of
Children, 3rd degree; Endangering the Welfare of Children, 4th degree;
Contempt of Court, 4th degree; and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
disorderly persons offense.
Bail was set at $35,000.00 cash only by Somerset County Superior Court
Judge Robert B. Reed.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 11, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
BEDMINSTER RESIDENT CHARGED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.
and Bedminster Township Police Chief William R. Stephens announce the
arrest of Robert Gundersen, (21 YOA) of Thosmor Road, Bedminster,
N.J..
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that after a month long investigation
by the Bedminster Township detective bureau defendant Gundersen was
charged with Criminal Mischief (3rd degree) for the series of graffiti
incidents that occurred in late March in Bedminster Township resulting
in over $2,000.00 in damages.
Defendant Gundersen was also charged with Criminal Sexual Contact (4th
degree) and Lewdness (Disorderly Person) after grabbing a female
pedestrian, age 24, and exposing himself to her while on the “Hike and
Bike” path in Bedminster Township on April 6, 2010.
On May 4, 2010, while at the same location defendant Gundersen exposed
himself to a second female, age 50, and was charged with Lewdness
(Disorderly Person).
On Friday May 7, 2010 defendant Gundersen was arrested in Far Hills
and was found to be in possession of two marijuana smoking pipes. He
was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Disorderly Person).
Defendant Gundersen was released on his own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 10, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SIX ARRESTED IN FRANKLIN PUBLIC PARK FOR NARCOTICS VIOLATIONS
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce the
arrests of defendants Darnell Johnson (46 YOA) of Poplar Street in
Carteret, Elijah Holloway (41 YOA) of Heather Court in South
Brunswick, Corey Thomas (39 YOA) of Essex Court in East Hampton,
Jessica Bruzdowski (23 YOA) of Victor Street in Somerset, William
Crandle (29 YOA) of Victor Street in Somerset, and Darwin Reinberry
(26 YOA) of Commercial Avenue in New Brunswick.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the investigation was initiated
one month ago. At that time, the Franklin Township Police and the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office received numerous complaints from
residents that drug dealing was taking place in Naaman Williams Park,
Franklin Township. As a result of the complaints, the Franklin
Township Police Crime Suppression Unit and the Somerset County Gangs
and Guns Task Force engaged in a cooperative investigation that
identified defendant Darnell Johnson, aka “Asmar,” of Carteret, as the
individual distributing marijuana from a gazebo located in the park.
After conducting surveillance on several occasions, the Task Force
obtained a Superior Court Search Warrant for the person of Darnell
Johnson and two vehicles he had been utilizing, a gold Dodge Durango
and a Blue Dodge Stratus.
On Friday May 7, 2010, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Task Force members
established surveillance in the area of Naaman Williams Park. During
the surveillance, they observed defendant Johnson arrive at the park
in the blue Dodge Stratus. After a brief period of time, the Task
Force observed defendant Elijah Holloway arrive at the park and
approach defendant Johnson. Police observed defendant Johnson walk
over to the Dodge Stratus, retrieve marijuana from the vehicle, and
engage in a hand-to-hand exchange with defendant Holloway in which
defendant Holloway gave cash to defendant Johnson in exchange for the
marijuana. Defendant Holloway subsequently left the area and was
stopped by Task Force personnel. Defendant Holloway was found to be in
possession of marijuana and was subsequently arrested. A few minutes
later, defendants William Crandle and Jessica Bruzdowski were observed
walking up to defendant Johnson and engaged in a hand-to-hand
transaction exchanging cash for marijuana. As defendants Crandle and
Bruzdowski began to walk away, defendant Darwin Reinberry arrived and
met with defendant Johnson. Subsequently, a hand-to-hand drug
transaction between defendants Johnson and Reinberry was observed by
the police. Task Force officers subsequently entered the park and
arrested all individuals involved with the narcotics sales. Upon the
approach of the Task Force officers, defendant Thomas refused to
comply with their verbal commands to lie on the ground and physically
resisted their efforts by attempting to pull away. Defendant Thomas
was eventually controlled and placed under arrest. Defendants Crandle
and Reinberry were found to be in possession of marijuana at that
time. A search of the area revealed an imitation soft drink can with a
screw-off bottom containing 23 Ziploc bags of marijuana. Defendant
Johnson was also found to be in possession of two cell phones and
$547.15 in cash. Upon searching the Dodge Stratus, another Ziploc bag
of marijuana was located in the console containing unpackaged
marijuana used for larger sales. The estimated street value of all the
marijuana seized was approximately $750.00.
Defendant Johnson was charged with two counts of Distribution of
Marijuana within 500 feet of a Public Park, 3rd Degree; two counts of
Distribution of Marijuana, 4th degree; Possession of Marijuana with
the Intent to Distribute within 500 feet of a Public Park, 3rd Degree;
and Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, 4th degree.
The Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C. set a bail of $20,000.00 with a
10% cash option for defendant Johnson. Defendant Johnson was lodged in
the Somerset County Jail pending the posting of bail.
Defendant Thomas was charged with Obstructing the Administration of
Law, a Disorderly Persons Offense. The Honorable Emil H. Philibosian,
J.M.C. set a bail of $1,500.00 for defendant Thomas. Defendant Thomas
was lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending the posting of bail.
Defendant Holloway was charged with Possession of Marijuana under 50
grams, a Disorderly Persons Offense. Judge Philibosian set a bail of
$1,500.00 for defendant Holloway. Defendant Holloway was lodged in the
Somerset County Jail pending the posting of bail. Defendant Holloway
was also found to have an active traffic warrant for $41.00.
Defendant Crandle was charged with Possession of Marijuana Less than
50 grams, a Disorderly Persons Offense and was released on his own
recognizance.
Defendant Bruzdowski was charged with Loitering with the Intent to
Obtain or Sell a Controlled Dangerous Substance in a Public Place, a
Disorderly Persons Offense. Judge Philibosian set a bail of $1,000.00
for defendant Bruzdowski. Defendant Bruzdowski was lodged in the
Somerset County Jail pending the posting of bail.
Defendant Reinberry was charged with Possession of Marijuana Under 50
grams, a Disorderly Persons Offense. Judge Philibosian set a bail of
$500.00 for defendant Reinberry. Defendant Reinberry was lodged in the
Somerset County Jail pending the posting of bail.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 7, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
NORTH PLAINFIELD MAN ARRESTED
SOMERVILLE – Acting Somerset County Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and Police Chief William
Parenti announced that defendant Mauricio Posada, has been charged on
May 6, 2010 with one count of Sexual Assault, 2nd degree; one count of
Burglary, 3rd degree; and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a
Child, 3rd degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Posada, age 35, of
North Plainfield was arrested as a result of a joint investigation by
the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office and the North Plainfield
Police Department. The incident occurred at a residence in North
Plainfield. The alleged victim, age 12, disclosed in a statement to
the police that defendant Posada, after unlawfully entering her home
through a bedroom window, touched her breasts and upper thighs and
attempted to touch her vaginal area.
Defendant Posada is currently lodged at the Somerset County Jail. Bail
was set by the Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C. at $75,000.00, cash
only. As a condition of bail, defendant is not to have contact with
the victim.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
SOUTH BOUND BROOK NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS HEROIN SEIZURE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and South Bound Brook Police Chief William King announce the
arrest of defendant Stephen Madison (27 YOA) of Charlotte Avenue in
South Bound Brook. Defendant Madison has been charged with Possession
of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) with the Intent to
Distribute, 3rd degree; Possession of Marijuana (under 50 grams) a
disorderly persons offense and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, also
a disorderly persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that the arrest is the result of an
approximately one month long narcotics investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force and the South Bound Brook Police Department. As a result of the
ongoing narcotics investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court
Search Warrant was obtained for defendant Madison’s residence and his
person. At approximately 7:20 p.m. on May 6, 2010, Task Force members
along with members of the South Bound Brook Police Department and the
South Bound Brook Police Department K-9 Unit executed the search
warrant on defendant Madison’s Charlotte Avenue residence. After
executing the search warrant, police seized seventy-seven (77) wax
folds of heroin contained in a cigarette box, one small red Ziploc bag
containing marijuana contained within another cigarette box, and a
gram scale. The heroin seized from the bedroom has an estimated street
value of approximately $1,540.00.
Defendant Madison was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to
be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 6, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
PHARMACIST CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE
BY FRAUD
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and Manville Police Chief
Mark Peltack announce that defendant Daniel Garvey (DOB: 08/17/1956)
of Washington Drive in Watchung has been charged with Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance, 3rd degree and Theft, 3rd degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that an investigation was conducted
by the Manville Police Department Detective Bureau and detectives from
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit
regarding defendant Garvey’s activities while being employed as a
pharmacist at the CVS located in Manville. The investigation revealed
that defendant Garvey had stolen quantities of Tussionex and Hycodan,
both Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS), from the CVS pharmacy
stockroom.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated after noticing discrepancies in the
stocks of Tussionex and Hycodan, both scheduled III controlled
dangerous substances, CVS installed hidden cameras in both defendant
Garvey’s work station and the area where the drugs are stored. The
camera footage shows that between December 7, 2009 and December 21,
2009, defendant Garvey transferred both Tussionex and Hycodan from the
stock bottles to a separate two ounce bottle that he would place in
his pocket. On eight of the days of the videotaped transfers, there
were no corresponding scripts written for Tussionex or Hycodan. On
December 21, 2009, defendant Garvey transferred Hycodan into a two
ounce bottle on two occasions, however, there was only one
prescription written that day for two ounces of Hycodan. In total
there were eleven such transfers from stock bottles to two ounce
bottles over the time period listed above that defendant Garvey placed
into his pocket. According to CVS drug usage reports, defendant Garvey
should not have handled or dispensed those two drugs between December
7, 2009 and December 21, 2009, except for one instance on December 21,
2009.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Garvey voluntarily
turned himself in today to detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit. Defendant was released
on his own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 6, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
PHARMACIST CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF A
CONTROLLED DANGEROUS SUBSTANCE BY FRAUD
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and Manville Police Chief
Mark Peltack announce that defendant Daniel Garvey (DOB: 08/17/1956)
of Washington Drive in Watchung has been charged with Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance, 3rd degree and Theft, 3rd degree.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that an investigation was conducted
by the Manville Police Department Detective Bureau and detectives from
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit
regarding defendant Garvey’s activities while being employed as a
pharmacist at the CVS located in Manville. The investigation revealed
that defendant Garvey had stolen quantities of Tussionex and Hycodan,
both Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS), from the CVS pharmacy
stockroom.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated after noticing discrepancies in the
stocks of Tussionex and Hycodan, both scheduled III controlled
dangerous substances, CVS installed hidden cameras in both defendant
Garvey’s work station and the area where the drugs are stored. The
camera footage shows that between December 7, 2009 and December 21,
2009, defendant Garvey transferred both Tussionex and Hycodan from the
stock bottles to a separate two ounce bottle that he would place in
his pocket. On eight of the days of the videotaped transfers, there
were no corresponding scripts written for Tussionex or Hycodan. On
December 21, 2009, defendant Garvey transferred Hycodan into a two
ounce bottle on two occasions, however, there was only one
prescription written that day for two ounces of Hycodan. In total
there were eleven such transfers from stock bottles to two ounce
bottles over the time period listed above that defendant Garvey placed
into his pocket. According to CVS drug usage reports, defendant Garvey
should not have handled or dispensed those two drugs between December
7, 2009 and December 21, 2009, except for one instance on December 21,
2009.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that defendant Garvey voluntarily
turned himself in today to detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit. Defendant was released
on his own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 3, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
BRIDGEWATER MAN ARRESTED DURING UNDERCOVER INVESTIGATION
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Acting Prosecutor A. Peter DeMarco, Jr.,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Acting Chief of Detectives Stuart
Buckman and Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the arrest
of defendant Anthony Andolino on April 29, 2010 after a two-month
narcotics investigation. As a result of this investigation conducted
by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force, along with the Somerville Police Department,
defendant Anthony Andolino (22 YOA) of Oak Street in Bridgewater was
charged with three counts of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (ecstasy), 3rd degree; two counts of Distribution of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 4th degree; two counts of
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 1000 Feet of a
School Zone, 3rd degree; one count of Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine) with Intent to Distribute, 2nd degree;
one count of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (ecstasy)
with Intent to Distribute, 3rd degree; one count of Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with Intent to Distribute,
3rd degree; one count of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance with Intent to Distribute within 1000 Feet of a School Zone,
3rd degree; one count of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (suboxone), 3rd degree; and one count of Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Acting Prosecutor DeMarco stated that on April 15, 2010, defendant
Andolino met with an undercover detective in the area of East Main
Street in Bridgewater where he sold a quantity of marijuana (under one
(1) ounce) and three (3) ecstasy pills in exchange for U.S. currency
to the undercover detective.
On April 22, 2010, the undercover detective again met with defendant
Andolino and negotiated another narcotics sale. Defendant Andolino met
with the undercover detective in the area of Davenport Street in
Somerville and sold three (3) ecstasy pills to the undercover
detective. This narcotics transaction occurred within 1000 feet of the
Somerville High School.
On April 29, 2010, the undercover detective again met with defendant
Andolino and negotiated another narcotics sale. Defendant Andolino met
with the undercover detective in the area of Rt. 22 east in Somerville
where he sold fifty (50) ecstasy pills and a quantity of marijuana
(under one (1) ounce) to the undercover detective. At that time,
members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force, along with the Somerville Police Department,
arrested defendant Andolino. Subsequent to defendant Andolino’s
arrest, defendant Andolino granted permission to search his vehicle to
Task Force members. As a result of the consent to search, Task Force
members seized the following items from the vehicle:
1. one (1) clear cigar tube containing fifty (50) ecstasy pills
2. seven (7) clear Ziploc bags each containing approximately ¼ ounce
of marijuana
3. fifty seven (57) red Ziploc bags containing marijuana
4. one (1) clear plastic bag containing a quantity of marijuana
5. one (1) clear knotted plastic bag containing cocaine over ½ ounce
6. two (2) digital scales
7. numerous Ziploc baggies
8. one (1) suboxone pill
9. one thousand three hundred and twenty six dollars ($1,326.00) in
U.S. currency
This narcotics transaction occurred within 1000 feet of Immaculata
High School.
Defendant Andolino was lodged in the Somerset County Jail on April 29,
2010 with bail to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 29, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
WOMAN CONVICTED OF ATTEMPTED MURDER AT SCENIC OVERLOOK
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that on April 29, 2010, defendant Suzette Hinds-Mohammed, age 45, of
Irvington, New Jersey was found guilty by a Somerset County jury of
Attempted Murder, 1st degree; Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful
Purpose, 2nd degree and Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, 3rd degree.
The verdict was returned to Superior Court Judge Robert B. Reed, J.S.C.,
after a four-hour deliberation following a twelve day trial.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant’s conviction stems from an
October 19, 2006 incident that occurred at the scenic overlook off
Route 78 west in Bridgewater Township. At approximately 8:20 p.m. on
that date, defendant shot victim Devon Robinson in the right ear with
a .22 caliber mini-revolver as Mr. Robinson sat in the passenger seat
of her vehicle. The bullet lodged in Mr. Robinson’s jaw, where it
remains today. Following the shooting, Mr. Robinson wrestled the gun
away from the defendant and called 911 from his cellular telephone.
Following the conviction, the defendant’s bail was revoked by Judge
Reed. Defendant faces twenty years in prison when sentenced, presently
scheduled for June 2010.
Assistant Prosecutor W. Brian Stack of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office presented the case on behalf of the State.
Defendant was represented Roy Stevens, Esq. of Somerville.
Back
APRIL 27, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
MAN CHARGED FOR BANK SCAM
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest along with
Green Brook Township Chief of Police Martin Rasmussen announce that on
April 26, 2010, defendant Darnell Harris (DOB: 05/30/1978) with a last
known address as Sycamore Road Middlesex, New Jersey has been charged
with fifteen counts of Uttering a Forged Instrument, 3rd Degree and
one count of Theft by Deception, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in May of 2009 Green Brook Township
detectives contacted the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special
Investigations Unit regarding numerous fraudulent checks that had been
cashed throughout various TD Banks within Somerset County. The
investigation revealed that defendant Harris had been depositing
fraudulent checks and making cash withdrawals from numerous TD Bank
accounts. Defendant Harris was positively identified on several
occasions by means of TD Bank surveillance which not only captured him
depositing the fraudulent checks at the various TD Banks but also the
license plate number and vehicle he was using, a red Jeep.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that on
February 23, 2009 defendant Harris utilized the drive through lane at
the TD Bank in Green Brook, New Jersey to deposit a fraudulent check
from a legitimate company for $687.98 into an account bearing the name
Deja Rodriquez. On February 24, 2009 the same vehicle was used by
defendant Harris to deposit a fraudulent check from the same
legitimate company for $1,113.46 into Deja Rodriquez’s account. On
March 5, 2009 defendant Harris deposited a fraudulent check in the
amount of $987.04 into an account bearing the name Janet Moore at the
Somerville TD Bank. On the same day defendant Harris deposited a
fraudulent check in the amount of $643.87 into Janet Moore’s account
at the Raritan TD Bank. Again on that same day defendant Harris
deposited a fraudulent check in the amount of $1,109.81 into Janet
Moore’s account and another fraudulent check in the amount of $689.41
into an account bearing the name Nilma Range both at the Green Brook
TD Bank. On March 27, 2009 defendant Harris deposited a fraudulent
check in the amount of $1,469.31 into an account bearing the name
Tonya Lee at the Green Brook TD Bank. He then subsequently withdrew
$500.00 from Tonya Lee’s account. On March 31, 2009 defendant Harris
deposited a fraudulent check in the amount of $1,493.89 into Tonya
Lee’s account at the Green Brook TD Bank. On April 29, 2009 defendant
Harris deposited a fraudulent check in the amount of $1,398.56 into an
account bearing the name Santana Wingate at the Green Brook TD Bank.
On May 13, 2009 defendant Harris deposited a fraudulent check in the
amount of $1,263.57 into an account bearing the name Nafeesah Horton
at the Somerville TD Bank. He then subsequently withdrew $500.00 from
Nafeesah Horton’s account at the Hillsborough TD Bank. On May 14, 2009
defendant Harris deposited a fraudulent check in the amount of $891.13
into Nafeesah Horton’s account at the Green Brook TD Bank. On May 18,
2009 defendant Harris deposited a fraudulent check in the amount of
$1287.48 into Nafeesah Horton’s account at the Green Brook TD Bank. On
June 5, 2009 defendant Harris deposited a fraudulent check in the
amount of $987.92 into an account bearing the name Ashley Lanier at
the Green Brook TD Bank. On June 8, 2009 defendant Harris deposited a
fraudulent check in the amount of $1,428.73 into Ashley Lanier’s
account at the Bridgewater TD Bank. On June 8, 2009 defendant Harris
deposited a fraudulent check in the amount of $1,259.91 into Ashley
Lanier’s account at the Somerville TD Bank.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on all occasions defendant Harris or
other unknown actors would withdraw the funds from the various TD
Banks. Attempts to locate the actual owners of the TD Bank accounts
were unsuccessful. All of the companies whose accounts were drawn upon
notified TD Bank that these deposited checks were in fact fraudulent
and not issued by the company. The total dollar amount of the checks
that were fraudulently deposited at TD Banks in Somerset County by
defendant Harris is $16,712.07.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Harris surrendered to
Detectives at the Green Brook Township Police Department at
approximately 9:00 a.m. this morning. Bail has been set at $30,000.00
cash or bond. Anyone with any information on is asked to contact the
Green Brook Township Police Department at 732-968-1188, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit at (908)
231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tips Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org and click on
“Give Tips” or www.scpo.net and click on “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls
will be kept confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
MANVILLE FIRE
LEAVES HOME UNINHABITABLE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that at 7:25 a.m. on April 25, 2010 a fire was reported at the Conti
residence, 992 Haran St. in Manville by an occupant of the residence.
Upon arrival of police and fire units, they encountered a working fire
in the west side second floor bedroom of the cape cod style home. The
fire was quickly extinguished and was confined to the room of origin,
however the balance of the structure sustained heat, smoke and water
damage rendering it uninhabitable.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the initial investigation revealed that
the home is occupied by Donna Conti, her four sons and her eldest
son’s girlfriend. At the time of the fire, only four persons were in
the home, those being Joseph Conti, age 12, Aaron Conti, age 17, Josh
Conti, age 19 and his girlfriend, Christine Madjeski. According to the
occupants, they were in their respective rooms when the smoke alarm
activated. Upon going to investigate, they observed smoke coming from
the west side second floor bedroom normally occupied by Donna Conti
who had left for work at 7:05 a.m.
Josh Conti went to the bedroom where he observed fire coming from
behind and to the right of the headboard against the west wall. He
then attempted to extinguish the fire by beating it with blankets,
however the fire continued to intensify forcing everyone to exit the
house. Josh did sustain several minor burns to his fingers, forearm
and chest, but refused treatment at the scene.
The scene investigation revealed that the fire originated at or near
the base of the west wall behind the headboard, however an exact
ignition source could not be positively identified although several
conditions and items were located in that area that require further
studies concerning their involvement in this fire. Additionally,
further interviews are being conducted to establish the timeline
leading up to the reporting of the fire. However, the fire is not
deemed suspicious at this time.
Back
APRIL 26, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SUSPECT ARRESTED FOR THREATENING A CLERK AT CONVENIENCE STORE
Joseph J. Volpone
(Click on
image to enlarge)
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and
Manville Borough Chief of Police Mark Peltack announced that defendant
Joseph J. Volpone (22) of South 15th Avenue, Manville Borough, New
Jersey has been charged with Robbery, 1st Degree and Possession of a
Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, 3rd Degree as a result of threatening a
convenience store clerk with a knife.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Monday, April 26th, 2010 Manville
Police received a call reporting an armed robbery had just occurred at
the Stop N Go Convenience Store located on South Main Street,
Manville, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated responding Manville patrol officers were
provided a description of the suspect by the store clerk and
additional eyewitnesses.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Manville Police were subsequently
able to locate an individual who fit the description of the suspect in
the vicinity of another convenience located on West Camplain Road,
Manville, New Jersey. The individual was found in possession of a
black handled steak knife.
Prosecutor Forrest stated Manville Police then transported the
individual back to the scene where he was positively identified as
being the person responsible for the robbery by the store clerk and
additional eyewitnesses.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Volpone was transported back
to the Manville Police Headquarters. Detectives from the Manville
detective bureau and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Unit were contacted and responded accordingly. Defendant
Volpone was charged with Robbery, 1st Degree and Possession of a
Weapon for Unlawful Purpose, 3rd Degree. Defendant Volpone was lodged
at the Somerset County Jail with bail to be set.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 23, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERSET MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO KILLING AND DISMEMBERING VICTIM
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on April 23, 2010, defendant Alphonse Capell, age 34, of Ari
Drive, in Somerset pleaded guilty before the Honorable John Pursel,
P.J.Cr., to one count of Aggravated Manslaughter (as amended from
Murder, 1st degree), 1st degree and one count of Desecration of Human
Remains, 2nd degree. The plea agreement calls for defendant to be
sentenced to 20 years in New Jersey State Prison, 17 years to be
served without parole under the No Early Release Act on the Aggravated
Manslaughter charge, and to a consecutive 10-year term on the
Desecration of Human Remains count, with the total sentence being 30
years, with 17 years to be served without parole.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on October 25, 2007, the decomposing and
dismembered body of an unknown female was discovered in a plastic bag
and plastic tarp which were contained in a “Protégé” luggage bag and
clothes laundry bag in the rear of a white Ford Mustang parked outside
of 5D Ari Drive in Franklin Township (Somerset County). The gruesome
discovery was made by a tow truck driver and maintenance worker from
Somerset Mews apartment complex who were supposed to remove the
Mustang from the property. It was subsequently discovered by
detectives from the Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and
Franklin Township Police Department that the Mustang was the property
of defendant Alphonse Capell of 5D Ari Drive in Somerset. It was also
determined that defendant Capell had been incarcerated since August
20, 2007 at a Middlesex County Department of Adult Corrections
facility.
On October 26, 2007, detectives along with the Regional Medical
Examiner were able to positively identify the remains as being Coty L.
Micklo. The investigation had also uncovered that Micklo and defendant
Capell had been in a relationship in the past. Interviews conducted by
detectives had shown that Micklo had not been seen alive by friends or
family since October 2006.
An intense investigation involving the tracking of cell phones,
countless hours of interviews, and numerous search warrants along with
a statement by the defendant wherein he admitted to strangling and
killing Micklo during an argument and to dismembering her body, and
ultimately placing it in his car, provided detectives with evidence
that led to the charges being brought against defendant.
In court, defendant admitted to strangling Ms. Micklo to death in
October, 2006, during an argument in a motel room in Seaside Heights
and subsequently cutting her body into pieces with a hacksaw,
eventually putting her remains in his Mustang where they were
eventually discovered a year later.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Somerset County
Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin Township
Police Department.
After the plea defendant, who has been in custody in lieu of
$1,000,000.00 cash bail, was remanded without bail.
The State was represented by Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor
Robert J. Hawkes. Defendant was represented by Robert A. Gaynor,
Assistant Deputy Public Defender.
Back
APRIL 22, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
ELIZABETH MAN ARRESTED WITH MARIJUANA IN SOMERVILLE BOROUGH
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the arrest of
defendant Herbert A. Ramirez (26 YOA) of Pennington Street in
Elizabeth, New Jersey. Defendant Ramirez was charged with Possession
of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the Intent to
Distribute, 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on April 21, 2010 at approximately 6:00
p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force were conducting surveillance for
narcotics activity in Somerville. Members of the Task Force received
information that defendant Ramirez would be in possession of a
quantity of marijuana in Somerville. As a result of receiving this
information, members of the Task Force set up surveillance in the area
of South Bridge Street. Task Force members observed defendant Ramirez
on Main Street operating a beige colored Acura. Ramirez was
subsequently stopped on South Bridge Street by a marked Somerville
Police unit. Defendant Ramirez was approached by Task Force members
and advised of the narcotics investigation.
Subsequently the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit was
contacted and responded to the scene. The K-9 was utilized to conduct
an exterior sniff on defendant Ramirez’s vehicle, which resulted in a
positive indication for the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A
Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant was obtained for
defendant Ramirez’s vehicle and person. Upon execution of the search
warrant on defendant Ramirez’s vehicle, six clear Ziploc bags each
containing approximately one (1) ounce of marijuana were located in
the trunk of the vehicle and thirty one (31) clear Ziploc bags each
containing approximately one (1) gram of marijuana were located in a
sunglass case located on the rear seat of the vehicle. Defendant
Ramirez was placed under arrest at the scene and transported to the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office to be processed.
The estimated street value of the Marijuana seized is approximately
three thousand dollars ($3,000.00).
Defendant Ramirez was placed in the Somerset County Jail with bail set
at $5,000.00 with 10% to apply as per the Honorable Thomas Dilts.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
ROBBERY
SUSPECTS ARRESTED
Javey H. Toney
Julio Castillo-Heisler
Theresa G. Jackson
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and
Acting Bound Brook Chief of Police Michael Jannone announced that
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad, in conjunction with detectives from the Bound Brook Police
Department, arrested and charged the suspects responsible for the
armed robbery and assault of a Bridgewater male which occurred on
Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. behind a residence on Highland
Place in Bound Brook.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on April 20, 2010 the victim, a 24 year
old Bridgewater resident, reported to Bound Brook Police that he was
robbed of an undisclosed amount of money at gunpoint and physically
assaulted behind a residence on Highland Place in Bound Brook. The
victim provided police with a description of three actors responsible
for the robbery and stated that defendant Julio Castillo-Heisler, age
21, West High Street in Bound Brook as the person responsible for
directing the victim to the rear of the residence on the ruse that
they were going to barbecue. Detectives were contacted and responded
to conduct the investigation. The victim stated that when he proceeded
to the backyard of the residence one of the actors grabbed the victim
from behind and held his arms so that he could not move. A second
actor pointed a silver handgun at the victim’s face and also struck
him on the left side of his face while the third actor went through
the victim’s pockets robbing him of money and a cellular telephone.
The victim was able to escape without any other physical harm and did
not require medical attention.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Prosecutor’s Office
along with Bound Brook Police responded to the residence on Highland
Place. Upon arrival they made contact with an individual identified as
defendant Assadeeq Almuizz Long. A subsequent warrant check on
defendant Long revealed that he was a wanted person authority of the
Union County Sheriff’s Department. Defendant Long was subsequently
turned over to Union County authorities. Detectives conducted numerous
interviews in reference to the robbery investigation and were able to
identify defendants Javehy D. Toney, age 18, of Highland Place in
Bound Brook and Theresa G. Jackson, age 20,of Elizabeth Street in
South Bound Brook as the actors responsible for the robbery. On
Wednesday, April 21, 2010, detectives proceeded to the YMCA located on
North Bridge Street, Somerville, New Jersey where they located
defendant Julio Castillo-Heisler. Defendant Castillo-Heisler was
transported to the Bound Brook Police Department where he was
subsequently charged with Armed Robbery, 1st degree and Conspiracy to
Commit Robbery, 2nd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the detectives along with Bound Brook
Police Officers subsequently responded to a residence located on
Linden Avenue in Bound Brook. At this residence, they eventually made
contact with defendant Javehy D. Toney who was arrested on an
unrelated warrant and defendant Theresa Jackson. Both defendants were
transported to the Bound Brook Police Department where they were also
subsequently charged with Armed Robbery, 1st degree and Conspiracy to
Commit Robbery, 2nd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendants Castillo-Heisler, Toney, and
Jackson were lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail to be set.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Buckman and Acting Chief Jannone request
anyone with information to contact the Bound Brook Police Department
at 732-356-0800, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 21, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
TEENAGER INDICTED BY GRAND JURY IN FRANKLIN SHOOTING
FOLLOWING WAIVER TO ADULT COURT
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that defendant Christopher Thompson, age 18, of Bergen Court in New
Brunswick has been indicted by the Somerset County Grand Jury on the
charges of Attempted Murder, First Degree, in the shooting of a
15-year-old Franklin Township teenager which occurred on September 13,
2009 on Millstone Road in Somerset. At the time of the shooting,
defendant Thompson was 17 years of age. The grand jury also returned
an indictment charging the defendant with Possession of a Firearm for
an Unlawful Purpose, Second Degree, and Unlawful Possession of a
Handgun, Second Degree. The case was presented to the Grand Jury by
Assistant Prosecutor Frank P. Kolodzieski, II. Defendant Thompson had
been charged as a juvenile with attempted murder, but was referred to
the Law Division for adult prosecution by Order of the Family Court
entered on March 24, 2010.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Sunday, September 13, 2009 Franklin
Township Police responded to Millstone Road near Route 27 in the
Somerset section of Franklin Township for a report of a shooting.
Officers located at the time a 15-year-old teenager lying on the
ground suffering from a single gun shot wound to his lower back. The
teenager was treated at a local hospital and survived the shooting.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad along with detectives from
Franklin Township Police Department Detective Bureau were able to
identify the shooter as defendant Christopher Thompson. Through the
course of the investigation, detectives gathered information that
defendant Thompson was with his father who was identified as Marc
Thompson, age 40, of Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick. On Wednesday
evening, September 16, 2009, detectives made contact and briefed
members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Gangs and Guns Task
Force along with detectives from the Franklin Township Police
Department Crime Suppression Unit and the New Brunswick Police
Department Anti-Crime Unit to assist them in tracking any potential
leads. Detectives continued to search for defendant Thompson through
the night. At approximately 11:00 p.m., detectives went to an
apartment on Woodnor Street in New Brunswick which belonged to Marc
Thompson’s current girlfriend. At this location, detectives from the
Gangs and Guns Task Force along with Anti-Crime detectives located
Marc Thompson, and subsequently located defendant Thompson who was
lying in bed. Defendant Thompson was taken into custody without
incident. Marc Thompson was also arrested for two outstanding
warrants, an $89,454.00 child support warrant from Middlesex County
and a $450.00 contempt of municipal court warrant.
Defendant Thompson’s bail was set at $250,000.00 with no 10% option.
Defendant Thompson is being held in the Somerset County Jail.
Anyone having information regarding this investigation is asked to
call the Franklin Township Police Department Detective Bureau at
732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line
at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All
calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 14, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
TWO STUDENTS IN FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL RIOT PLEAD GUILTY
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest stated that
on April 13, 2010, K.V. and B.M., both juveniles, pled guilty to
various charges in connection with the riot at Franklin High School on
October 23, 2009. K.V. pled guilty to offenses if committed by an
adult would constitute the following criminal offenses: Resisting
Arrest, 3rd degree and Obstruction, a disorderly persons offense.
Subsequent to the entry of his plea, the Honorable Julie M. Marino,
P.J.F.P., granted K.V.’s request for a deferred adjudication. That
means that if the juvenile remains arrest free for one year, the
charges against him will be dismissed. The deferred adjudication was
conditioned upon the juvenile’s completion of an anger management
program and a written letter of apology to Sergeant Mark Reiner of the
Franklin Township Police Department.
B.M. pled guilty to an offense if committed by an adult would
constitute the crime of Resisting Arrest, 3rd degree. Subsequent to
the entry of his plea Judge Marino granted B.M.’s request for a
deferred adjudication, conditioned upon his completion of ten hours of
community service.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on October 23, 2009, at approximately
9:45 p.m. Franklin Township police officers that were assigned to work
security at the high school sponsored event radioed for assistance
after fights and other disturbances broke out among the approximately
600 adults and teens that were in attendance.
Once police and school security backup units arrived on the scene
numerous attempts were made to disperse the groups located outside the
school via the public address systems in the police vehicles. Officers
then exited their vehicles and continued to attempt to disperse the
crowd utilizing verbal commands as they approached the school
building. A number of individuals, both students and adults, refused
to obey police orders to disperse and encouraged others not to leave
and shouted obscenities and challenged the police officers.
Prosecutor Forrest additionally stated that six Franklin police
officers were assaulted and injured, four of whom required treatment
at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. In addition, one student
was transported to the hospital for examination, at the direction of
the police, and was released. Officers from New Brunswick,
Hillsborough, South Bound Brook, Piscataway and Bound Brook arrived on
scene and assisted in calming the situation and securing the area.
Upon completion of the investigation five adults and eight juveniles
were charged.
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APRIL 12, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERVILLE NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS FOUR ARRESTS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the arrests of
defendant Robert Brown, Sr. (42 YOA) of Highland Place in Bound Brook,
defendant Troy Ferguson (47 YOA) of Somerset Street in Somerville,
defendant Diedria Stewart (32 YOA) of Fairview Avenue in Somerville,
and defendant Charles Dulin, Jr. (50 YOA) of Caine Court in
Bridgewater.
Defendant Brown, Sr. has been charged with Distribution of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd degree.
Defendant Ferguson has been charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd degree.
Defendants Stewart and Dulin, Jr. have each been charged with
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly person’s offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that these arrests are the result of a
two-month long narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
along with the Somerville Police Department. As a result of the
ongoing narcotics investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court
Search Warrant was obtained for the person of defendant Robert Brown,
Sr. and the residence of defendant Diedria Stewart located on Fairview
Avenue in Somerville. On April 9, 2010 at approximately 4:00 p.m.,
prior to executing the search warrants, Task Force members along with
Somerville police, established surveillance in the area of Fairview
Avenue. While conducting surveillance, members of the Task Force
located defendant Brown, Sr. walking on East Main Street in
Somerville. Defendant Brown, Sr. was observed meeting with an
individual later identified as defendant Ferguson on East Main Street,
at which time they were observed conducting a hand-to-hand narcotics
transaction. After the hand-to-hand narcotics transaction was
completed, both defendants walked away from each other. Task Force
members subsequently approached defendant Ferguson, at which time
police saw defendant Ferguson attempt to discard a bag containing
cocaine on the sidewalk. Defendant Ferguson and defendant Brown, Sr.
were then placed under arrest for the actions observed by Task Force
members. The Superior Court Search Warrant was executed on defendant
Brown, Sr. and seized from his person was five hundred and sixteen
dollars ($516.00) in U.S. currency.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Task Force members and Somerville
police officers then executed the search warrant on the residence
located on Fairview Avenue. Task Force members entered the residence,
while announcing themselves as police, and located defendants Stewart
and Dulin, Jr. in the apartment. Drug paraphernalia (i.e., a glass
stem smoking pipe) was seized from the apartment. Both defendants
Stewart and Dulin, Jr. were placed under arrest at the scene without
incident.
Defendants Ferguson, Stewart, and Dulin, Jr. were released on their
own recognizance. Defendant Brown, Sr. was lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail set at $20,000.00 cash only as per Somerset
County Superior Court Judge Margaret Goodzeit.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 9, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
UNDERCOVER OPERATION AT GREEN BROOK MOTEL YIELDS TWO ARRESTS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and
Green Brook Police Chief Martin Rasmussen announce the arrest of two
individuals after a one-month narcotics investigation. As a result of
this investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with the Green
Brook Police Department, defendant Christopher Ventura (19 YOA) of
Wickett Avenue in Green Brook and defendant Jason Perry (27 YOA) of
Route 22 West in Green Brook were arrested yesterday afternoon.
Defendant Ventura has been charged with two counts of Distribution of
a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 4th degree; Conspiracy
to Sell a Handgun without a License, 4th degree and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense. Defendant Perry was
charged with Sale of a Handgun without a License, 4th degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on April 5, 2010, defendant Ventura met
with an undercover detective at the Ivory Tower Motel, located on
Route 22 in Green Brook, where he sold a quantity of marijuana to an
undercover detective. Defendant Ventura subsequently introduced the
undercover detective to defendant Perry who sold a .32 caliber
Harrington & Richardson revolver to the undercover detective.
On April 7, 2010, the undercover detective had further contact with
defendant Ventura at which time they negotiated another narcotics
sale. The undercover detective met with defendant Ventura again at the
Ivory Tower Motel on Route 22 West in Green Brook where defendant
Ventura sold a quantity of marijuana to the undercover detective.
On April 8, 2010, members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with members of the
Green Brook Police Department, responded to the Ivory Tower Motel to
arrest both defendants Ventura and Perry. Upon arrival, defendant
Perry was located in the office lobby of the Ivory Tower Motel and was
placed under arrest without incident. It was later learned that
defendant Ventura had recently checked out of the Ivory Tower Motel
and returned to his Wickett Avenue residence in Green Brook. Members
of the Task Force and Green Brook Police responded to Wickett Avenue
and located defendant Ventura in the backyard of his residence.
Defendant Ventura was placed under arrest without incident. Defendant
Ventura was found in possession of his luggage which was located near
him in the backyard. A search of that luggage resulted in the seizure
of drug paraphernalia (i.e., plastic packaging material and a glass
water smoking device).
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 8, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
GRAND JURY INDICTS FIVE ADULTS FOR DOG FIGHTING RING
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and South
Bound Brook Chief of Police William King announced that a Somerset
County Grand Jury has returned an indictment charging Barry L. Norman,
age 28, of Lincoln Street in South Bound Brook, Kaysona P. Miller, age
27, of Edgewood Terrace in South Bound Brook; Armin L. Spann, age 31,
of Willow Avenue in North Plainfield; Artamas K. Miller, age 39, of
Newlins Road in Easton, Pennsylvania; and Mylyn M. Robinson, age 28,
of South 17th Street in Newark with Animal Fighting, a 3rd degree
crime, and Animal Cruelty, a 3rd degree crime. Defendant Artamas
Miller was also charged by the Grand Jury with Criminal Trespass, a
4th degree crime.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Sunday, March 7, 2010 at
approximately 4:00 p.m. South Bound Brook police officers responded to
30 Edgewood Terrace in South Bound Brook on an anonymous report of dog
fighting. Officers walking up to the residence were able to hear dog
cries, barks, and growls coming from the basement. Officers also heard
people in the basement clapping, shouting, and whistling. In the
basement, officers discovered a dog fighting operation consisting of a
large blood stained fighting ring, 4 pit bulls in crates with visible
bloody facial injuries, a large bucket with bloody water and a blood
soaked rag, and a dog bite stick which is used to pry open a dog’s
mouth. One of the pit bull dogs had a leg injury. Officers also
discovered a fifth pit bull with a bloody facial injury in the first
floor bathroom. There was no visible food or water for any of the dogs
and no dog pet accessories commonly found with pet dogs. Defendants
Artamas K. Miller, Kaysona P. Miller, Mylyn M. Robinson, Barry L.
Norman and Armin Spann were located in the residence.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that South Bound Brook Police Officers and a
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office detective, along with an officer
from the S.P.C.A. Humane Police and Animal Control personnel from St.
Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, responded to the residence to conduct
the investigation. Responding officers located defendant Artamas K.
Miller in an unoccupied upstairs apartment. Defendant Miller made
entry into the locked apartment, damaging the door, and was located by
officers hiding in a closet on the second floor. There were five
children present in the residence at the time of the incident ranging
from five to nine years of age. The Division of Youth and Family
Services was notified and released the children to relatives.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the five pit bulls recovered were
deemed unsuitable for adoption due to their injuries and temperament
by St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center and unfortunately were
euthanized. All defendants, with the exception of defendant Artamas
Miller, face up to ten years in prison. Defendant Artamas Miller faces
up to 11½ years in prison.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief King request anyone with information to
contact the South Bound Brook Police Department at 732-356-0087, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
The matter was presented to the Grand Jury by Assistant Prosecutor
Robert J. Hawkes.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 7, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
FUGITIVE ARRESTED IN BERNARDS TOWNSHIP
DANIEL BURKE
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman,
Bernards Township Police Chief Brian Bobowicz and Bernardsville Police
Chief Kevin Valentine announce the arrest of Daniel Burke (age 56) of
Boca Raton, Florida. Defendant Daniel J. Burke has been a fugitive
from justice for ten (10) years. On March 15, 2000 a bench warrant was
issued by the Court for failure to appear for a pre-arraignment
conference regarding a charge of 2nd degree Eluding in Far Hills.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Fugitive Unit received information that defendant Burke was in the
area of Hawthorne Place in Basking Ridge. On April 6, 2010, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Fugitive Unit, along with members
of the Bernards Township Police Department and the Bernardsville
Police Department, responded to the area of Hawthorne Place in Basking
Ridge. Defendant Burke was observed in the area of Hawthorne Place and
was arrested without incident.
Defendant Burke was lodged in the Somerset County Jail as a result of
a no bail warrant issued by the Court in March, 2000.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
APRIL 6, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SEARCH WARRANT IN SOMERVILLE YIELDS SEVEN ARRESTS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the arrests of
defendants Louis Daniel Rodriguez Gutierrez (23 YOA) of South Bridge
Street in Somerville; Yomaira Rodriguez Gutierrez (26 YOA) of South
Bridge Street in Somerville; Johny Singh (23 YOA) of Second Street in
Somerville; Angel Mario Rojas (24 YOA) of Talmadge Avenue in Bound
Brook; Abigail Colon (46 YOA) of South Bridge Street in Somerville;
and a male juvenile, M.A. (17 YOA), of South Bridge Street in
Somerville.
Defendant Louis Daniel Rodriguez Gutierrez has been charged with
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd
degree; Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine); 3rd
degree, and a disorderly persons offense of Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia.
Defendants Yomaria Rodriguez Gutierrez and Angel Mario Rojas have been
charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine),
3rd degree and a disorderly persons offense of Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia.
Defendant Johny Singh was charged with a disorderly persons offense of
Possession of Marijuana (under 50 grams).
Defendant Abigail Colon was charged with disorderly persons offenses
of Obstruction of Justice and Resisting Arrest.
The juvenile, M.A., was charged with Obstruction of Justice, 4th
degree and a disorderly persons offense of Resisting Arrest.
A charge of Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine),
3rd degree, and a disorderly persons offense Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia has been charged against another defendant, Louis
Rodriguez Gutierrez of South Bridge Street in Somerville, who has not
been arrested at this time.
The arrests are the result of a two-month long narcotics investigation
conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force along with the Somerville Police Department.
While conducting this investigation on March 3, 2010, defendant Louis
Daniel Rodriguez Gutierrez met with an undercover detective in the
area of South Bridge Street in Somerville where he sold a quantity of
cocaine to the undercover detective.
As a result of the ongoing narcotics investigation, a Somerset County
Superior Court Search Warrant was obtained for the residence of
defendants Luis Daniel Rodriguez Gutierrez and Luis Rodriguez
Gutierrez in Somerville, located at 58B South Bridge Street. On April
5, 2010 at approximately 3:15 p.m., members of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force executed
the Superior Court Search Warrant on the residence, along with members
of the Somerville Police Department and the Manville K-9 Unit. Task
Force members secured the residence and discovered approximately 7½
grams of cocaine and drug paraphernalia therein. Defendants Louis
Daniel Rodriguez Gutierrez, Yomaria Rodriguez Gutierrez, and Angel
Mario Rojas were placed under arrest inside the residence.
As Task Force members executed the search warrant, they came into
contact with numerous individuals located in the rear driveway of the
residence. This area of the driveway has been previously observed by
Task Force members as a location for narcotics activity pertaining to
this investigation. While Task Force members were attempting to secure
the individuals in the rear driveway, defendant Abigail Colon came out
of her residence continually screaming at Task Force members.
Defendant Colon was advised numerous times to leave the area but
refused and continued to be verbally abusive towards Task Force
members. Defendant Colon was placed under arrest at this time. While
Task Force members were placing defendant Colon under arrest, juvenile
M.A. charged at the Task Force members arresting defendant Colon.
Juvenile M.A. ignored Task Force members’ commands to not intervene.
Task Force members then restrained juvenile M.A. and attempted to
place him under arrest. Juvenile M.A. responded by physically
resisting his arrest and was eventually restrained. Also located in
the rear driveway area was defendant Singh, who was found to be in
possession of marijuana (less than 50 grams) and was placed under
arrest.
The cocaine seized from the residence has an estimated street value of
approximately $750.00.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants and juvenile are presumed innocent until and unless proven
guilty or adjudicated delinquent.
Back
APRIL 1, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
LONG HILL TOWNSHIP MAN ARRESTED FOR WARREN GAS STATION ARMED ROBBERY
MICHAEL A. APUZZO, Jr.
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and
Warren Township Chief of Police Russell W. Leffert, announce the
arrest of Michael A. Apuzzo, Jr., age 22, of Passaic Avenue in
Stirling, charging him with the armed robbery of the Gulf Gas Station,
located on Stirling Road in Warren which occurred on February 19,
2010.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 11:00 p.m. on February
19, 2010, an unknown white male suspect robbed the Gulf gas station
attendant of an undisclosed amount of money. At the time of the
robbery, the suspect brandished a black colored handgun and demanded
money from the attendant. A physical and clothing description was
provided to investigating officers. Detectives from the Warren
Township Police Department along with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad have been conducting the investigation since
the incident. Detective Eric Yaccarino of the Warren Township Police
Department and Detective David Whipple of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office conducted numerous interviews in an attempt to
identify the suspect. Detectives ultimately were able to identify
defendant Michael A. Apuzzo, Jr. as the perpetrator of the Gulf gas
station armed robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Apuzzo was arrested by
detectives on March 31, 2010 and charged with Armed Robbery, 1st
degree and Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes (imitation
firearm),4th degree. Defendant Apuzzo was lodged at the Somerset
County Jail with bail to be set.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives had been made aware that the
weapon used in the robbery could be located in the wooded area behind
the Gulf gas station. During the morning hours of April 1, 2010,
detectives from the Warren Township Police Department located the
firearm which was believed to have been utilized in the robbery. This
item is an imitation firearm which had been painted black in an
attempt to make the imitation firearm look realistic.
Anyone having any further information regarding this investigation is
asked to call the Warren Township Police Department at 908-753-1000,
or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All calls are
confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
DRUG DEALER IS SENTENCED TO EIGHT YEARS IN PRISON FOR
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT OF TASK FORCE OFFICER
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that the defendant Jesse Paulino (26 years old) formerly of Village
Commons, Flemington was sentenced to eight (8) years incarceration on
his pleas of guilty to charges of Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine,
Third Degree, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Third
Degree, Aggravated Assault, Second Degree, Unlawful Possession of a
Weapon in a C.D.S. Crime, Second Degree and Resisting Arrest, Third
Degree. The Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C. imposed sentence. The
defendant must serve eight (8) years incarceration in State Prison
with 85% without parole according to the No Early Release Act.
Assistant Prosecutor Frank P. Kolodzieski, II represented the State.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on February 25, 2009 members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Gangs and Guns Task Force received
information from a confidential informant that defendant Jesse Paulino
would be operating a motor vehicle and traveling to the area of 320
South Main Street, Manville, New Jersey to conduct a narcotics
transaction with Donna L. Miller. Detectives established a
surveillance and at approximately 7:00 p.m. observed defendant Paulino
arrive in a silver Honda Accord. Detectives then observed defendant
Miller exit 320 South Main Street and proceed into defendant Paulino’s
vehicle on the rear passenger side. Within seconds defendant Miller
exited the vehicle and proceeded back towards 320 South Main Street,
consistent with a narcotics transaction.
Prosecutor Forrest stated detectives then proceeded to approach
defendant Paulino’s vehicle, which was attempting a k-turn to exit the
parking lot. Detectives approached the vehicle and identified
themselves as police and ordered defendant Paulino to stop. Detectives
had displayed police badges and ballistic vests with the word “Police”
written on the front of the vests. Defendant Paulino initially came to
a complete stop, but, in spite of the obvious approach of the Task
Force detectives, deliberately accelerated forward into one of the
detectives, striking him, knocking him over, and pinning him beneath
his vehicle, which came to a stop only after striking a concrete
parking lot pole. Additional Task Force officers removed defendant
Paulino from the vehicle following a struggle. Defendant Paulino did
not comply with officers’ commands to exit the vehicle and continued
to resist arrest by fighting with a Task Force detective by attempting
to take the detective to the ground, kicking, punching and elbowing
him. After defendant Paulino was placed under arrest, a front seat
passenger identified as defendant Frances Pagan was also removed from
the vehicle and detained. Task Force officers and additional
responding officers, lifted the vehicle off the Task Force detective.
The detective was airlifted to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
with serious injuries to his head, neck, back and lower extremities.
Defendant Miller was subsequently located and arrested. A Superior
Court Ordered Search warrant was executed on defendant Paulino’s
vehicle and seized as a result of the search warrant was a quantity of
cocaine (under ½ ounce) with an estimated street value of $500.00, two
(2) cellular telephones, and $1,911.00 was seized as suspected drug
proceeds.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that members from the Somerset County
Collision Analysis Reconstruction Team (C.A.R.T.), along with
detectives from the Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit, and Major Crimes Squad responded to
assist in the investigation. The following agencies responded to
render assistance: Manville Police Department, Somerset County
Sheriff’s Office, Hillsborough Police Department, Franklin Township
Police Department, Bridgewater Police Department, Somerville Police
Department, New Jersey State Police Regional Operations Intelligence
Center (R.O.I.C.), Atlantic Air One, and the Somerset Medical Center
Mobile Intensive Care Unit. Somerset County Communications 911 Center
coordinated appropriate police response to the incident.
Back
MARCH 31, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
WOMAN CHARGED WITH NUMEROUS CRIMES
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Mary Stewart (DOB: 04/08/1957) of King Georges Way in Warren has
been arrested and charged with Theft by Deception, 3rd Degree;
Insurance Fraud, 3rd Degree; and Forgery, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Special Investigations Unit received a referral from Somerset County
Board of Elections indicating that Virginia Stewart (deceased since
November 2006) had submitted absentee ballots through April, 2008.
Detectives initiated an investigation into the use of Virginia
Stewart’s identity. Records revealed that, although deceased, Virginia
Stewart maintained a valid driver’s license, three cars registered in
her name, a handicap placard registered in her name, valid State Farm
Insurance on the three cars, an insurance claim from an accident after
the date of her death and $18,225.00 in social security benefits
received after her death.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Special
Investigations Unit were assisted in their investigation by Federal
Agents of the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector
General, Office of Investigations. Detectives and Federal Agents
determined that Virginia Stewart’s Bank of America account was
receiving electronic deposits from the Social Security Administration
every month from December 2006 (first month after Virginia’s death)
through June 2008. The account was not a joint account. Detectives and
Federal Agents determined that defendant Mary Stewart, Virginia
Stewart’s daughter, was using the account as her own. The Social
Security Administration confirmed the deposits totaled $18,225.00.
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Insurance
Fraud Unit investigated allegations of insurance fraud. Detectives
determined that the State Farm Auto Insurance Policy was renewed in
April of 2007, October of 2007 and April of 2008 all occurring after
Virginia Stewart’s death in November of 2006. The insurance policy
records indicate Virginia Stewart as being the principle driver. On
December 18, 2006, an annual dividend check from State Farm for
$749.20 was issued to Virginia Stewart and on December 14, 2007, an
annual dividend check from State Farm for $310.60 was issued to
Virginia Stewart. Both checks were signed in the name Virginia Stewart
and cashed.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Insurance Fraud Unit also determined that on May
18, 2008, Virginia Stewart made another claim as a result of a car
accident involving a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was insured under
her name. The State Farm records have a notation: “Please use daughter
Mary cell phone to contact Virginia.” The Grand Cherokee was brought
to J&E Auto Body for repairs. Defendant Stewart was identified as the
individual who dropped off and picked up the vehicle for repairs and
had identified herself as Virginia Stewart.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Stewart voluntary turned
herself into detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
at approximately 8:30 a.m. today.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
GUILTY VERDICT
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on Wednesday, March 31, 2010, Tubal Eduardo, age 33, formerly of
Fairview Avenue in Somerville, was found guilty by a Somerset County
jury of Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition of Property
Received, 3rd Degree. The four-day trial was held before the Honorable
Paul W. Armstrong, Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Criminal
Part.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Eduardo was initially
investigated by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special
Investigations Unit when they received a report that he had misused
the charitable funds collected on behalf of his son, Noah Eduardo,
currently age five, for his own benefit.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on March 17, 2007, an accidental fire
in Manville killed Heather Marchie and two of her children. Heather
Marchie’s boyfriend, defendant Eduardo, and a third child of Heather
and defendant Eduardo, Noah, survived. In the succeeding months,
donations from the community on behalf of Noah and defendant Eduardo
were collected by the Weston School Parent Teacher Association in
Manville. Those donations were deposited in a bank account at the
Manville Federal Credit Union. On June 27, 2007, the Weston School
Parent Teacher Association closed the account by issuing a check in
the amount of $33,351.24 to Noah and a check in the amount of
$5,000.00 to defendant Tubal Eduardo.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that a Court Order dated June 12, 2007
entered by Judge Julie Marino, after a hearing at which Tubal Eduardo
and his attorney were present, reads: “Any moneys received for the
benefit of Noah Eduardo shall be placed in a joint guardian account
naming Debra Jean Walters and Tubal Eduardo as co-holders of the
account. No moneys shall be removed from the account without agreement
of the parties and signatures of both of them. The parties agree they
shall act reasonably in the best interest of the minor child.” Debra
Jean Walters is Noah’s grandmother and Heather Marchie’s mother.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the checks issued by the Weston School
Parent Teacher Association were initially held in a safety deposit box
while legal proceedings ensued between Debra Jean Walters and
defendant Eduardo. On September 21, 2007, both checks were turned over
to Abimael Eduardo, defendant Eduardo’s brother. Noah’s check was then
deposited into a new custodial savings account in the name of Noah
Eduardo with defendant Eduardo as the sole custodian of the account.
Defendant Eduardo also opened a separate checking account where he
deposited his $5,000.00 check.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at a Family Court hearing in front of
Judge Robert Reed, in response to questioning by Judge Reed, defendant
Eduardo stated that he used Noah’s money to live off of and buy a car.
At this point, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office was notified
with regard to this matter by Judge Reed.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that bank records for Noah’s account
revealed eight transfers to defendant Eduardo’s account, two overdraft
protections to defendant Eduardo’s account, two payments for a credit
card held by defendant Eduardo and eight cash withdrawals by defendant
Eduardo, in a total amount of over $10,000.00.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that all but $114.25 of the $38,000.00 of
charitable donations collected by the PTA, including the $33,000.00
collected for Noah’s benefit, who was only two and half years old at
the time of the fire, was spent by defendant Eduardo, in just over two
months time. Bank records confirmed that among the purchases defendant
Eduardo made with these charitable funds were liquor, a Range Rover, a
$350.00 spa session, over $1,400.00 in hotel charges, and over
$7,000.00 in escort services. In addition, bank records showed that
defendant Eduardo withdrew more than $25,000.00 in cash from the
charitable funds. After depositing the $38,000.00 in funds on
September 22, 2007, defendant Eduardo had spent all but $114.25 of the
funds by December 3, 2007.
The jury deliberated for approximately three hours before returning
their verdict. Defendant faces a maximum term of five years in prison.
The State was represented at trial by Assistant Prosecutor Robert N.
Pollock. The defendant was represented by Assistant Deputy Public
Defender Maureen O’Reilly, Esq.
Back
MARCH 30, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
PROSTITUTION ARREST HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman and
Hillsborough Township Police Chief Paul Kaminsky announce the arrest
of defendant Shun Liu (38 YOA) of Briarcliff Avenue in Boothwyn,
Pennsylvania. Defendant Liu was arrested and charged with Engaging in
Prostitution, a disorderly persons offense.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on March 29, 2010, at approximately
11:30 a.m., a month-long investigation conducted by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
and the Hillsborough Township Police Department resulted in the arrest
of defendant Shun Liu. The investigation began after several
complaints were received from concerned citizens in reference to a
suspected brothel being operated out of a massage parlor, JK
Acupressure, located at 249 Homestead Road. It should be noted that in
March 2009, a prior investigation was conducted at that same location
which resulted in an arrest on one individual, defendant Mingyu Xu (43
YOA) of Prince Street in Flushing, New York, for Engaging in
Prostitution. On June 2, 2009, defendant Xu pled guilty in
Hillsborough Township Municipal Court and was sentenced to a $588.00
fine and court costs.
On March 29, 2010, a Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office undercover
detective entered the business, JK Acupressure, where he was met by
defendant Liu. During this meeting, defendant Liu propositioned the
undercover detective for a sexual act in exchange for U.S. currency.
Task Force members entered the business and arrested defendant Liu.
Following the arrest, Hillsborough Township Code Enforcement
Inspectors responded to the location and began their own investigation
with regard to Township code violations. Defendant Liu was transported
to the Hillsborough Township Police Department, where she was
processed and released on her own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
TWO MEN CHARGED WITH OPERATING CHECK SCAM ARE BEING SOUGHT BY POLICE
REGINALD D. BOYD
AARON H. WILLIAMS
(CLICK ON IMAGES TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Chief of Police Paul Kaminsky announce that defendant
Reginald D. Boyd (DOB: 05/10/1972) of North 9th Street, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania has been charged with 4 counts of Uttering a Forged
Instrument, 3rd Degree; 4 counts of Theft by Deception, 3rd Degree and
4 counts of Identity Theft, 3rd Degree. Defendant Aaron H. Williams
(DOB: 01/10/1975) of North Marshal Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
has been charged with Uttering a Forged Instrument, 3rd Degree;
Identity Theft, 3rd Degree and Attempted Theft by Deception, 3rd
Degree. Defendant Williams and defendant Boyd operated a check cashing
scam throughout Somerset County that involved legitimate checking
accounts and stolen checks. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Special Investigations Unit and Hillsborough Police Department
Detective Bureau conducted a joint investigation into defendant Boyd’s
and defendant Williams’ criminal activities.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 5, 2008, defendant Boyd
entered the Branchburg PNC Bank and deposited a stolen check in the
amount of $4,880.07 into a legitimate PNC customer’s account.
Defendant Boyd then withdrew $3,880.07 from the legitimate account
into which he had just deposited the stolen check. Defendant Boyd was
able to do this by providing the PNC teller with a fraudulent
Pennsylvania driver’s license in the name of the legitimate account
holder but with defendant Boyd’s photo. Detectives were able to
determine that the number on the fraudulent Pennsylvania driver’s
license did in fact belong to a woman in Pennsylvania rather then
defendant Boyd.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 6, 2008, defendant Boyd
entered the Bank of America in Pluckemin and cashed a stolen check
from a Bank of America customer in the amount of $2,680.49. Defendant
Boyd used a fraudulent driver’s license with defendant Boyd’s photo
and an unknown credit card as identification at the time of the
transaction. Detectives again determined that the number on the
fraudulent Pennsylvania driver’s license did in fact belong to a woman
in Pennsylvania rather than defendant Boyd.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 7, 2008 defendant Boyd
entered a PNC Bank in Bernards Township with a stolen check from a
Commerce Bank customer and deposited the check in the amount of
$4,712.10 into the account of a legitimate PNC customer. Defendant
Boyd then withdrew $3,712.00 from the legitimate PNC customer’s
account without authorization.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on October 14, 2009 defendant Boyd
entered Peapack Gladstone Bank in Hillsborough with a stolen check
from a Commerce Bank customer and deposited the check in the amount of
$2,995.60 into the account of a legitimate Peapack Gladstone
customer’s account. Defendant Boyd again provided fraudulent
identification indicating that he was the account holder. Defendant
Boyd then withdrew $2,695.600 from the account. Detectives determined
that the number on the fraudulent Pennsylvania driver’s license did in
fact belong to another Pennsylvania resident rather than defendant
Boyd.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Williams was also involved in
the check scheme and on November 14, 2009, when he entered a TD Bank
located in Hillsborough. There, defendant Williams attempted to cash a
TD Bank customer’s check in the amount of $2,890.44. Defendant
Williams provided the teller with a fraudulent driver’s license in the
name of the account holder. However, defendant Williams was
unsuccessful in attempting to withdraw funds from the account due to
the fact that the teller recognized defendant Williams from a photo
which had been circulated to various bank branches by the banks
security department as being a member of a fraud group targeting local
banks. Defendant Williams left the check along with the fraudulent
Pennsylvania driver’s license when he fled the TD Bank. Detectives
ultimately determined that the Pennsylvania driver’s license defendant
Williams had used and left behind when he fled the bank belonged to a
deceased Pennsylvania resident.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit and Hillsborough
Police Department Detective Bureau were able to identify where some of
the stolen checks had originated and confirm that the deposited checks
were in fact fraudulent and not authorized, along with the
withdrawals, by the actual account holders. Detectives were also able
to determine the identities of defendant Boyd and defendant Williams
through bank security video surveillance. The fraudulent driver’s
license defendant Williams left behind was able to be examined by the
Pennsylvania State Police through their facial recognition computer
system, which identified the individual in the photo as defendant
Williams.
Defendant Boyd and defendant Williams are currently not in custody and
that their whereabouts are unknown. Anyone with any information
regarding the whereabouts of defendant Boyd and defendant Williams are
urged to contact the Hillsborough Township Police Department at
908-369-4323, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special
Investigation Unit at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers Tips line at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or
“Crime Stoppers”. All calls are confidential.
NOTE: We are required by the Rules of Court to include
herein a statement explaining that the charges are merely an
accusation and that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven
guilty.
Back
March
26, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
HILLSBOROUGH TOWNSHIP MAN ARRESTED FOR MANVILLE GAS STATION
ARMED ROBBERY
DUSTIN ROSE
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman,
Manville Police Chief Mark Peltack, and Hillsborough Township Chief of
Police Paul A. Kaminsky, announce the arrest of Dustin J. Rose, age
21, Mountain View Road, Hillsborough, charging him with the armed
robbery of the LUKOIL gas station which occurred of January 14, 2010.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 2:45 p.m. on January
14, 2010 an unknown white male suspect robbed the LUKOIL gas station
attendant at gunpoint of an undisclosed amount of money. At the time
of the robbery the suspect brandished a small black semi-automatic
handgun and demanded money from the attendant. A physical and clothing
description was provided to investigating officers. Detectives from
the Manville Police Department Detective Bureau along with the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad responded to
conduct the investigation. The investigation revealed that the suspect
had previously purchased a pack of cigarettes from the same attendant
earlier in the morning on January 14, 2010 at which time the suspect
produced identification bearing the birth year 1988. Since the
incident Detective Sergeant Ronald Gazaway (Manville Police
Department) and Detective David Whipple (Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office) conducted numerous interviews and followed up on numerous
leads in an attempt to identify the suspect.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that as a result of numerous interviews
Detective Sergeant Gazaway located a witness with detailed knowledge
of the armed robbery. Detectives took that information and identified
Dustin Rose as the person responsible for the armed robbery. On Friday
March 26, 2010 detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad, Manville Police Department, and Hillsborough
Township Police Department responded to defendant Rose residence on
Mountain View Road, Hillsborough, New Jersey. Defendant Rose then fled
from the residence by jumping out of a second floor bedroom window and
fleeing on foot. Additional police personnel from the Hillsborough
Police Department, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit
and the New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit responded to assist in
locating defendant Rose. Officers subsequently located and arrested
defendant Rose back at his residence on Mountain View Road.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Rose was charged with first
degree Armed Robbery and third degree Escape. Defendant rose will be
lodged at the Somerset County Jail once bail has been set.
Anyone having any further information regarding this investigation is
asked to call the Manville Police Department at 908-725-1900, or the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
POLICE CHARGE TWO ADULTS AND THREE JUVENILES IN CONNECTION WITH BOUND
BROOK BURGLARY
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Acting
Bound Brook Chief of Police Michael Jannone announce that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad in
conjunction with detectives from the Bound Brook Police Department
have charged: Naquan N. Menifield (age 21) of West Main Street in
Bound Brook; Isaiah Wilson (age 18) of West Main Street in Bound
Brook; a seventeen year old male juvenile (D.O.); a seventeen year old
male juvenile (W.S.) and a seventeen year old female juvenile (G.B.),
all of whom also reside in Bound Brook.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 12:16 p.m. on
Thursday, March 25, 2010, Bound Brook Police responded to a call
reporting a burglary at a West Main Street residence. Responding
officers made contact with the victim who stated that various items,
including a semi-automatic handgun, had been taken from the second
floor of her home. The victim stated she had left her residence to run
a few errands, at which time she had noticed a group of individuals
standing on a neighbor’s porch. When the victim returned home about a
half hour later, she discovered the burglary. Upon investigation it
was determined that entry had been made through a basement window, and
a trail could be seen through the grass in the victim’s backyard
heading towards another neighboring residence. Based on the timing of
the crime, it was requested that the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office
K-9 unit respond to the scene. The K-9 tracke from the basement window
of the victim’s residence to the backyard of a neighboring residence
where juvenile D.O. resides and defendant Isaiah Wilson had been
observed approximately one hour prior to the victim reporting the
burglary.
Further investigation determined that defendant Naquan Menifield had
been seen in possession of a handgun that defendant Menifield had
stolen from a Bound Brook residence.
A search of the juvenile D.O.’s residence yielded various items stolen
from the victim’s residence, as well as the semi-automatic handgun.
Defendant Isaiah Wilson was charged with Burglary, 2nd Degree; Theft,
3rd Degree; Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd Degree; Hindering
Apprehension, 3rd Degree and Possession of a Handgun, 2nd Degree.
Defendant Naquan Menifield was charged with Burglary, 2nd Degree;
Theft, 3rd Degree; Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd Degree and
Possession of a Handgun, 2nd Degree.
Juvenile D.O. was charged with Burglary, 2nd Degree; Theft, 3rd
Degree; Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd Degree and Possession of a
Handgun, 2nd Degree.
Juvenile G.B. was charged with Hindering Apprehension, 3rd Degree, of
juvenile D.O.
Juvenile W.S, who has not yet been apprehended, will be charged with
Burglary, 2nd Degree; Theft, 3rd Degree; Receiving Stolen Property,
3rd Degree and Possession of a Handgun, 2nd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest and Acting Chief Jannone request anyone with
information to contact the Bound Brook Police Department at
732-356-0800, or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants and juveniles are presumed innocent until and unless proven
guilty or adjudicated delinquent.
Back
MARCH 24, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
NEW CHARGES LODGED AGAINST DEFENDANT AWAITING TRIAL FOR MURDER
MALIK SINGER
(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest today
announces that the Somerset County Grand Jury has returned a new
indictment against defendant Malik Singer, who is presently lodged in
the Somerset County Jail awaiting trial for the murder of Alabama
resident Michael Love in Franklin Township on Mother’s Day, May 11,
2008, at the now-defunct “Ten’s Enough” social club on Pine Street.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the new indictment charges defendant
Singer with conspiring to retaliate against three potential witnesses
and informants for the State, second degree crimes, by soliciting help
to have them murdered, first degree crimes.
No date has yet been set for that trial, and the trial of defendant
Singer has been severed from his remaining co-defendant, James Miller.
A third co-defendant, Said Kendrick, pleaded guilty to related charges
earlier this month and, as part of his plea agreement with the
Prosecutor’s Office, agreed to testify at defendant Singer’s trial.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
TEENAGER CHARGED IN FRANKLIN SHOOTING WAIVED UP TO ADULT COURT
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Christopher Thompson, age 18, of Bergen Court in New Brunswick
has been waived as a juvenile up to the adult court. Defendant
Thompson has been charged with Attempted Murder, 1st degree in the
shooting of a 15-year-old Franklin Township teenager which occurred on
September 13, 2009 on Millstone Road in Somerset. At the time of the
shooting, defendant Thompson was 17 years of age.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Sunday, September 13, 2009 Franklin
Township Police responded to Millstone Road near Route 27 in the
Somerset section of Franklin Township for a report of a shooting.
Officers located at the time a 15-year-old teenager lying on the
ground suffering from a single gun shot wound to his lower back. The
teenager was treated at a local hospital and survived the shooting.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad along with detectives from
Franklin Township Police Department Detective Bureau were able to
identify the shooter as defendant Christopher Thompson. Through the
course of the investigation, detectives gathered information that
defendant Thompson was with his father who was identified as Marc
Thompson, age 40, of Livingston Avenue in New Brunswick. On Wednesday
evening (September 16, 2009), detectives made contact and briefed
members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Gangs and Guns Task
Force along with detectives from the Franklin Township Police
Department Crime Suppression Unit and the New Brunswick Police
Department Anti-Crime Unit to assist them in tracking any potential
leads. Detectives continued to search for defendant Thompson through
the night. At approximately 11:00 p.m., detectives went to an
apartment on Woodnor Street in New Brunswick which belonged to Marc
Thompson’s current girlfriend. At this location, detectives from the
Gangs and Guns Task Force along with Anti-Crime detectives located
Marc Thompson, and subsequently located defendant Thompson who was
lying in bed. Defendant Thompson was taken into custody without
incident. Marc Thompson was also arrested for two outstanding
warrants, an $89,454.00 child support warrant from Middlesex County
and a $450.00 contempt of municipal court warrant.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that following being waived up as an adult,
defendant Thompson’s bail was set at $250,000.00 with no 10 % option.
Defendant Thompson was lodged at the Somerset County Jail.
Anyone having information regarding this investigation is asked to
call the Franklin Township Police Department Detective Bureau at
732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line
at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All
calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
JUVENILE PLEADS GUILTY IN BRIDGEWATER HIGH SCHOOL THREAT CASE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest states that
on March 24, 2010, juvenile K.L., who was charged with a number of
offenses stemming from a threat made to the Bridgewater High School
Resource Officer in December 2009, appeared before the Hon. Julie M.
Marino, J.S.C., in Somerset County Family Court, and pleaded guilty to
2nd degree Attempt to Cause Widespread Injury or Damage in violation
of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1 and 2C:17-2a(1), and 4th degree Unlawful Possession
of a Weapon (Explosive Device) in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5d.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, juvenile K.L. will be transferred to a
secure treatment facility or the New Jersey Training School for Boys
in Jamesburg for a period of three years. Final disposition is
scheduled to occur on May 4, 2010 before Judge Marino.
The juvenile was represented by W. Timothy Howes, Esq. The State was
represented by W. Brian Stack, Assistant Prosecutor.
Back
MARCH 23, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
DEFENDANT PLEADS GUILTY TO ROBBERY, CONSPIRACY AND TERRORISTIC THREATS
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that Andre Gregory pled guilty on Tuesday, March 23, 2010, before the
Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C. Defendant Gregory, age 19, of
Somerset pled guilty to two counts of Robbery, 1st degree, two counts
of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, 2nd degree and one count of
Terroristic Threats, 3rd degree in connection with two separate
indictments.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the first offense occurred on September
13, 2008 in Franklin Township. Defendant, accompanied by two other
Somerset males, conspired to rob a township woman and, during the
course of that robbery, brandished what appeared to be a handgun. The
second incident also occurred in Franklin Township, on October 1,
2009, while defendant was on bail for the earlier offense. Defendant
agreed with Tyshiune Haskins to rob a Franklin Township male
attempting to purchase drugs. During this incident, the victim was
also threatened with a weapon. Pursuant to the plea agreement, he
faces a maximum of ten years in New Jersey State Prison, 85% of which
is to be served without parole pursuant to the No Early Release Act.
Defendant Gregory, who is represented by Michael Policastro, Esq., is
in the Somerset County Jail awaiting sentencing, which is currently
scheduled for May 14, 2010. Assistant Prosecutors Laurie A. Head-Melillo
and Robert J. Hawkes represented the State.
WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY
TO $400,000 THEFT
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that
Catherine Cavaliere-Gellis (DOB: 11/15/1962 ) of Bound Brook Road in
Dunellen entered pleas of guilty before the Honorable Robert B. Reed,
J.S.C. to an indictment charging Theft, 2nd Degree; Forgery, 3rd
Degree and Uttering a Forged Instrument, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that this matter came to the attention of
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit as
a result of a report by Robert Gluck, Esq. advising that he
represented a client, Catherine Cavaliere-Gellis, who wished to report
her theft from a company by whom she was previously employed.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant came to the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office with her attorney and met with detectives of the
Special Investigations Unit. Defendant stated that she had initially
been employed in July 2006 as a temporary employee/bookkeeper for
Somerset Wood Products Company in Raritan, New Jersey. Following a
90-day period, she was hired as a full-time bookkeeper and had
responsibility for all financial activities of the Somerset Wood
Products Company. She further indicated that she left on August 24,
2009 and was subsequently terminated due to failure to report
to work.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives determined that defendant
issued numerous checks to herself in her maiden name, “Catherine
Goble”, between February 16, 2007 and August 24, 2009. Defendant was
not authorized to write these checks, sign an owner’s name to the
checks and conceal the theft from the company. Defendant deposited
these checks into her personal bank accounts or cashed them through a
check cashing service in Edison. Defendant also did not pay the
company’s state and federal corporate tax and payroll taxes which was
one of her responsibilities as the company’s bookkeeper.
Detectives determined that the total amount of theft was approximately
$400,183.88. Pursuant to the terms of an agreement with the State,
defendant faces six years in New Jersey State Prison and has agreed to
pay restitution. Sentencing was scheduled for May 14, 2010.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Back
MARCH 15, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
WOMAN CHARGED WITH THEFT BY DECEPTION FROM NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J.
Forrest along with Montgomery Township Police Director Robert Palmer
state that Lisa England (DOB: 09/11/1971) of 17th Avenue in Brick, New
Jersey has been charged with Theft By Deception, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest states that an investigation conducted by the
Montgomery Township Detective Bureau in conjunction with the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigation Unit revealed that
defendant England had been stealing funds from her employer. Defendant
England was employed by a non-profit organization, Artistic
Realization Technologies (A.R.T.), that is operated by the founder
(victim) and is located in Belle Mead, New Jersey. A.R.T. creates
technology that allows physically challenged people to express
artistic creativity. The founder of A.R.T. is blind. Defendant England
worked as the bookkeeper and office manager between September 2008 and
September 2009.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation
revealed that defendant England was responsible for preparing all
correspondence and all financial documents for A.R.T. Defendant
England would prepare checks for the victim to sign. Due to his
blindness, the victim was unable to see who the checks were written to
and for what amount. The victim, relying on representations made to
him, signed all documents and checks that defendant provided. While
employed, defendant England had full access to all of the victim’s
accounts including bank accounts, PayPal account, and email accounts.
Defendant England also had access to the victim’s passwords for these
accounts.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that when defendant England’s employment was
terminated for other issues in September of 2009, a new bookkeeper was
hired. The new bookkeeper discovered numerous PayPal transactions from
A.R.T.’s PayPal account and paid to defendant England’s PayPal
account, which were never authorized. A review of the PayPal records
show a total of $22,689.00 was paid to defendant England. A review of
A.R.T.’s Sovereign Bank accounts show that a total of $46,682.44 was
paid to defendant England from A.R.T. Sovereign’s checking account.
Defendant England received these funds by issuing checks to herself
from the Sovereign Account. A.R.T.’s founder provided a sworn
statement that he did not authorize any of these transactions.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant England voluntary turned
herself over to detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Special Investigation Unit at approximately 11:00 a.m. today
without incident. Bail has been set by the Honorable John H. Pursel,
P.J.Cr. at $25,000.00 cash or bond. Defendant England is currently
being lodged at the Somerset County Jail.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MARCH 12, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
MANVILLE NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS MARIJUANA SEIZURE AND THREE
ARRESTS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and
Manville Police Chief Mark Peltack announce the arrests of Michael
Gentile (28 YOA) of Kennedy Boulevard in Manville, Kevin Hahn (20 YOA)
of Kennedy Boulevard in Manville and Amanda Marcincavage (19 YOA) of
Raritan Avenue in Manville.
Defendant Gentile has been charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the Intent to Distribute, 3rd
degree; Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(marijuana), 3rd degree; and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
Disorderly Persons Offense.
Defendant Hahn has been charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the Intent to Distribute, 3rd
degree; Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(marijuana), 3rd degree; and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
Disorderly Persons Offense.
Defendant Marcincavage has been charged with Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the Intent to
Distribute, 3rd degree; and Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 3rd degree.
The arrests are the result of a four-month long narcotics
investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along with the Manville
Police Department.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that as a result of the ongoing narcotics
investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant was
obtained for the residence of defendant Michael Gentile, defendant
Gentile’s person and defendant Hahn’s person. On March 11, 2010, at
approximately 5:00 p.m., prior to executing the Superior Court Search
Warrant, Task Force members, along with Manville Police, established
surveillance in the area of Kennedy Boulevard. While conducting
surveillance, a red Honda Civic was observed parking on Kennedy
Boulevard in front of defendant Gentile’s residence. The operator of
the vehicle, who was later identified as defendant Amanda Marcincavage,
remained in the vehicle while defendant Gentile was observed entering
the passenger seat of the vehicle. Moments later, the red Honda Civic
pulled off. The vehicle subsequently returned back to defendant
Gentile’s residence on Kennedy Boulevard. At that time, Task Force
members approached defendants Gentile and Marcincavage. Both
defendants were removed from the vehicle and advised of the Somerset
County Superior Court Search Warrant. Upon searching a plastic grocery
bag that was located on the front passenger side floor, Task Force
members discovered approximately 87 grams of marijuana therein.
Additional Task Force members, along with Manville Police and the
Manville police K-9 Unit, then executed the search warrant on
defendant Gentile’s residence. Upon approach of the residence, Task
Force members secured defendant Hahn, who was located on the front
porch of the residence. Task Force members then searched the residence
and discovered approximately 30 grams of marijuana and drug
paraphernalia inside.
The marijuana seized from the residence and the vehicle has an
estimated street value of approximately $2,340.00.
Both defendants Gentile and Hahn were lodged in the Somerset County
Jail with bail to be set. Defendant Marcincavage was released on her
own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MARCH 11, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
SOMERSET COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE, CRIME STOPPERS AND THE HUMANE
SOCIETY OF THE UNITED STATES ANNOUNCE REWARD PROGRAM FOR TIPS ON
ANIMAL FIGHTING
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Crime Stoppers, Inc. and The Humane Society of the United
States (HSUS) have teamed up to combat animal fighting in Somerset
County, New Jersey. Through this collaboration, Somerset County Crime
Stoppers is offering a reward of $500.00 for any information which
leads to an arrest and indictment of anyone involved in animal
fighting. Additionally, The Humane Society of the United States is
offering up to $5,000.00 for information leading to the arrest and
conviction of any person involved in animal fighting.
In New Jersey, animal fighting is a crime of the 3rd
degree and is punishable by up to 5 years of imprisonment.
According to Heather Cammisa, the HSUS New Jersey
State Director, “Animal fighting complaints are a serious matter. The
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office is the first Prosecutor’s Office
in New Jersey to collaborate with the The HSUS in offering rewards for
tips involving animal fighting”. Cammisa is hopeful that this
initiative will encourage those with information about animal fighting
in Somerset County to contact the Somerset County TIPS line.
Illegal animal fighting is a blood-sport in which
animals are specifically bred and trained to fight each other for the
benefit of individuals who sometimes place bets on the animal they
believe will win. The fights are extremely brutal, with animals often
fighting to the death. Animal fighting has been associated with other
types of crimes to include drugs, gangs, guns, illegal gambling and
violence which have had a negative impact on entire communities. In
fact, children are often present at dog fighting matches, as in a
recent case in Somerset County. In addition, research has shown that
individuals who engage in animal abuse are more likely to employ
violence against people.
Frank Aquila, Esq., President and Chairman of the
Board of Directors of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced
that they are now offering a reward of $500.00 any individual who
supplies a tip that results in the arrest and indictment of a
perpetrator that is involved with animal fighting. Tips to Crime
Stoppers may be provided anonymously.
The HSUS will provide a reward of up to $5,000.00 to
anyone who provides information that results in an arrest and
conviction of any individual involved in animal fighting. The HSUS
reward program has been implemented nationwide and more than 50
rewards have been paid for successful animal fighting cases.
Somerset County Animal Fighting Reward Program
Instructions:
If you have information about illegal animal fighting
in Somerset County, New Jersey, please call the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers Tips line at 1-888-577- TIPS (8477) or go online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE” .
WATCHUNG MAN ARRESTED FOR DISTRIBUTION OF PRESCRIPTION PILLS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and
Watchung Borough Police Department Chief Sean Whelan announce the
arrest of Drew Peterson (20 YOA) of Mountain Boulevard in Watchung
Borough on March 10, 2010 after a month-long narcotics investigation.
As a result of the investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force,
defendant Peterson was charged with two counts of Distribution of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (Roxicodone), 3rd degree and Possession
of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Roxicodone), 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on March 5, 2010, an undercover
detective met with defendant Peterson at his residence located on
Mountain Boulevard in Watchung where the detective purchased a
quantity of Roxicodone pills from defendant.
On March 10, 2010, the undercover detective had further contact with
defendant Peterson, at which time they negotiated another narcotics
sale. The undercover detective responded once again to meet with
defendant Peterson at his residence. Defendant Peterson then sold a
quantity of Roxicodone pills to the undercover detective. At
approximately 5:00 p.m., Narcotics Task Force officers moved in and
placed defendant Peterson under arrest while he was in his car in the
driveway at his residence. At the time of defendant Peterson’s arrest,
he was found to be in possession of additional Roxicodone pills and
$3,456.00 in United States currency.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MARCH 9, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
POLICE CHARGE FIVE ADULTS FOR DOG FIGHTING RING
Barry L.
Norman
Kaysona P.
Miller
Armin L. Spann
Mylyn M. Robinson
Artamas K.
Miller
(click on
images to enlarge)
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and South
Bound Brook Chief of Police William King announced that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad in
conjunction with the South Bound Brook Police Department have charged
Barry L. Norman, age 28, of Lincoln Street in South Bound Brook,
Kaysona P. Miller, age 27, of Edgewood Terrace in South Bound Brook;
Armin L. Spann, age 31, of Willow Avenue in North Plainfield; Artamas K.
Miller, age 39, of John Street in Plainfield; and Mylyn M. Robinson,
age 28, of South 17th Street in Newark with Animal Fighting, a 3rd
degree offense, and Animal Cruelty, a 4th degree offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Sunday, March 7, 2010 at
approximately 4:00 p.m. South Bound Brook police officers responded to
30 Edgewood Terrace in South Bound Brook on an anonymous report of dog
fighting. Officers walking up to the residence were able to hear dog
cries, barks, and growls coming from the basement. Officers also heard
people in the basement clapping, shouting, and whistling. In the
basement, officers discovered a dog fighting operation consisting of a
large blood stained fighting ring, 4 pit bulls in crates with visible
bloody facial injuries, a large bloody water bucket with a blood
soaked rag, and a dog bite stick which is used to pry open a dog’s
mouth. One of the pit bull dogs had a leg injury. Officers also
discovered a fifth pit bull with a bloody facial injury in the
basement bathroom. There was no visible food or water for any of the
dogs and no dog pet accessories commonly found with pet dogs.
Defendants Artamas K. Miller, Kaysona P. Miller, Mylyn M. Robinson,
Barry L. Norman and Armin Spann were located in the residence.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives, along with an officer from
the S.P.C.A. Humane Police and Animal Control personnel from St.
Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, responded to the residence to conduct
the investigation. All five defendants have been charged with Animal
Cruelty and Animal Fighting. Defendant Artamas K. Miller was also
charged with Criminal Trespass, Hindering Apprehension, and Criminal
Mischief. Responding officers located defendant Artamas K. Miller in
an unoccupied upstairs apartment. Defendant Miller made entry into the
locked apartment, damaging the door, and was located by officers
hiding in a closet on the second floor. There were five children
present in the residence at the time of the incident ranging from five
to nine years of age. The Division of Youth and Family Services was
notified and released the children to relatives.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the five pit bulls recovered were
deemed unsuitable for adoption by St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center
and were unfortunately scheduled to be euthanized. Defendants Armin L.
Spann and Mylyn Robinson were lodged at the Somerset County Jail with
bail set for each at $50,000.00 with a 10% option. Defendant Kaysona
Miller was lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail set at
$1,000.00 with a 10% option. Defendant Barry Norman was lodged at the
Somerset County Jail with bail set at $20,000.00 with 10% option. Bail
was set by the Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief King request anyone with information to
contact the South Bound Brook Police Department at 732-356-0087, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MARCH 5, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
DAVON CODY SENTENCED IN NIGHTTIME ROBBERY IN PARKING LOT OF
BRIDGEWATER COMMONS MALL
SOMERVILLE – Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest has announced today that
defendant Davon Cody, 20, of Bridgewater, was sentenced to nine (9)
years incarceration with 85% to be served without parole on his
conviction for Robbery, 2nd degree. Defendant Cody was convicted of
robbery on January 15, 2010 after a five-day jury trial presided over
by Judge Robert B. Reed of the New Jersey Superior Court. Assistant
Prosecutor Frank P. Kolodzieski, II prosecuted the case for the State.
After the defendant was convicted, Judge Reed revoked the defendant’s
bail previously set by Judge Harriet Derman in the amount of
$100,000.00 cash on September 2, 2008, the date of defendant’s arrest.
The defendant was being held in the Somerset County Jail pending
sentencing.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the defendant’s conviction arose out of
a robbery that he committed at the Bridgewater Commons Mall on August
29, 2008. At approximately 9:46 p.m. the female victim, 17 years old
at the time, reported that her purse was forcibly taken from her after
she was struck in the face while walking to her car in Lot No. 4 of
the Bridgewater Commons Mall. She had just finished working her shift
at a store in the mall when the robbery occurred. She suffered facial
injuries and a concussion. She received medical treatment at Somerset
Medical Center as a result of the attack. She reported being attacked
by two assailants, one of whom was Hispanic and one of whom was
wearing a tan outfit.
By investigative means, defendant Cody and a juvenile D.P., 17 at the
time, were developed as suspects. The defendant and juvenile D.P.
lived in a group home in Bridgewater at the time of the robbery. They
were seen by a fellow resident shortly after the robbery sweating
profusely while speed walking back to the group home. By happenstance,
that resident had a job interview on August 31, 2008 with an associate
manager at a store in the Bridgewater Commons Mall who also turned out
to be, unbeknownst to the resident, the father of the robbery victim.
When he appeared for the interview, he overheard the victim’s father
discussing the robbery of his daughter with co-workers. Overhearing
the conversation, the resident informed him that he had information
that may assist the investigation. It was this chance encounter that
critically broke the case and developed both the defendant and
juvenile D.P. as suspects in the robbery. Thereafter, both the
defendant and juvenile D.P. gave post-Miranda statements admitting to
their respective roles in the robbery of the victim. The police
located proceeds of the robbery in the defendant’s bedroom, which was
a digital camera in the victim’s purse. Juvenile D.P. took the police
to the victim’s purse which was discarded by the defendant in a wooded
area near the group home. One of its straps had been broken. The
victim’s wallet was never recovered.
Juvenile D.P. was found guilty and adjudicated delinquent in Family
Court in 2009 on the charge of Second Degree Robbery.
A conviction for second degree robbery carries a maximum term of 10
years incarceration, 85% of which must be served without parole
eligibility according to the No Early Release Act.
REWARD OFFERED IN HILLSBOROUGH AND MANVILLE SHOOTINGS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Hillsborough
Township Police Chief Paul Kaminsky and Manville Borough Police Chief
Mark Peltack announce that the investigation regarding the series of
shootings which occurred on Friday, February 26, 2010 in Hillsborough
and on Monday, March 1, 2010 in Manville is continuing.
Frank Aquila, Esq., President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced that a reward of $
500.00 has been offered for information that leads to the arrest and
indictment of the individual(s) responsible for the shootings.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at
approximately 10:35 a.m., Hillsborough police responded to a Downbury
Court residence on a report of damage to the front door. Hillsborough
officers noticed that the door had been damaged by a bullet which
remained lodged in an inside wall of the residence. The resident
reported to police that on Friday evening the resident recalled
hearing a loud bang.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 between
approximately 6:00 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. Manville officers responded to
numerous calls within the Borough of criminal mischief to various
vehicles. Officers quickly discovered that six vehicles along with one
residence had been damaged due to being struck by gunfire in six
different
locations within the borough.
The locations of the vehicles which were struck by gunfire were
located on South 14th Avenue, South 14th Avenue and Washington Avenue,
South 15th Avenue, South 21st Avenue, North 13th Avenue, and Dailey
Place. The residence was located on South 21st
Avenue in Manville.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Kaminsky, Chief Peltack and President Aquila
request anyone with information to please call the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers TIPS Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE” All calls are confidential.
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MARCH 3, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION YIELDS LARGE MARIJUANA SEIZURE AND TWO ARRESTS
IN BRIDGEWATER
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Stuart Buckman, and
Bridgewater Township Police Department Chief Richard Borden announce
the arrests of Jeffrey Wisniewski (21 YOA) of Woodlawn Avenue in
Bridgewater, and James Vincent (24 YOA) of Evergreen Avenue in Scotch
Plains. Defendant Wisniewski has been charged with Distribution of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 3rd degree and Possession
of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the Intent to
Distribute, 3rd degree. Defendant Vincent has been charged with
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the
Intent to Distribute, 3rd degree. The arrests are the result of a
three-month long narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
along with the Bridgewater Township Police Department.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that as a result of an ongoing narcotics
investigation, a Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant was
obtained for the residence of defendant Jeffrey Wisniewski and his
person. Prior to executing the search warrant, on March 2, 2010 at
approximately 3:30 p.m., Task Force members, along with Bridgewater
police established surveillance in the area of Woodlawn Avenue. During
the surveillance, Task Force members observed a green Honda Civic
arrive in the driveway of defendant Wisniewski’s residence. The driver
of the vehicle, who was later identified as defendant James Vincent,
remained in the vehicle in the driveway. A short time after, defendant
Wisniewski was observed pulling into his driveway operating a 2007
Cadillac. Both defendants Wisniewski and Vincent exited their vehicles
and entered defendant Wisniewski’s detached garage. After a short
period of time, police observed both defendants exit the garage and
defendant Vincent enter his vehicle. Police began a moving
surveillance on defendant Vincent and the Honda Civic he was
operating. The Honda Civic was stopped on Route 22 east in Bridgewater
with the assistance of the Somerville and Bridgewater Police
Departments Patrol Divisions. Task Force members approached the
vehicle and removed defendant Vincent from the vehicle. The Manville
Police Department K-9 Unit subsequently responded to the scene and
conducted an exterior sniff on the vehicle. The exterior sniff
resulted in a positive indication for the presence of narcotics. A
Superior Court Search Warrant was subsequently obtained and executed
on the green Honda Civic. As a result, over one pound of marijuana was
seized from the vehicle. Defendant Vincent was placed under arrest and
transported to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office for processing.
Additional Task Force members, along with the Bridgewater Police
Department and the Manville Police K-9 Unit then executed the search
warrant on defendant Wisniewski’s residence. Task Force members
subsequently seized over three pounds of marijuana from the residence
and a total of five thousand four hundred and sixty nine ($5,469.00)
in U.S. currency from defendant Wisniewski’s person.
The marijuana seized from the residence has an estimated street value
of approximately $17,000.00. The marijuana seized from the defendant
Vincent’s vehicle has an estimated street value of approximately
$5,000.00.
Both defendants Wisniewski and Vincent were lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail to be set.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MARCH 2, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
POLICE INVESTIGATE SHOOTINGS IN HILLSBOROUGH AND
MANVILLE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Hillsborough
Township Police Chief Paul Kaminsky and Manville Borough Police Chief
Mark Peltack announce that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad in conjunction with
Hillsborough and Manville detectives are actively investigating a
series of shootings which occurred on Friday, February 26, 2010 in
Hillsborough and on Monday March 1, 2010 in Manville.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on Saturday, February 27, 2010 at
approximately 10:35 a.m. Hillsborough police responded to a Downbury
Court residence on a report of damage to the front door. Hillsborough
officers noticed that the door had been damaged by a bullet which
remained lodged in an inside wall of the residence. The Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit
along with County Prosecutor’s Office and municipal police detectives
responded to conduct the investigation. The resident reported to
police that on Friday evening the resident recalled hearing a loud
bang.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 between
approximately 6:00 a.m. and 7:15 a.m. Manville officers responded to
numerous calls within the Borough of criminal mischief to various
vehicles. Officers quickly discovered that six vehicles along with one
residence had been damaged due to being struck by gunfire in six
different locations within the Borough. The Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit along with
County Prosecutor’s Office and municipal police detectives responded
to conduct the investigation.
Prosecutor Forrest states that detectives have conducted numerous
interviews and were able to determine that on Monday evening various
residents recalled hearing numerous bangs, which sounded like
firecrackers, which were not reported to police. The locations of the
vehicles which were struck by gunfire were located on South 14th
Avenue, South 14th Avenue and Washington Avenue, South 15th Avenue,
South 21st Avenue, North 13th Avenue, and Dailey Place. The residence
was located on South 21st Avenue in Manville.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Kaminsky, and Chief Peltack request anyone
with information to contact the Hillsborough Township Police
Department at 908-369-4323, or the Manville Police Department at
908-725-1900, or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line
at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”.
All calls are confidential.
JUVENILE
IN FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL RIOT PLEADS GUILTY
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest stated that
on March 2, 2010, J.G, a juvenile pled guilty to offenses if committed
by an adult would constitute the following crimes: Resisting Arrest,
3rd degree; Riot, 4th degree; and Failure to Disperse, a disorderly
persons offense.
Subsequent to the entry of his plea he was adjudicated by the
Honorable Julie M. Marino, P.J.F.P. to serve one year probation, 50
hours of community service and attend an anger management program. An
additional condition of his probation imposed by the Judge is that he
send letters of apology to Franklin Township Police Officers Kenneth
Drews and Corporal Michael Price.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on October 23, 2010, at approximately
9:45 p.m. Franklin Township police officers that were assigned to work
security at the high school sponsored event radioed for assistance
after fights and other disturbances broke out among the approximately
600 adults and teens that were in attendance.
Once police and school security backup units arrived on the scene
numerous attempts were made to disperse the groups located outside the
school via the public address systems in the police vehicles. Officers
then exited their vehicles and continued to attempt to disperse the
crowd utilizing verbal commands as they approached the school
building. A number of individuals, both students and adults, refused
to obey police orders to disperse and encouraged others not to leave
and shouted obscenities and challenged the police officers.
Prosecutor Forrest additionally stated that six Franklin police
officers were assaulted and injured, four of whom required treatment
at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. In addition, one student
was transported to the hospital for examination, at the direction of
the police, and was released. Officers from New Brunswick,
Hillsborough, South Bound Brook, Piscataway and Bound Brook arrived on
scene and assisted in calming the situation and securing the area.
Upon completion of the investigation five adults and eight juveniles
were charged.
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MARCH 1, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
POLICE INVESTIGATE THE DISCOVERY OF A MALE BODY IN BOUND BROOK
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Acting
Bound Brook Chief of Police Michael Jannone announced that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad in
conjunction with detectives from the Bound Brook Police Department are
investigating the circumstances involving the death of a Hispanic male
whose body was discovered on the east bound railroad tracks situated
off of Vosseller Avenue. The unidentified body was discovered on
Monday, March 1, 2010 at approximately 11:00 a.m. by an employee of a
nearby business who reported the discovery to Bound Brook Police.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives responded to the scene to
conduct the investigation. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) and Forensics Unit along with the
New Jersey Transit Police, CSX Investigators, Norfolk Southern
Investigators, and the Regional Medical Examiners Office also
responded to assist in the investigation. Preliminary investigation
has thus led detectives to believe that the death may have been
accidental. Detectives are not disclosing the victim’s identity until
notification of next of kin. The victim is a Hispanic male
approximately 40 to 45 years of age, 5’5’’ in height, and
approximately 160 pounds. The investigation revealed that the victim
was struck by a freight/cargo train probably during the evening hours
of Wednesday, February 24, 2010.
Prosecutor Forrest and Acting Chief Jannone request anyone with
information to contact the Bound Brook Police Department at
732-356-0800, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100,
or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS
(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on
either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Back
February 26, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH ROBBERY
TIMOTHY GAUSS
(Click on image to enlarge)
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Raritan
Borough Police Chief Laurence Hess announce the arrest of defendant
Timothy Gauss, age 48, of Mercer Street, Somerville, New Jersey. The
defendant was charged with Robbery, second degree and Possession of
Marijuana, under 50 grams a disorderly persons offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Thursday, February 25, 2010 at
approximately 3:50 p.m. Raritan Borough Police responded to a 9-1-1
call of a fight in progress at the Stop & Shop Supermarket located on
Route 206, Raritan, New Jersey. While en-route, responding officers
received additional information that one of the individuals involved
was having seizures. Once at the scene, Raritan Police Officers
encountered defendant Timothy Gauss being held on the ground by a 27
year old male Somerville resident. Officers were quickly informed of
the events that transpired and were informed by both Stop & Shop
employees and customers that defendant Gauss had attempted to depart
the supermarket with a shopping cart filled with various items, having
a value of $92.94, without paying for the items. As defendant Gauss
exited the supermarket he was confronted by two Stop & Shop employees
who asked defendant Gauss to go into the office to the handle the
situation. Defendant Gauss then attempted to flee. One of the male
employees, age 22, attempted to grab a hold of defendant Gauss as he
attempted to flee. Defendant Gauss became combative with this employee
and struck the employee in his face with a closed fist, knocking the
employee to the ground, and causing him to strike his head on the
pavement and go into seizures. The Somerset Medical Center’s MICU
(Mobile Intensive Care Unit) transported that employee to the Somerset
Medical Center for treatment. During the altercation, a second
employee also sustained minor injuries. This incident was witnessed by
a bystander who came to the aid of the Stop & Shop employees. The
witness, a 27 year old male Somerville resident, ended up tackling
defendant Gauss and holding him on the ground until the Raritan Police
arrived on the scene. Defendant Gauss was arrested without any further
incident. The good Samaritan received minor scratches and abrasions
but did not require medical attention. Defendant Gauss received a
minor laceration to his head and was treated at the scene by rescue
squad personnel.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Raritan Borough
Police Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office
responded to conduct an investigation. Defendant Gauss with
subsequently charged with Robbery, second degree. A search incident to
the arrest of defendant Gauss found him to be in Possession of
Marijuana, under 50 grams, a disorderly persons offense. Defendant
Gauss was lodged at the Somerset County Jail. Bail has been set at
$50,000.00 cash or bond by Judge Thomas Dilts.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Hess state that the investigation is
continuing and request that anyone that may have witnessed the
altercation to please contact the Raritan Borough Police Department at
908-725-6700 or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at
908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888677tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
FEBRUARY 25, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
VIRGINIA MAN INDICTED FOR ATTEMPTED ARMED ROBBERY AND WEAPONS OFFENSES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J.
Forrest announces that the Somerset County Grand Jury returned an
indictment today charging Lloyd R. Woodson, age 43, (last known
address) Generation Drive, Reston, Virginia with: Attempted Armed
Robbery, 2nd degree; Possession of a Firearm for Unlawful Purpose, 2nd
degree; Unlawful Possession of a Rifle ( 2 counts), 3rd degree;
Possession of a Defaced Firearm (2 counts), 4th degree; Possession of
Hollow Nose Bullets, 4th degree; and Possession of Large Capacity
Magazines, 4th degree.
Prosecutor Forrest said the indictment was the result of an incident
that occurred on Monday, January 25, 2010. Branchburg police officers
responded to a 9-1-1 call at approximately 3:55 a.m. regarding a
suspicious person inside a Quick Chek convenience store located at
1296 Route 28 in Branchburg Township. Patrolman Steven Cronce, the
first officer on the scene, noticed that defendant Woodson was
extremely nervous and noticed a large bulge in the front of the
defendant Woodson’s green military-style jacket. After a brief
conversation with Officer Cronce, defendant Woodson ran out of the
store and fled on foot towards the Regency Trailer Park on Route 22.
Additional officers responded to the area and began to canvass the
immediate area. Defendant Woodson was subsequently observed lying and
hiding in bushes on the Regency Trailer Park property. Defendant
Woodson refused to comply with the orders of the officers and once
again began to flee on foot and was tackled to the ground by
Branchburg officers. Defendant Woodson began to struggle with the
arresting officers who had to use pepper spray in order to subdue him.
During the struggle officers noticed that defendant Woodson was
concealing a loaded Bushmaster semi-automatic .223 caliber rifle which
was converted to .50 caliber. Officers were able to place defendant
Woodson under arrest and a search incident to arrest revealed that
defendant Woodson was wearing a military-style ballistic vest with a
reinforced front steel plate, had four additional loaded magazines,
all containing ball type and hollow point ammunition. This Bushmaster
rifle had a defaced serial number. The officers also discovered that
there was a bag inside one of the pockets of his coat; inside the bag
were pieces of cut wire clothes hangers.
Prosecutor Forrest further stated that a search of defendant Woodson’s
motel room located at the Red Mill Inn, Route 22 in Branchburg
Township resulted in the seizure of a Bushmaster .308 caliber
semi-automatic rifle with a defaced serial number, a second ballistic
vest, a rifle mountable Nightsight Illuminator NP75 (Russia) night
vision scope, a police scanner, a military-style backpack, a map of a
U.S. military installation and a map of an out-of-state civilian
community, and hundreds of additional .50 caliber and .308 caliber
ammunition along with military pouches and garrison equipment.
Further investigation revealed that defendant Woodson had been in the
Quick Chek for about 40 minutes. Approximately 30 minutes before his
arrival at the store, he went to another motel where he asked an
employee where the nearest 7-Eleven convenience store was located. The
employee informed him that the nearest 7-Eleven was several miles
away, but there was a Quick Chek nearby, and indicated the directions
to the Quick Chek. The employee then observed defendant Woodson walk
in that direction.
Defendant Woodson remains in the Somerset County Jail on $75,000.00
bail.
Prosecutor Forrest said that the State is being represented by
Assistant Prosecutor Robert J. Hawkes.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
HILLSBOROUGH RESIDENT INDICTED FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER OF A SOMERVILLE
POLICE OFFICER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that the Somerset County Grand Jury returned an Indictment today
charging Kendell D. Miller, age 40 of Brown Street in Hillsborough
with Attempted Murder of a Somerville police officer, 1st degree;
Possession of Weapon for Unlawful Purpose (2 counts), 3rd degree;
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (2 counts), 4th degree and Criminal
Mischief, 4th degree.
Prosecutor Forrest said the Indictment concerns a shooting incident
that occurred on Holly Glen Road in the Borough of Somerville on
Tuesday, January 19, 2010. Prosecutor Forrest said that a Somerville
police officer was on patrol at approximately 9:30 a.m. when he
observed a vehicle traveling southbound on South Bridge Street and
whose driver was beeping his horn as the officer passed by in his
patrol vehicle. The vehicle then turned right onto Holly Glen Road,
which is a cul-de-sac. The vehicle, a green Dodge Neon, was found to
be registered to and operated by defendant Kendell D. Miller of Brown
Street in Hillsborough. After the vehicle turned onto Holly Glen Road
it drove to the end of the cul-de-sac and made a U-turn heading back
toward Bridge Street. The vehicle stopped and awaited the officer’s
arrival. The Somerville police officer pulled alongside the vehicle at
which time defendant Miller began hollering at the officer. The
officer noticed an axe on the passenger seat of defendant Miller’s
vehicle. The officer then proceeded further into the cul-de-sac,
turned around and pulled behind defendant Miller’s car. Defendant
Miller, who had exited his vehicle, reached back into the car and
retrieved an axe and a sledge hammer. Defendant Miller then proceeded
toward the patrol car with the weapons held in his hands. The
Somerville police officer exited his vehicle and took cover behind the
patrol car. The officer holler commands to defendant Miller to return
to his vehicle. Defendant Miller disregarded the officer’s commands
and smashed the back driver side window of the police car and the
windshield with one of the weapons. Defendant Miller then began
advancing toward the officer in a threatening manner continuing to
ignore the officer’s verbal commands and hollered back at the officer
several times, “do what you gotta do”. As defendant continued to
advance towards the officer with one of the weapons above his head in
a threatening manner, the officer fired his service weapon at
defendant Miller striking him twice in the abdominal region. Medical
personnel were called to the scene to treat defendant Miller for his
injuries. Defendant Miller was transported to Robert Wood Johnson
University Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery.
Defendant Miller has since been released from Robert Wood Johnson
University Hospital and is currently in Trenton Psychiatric Hospital.
Bail has been set at $250,000.00.
Prosecutor Forrest said that the State is being represented by
Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Chirichella.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
February 22, 2010
NEWS RELEASES
U.S. POSTAL WORKER CHARGED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce the arrests of George M.
Jackson (DOB 11/14/1953) of Phillips Road, Franklin Township, Somerset
County, N.J. and Carlesa A. Blount (DOB 10/20/1961), a U.S. Postal
Worker, of Kossuth Street, Franklin Township, Somerset County, New
Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at
approximately 1:54 p.m. while near the intersection of Matilda Avenue
and Phillips Road in Franklin Township, defendant Jackson was observed
by members of the Franklin Township Police Crime Suppression Unit
distributing heroin to defendant Blount while they were in a U.S.
Postal truck. After the drug transaction, defendant Jackson exited the
vehicle and returned to his residence. Defendant Blunt proceeded to
drive the truck towards Baier Avenue where the Franklin Township
Police initiated a motor vehicle stop. Upon exiting their unmarked
police vehicles and identifying themselves defendant Blount attempted
to flee the area in the postal truck. After being placed under arrest
police seized cocaine and heroin from the defendant and from inside
the truck.
Prosecutor Forrest additionally stated that a short time later,
defendant Jackson left his residence with a friend in a motor vehicle.
A motor vehicle stop of this was initiated on Matilda Avenue and
defendant Jackson was placed under arrest.
Defendant Jackson has been charged with one count of Distribution of
CDS, 3rd degree.
Defendant Blount has been charged with Official Misconduct, 2nd
degree, two counts of Possession of CDS, 3rd degree, Eluding, 3rd
degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Disorderly Person.
Defendants Jackson and Blount were originally lodged in the Somerset
County Jail on February 20, 2010 with bail set at $10,000.00, 10% to
apply. Both defendants posted bail and were released.
Upon further review of the police reports, by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office, an additional charge was filed against defendant
Blount charging her with Official Misconduct, 2nd degree. The original
bail did not include this offense and a new bail will be requested on
this additional offense.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
SOMERSET
COUNTY CORRECTIONS OFFICER ARRESTED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Police Chief Richard Borden announce the arrest
of Somerset County Correction Officer Peter Buttitta, (D.O.B.
09/15/76) of Bridgewater, New Jersey. Defendant Buttitta is an eight
year veteran of the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, Corrections
Division.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on Sunday, February 21, 2010 at
approximately 4:08 p.m. Bridgewater Police responded to a 911 call
from the Buttitta residence, located on Vanderveer Road in Bridgewater
for an alleged overdose by Buttitta’s half brother, James V. Gattone,
Jr. Defendant Gattone was transported to Somerset Medical Center by
the Bradley Gardens Rescue Squad.
Upon returning from the Somerset Medical Center, defendant Buttitta
with his sister-in-law, defendant Leeann Kinney, then disposed of an
additional 3 packets of heroin, marijuana and a hypodermic syringe
which remained in the residence that they flushed down a toilet.
Defendant Buttitta was charged with 2 counts of Official Misconduct,
2nd degree, Possession of CDS, 3rd degree, Hindering Apprehension, 3rd
degree, Hindering Apprehension, 4th degree, Tampering with Evidence,
4th degree, Failure to Make Lawful Disposition, Disorderly Person,
Possession of a Hypodermic Needle, Disorderly Person and Possession of
Marihuana (under 50 grams), Disorderly Person.
Defendant Kinney was charged with Hindering Apprehension, 3rd degree
and Hindering Apprehension, 4th degree.
Defendant Gattone was charged with Possession of CDS, 3rd degree and
Possession of Paraphernalia, Disorderly Person.
Defendant Buttitta was remanded to the Hunterdon County Jail.
Defendants Kinney and Gattone were released on their own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
FEBRUARY 19, 2010
NEWS RELEASE
EAST ORANGE MAN SENTENCED FOR PERJURY AND TAMPERING WITH PUBLIC
RECORDS IN CONNECTION WITH 2008 JURY ACQUITTAL
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest has announced
that defendant Sanford Ricks was sentenced today following his
December 11, 2009 conviction
