LACEY TOWNSHIP, NJ – In response to a rise in hazardous conditions and public safety concerns, the Ocean County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with Lacey and Ocean Township police departments, will conduct a special off-road vehicle enforcement operation this weekend. The effort aims to address the illegal use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and dirt bikes on protected lands.
Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy emphasized the increasing issues caused by unauthorized vehicle use in the county’s open spaces, which include state, county, municipal, and private properties. “Use of all-terrain vehicles and other vehicles like dirt bikes are restricted from use on these lands without written consent from the owner,” Mastronardy stated. He highlighted the dual risks of environmental damage and personal injury that these activities pose, which also complicate rescue and emergency operations in wooded areas.
Recent concerns voiced by Chief Christopher Kenny of the Lacey Township Police Department and Chief Michael Rogalski of the Ocean Township Police Department have underscored the urgency of stricter enforcement. Both townships are known for their extensive natural reserves, including the Forked River Mountains, preserved under Ocean County’s Natural Lands Trust Fund program.
Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, liaison to the county’s open space program, called for public cooperation. “We are urging residents and visitors to obey the rules and stay off the preserved and protected properties,” Haines said. The properties are clearly posted to deter trespassing and ensure their protection.
The coordinated enforcement detail will focus on the areas between Lacey and Wells Mills roads, seeking to curb the illegal use of off-road vehicles and protect both the natural environment and community safety.
- ‘Depraved’ Brooklyn Woman Who Ran Down, Killed Senir Convicted for Murder
She tried to kill a man she was angry with, but killed innocent grandmother instead
BROOKLYN, NY—Layla Adredini, a 33-year-old resident of Stuyvesant Heights, Brooklyn, has been sentenced to 20 years to life in prison after being found guilty of second-degree murder and attempted murder. Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Michael Kitsis handed down the sentence following a jury trial that concluded last month.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez announced the sentencing today, emphasizing that the punishment reflects the gravity of the crime committed on August 24, 2021. On that evening, Adredini drove her SUV onto the sidewalk at 2185 Pacific Street in an attempt to strike a male acquaintance but instead hit 70-year-old Brenda Ann Whidbee, who was seated outside her home.
Whidbee's loss was a shot to her family and community
The impact resulted in fatal injuries for Whidbee, a beloved grandmother and longtime community member, who was pronounced dead at Brookdale Hospital. After the incident, Adredini attempted to flee on foot but was detained by local residents.
District Attorney says woman's depraved actions took an innocent life
"Today’s sentence holds this defendant accountable for her shocking and depraved actions that cost an innocent woman her life," said DA Gonzalez. He expressed hope that the sentence might offer some solace to the victim's family and friends.
The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Daphney Gachette of the Homicide Bureau, and Senior Assistant District Attorney Gianna Del Grippo of the Green Zone Trial Bureau, under the supervision of Assistant District Attorney Leila Rosini, Homicide Bureau Chief.
- East Brunswick Stabbing Suspect Arrested in Menlo Park
Police track stabbing suspect to the hometown of Thomas Edison
EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ—A local man, Heng Shao, 40, has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a victim multiple times in East Brunswick. The East Brunswick Police Department made the arrest following a collaborative effort with nearby jurisdictions.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at around 2:08 PM. The victim, who was attacked in a residence on Buttonwood Drive, managed to escape to a house on Winding Woods Drive in Sayreville, where emergency services were alerted. The victim was then transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police response quickly leads to the arrest
Responding to a tip from the Sayreville Police Department, East Brunswick officers attempted to locate the suspect at the Buttonwood Drive residence. Shao, identified as the son of the victim, had already fled the scene in a silver Honda Accord. A subsequent investigation led officers to Menlo Park Mall in Edison, where Shao was detained by Edison Police and later taken into custody by East Brunswick Police.
Shao faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault, terroristic threats, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for unlawful purposes. He is currently held at Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center. It is important to note that the charges against Shao are merely accusations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Police chief commends investigation and police
East Brunswick Police Chief Frank LoSacco commended the swift response of the officers and dispatchers involved. "Their hard work serves as evidence of their commitment to keeping the community safe," said Chief LoSacco, also thanking the Sayreville and Edison Police Departments for their crucial assistance in the case.
- Escaped Maryland Prisoner Captured by Police
Escaped Prisoner Recaptured in Queen Anne's County
ANNAPOLIS, MD—James Cash Gregory, an escaped prisoner from the Anne Arundel County Jennifer Road Detention Center, has been successfully recaptured in Queen Anne's County. Gregory had initially escaped from the Anne Arundel Medical Center at around 11:00 AM today.
Before his capture, Gregory was last seen in the vicinity of Truxtun Park in Annapolis. He was described as wearing green Detention Center pants and no shirt. Authorities had advised the public not to approach him and to call or text 911 if seen.
The Anne Arundel County Police Department has confirmed Gregory's capture and thanks the community and law enforcement personnel involved in the swift resolution of this incident.
- Cool Off at a Fire Hydrant This Weekend in Newark
NEWARK, NJ—The Newark Fire Division, part of the Department of Public Safety, has announced its Annual Summer Initiative to help residents beat the heat. Starting this Saturday, June 15, fire hydrants will be opened as a cooling measure for the community.
Residents are invited to cool off at the hydrants which will be open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. The specific location for this activity is McWhorter Street, between Vesey and Johnson Streets.
This initiative provides a welcome respite from the summer heat and a fun way for the community to come together safely. Everyone in the area is encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to cool down during the hot weekend afternoons.
Where will fire hydrants be open for kids in Newark?
From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday, residents are invited to cool off at the open hydrants.
Beginning Saturday, June 15, 2024, the location is: McWhorter Street between Vesey and Johnson Street.
Beginning Sunday, June 16, 2024, the location is:
Cortland Street between Ferry Street and Horatio Street. - Baltimore Police Find Host of Unusual Weapons on Gunfire Suspect
BALTIMORE, MD—On Monday, June 10, officers and detectives from the Baltimore Police Department's Northern District swiftly responded to a report of gunfire. After a prompt investigation, authorities located and arrested the suspect involved in the incident.
Police recover three hatchets from suspect
During the arrest, law enforcement officials successfully recovered one Rossi M68 Revolver and three hatchets. The quick action and effective response of the Northern District officers have been commended.
The Baltimore Police Department has highlighted this successful operation as an example of their dedication to maintaining safety and security in the community. Great job to all the officers involved in managing the situation effectively and ensuring the community remains safe.
- Columbus to Celebrate Juneteenth with Community Events
Columbus, OH - Columbus is preparing to commemorate Juneteenth with a series of community events focused on freedom and resilience.
Local organizations have planned numerous events to honor the historical significance of Juneteenth and promote unity.
These events aim to provide opportunities for connection, reflection, and celebration among residents.
The Columbus Division of Police has shared photos showcasing community involvement and preparations.
Residents are encouraged to participate and make Juneteenth a memorable occasion for the entire community.