TRENTON, NJ – A new legislative measure seeks to safeguard renters with pet allergies who use seasonal rental platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, as well as those engaging in traditional vacation rental arrangements. The bill, set to take effect on January 1, 2025, mandates that owners of seasonal rental units inform prospective renters if pets have been present in the accommodation up to two weeks prior to their stay.

The bill stipulates that the owner must disclose this information before finalizing any rental agreements. Failure to do so entitles the renter to terminate the contract and receive a full refund of any payments made.

Renters must notify the owner of their intention to vacate due to undisclosed pet presence within 12 hours of first entering the property to qualify for these protections.

Additionally, the legislation clarifies that New Jersey Real Estate Commission licensees, acting as agents for the owners, will not be held liable for non-disclosure of information that should have been provided by the owners.

The Commissioner of Community Affairs is directed to establish necessary rules and regulations to implement the bill by January 1, 2025.

This initiative represents a proactive approach to addressing potential health concerns for renters sensitive to pet allergens, ensuring a transparent communication channel between property owners and renters.

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Bars from a prison jail cast a shadow on the floro.

BRIDGEPORT, CT – Robert Smith, also known as “Robbie,” a 20-year-old from New Haven, was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for his involvement in the armed robbery of a North Haven gas station and subsequent carjacking in 2022. U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley also mandated three years of supervised release following his prison term.

Court documents reveal that Smith played a significant role in a crime spree orchestrated by Christian Borrero, which included multiple gunpoint robberies and a carjacking during late June and early July 2022. Specifically, on July 6, 2022, Smith assisted in the armed robbery at a Shell Gas Station at 195 State Street in North Haven. Post-robbery, he drove Borrero and a juvenile accomplice to Meriden, where they carjacked a woman in her driveway.

Smith has been in custody since January 3, 2023, and pleaded guilty on September 28, 2023, to aiding and abetting Hobbs Act robbery and aiding and abetting the use of a firearm during a violent crime.

His co-defendant, Borrero, received a 14-year prison sentence on April 1, 2024, after also pleading guilty to related charges.

The extensive investigation leading to these convictions was carried out by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), with cooperation from multiple local police departments including New Haven, East Haven, West Haven, Ansonia, and North Haven. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel J. Gentile and Sean P. Mahard prosecuted the case.

U.S. Attorney Avery expressed gratitude towards the State’s Attorneys of the Judicial Districts of New Haven and Ansonia/Milford for their collaborative efforts in this case, which is part of the broader Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative aimed at reducing violent crime.

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WILMINGTON, NC – Yesterday, John Joseph Simmons, II, a 34-year-old Nashville resident, was convicted by a federal jury for illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The incident occurred on May 13, 2023, when Simmons evaded police barricades at Nashville’s Blooming Festival, with a loaded gun in his vehicle.

U.S. Attorney Michael Easley expressed concerns about safety at the festival, which has seen issues with armed individuals in recent years. He commended the partnership with the Nashville Police Department in their intensified efforts to maintain public safety, emphasizing the case as a deterrent against illegal firearms at festivals in Eastern North Carolina.

Court evidence showed Simmons bypassing a police barrier on West Washington Street during the Blooming Festival. A subsequent vehicle stop revealed a Taurus G3C 9mm handgun on the passenger seat. Simmons, previously convicted of robbery and kidnapping, acknowledged the presence of the gun, which was found loaded and without safety engaged.

Caleb Shockley, Head of Investigations at the Nashville Police, highlighted the collaborative efforts with federal agencies to address the rise in firearm-related violence at the festival. The case serves as an example of proactive law enforcement strategies in Nashville.

Simmons is awaiting sentencing, facing up to 15 years in federal prison. He also has pending charges in Nash County related to driving under the influence during the same incident.

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WILMINGTON, DE – A federal jury has convicted Philip Epps, a 36-year-old from Reading, Pennsylvania, of cocaine possession with intent to distribute, as announced by U.S. Attorney David C. Weiss for the District of Delaware. The conviction took place on May 22. Subsequently, on June 26, Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly found Epps guilty in a separate bench trial of additional firearms offenses, including possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

The arrest, which occurred on February 28, 2023, led to the discovery of significant evidence. Police retrieved two loaded handguns with removed serial numbers, over 225 grams of cocaine, other drugs including fentanyl and xylazine, and more than $15,000 from a hidden compartment in Epps’ vehicle at a Wilmington motel. Investigations revealed Epps had been acquiring xylazine, a cutting agent, from China through WhatsApp.

U.S. Attorney Weiss emphasized the danger of combining illegal firearm possession with drug trafficking, crediting the arrest to cooperative efforts among local and federal law enforcement. He praised the New Castle County Police Department and their federal partners for their roles in capturing Epps, a repeat offender.

Epps now faces a potential life sentence, with sentencing scheduled for November 22. The outcome will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other relevant legal factors. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samuel S. Frey and Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill, with collaborative investigation support from the New Castle County Police, ATF, and DEA.

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WILMINGTON, NC – Shaquille Gregg, a 29-year-old Wilmington resident, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for possessing a stolen, loaded firearm, a sentence that matches the statutory maximum for this crime. Gregg pled guilty on February 21 after the incident involving a firearm dropped in a daycare playground during his escape from police.

U.S. Attorney Michael Easley highlighted the severity of the case, noting Gregg’s affiliation with the Blood gang and the potential danger his actions posed to children. The quick response by officers who recovered the gun at the daycare was crucial in preventing further potential disaster. This arrest was part of the Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP), aimed at curbing gang-related activities.

The arrest stemmed from an incident on January 26, 2022, when Gregg, after a traffic stop, fled on foot from Wilmington police. During the chase, he discarded a stolen Smith and Wesson pistol in a daycare’s fenced playground. DNA tests later confirmed Gregg’s connection to the weapon.

Gregg’s criminal history includes a 2014 incident where he shot a man questioning his gang ties, leading to a conviction for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. He was previously sentenced to between 75 and 102 months in prison for this and other charges, including firearm possession by a convicted felon.

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PITTSBURGH, PA — The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police is urgently seeking the public’s assistance in locating 12-year-old Taeshawn Battles, who has been reported missing since noon on June 29, 2024. Taeshawn was last seen at his residence in the 2200 block of East Hills Drive in the East Hills neighborhood.

Described as 5’3″ tall, weighing 120 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, Taeshawn is known to often wear a black balaclava. It is possible that he could be in either Pittsburgh or Wilkinsburg areas.

The Special Victims Unit detectives are leading the search and are appealing to anyone with information about Taeshawn’s whereabouts to come forward to assist in ensuring his safe return. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that might aid in locating Taeshawn.

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — A motor vehicle accident earlier today has resulted in significant disruptions on West Clarkstown Road, including a fallen utility pole that has prompted road closures. Clarkstown Police Department reports that the road will remain closed through the evening and is expected to affect the morning commute.

The closure extends from Red Hill Road to West Burda Place. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes and allow extra travel time. Emergency crews are on-site working to clear the debris and repair the damaged utility pole to restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.

Residents and commuters in the area should stay updated on the status of the road closures and are encouraged to follow traffic advisories and instructions issued by local authorities. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.

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DENALI PARK, AK — Emergency evacuation orders have been issued for employees residing near the entrance of Denali National Park and visitors at the Riley Creek Campground. The surrounding community is on alert, advised to be ready to evacuate as the wildfire continues to expand.

Reported at 5:15 PM, the wildfire has engulfed at least 350 acres and remains highly active, moving northwest. Although the fire is currently west of the Alaska Railroad and distant from the commercial areas near the Nenana River Canyon, efforts are being intensified to maintain this buffer.

Smokejumpers and the Tanana Chief Fire Crew, along with water scoopers, an air tanker, and helicopters, are actively engaged. Initial response teams include the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection and local volunteer fire departments. The situation remains critical, and authorities are monitoring it closely.

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Philadelphia, PA — A 40-year-old man was shot in the right leg late Saturday night in the 18th District.

The incident occurred at approximately 11:46 PM at the intersection of 51st Street and Larchwood Avenue. The victim refused medical treatment at the scene.

The crime scene was secured, but no arrests have been made, and no weapons have been recovered.

The Shooting Investigation Group (SIG) is currently investigating the incident.

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TRENTON, NJ – This afternoon, showers and thunderstorms are likely across the region, with a 70% chance of precipitation and potential for some storms to be severe. The area will experience mostly cloudy skies with a high near 87 degrees, and a southwest wind around 10 mph. Rainfall amounts are expected to be less than a tenth of an inch, though higher amounts could occur during thunderstorms.

Tonight, the weather will continue with showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight, and an 80% chance of precipitation. Some storms may again be severe.

Temperatures are expected to drop to around 58 degrees, with winds shifting from southwest to north after midnight. Rainfall between a quarter and a half of an inch is possible.

Looking ahead to Monday, conditions will clear up with sunny skies and a high near 80 degrees. Winds will be from the north around 10 mph. Monday night promises mostly clear skies with a low around 60 degrees and calm winds.

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly, NJ, has issued Severe Thunderstorm Watch 489 until 7 PM EDT this evening for several counties across Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, including major cities like Philadelphia, Trenton, and Allentown.

Additionally, a Heat Advisory remains in effect until 7 PM EDT this evening due to heat index values reaching up to 97, affecting areas like Wilmington, Philadelphia, and Trenton. Residents are advised to stay awareand take precautions against potential heat illnesses.

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Newark, NJ — A runway mishap at Newark Airport on Thursday resulted in significant flight disruptions. A private Embraer business jet veered off its designated runway path around 1:50 p.m. Eastern time, causing damage to one of its wings, as reported by NBC News New York.

The incident involved a pilot and one passenger, neither of whom were injured. The reason for the jet’s deviation from the runway remains unclear. In response, the FAA implemented a temporary ground stop, which was necessary to remove the aircraft from the tarmac. This action led to widespread delays, with incoming flights experiencing an average delay of about 95 minutes as of 5:45 p.m. on Thursday.

The Port Authority is investigating the incident, which required the affected runway to be closed for several hours, delaying some flights by up to five hours before normal operations could resume.

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Baltimore, MD — Baltimore Police are conducting a homicide investigation following a stabbing incident that occurred on June 29, at approximately 9:54 p.m.

Patrol officers were called to an area hospital after a 38-year-old male walked in with multiple stab wounds. Despite medical efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased.

The investigation revealed that the stabbing took place in the 4000 block of Fairfax Road. Homicide detectives are actively seeking information and encourage anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.

Individuals with information are asked to contact Baltimore homicide detectives at 410-396-2100 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7Lockup.

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Philadelphia-Police-Fire-EMS-File-Photo

Philadelphia, PA — A fatal accident involving a vehicle and a pedestrian occurred Saturday afternoon on Broad Street in the 9th District.

The incident happened at approximately 1:08 PM when a silver 2022 Nissan Rogue, driven by a 24-year-old woman, struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian, identified as Visva Varathakumar of N. Willington Street, was attempting to cross Broad Street from the east side to the west side. Varathakumar landed on the hood of the vehicle and sustained head injuries after hitting the windshield.

Emergency responders from Medic 7 transported Varathakumar to Jefferson Hospital.

At 8:00 PM, the Medical Examiner notified the Crash Investigation Division (C.I.D.) that Varathakumar was pronounced dead at 7:13 PM.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

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In Fairfax County, Virginia, a former Army doctor, Drew Steiner, 61, was sentenced to 30 years in prison on Friday for attacking and binding his wife with duct tape to a pole in their basement. This incident occurred in September 2020.

The Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney detailed the case, noting that this attack took place about a month after Steiner had raped and illegally videotaped a woman he met online. He is currently serving a 10-year sentence for those earlier offenses.

Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano expressed that Steiner’s sentencing concludes a distressing chapter for all involved, enhancing community safety by ensuring Steiner’s extended incarceration. In October 2023, Steiner was convicted of abduction with intent to defile, malicious wounding, and attempted rape following a jury trial.

Previously, Steiner had served in the Army and was employed as a civilian at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital. His wife testified during his trial, recounting how the attack occurred shortly after Steiner had recovered from COVID-19 and had requested to leave quarantine.

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GLOUCESTER CO., VA – This morning, at approximately 9:15 AM, a fatal crash was reported on Route 17 in Gloucester County. A 2014 Honda Civic, traveling northbound near the intersection with Wood Cross Road, veered off the left side of the road and collided with a tree in the median.

The driver, a 43-year-old male from Gloucester County, was pronounced dead at the scene despite wearing a seatbelt. Virginia State Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.

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Former NJ School Bus Driver Sentenced to 14 Years for Drunk Driving with Students

New Jersey — A former school bus driver, Colleen Eutermarks, 52, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for driving under the influence with a bus full of students, showing a blood-alcohol level eight times the legal limit.

The incident occurred when state police noticed the bus being driven erratically. Eutermarks, who was transporting students from Wallkill Valley Regional High School and Franklyn Elementary School, was found with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.34 during a breathalyzer test, significantly exceeding the state limit of 0.04 for bus and commercial vehicle drivers.

During her arrest on January 28, 2022, police discovered a half-filled bottle of vodka in her purse. After a two-week trial in October, she was convicted on 27 counts of child endangerment. The sentence was delivered on Tuesday, with Sussex County’s acting Prosecutor Carolyn Murray stating that it underscores the severe criminal consequences of operating a school bus while intoxicated.

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Philadelphia, PA — A 39-year-old man was stabbed early Sunday morning in the 24th District.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:44 AM on the 400 block of E. Allegheny Avenue. The victim, who sustained a stab wound to the left shoulder, managed to walk to St. Christopher’s Hospital. He was later transferred to Temple University Hospital by a private ambulance.

No crime scene has been located, and no arrests have been made. No weapons have been recovered.

East Detectives are continuing to investigate the case.

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MANCHESTER, NJ – Mayor Rob Arace extended his thanks to the community for their participation in the Manchester Day celebrations. The event featured entertainment, food, vendors, and non-profit organizations, with a special focus on the town’s own Harry Wright Lake and Park.

Harry Wright Lake is a 13-acre freshwater lake surrounded by a park that offers various amenities, including swimming with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., sand beaches, a concession stand with tables, picnic areas, playgrounds, scenic wooded walking trails, and ample free parking.

Mayor Arace emphasized the convenience and appeal of Harry Wright Lake, noting that it is within a 20-minute drive from anywhere in Manchester. He encouraged residents to enjoy a local summer day at the beach, avoiding the traffic, fees, and crowds of Ocean County’s Atlantic beaches. Beach badges are required during the season for access.

Promoting the park as an ideal spot for family outings, Mayor Arace highlighted the ease of spending a day at Harry Wright Lake & Park, describing it as “the Wright way to spend the day.”

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BRONX, NY – As part of an ongoing investigation, a Bronx resident was arrested on Saturday night within the confines of the 44th Precinct.

Terrence Daniels, a 26-year-old male residing at 1655 Undercliff Avenue, was taken into custody at 11:07 p.m. He has been charged with first-degree sexual abuse.

According to the NYPD, “It was reported to police that on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at approximately 3:15 pm, a 12-year-old female victim was seated aboard an MTA bus in the vicinity of West 162 Street and Ogden Avenue when she was approached by an unknown individual. The individual sat next to the victim and forcibly touched the victim’s private areas over her clothing. The individual was last seen fleeing eastbound on East 161 Street on foot. The victim was treated on scene by EMS.”

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New York, NY — A robbery at a commercial establishment located at 688 East Gun Hill Road led to an assault on a 63-year-old man early Saturday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 12:35 a.m. on June 29.

Two unidentified individuals entered the store, stole property, and were confronted by the victim while attempting to leave. A struggle ensued during which one assailant punched the victim in the head, causing him to lose consciousness. The perpetrators then fled the scene on foot.

The victim was transported by EMS to Maimonides Medical Center, where he is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities are seeking any information regarding the incident or the whereabouts of the individuals involved.

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Philadelphia, PA — A 43-year-old Black male was fatally shot in the head early Sunday morning in the 2nd District.

The incident occurred at approximately 3:17 AM on the 1400 block of Kerper Street. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by Medic 12 at 3:24 AM.

The crime scene was secured, but no arrests have been made, and no weapons have been recovered.

The Homicide Unit is actively investigating the case.

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Chesapeake, VA — An overnight shooting in Chesapeake has resulted in the death of 30-year-old Jeremiah Joseph Casarez. Chesapeake Police Department reported that the incident occurred in the 500 block of Coveside Lane.

Upon responding to shots fired, officers discovered Casarez shot multiple times. He was pronounced dead at the scene. As part of the ongoing investigation, police are seeking 39-year-old Darnell Maceo Barnwell, who is considered a person of interest. Barnwell was last observed leaving the area in a black Hyundai sedan.

Investigators urge anyone with information about Barnwell’s whereabouts to come forward to assist in the investigation.

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Philadelphia, PA — A 46-year-old man was shot in the left foot early Sunday morning in the 25th District.

The shooting occurred at approximately 12:48 AM on the 4100 block of N. Broad Street. The victim was transported to Temple University Hospital by a private vehicle and is reported to be in stable condition.

No crime scene has been located, and no arrests have been made. No weapons have been recovered.

The Shooting Investigation Group (SIG) is currently investigating the incident.

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Philadelphia, PA — A series of violent incidents and a fatal pedestrian accident occurred across Philadelphia, prompting ongoing investigations by local authorities.

Early Sunday morning in the 24th District, a 39-year-old male was stabbed once in the left shoulder at the 400 block of E. Allegheny Avenue. After walking to St. Christopher’s Hospital, he was transferred to Temple University Hospital via private ambulance. Despite efforts, no crime scene, arrests, or weapons have been identified, with East Detectives continuing the investigation.

Around the same time in the 2nd District, a 43-year-old Black male suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head at the 1400 block of Kerper Street. He was pronounced dead at 3:24 AM by Medic 12. The crime scene was secured, but no subsequent arrests or weapon recoveries have been reported. The Homicide Unit is investigating.

In the 25th District, a 46-year-old male was shot in the left foot on the 4100 block of N. Broad Street around 12:48 AM. He was transported in stable condition to Temple University Hospital by private vehicle. The absence of a located crime scene, arrests, or weapon recoveries leaves this case open with the Shooting Investigation Group (SIG).

A similar incident occurred in the 15th District where a 28-year-old female was shot in the face on the 4700 block of Longshore Avenue around 12:46 AM. Initially taken to Nazareth Hospital, she was later moved to Temple University Hospital via private ambulance. With no identified motive, arrests, or weapons, SIG continues to investigate.

In the 18th District, a 40-year-old male was shot in the right leg at 51st Street and Larchwood Avenue around 11:46 PM. He refused medical treatment at the scene. The crime scene was secured, but the absence of arrests or weapon recoveries leaves many questions unanswered, with SIG also handling this investigation.

Separately, a tragic incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the 9th District at 700 N. Broad Street, where a pedestrian was fatally injured. A 24-year-old female driving a silver 2022 Nissan Rogue struck Visva Varathakumar, who was attempting to cross Broad Street. He suffered severe head injuries after landing on the car’s hood and hitting the windshield, and was pronounced dead at 7:13 PM after being transported to Jefferson Hospital. The Crash Investigation Division (C.I.D.) was notified by the Medical Examiner at 8:00 PM.

These series of events reflect a violent weekend in Philadelphia, with multiple investigations still in progress.

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Linden, NJ — Early this morning, a serious motor vehicle accident occurred involving a 2019 BMW on S. Park Avenue.

At approximately 3:40 AM, Linden Police officers responded to the 1400 block of S. Park Ave following reports of the crash. The BMW was traveling north when the driver lost control and collided with a utility pole. Both occupants, women from Roselle aged 38 and 39, sustained serious injuries and were transported to Newark University Hospital for treatment.

Currently, the northbound lane of S. Park Ave between Brunswick Ave and Bedle Pl is closed to facilitate utility repairs.

The Linden Police Traffic Bureau is actively investigating the incident. Investigator Marco Abrantes can be contacted at (908) 474-8505 if anyone has information.

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