New Jersey News

Adorable dog found in Middle Township seeking family and home

Sweet dog found in Cape May Court House needs a home

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ – A dog named Toby, recently found near Shellbay Ave. and Shunpike Rd., is awaiting his owner or a new home. The Middle Township Police Department is seeking information about the canine.

The police department has expressed a desire to welcome Toby as a station pet. However, they recognize that his rightful owner may wish to reclaim him.

Anyone who has knowledge of Toby’s ownership is encouraged to contact the Middle Township Police Department by calling 609-465-8700.

Visuals of Toby, showing his friendly demeanor, have been circulated on social media. The police aim to reunite him with his owner.

The search for Toby highlights the need for community engagement in lost pet situations.

As authorities work to locate Toby’s owner, they hope that he finds a loving home if he remains unclaimed.

The situation serves as a reminder of the responsibility of pet ownership and the community’s role in animal welfare.

Act fast; this pup is ready to find his forever family.

Evesham Township Police don pink badges for breast cancer awareness

Evesham Township Police don pink badges for breast cancer awareness

EVESHAM, NJ – Evesham Township Police will wear pink badges during October to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative aims to raise awareness of the disease and its effects.

Officers have the option to purchase a pink badge while donating additional funds to breast cancer research. The pink badges will be worn throughout the month as a visible sign of support.

The department’s efforts focus on bringing the community together to raise awareness of breast cancer. Police encourage residents to recognize the significance of the badges in promoting understanding of the disease.

The pink badge initiative is designed to highlight the importance of breast cancer research and support. Evesham Township Police hope to foster a conversation about the impact of this condition.

Throughout October, community members may see officers wearing their pink badges in various events and patrols. The initiative serves as a reminder of the fight against breast cancer.

With this program, Evesham Township Police aims to be visible advocates for breast cancer awareness and research. Participation from officers reinforces the department’s commitment to supporting health initiatives.

Evesham Township Police’s efforts reflect a growing trend among law enforcement agencies to engage with health-related causes.

Evesham Township shines as police lead community fight against breast cancer.

Chief LoSacco and East Brunswick Police Department earn reaccreditation

Chief LoSacco and East Brunswick Police Department earn reaccreditation

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — The East Brunswick Police Department has received the Certificate of Reaccreditation from the NJ State Association of Chiefs of Police. This recognition highlights the department’s commitment to the NJSACOP Law Enforcement Accreditation Program.

The honor was presented during a special East Brunswick Council meeting on Wednesday night. Accreditation Program Director Harry Delgado acknowledged the department’s dedication to maintaining high standards of service.

Chief Frank LoSacco and the Township Council were in attendance to celebrate this achievement. Mayor Brad Cohen also joined in marking this milestone for the department.

Recognition through the reaccreditation process involves meeting specific criteria to ensure excellence in law enforcement practices. The East Brunswick Police Department has consistently demonstrated professionalism and dedication to serving the community.

The reaccreditation signifies ongoing commitment and adherence to best practices in law enforcement. It reflects the department’s accountability and transparency toward the public it serves.

This accolade reinforces the police department’s focus on maintaining high operational standards. It serves as assurance to the community about the principles guiding their law enforcement agencies.

Officials have underscored the importance of this achievement, noting that it enhances public trust in law enforcement.

East Brunswick Police Department is taking major strides with this recent reaccreditation.

Two pups discovered on Highway 34 near church

Two pups discovered on Highway 34 near church

HOLMDEL, NJ – Two small puppies were found abandoned on Highway 34 near St. Mina’s Church. The Holmdel Township Police Department is seeking assistance in locating their owners.

Authorities reported the discovery of the puppies on social media. The department urged anyone with information to reach out.

“The pups were found in a vulnerable state and we want to ensure they are reunited with their family,” a statement from the police department read.

Anyone who can help is encouraged to contact the police dispatch at 732-946-4400. The department will facilitate the return of the dogs to their owners.

The police confirmed that the puppies appeared healthy and might be from a local residence. They are now under the care of the department until their owners are found.

Community members have expressed concern and shared the department’s post in hopes of finding the puppies’ owners quickly. Continued efforts to spread the word may expedite the process.

The situation highlights the responsibility of pet ownership and the importance of safeguarding animals.

The search continues as the police department remains committed to the welfare of these puppies.

Locals hope for a swift reunion as the search for the puppy owners ramps up.

DWI arrest following hit-and-run crash in Hackettstown

DWI arrest following hit-and-run crash in Hackettstown

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ – A 25-year-old man was arrested on multiple charges, including driving while intoxicated, after being involved in a hit-and-run crash on Wednesday, October 1, around 5:39 p.m.

Police received a report of a crash at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Route 46. Upon investigation, officers learned that a 2022 Ford pickup truck struck another vehicle and fled the scene.

Shortly after, the Warren County Dispatch Center received a report of an erratic black Ford pickup truck traveling in the area of Washington Street. A caller provided details about the vehicle, including a registration number that matched the one from the earlier incident.

A passenger in the struck vehicle sustained an injury but declined medical attention. Officers located the suspect vehicle entering River’s Edge Gardens Apartments on Mountain Avenue.

The driver was identified as Eleazar J. Franco-Diaz of Hackettstown. Officers reported detecting the odor of alcohol in the vehicle and noted an open can of Michelob Ultra in the center console.

Franco-Diaz was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury, failure to report an accident, and reckless driving. He was released to a family member pending a court appearance.

The charges are accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

A night of recklessness leads to serious charges for a Hackettstown driver.

Gloucester Township police launch Thanksgiving food drive

Homemade Roasted Thanksgiving Day Turkey with all the Sides

Gloucester Township police launch Thanksgiving food drive

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ – Gloucester Township Police are accepting donations for their Thanksgiving Food Drive through November 17. Residents are encouraged to donate canned food and non-perishable items.

Donations can be dropped off at the GTPD Headquarters Watch Desk located at 1261 Chews Landing Road. The police department stated, “Help GTPD help others in need, and donate your canned food and non-perishable items today!”

The food drive aims to assist families struggling to provide meals during the holiday season. The police department noted that some families face difficult circumstances, despite working nights and weekends to make ends meet.

The drive highlights the ongoing issue of hunger, which can affect members of any community. Many people facing hunger are not easily identifiable, often challenging the stereotype that associates hunger solely with homelessness.

Gloucester Township Police encourage community members to participate in the drive. The department aims to gather as many donations as possible to support local families in need.

Together, the community can make a difference this Thanksgiving. The police hope that the drive will further demonstrate their commitment to serving the community.

Residents are urged to contribute to this essential cause and ensure that families can enjoy a festive meal.

Platkin Sues Trump Again: New Jersey joins legal fight against Trump’s National Guard deployment

New Jersey joins legal fight against Trump’s National Guard deployment

TRENTON, NJ – New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, alongside a coalition of 24 attorneys general and governors, filed a brief on Saturday in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. The brief supports Illinois in opposition to President Trump’s deployment of the National Guard without approval from the state’s governor.

The coalition’s brief asserts that the President’s actions violate the law, undermine civilian control of the military, and threaten state sovereignty and principles of federalism. Recent orders from the Trump Administration have sent the National Guard to various localities, including California, Washington, D.C., Oregon, and Illinois.

“Judges across the country have made clear what is laid out in the Constitution – Trump’s domestic National Guard deployments are illegal,” Platkin stated. The brief argues that the President’s use of armed forces in these instances parallels actions commonly seen in authoritarian regimes.

On Friday, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals denied the Trump Administration’s request for an immediate administrative stay, although it did allow for the federalization of the Guard during the stay request’s pendency. The court barred the deployment of any federalized National Guard in Illinois.

Platkin urged the court to reject a broad stay pending appeal that would facilitate the deployment of troops to Chicago. The brief asks the appellate court to uphold the lower court’s decision, which affirms the separation of powers between state and federal authorities.

The attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawai‘i, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington joined Platkin in filing the brief. Governors from Kansas, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania also supported the effort.

As tensions rise over the deployment issue, the coalition stands firm in its stance against perceived encroachments on state authority.

Government leaders are united in the fight against Trump’s controversial use of National Guard forces across states.

Juveniles injured in Jersey City hit-and-run

Juveniles injured in Jersey City hit-and-run incident

JERSEY CITY, NJ – Multiple juveniles were injured in a hit-and-run crash on Monday, acting Hudson County Prosecutor Wayne Mello reported. Investigators with the Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit are currently working with the Jersey City Police Department on the case.

Shortly after 5 p.m., police received reports of individuals struck by a vehicle on Wilkinson Avenue, between Ocean Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Officers found four male juveniles—ages 13, 15, 17, and 17—who were involved in the incident while operating or occupying two motorized vehicles.

The four juveniles were struck by a sedan, which fled the scene after the incident. They were transported to Jersey City Medical Center for treatment of their injuries. Three of the juveniles remain hospitalized and are in stable condition.

During the investigation, authorities recovered the vehicle believed to be involved in the collision. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.

Anyone with information related to the crash is asked to contact the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office at 201-915-1345 or leave an anonymous tip at hcpo.org/tips. All shared information will be treated confidentially.

The incident raises concerns about pedestrian safety and hit-and-run cases involving juveniles in urban areas.

Ocean County man charged with multiple sexual offenses

Ocean County man charged with multiple sexual offenses

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Darnell Williams, 34, of Manchester Township, has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual contact and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. The charges stem from an investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit, along with local police departments.

The investigation revealed that between 2020 and 2023, Williams inappropriately touched a minor female victim in both Manchester and Stafford Townships. Williams faces the new charges while already being detained at the Atlantic County Jail on multiple different counts, including three counts of sexual assault.

On September 17, Williams was charged with sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child related to incidents in Manchester Township in 2013. A detention hearing regarding the most recent charges is scheduled by the court.

Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer indicated there may be additional victims connected to Williams. “We suspected there may be additional victims, and unfortunately we are finding this to be true,” he stated.

Billhimer acknowledged several law enforcement agencies for their assistance in the investigation, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit and the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Special Victims Unit.

The charges remain accusations until proven guilty in court, as emphasized by a reminder from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.

Darnell Williams faces serious charges as the investigation continues to unfold.

O’Scanlon demands transparency from New Jersey treasury amid budget concerns

O’Scanlon demands transparency from New Jersey treasury amid budget concerns

TRENTON, NJ – Senate Budget Officer Declan O’Scanlon sent a letter to New Jersey State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio, requesting immediate updates on financial disclosures previously shared with rating agencies and the financial market. O’Scanlon asserts that Governor Murphy’s administration has concealed a budget deficit of $4 billion that could burden the next Governor and Legislature.

O’Scanlon warns that if the administration does not address the financial situation before selling $1.5 billion in new debt this month, he will file a complaint with the Securities and Exchange Commission. “After reviewing Treasury’s financial disclosures, I felt like someone at a disreputable used car lot had tried to sell me a car without telling me it was recovered from a flood,” said O’Scanlon.

In his letter, the senator criticized the treasury for failing to adequately represent the state’s financial condition. He noted specific omissions, stating that the documents did not clarify about $4 billion of financial “cliffs” designed into the upcoming state budget.

O’Scanlon emphasized the need for transparency in financial reporting. He added that the material presented by the treasury was misleading, both in its stated content and omissions that are critical for reasonable evaluation by rating agencies and analysts.

O’Scanlon’s letter highlighted the moral and legal responsibilities treasury holds toward the public. He insisted that the public and financial markets deserve complete information about the state’s financial health.

The full letter from O’Scanlon can be accessed through the Senate Republicans’ website.

O’Scanlon’s demands come amid heightened scrutiny of state finances, as the administration prepares for potential new debt obligations. The senator’s call for transparency signals ongoing concerns about fiscal management in New Jersey.

Taxpayers are watching closely as Senate Budget Officer O’Scanlon pushes for a clearer picture of the state’s financial situation.

Bayonne man guilty of sex crimes against juvenile

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

Bayonne man guilty of sex crimes against juvenile

BAYONNE, NJ – A Hudson County jury has convicted a Bayonne man of multiple sex crimes involving a juvenile. The verdict was delivered on Thursday, following a weeklong trial before the Honorable Mitchell Pascual, J.S.C.

Jhaitan Snow, 40, was found guilty of Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The jury ruled on violations of N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2a(1), N.J.S.A. 2C:14-2b, and N.J.S.A. 2C:24-4a(1).

The crimes occurred at a Jersey City residence on various dates between August 2020 and March 2022. The female victim, known to the defendant, was under the age of 13.

Snow faces a minimum sentence of 25 years in New Jersey State Prison. He is also parole ineligible for 25 years under the Jessica Lunsford Act.

Sentencing is tentatively scheduled for Friday, January 9, 2026. Hudson County Assistant Prosecutor Andrew Baginski represented the State at trial.

Prosecutor Wayne Mello emphasized the severity of the verdict, underscoring the commitment to justice in cases involving vulnerable victims.

The conviction brings attention to ongoing issues of child protection and legal consequences for sexual offenses.

This conviction highlights the unwavering pursuit of justice for victims of sexual crimes.

Car burglar arrested after confrontation with resident

Police handcuffs and criminal fingerprints card

Vehicle burglar arrested after confrontation with resident

OAKLAND, NJ — A 37-year-old man has been arrested following a report of a burglary in progress early Monday morning. The incident occurred on Manito Avenue when a resident noticed an unknown male inside her vehicle.

After confronting the suspect, the individual fled the scene toward Iroquois Avenue. Officer Ed McDermott arrived at the scene within one minute, soon followed by Sergeant Jonathan Coleman, Officer Jacquelyn Jensen, and Officer Nicholas Maricich.

A Bergen County Sheriff’s Department K-9 team was requested to assist in the search. Franklin Lakes Police Department personnel also responded to the situation.

Prior to the deployment of the K-9 unit, Sergeant Coleman located a male matching the suspect’s description on Pawnee Avenue. Following further investigation, Peter Engel was arrested on several charges.

Engel faces four counts of third-degree burglary and one count of a disorderly persons offense for theft. Three active warrants were also discovered during the arrest.

Engel has since been transported to the Bergen County Jail for processing. The police issued a reminder on the importance of securing vehicles to prevent thefts and burglaries.

Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the Oakland Police Department.

Monday’s early morning confrontation led to a swift arrest of a suspected burglar in the community.

Nor’easter prompts high and dry parking plans in Toms River

Toms River Police Dept. - File Photo

Nor’easter prompts parking guidance in Toms River

TOMS RIVER, NJ – Residents are advised on parking options during the nor’easter this weekend. The township has allowed residents to park at any of the township parks, with specific recommendations for locations.

Castle Park, located at 1511 N. Bay Ave., is one of the designated areas. Bey Lea Park can be accessed through the Bay Ave. entrance by the tennis courts. Skyview Park also provides parking at 811 Vaughn Ave.

High School East is another option, but vehicles must be removed from the premises by 11 PM on Monday night. The guidance aims to facilitate parking during the severe weather conditions expected this weekend.

The township’s decision comes as a response to help residents manage parking effectively amid the inclement weather. More information regarding potential impacts of the storm is expected to be released as conditions develop.

Residents are urged to utilize these designated areas for their convenience. The township continues to monitor the situation closely.

As the nor’easter approaches, Toms River prepares residents for parking challenges.

New Jersey State Police honor tradition at final Yankees playoff game of 2025

New Jersey State Police honor tradition at Yankees game

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey State Police Ceremonial Unit Color Guard presented the colors at the New York Yankees game held at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday. Although the Yankees did not secure a victory, the unit expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this significant event.

A representative from the New Jersey State Police stated, “We’re grateful to the organization for the invitation and the opportunity to take part in such a proud tradition.” The Color Guard’s presence is viewed as an important aspect of the game-day ceremony.

The Yankees, despite their loss, were commended for their long-standing tradition of honoring public service organizations. This inclusion fosters a connection between the team and local law enforcement.

The participation of the Color Guard reflects the ongoing partnership between the New Jersey State Police and community events. Such collaborations highlight the role of law enforcement in supporting local sports teams and engaging with the public.

As the baseball season concludes, the New Jersey State Police look forward to future collaborations with the Yankees. They expressed anticipation for the team’s return next season and hope for success in the months ahead.

The presentation of colors is a customary practice at sporting events, symbolizing respect and unity among participants and spectators. It reinforces the bond between law enforcement and the community.

The New Jersey State Police Ceremonial Unit has a history of participating in significant events across the state, underlining their commitment to community engagement and public service.

In conclusion, the New Jersey State Police Color Guard’s involvement at the Yankees game exemplifies their dedication to honoring traditions and building community ties.

Charges filed in shocking Robbinsville car assault incident

Police handcuffs and criminal fingerprints card

Charges filed in shocking car assault incident

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ — An investigation into an assault involving an automobile has led to the arrest of a driver. Chief William Swanhart confirmed that Kyle Pound, 23, of Matawan, faces multiple charges after the incident on Sunday evening.

Pound is charged with one count of second-degree aggravated assault, two counts of fourth-degree assault by auto, and one count each of third-degree endangering an injured victim and third-degree leaving the scene with serious injury. He also faces related motor vehicle offenses.

Robbinsville Police received reports of an illegal car meet on Applegate Drive on Sunday. Following the arrival of officers, approximately 50 cars dispersed from the area. An investigation conducted by the Criminal Investigations Unit identified a 16-year-old victim and an 18-year-old victim, who were run over by a vehicle operated by Pound.

Pound is currently being held at the Mercer County Correctional Center awaiting court proceedings. Authorities continue to investigate the incident and have urged anyone with information to reach out to Detective Connor Boyle or Sergeant Peter Galazka at (609) 259-3900.

Chief Swanhart commended the collaboration with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the Freehold Township Police Department, and the Secaucus Police Department throughout the investigation.

Despite facing charges, every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This alarming case underscores the dangers of reckless driving at gatherings.

State of emergency declared as northeastern storm approaches

State of emergency declared as northeastern storm approaches

LINDEN, NJ – On Friday, a state of emergency was declared across the state in preparation for a northeastern storm expected to affect the region today. Meteorologists forecast 3-5 inches of rain, beginning with showers this afternoon, evolving to steady rainfall overnight, and continuing through Sunday into Monday morning.

Strong winds reaching 40-50 mph gusts are predicted, potentially causing downed trees and power outages. The forecast also includes a significant risk of coastal flooding, prompting a Coastal Flood Watch for several counties, including Linden.

The tidal surge is expected to extend through four tide cycles, with high tides occurring at 12:32 a.m. and 12:58 p.m. on Sunday, followed by 1:39 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Monday. Residents should be alert for possible variations in the storm track that could intensify rainfall and wind conditions.

Residents are advised to keep abreast of weather updates. The Linden Police Department urges the community to sign up for Emergency Alerts and stay connected via social media for updates.

For non-emergency utility issues or outages, residents should contact the following: PSE&G at 1-800-436-7734, Elizabethtown Gas at 1-800-242-5830, New Jersey American Water at 1-800-272-1325, Comcast at 1-800-2662278, Verizon FiOS at 1-888-438-3467, and Verizon at 1-800-827-4966.

The public is reminded to reserve 9-1-1 for emergency situations only. A quote from the notice states, “Non-emergency utility problems or outages should be reported directly using the contact points below.”

Linden braces for potential havoc as the northeastern storm nears, with eyes on the skies and ears tuned to alerts.

Lost German Shepherd found in Robbinsville seeks family reunion

Lost German Shepherd found in Robbinsville seeks family reunion

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ — The Robbinsville Township Police Department is seeking the owner of a female German Shepherd found wandering near Combs Road earlier this week.

The police department confirmed the dog is now safe and being cared for by their team. The department is currently trying to locate the dog’s owner.

The German Shepherd was discovered by officers who were conducting patrols in the area. The officers brought the dog in as part of their effort to ensure its safety and well-being.

“If you recognize this dog or have any information that can help us reunite her with her family, please contact the Robbinsville Police Department,” the department stated.

Authorities are hopeful the dog’s owner will come forward to reclaim their pet.

The search for the dog’s owner continues as officers remain dedicated to finding her rightful home.

The Robbinsville Township Police Department remains committed to the care and safety of the found German Shepherd until she is reunited with her family.

Route 9 North Shut Down Following Major Crash

Route 9 North Shut Down Following Major Crash

MARLBORO TOWNSHIP, NJ – Route 9 North has been closed at Union Hill Road as authorities investigate a serious vehicle crash. Police are on the scene, implementing a detour to manage traffic flow.

The Marlboro Township Police Department announced the closure through a warning to motorists. A representative urged, “Please avoid the area if possible,” signaling the severity of the situation.

Reports indicate that the incident involves significant disruptions in the area. As police officers are stationed at the location, drivers are encouraged to find alternative routes.

There has been no additional information provided about potential injuries. The investigation is ongoing, with updates expected to follow from official sources.

This roadway situation highlights the importance of staying informed about local traffic conditions.