New Jersey News

Ortley Beach Lord House Station Rededicated

The Toms River Township council and mayor attended the Lord House re-dedication ceremony and plaque unveiling in Ortely Beach last Saturday.

“The Friends of Ortley Beach researched the history of the Ortley Inn and organized the event. Edie Segree and Barbara Biedenbach of the Lord family were in attendance,” the township said.

Originally established as the Ortley Inn in the late 1880’s, the Lord House was destroyed by fire in 1922. The Lord family purchased the rights to the business and built a single-family home. The Township acquired the land in the 1960’s and constructed a parking lot. The lifeguard station was added later.

Photo: Handout Photo/Toms River Township.

Guadagno: Christie would make a good FBI director

NEWARK — Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno may be distancing herself from Gov. Chris Christie as she runs for the Republican nomination to succeed him, but she didn’t scoff Wednesday at the idea of Christie becoming the new head of the FBI. President Donald Trump on Tuesday fired James Comey as FBI director. Christie has a background…

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Suspected Point Pleasant Aspiring ISIS Terrorist Stabbed Mom's Dog Because it was "unclean"

A Point Pleasant man who was accused by the FBI of providing material support for ISIS was caught after police were called on a report that he had stabbed his mother’s dog and threatened to kill her.

According to the Point Pleasant Police Department, officers arrived at the residence for a report of a male subject threatening to kill the family dog.

Responding Point Pleasant Police officers set up a perimeter around the residence and attempted to make contact with the male resident.

“During our attempt to negotiate, 20 year old Gregory Lepsky emerged from the residence and was taken into custody,” police said.

According to a report in the Asbury Park Press, Lepsky told first responders he wanted to kill the dog, because under his view of Islam, the pet was dirty.

He also stabbed himself.  Lepsky was transported to Brick Hospital to be treated for a self-inflicted laceration.

The family dog was located within the residence alive, however, sustained a significant laceration to his back. The dog was immediately transported to an area veterinary hospital.

A large knife was recovered from the suspect’s bedroom that was believed to have been used in the attack on the dog. Detective Scalabrini of the Point Pleasant Police Department charged Gregory Lepsky with Terroristic Threats 2C:12-3a, Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose 2C:39-4d, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon 2C:39-5d, Criminal Mischief 2C:17-3a and Animal Cruelty 4:22-17c(1).

Through the course of this investigation, information was developed to connect Mr. Lepsky with ISIS and a potential plan to build and use a pressure cooker bomb. Detectives from the Point Pleasant Police Department commenced a joint investigation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness.

Gregory Lepsky, 20, of Point Pleasant, New Jersey, will appear in federal court today to face allegations that he planned to construct and use a pressure cooker bomb in support of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Lepsky is charged by criminal complaint with one count of attempting to provide material support to ISIS.

During searches of computers and other digital evidence linked to Lepsky, law enforcement found evidence of Lepsky’s plan to build and detonate a bomb as part of his support for ISIS. During several social media communications, Lepsky told others that he intended to fight on behalf of ISIS, and that he would, if necessary, become a martyr by driving a “bunch of explosives” to where the “enemies” could be found and blowing himself up.

 Law enforcement also located a series of instructions that had been published online by another terrorist group that gave specific, step-by-step instructions on how to build a pressure cooker bomb, which coincided with the delivery to Lepsky of the pressure cooker a short time before his arrest. In addition, law enforcement recovered a message forwarded by Lepsky from another ISIS supporter stating that if a westerner could not travel to Syria to fight for ISIS, he could conduct a terrorist attack in his home country using improvised explosive devices.

NJ Governor Christie Vetoes Dem Bill that Sought to Block President Trump from Being on 2020 Ballot

TRENTON-A bill approved by the legislature in the blue state of New Jersey that could have kept President Donald Trump off the ballot in the Garden State in 2020 if he doesn’t release his tax returns.

“This legislation would prohibit general election candidates for President and Vice-President from appearing on a ballot in New Jersey unless they file a copy of their federal income tax returns for the five most recent years with the Division of Elections and would also prohibit any elector from voting for President or Vice-President unless the candidate complies with the bill’s requirements. This is clearly unconstitutional. The United States Constitution sets the rules in this regard to prevent politics like this bill,” the governor told the senate on May 1st.

The Presidential release of tax returns is a relatively new practice in the history of the United States with President Richard Nixon.   No law requires anyone running for office to release their tax returns.

“Unwilling to cope with the results of last November’s election, the Legislature introduced this unconstitutional bill as a form of therapy to deal with their disbelief at the 2016 election results, and to play politics to their base. Any claim to the contrary is belied by the press releases its supporters issued immediately upon its final passage and the plain language of the bill,” the Governor continued.

Tax returns are now an issue in the 2017 election to replace Governor Christie with Democrat millionaire Phil Murphy’s refusal to release his own tax returns.  Murphy, in December held a brief viewing of his returns for reporters, but under the law aimed at Donald Trump, Murphy’s “viewing” would not have satisfied the law vetoed by the Governor.

Ocean County Governor’s favorite, Republican Joseph Rullo, an avid constitutionalist said Democrats should start worrying about fixing the problems before them and less on individuals’ income tax returns.

“The Democrats front runner hasn’t released his tax returns only allowing reporters a peek at a designated time,” Rullo said. “I will not release my tax return as a private citizen. The state has more worries than mine and Trumps tax returns like fixing New Jersey.”

Rullo has been a staunch supporter of Trump since his candidacy began and blasted the attempt by the Democrat majority legislation to use their office to make a political move against the President.

There is currently no law that requires any candidate for office to release his or her tax returns.

FEDS: Point Pleasant Man Plotted to Kill for ISIS with Pressure Cooker Bomb

A Point Pleasant, New Jersey, man will appear in federal court today to face allegations that he planned to construct and use a pressure cooker bomb in support of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick and Acting Assistant Attorney General for National Security Dana Boente announced.
Gregory Lepsky, 20, is charged by criminal complaint with one count of attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization, specifically ISIS. Lepsky is expected to make his initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court.

According to the complaint:

On Feb. 21, 2017, Lepsky was arrested by the Point Pleasant Police Department in connection with an incident that occurred that day in his family’s home. Following the arrest, law enforcement officers searched the residence and found a new pressure cooker stored behind a roll of bubble wrap in Lepsky’s bedroom closet.

During searches of computers and other digital evidence linked to Lepsky, law enforcement found evidence of Lepsky’s plan to build and detonate a bomb as part of his support for ISIS. During several social media communications, Lepsky told others that he intended to fight on behalf of ISIS, and that he would, if necessary, become a martyr by driving a “bunch of explosives” to where the “enemies” could be found and blowing himself up.

Law enforcement also located a series of instructions that had been published online by another terrorist group that gave specific, step-by-step instructions on how to build a pressure cooker bomb, which coincided with the delivery of the pressure cooker to Lepsky a short time before his arrest. In addition, law enforcement recovered a message forwarded by Lepsky from another ISIS supporter stating that if a westerner could not travel to Syria to fight for ISIS, he could conduct a terrorist attack in his home country using improvised explosive devices.

The material support charge carries a maximum potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison and $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
Acting U.S. Attorney Fitzpatrick credited the FBI and the Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Timothy Gallagher in Newark; the N.J. State Attorney General’s Office under the direction of Attorney General Christopher Porrino; the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Joseph Coronato; the Point Pleasant Police Department under the direction of Chief Richard P. Larsen; and the N.J. Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness under the direction of Director Chris Rodriguez, with the investigation leading to the charges. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney James Donnelly of the U.S. Attorney’s Office National Security Unit in Newark and Justin Sher and B. Celeste Corlett, Trial Attorneys of the Department of Justice, National Security Division-Counterterrorism Section.
The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Photo: Pressure cooker bomb in 2016 NYC bombing, NYPD.

Man Shot in Trailer Park Shooting in Jackson Township

Police are investigating a shooting in a Jackson Township trailer park where one man was treated in the hospital for a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

Police said. just after midnight on May 4, 2017 Jackson Police Officers Kafton, Daniels and Mabey were conducting an investigation in the Luxury Mobile Home Community, located off Toms River Road (Rt 571). While there, the aforementioned officers heard a number of gunshots coming from an adjacent street, Coleman Way, in the community. After arriving on Colemen Way numerous residents were located outside. After speaking with the residents, a description of a male suspect and vehicle possibly involved was obtained.

A short time later, Community Medical Center contacted the Jackson Police Department and indicated they had a shooting victim in their Emergency Room. The victim was identified as a 22 year old male from Neptune NJ. The male was treated and later released with an abdominal wound.

While checking the Coleman Way area, officers located a number of .40cal shell casings on the ground. Officers also identified a mobile home, which was occupied, that had one round which penetrated the home’s exterior wall.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Jackson Police Detective John Rodriguez at 732-833-3008 or leave information on the Jackson Police Department’s Tip Line at 732-833-3032.

Probe into N.J. teen's deadly fall at Penn State frat to be released

BELLEFONTE, Pa. — After a lengthy grand jury investigation, prosecutors are expected to announce on Friday the results of a probe into the death of a Penn State sophomore who fell down a set of stairs during a pledge ceremony. Timothy Piazza, 19, of Readington Township in Hunterdon County, died on Feb. 4. He had fallen…

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N.J. college loses $1.25M … for not double spacing grant application

NEWARK — Every year since 1999, New Jersey Institute of Technology has offered a college-prep program for low-income high school students from Newark who hope to become the first in their family to attend college. Now, the program may end, not by way of budget cuts or lack of interest but because the college submitted an…

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Trump lands in N.J. for weekend stay

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump returned to New Jersey late Thursday for the first time since becoming the nation’s 45th president After joining Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City, Trump took off for his golf club in Bedminster, where he is expected to spend the…

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Attempted murder trial begins for N.J. man who allegedly stabbed woman 17 times

FRANKLIN — Opening arguments were heard Thursday in Somerset County Superior Court in the attempted first-degree murder trial of a Linden man accused of stabbing a teenage woman 17 times and repeatedly hitting her in the head with a barbell in an incident in her home. Winston Wilson, now 26, has been charged with first-degree attempted…

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Plainfield man sentenced to 25 years for fatally beating 4-month-old son

ELIZABETH — A Plainfield man who tried to flee to Iowa after he beat his 4-month-old son to death in 2013 has received a 25-year prison sentence, authorities said Thursday. State Superior Court Judge Regina Caulfield on Thursday ruled Michael Bell, 38, must serve at least 85 percent of that sentence before he is eligible for…

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Body of fisherman missing since January found on Barneget Bay island

LITTLE EGG HARBOR — The body of a Tuckerton fisherman who has been missing since January was found Friday on an island in the Barnegat Bay, authorities said Thursday. Christopher Hugg’s body was found on Middle Island by the Ocean County Mosquito Control Commission, who contacted the New Jersey State Police, Trooper Alejandro Goez, a State…

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Whale Washes up on Toms River Beach

 

https://www.facebook.com/realbrigantine/photos/a.1482410902040292.1073741830.1472146666400049/1893442354270476/?type=3

A whale washed up on the Chadwick Beach section of Toms River.  The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is trying to determine the cause of death.

“A sad end for a beautiful animal,” MMSC said today.

Freehold Borough school district to sue state over lack of school funding

FREEHOLD BOROUGH — The borough’s school district intends to sue the Department of Education over millions in state aid the district claims it’s not receiving. A resolution that sets the stage for litigation unanimously passed the Freehold Borough Board of Education at its meeting Monday evening. A lawsuit will be filed in about a week or…

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Man, 25, killed during police pursuit in Howell, cops say

HOWELL — A 25-year-old Marlboro man died after he crashed his car early Sunday while trying to evade authorities, police said. Brian Fani was pronounced dead at the scene after he ran his 2009 Subaru Legacy off the road at a bend in the road on Southard Avenue near the Howell Golf Course, side-swiped a utility…

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HS Girls Lacrosse: Point Pleasant Boro Defeats Jackson Liberty 6-5

JACKSON-Goals were scarce as Jackson Liberty and Point Boro faced off against each other.  Keira McNamara scored 2 goals and had 2 assists for the Panthers.  Maeve Carney scored 2 goals and had an assist for the Lions.

Team 1 2 Final
Point Pleasant Boro
 2 4 6
Jackson Liberty
 3 2 5

Domed Sports Facility Planned Near Six Flags Great Adventure

JACKSON-It’s being called Jackson Crossing 2 and includes a domed multipurpose sports facility.  The project as submitted by Cardinale Enterprises of Jackson Township, developer of Jackson Crossing, consists of an indoor soccer dome, and multipurpose turf fields that include one full baseball field, 3 soccer fields and 4 baseball/softball diamonds.

A hearing at the township zoning board will be heard on April 19th at 7pm.  A variance is needed to build the 50.5 ft high dome in a zone where there is a 35.5 foot limit.

The proposed facility will be built at the southeast corner of the exit 16 interchange of Route 195, just north of Six Flags Great Adventure.

According to tax records, the the property was purchased on March 29, 2016 for $1.15 million.

Domed sports facility planned near six flags great adventure - photo licensed by shore news network.

Domed sports facility planned near six flags great adventure - photo licensed by shore news network.

Private Beach Debate Boils Over as Proposed Parking Fees Could Aide Off-Limits Beach Clean Up

DEAL-A plan by the borough council is under fire by the New Jersey Chapter of the Surfrider Organization.  The organization is claiming that beaches aren’t the only thing here that need cleaning, but so does a new ordinance that could allocate public funds to beaches that are off limits to the general public.

According to Andrew L. Chambarry, Esq., representing the public, “The Borough of Deal has proposed their most sinister parking plan to date. They want to charge the public for parking passes which would fund the purchase of a beach sweeping machine. The machine will be used to clean beaches that you can’t access.”

At a public meeting on April 5, 2017, the Borough of Deal introduced Ordinance #1143 which would require permit parking during the summer months on five streets (Monmouth Terrace, Monmouth Drive, Hathaway, Sydney and Neptune Ave) with two vital beach access points for a cost of $100 for the summer or $50 per month.

“Mayor Cohen also said, and this is a direct quote from the public hearing, that this ordinance is the lesser of two evils,” said Harry Chambarry.  “So he admits that the ordinance is evil.”

A release by the organization read:

At the meeting, Mayor Cohen said it best, “If you want easier public access, you’re going to have to pay!” The Borough wants the public to pay $100 for a parking permit that won’t guarantee a space. They won’t restrict beachfront residents from purchasing permits and parking on the street to keep you away. They won’t admit that restricting parking is restricting access. They have no plan for ADA access or handicapped parking. They have no plan for increased traffic west of Ocean Ave. They want to push Ordinance #1143 through.

Worst of all is the Borough’s reasoning behind the Ordinance. They plan to purchase a $100,000 “beach sweep” machine to clean the beaches. Sounds great right? Wrong. Deal has notoriously horrible public access. Many of the street ends lead to dead-ends where access points should be. These street ends were vacated by the Borough in the 1980’s and early 1990’s to benefit adjacent homeowners and create private beaches. In essence, the Borough wants to charge you for a permit to fund beach cleaning equipment for beaches that you can’t enjoy.

The borough tried to pass similar ordinances in October 2015 and June 2016 restricting access. Those ordinances were tabled after they were met with fierce opposition. Ordinance #1143 is another slap in the face to local taxpayers, given that Deal’s beaches were recently the benefactor of a $40 million taxpayer-funded beach restoration project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

It’s clear to everyone that the Borough intends to keep surfers, fisherman and the general public away from what they consider to be “their” private beaches. We have a right to access and enjoy the shoreline under New Jersey law. We can’t allow the Borough of Deal to restrict access to beaches that we all paid for.

 

Hard Rock plans to create 3,000 jobs, invest $375M in Atlantic City property

ATLANTIC CITY — They’re going to rebuild this city on rock and roll. The former Trump Taj Mahal is receiving a $375 million facelift that will turn it into the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Atlantic City. Officials anticipate the project to bring 1,000 construction jobs and 3,000 permeant jobs. The opening is anticipated for summer…

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Vintage photos of people 'hangin' out' in N.J.

Angie: “Whaddya feel like doin’ tonight?” Marty: “I don’t know, Ang … what do you feel like doin’?” Angie: “We’re back to that, eh? I say to you whaddya feel like doin’, and you say back to me I don’t know what do you feel like doin’, then we wind up sittin’ around your house with…

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7-Eleven to buy Sunoco gas stations, convenience stores for $3.3B

7-Eleven is buying most of Sunoco’s convenience stores and gas stations in a $3.3-billlion deal, company officials announced Thursday The deal, expected to close in the last quarter of the year, includes 1,108 of Sunoco’s 1,345 locations. The other stations are expected to be sold as part of a different deal. Sunoco has more than 175…

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Christie to Amtrak: We want our money back

New Jersey will stop paying the rent to NJ Transit’s landlord at Penn Station New York until Amtrak guarantees the Northeast Corridor is in good repair and may sue to get 2016’s payments back. Gov. Chris Christie directed the state Attorney General to stop making the $2.5 to $5 million in monthly rent and maintenance payments…

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NJ Transit nightmare spills into 4th day, but full service could return Friday

An almost week-long commuting nightmare for NJ Transit train commuters may be over on Friday when Amtrak officials say they expect to complete repairs to track damage from Monday’s train derailment in Penn Station New York. “We’re hoping to have the work done by Friday,” said Mike Tolbert, an Amtrak spokesman. Until then, NJ Transit trains…

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Girl, 5, sexually assaulted on school bus, mom says

TRENTON — A Trenton mom says her 5-year-old daughter was sexually assaulted on the school bus by an older student, the latest in a series of incidents involving special education students. The mom, who doesn’t want her identity revealed, said the incident occurred March 28 on an afternoon bus leaving P.J. Hill Elementary School. Her daughter…

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Panel upholds sentence of former NBA player convicted in $2M Ponzi scheme

PHILADELPHIA– A former player with the New Jersey Nets will remain behind bars after he lost his appeal of a conviction for orchestrating a multimillion dollar fraud, Acting U.S. Attorney William E. Fitzpatrick said in a statement. C. Tate George, a Newark native, was sentenced to nine years in prison in January 2016 for defrauding investors…

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Statement Against Gentiles in Lakewood Shopping Center "Walked Back"

Yesterday, we reported on an article posted on the “Take Back Lakewood” website in which a post on the page claimed to show 1,200 signatures in opposition to a retail mall project in the Cedarbridge office park.

Along with the petition was a letter from an unsigned resident highlighting their opinions against the development, citing things like teenagers hanging out, boys and girls co-mingling, gentile (non-Jewish) owned shops and other reasons.

The letter also referred to non-Jewish residents as “goyim”, those who are not Jewish, many non-Jews feel it is a derogatory term.  The letter referenced the potential presence of goyim within the shopping plaza as “terrifying”.

Read full article here.

Today, Take Back Lakewood is walking back its claim that the letter and the petition were connected and the original article was pulled from the website.

“We have now spoken with the organizer of the petition who clarified to us that the petition had 2 simple lines on it – as written on the text of the petition page – it reads (in a mixture of hebrew and english) : ‘We are requesting from Cedarbridge Corporation to withdraw from their involvement in making a shopping center in our town’.”, TBL, stated.

“The intention of the organizers of the petition related to the fact that the Yeshiva (BMG) was founded upon and espouses certain values. Those values include living a life of austerity and shunning materialism in the pursuit of living a life dedicated to the service of God. Many in the yeshiva community choose not to eat out in restaurants (yes even kosher ones) choose not to indulge in nice cars or name brand clothing and instead dedicate their time and efforts in the service of God. Most do not have a TV in their home and many do not have internet. Some don’t even own a cell phone. They are entitled to choose to live their lives in that way the same way America allows individuals to choose how to live their lives. While they would not tell others how to live their lives and indeed many many people in Lakewood do live a more luxurious lifestyle with nice houses, cars and nice strip malls, they felt that it was unbecoming of BMG to tarnish it’s name by suddenly changing gears and promoting materialism since in this case, BMG/Cedarbridge was the applicant and developer. If a private developer were to apply for a mall that they would not object. The reality is that private developers have been building stores all over Lakewood and the BMG students have not objected to that. Their concern related to what they felt was a weakening of the yeshiva’s values and a lack of practicing what they preach in regard to materialism,” TBL continued.

“Furthermore, the intent of the letter which was written by an individual,  was not to say that non Jewish stores should not be allowed in Lakewood. When BMG was initially accused of promoting materialism through a shopping center that would be built in the middle of a predominantly jewish area, some of the concerns related to the fact that there would surely be tenants who served non kosher food, draw traffic to the area on Sabbath when most stores in the area are generally closed, and possibly have stores like Victoria Secret etc which would display pictures of scantily clad women that would generally not be preferred by the ultra orthodox. Again, the primary objection related to the fact that BMG was the developer. It would be analogous to a Catholic Church building an abortion clinic,” the statement continued.

“No one in Lakewood is trying to deny business opportunities for gentiles,” TBL added.

You can see the full post on Take Back Lakewood’s website.

Although the letter and the petition are now alleged to be disjoined from each other, the letter highlighted the deep cultural divide between some in Lakewood’s Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community and the surrounding communities which must be overcome as the Orthodox community expands into neighboring towns.

The original letter is published below:

Statement against gentiles in lakewood shopping center "walked back" - photo licensed by shore news network.

 

Judge: Ocean County Corruption Lawsuit to Proceed

FREEHOLD – A judge Friday rejected a motion by Ocean County to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a former detective in the county prosecutor’s office who alleges county-wide corruption, according to a published report. The Asbury Park Press reports the motion was denied by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Jamie S. Perri. The case was moved…

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April Fool's Day Video Targets Kim Guadagno, Jack Ciattarelli, Phil Murphy and Joe Rullo, NJ Governor Candidates

Celebrating April Fool’s Day is an age old media gag that can’t be passed up. This year, we take a look at the race for New Jersey Governor in New Jersey, one of the most important political elections of the 2017 cycle nationwide. While most of the candidates are playing the Trenton and D.C. political game by the Politics 101 playbook, local resident Joe Rullo has been out there doing his own thing. He’s been ignored by the establishment elite, big money donors and even his own opponents who have already written him off as dead.

Like Donald Trump, many are saying Rullo is doing it for the name recognition, but as the primary heats up, Rullo, is in dead last in every big name poll that sampled 200 or so random landline telephone owners, but he’s won virtually every online poll in the state, yet his opponents, the media and all of the other cogs in the Trenton machine walk by and shake their head at him.

The last time we heard Rullo speak, he said “I’m not like the others”. My mind instantly flashed back to a childhood moment. I was maybe 7 or 8 and Sesame Street was on and the the “Which of these things don’t belong?” game came on. As Rullo was speaking, I was humming the song in my head. I instantly knew that was my 2017 April Fools Day skit for the Shore News Network if he was still in the race.

So here it is:

https://www.facebook.com/416437185078997/videos/1411455585577147/

LBI: Then And Now – Loveladies

This aerial photograph of the small community of Loveladies on Long Beach Island shows the development of Long Beach Island.  The original photo was taken in the early to mid 1950’s and the current view is the most recent Google Earth imagery available.

If you look closely, you can see that some of the original homes still exist with modifications and additions.  Loveladies is located in the northern section of Long Beach Township on Long Beach Island.

It was a location of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, established in 1871. The land adjacent to the station was owned by Thomas Lovelady and the section of the island was called “Lovelady’s” before eventually evolving into Loveladies.

 

Lbi: then and now - loveladies - photo licensed by shore news network.
1950’s photo on file at the oc heritage archive, photographer, origin unknown.
Lbi: then and now - loveladies - photo licensed by shore news network.
Google earth imagery, loveladies, lbi.

Police Involved in Deadly Turnpike Rest Stop Shooting

TRENTON — Authorities have confirmed a man was fatally shot by a state trooper Thursday afternoon at a rest stop along the New Jersey Turnpike. But the state Attorney General’s Office, which is overseeing the investigation into the shooting, has released few details. Fatal shooting involving State Police reported at N.J. Turnpike rest stop WHAT WE…

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After Christie praises them, N.J. addiction doctors blast Trump budget cuts

PATERSON — As Gov. Chris Christie spends his last year in office focused on expanding addiction treatment, President Donald Trump has been seeking massive cuts to the National Institute of Health’s budget. On Thursday, those two political realities collided awkwardly. The governor appeared at St. Joseph’s Hospital to tout its successful opiate addiction prevention program. But…

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The Day Guadagno and Christie Both Left New Jersey for D.C.

Was New Jersey without a governor for a while on Wednesday? Gov. Chris Christie and his second in command, Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, both took separate trips to the White House during the day. Christie’s was high profile: As two of his former allies were being sentenced back home in the Bridgegate scandal, the governor did…

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Prominent NJ Democrat Slams Bail Reform Failures

JERSEY CITY — Mayor Steve Fulop took a shot at New Jersey’s bail reform during his sixth and final state of the city address tonight, saying the system is keeping the city from “turning a corner” on preventing gun violence. Fulop, in a 30-minute speech delivered in the Casino in the Park banquet hall, slapped state…

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New Jersey University Ditches Fast Food from Menu

NEW BRUNSWICK — In a makeover of its dining hall menus, Rutgers University plans to eliminate chicken nuggets, hash browns and other unhealthy foods from its takeout section and incorporate more nutritious options in the all-you-can-eat cafeterias. By the end of the fall semester, Rutgers expects chicken wings will be baked instead of fried, hot sauce…

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Contractor's scam grows, now affects 34 victims and $1.5M, authorities say

TOMS RIVER — A contractor charged with bilking homeowners after promising to repair their homes damaged by Hurricane Sandy is facing a new indictment after authorities found more victims in a scam that’s reached $1.5 million. Jamie Lynn Lawson, 42, was initially charged with theft and money laundering related to 14 people who were tricked out…

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Shelter: Dog Rescued from Abandoned Home Ready for Forever Home

The Associated Humane Society rescue at Popcorn Park shared a story this week about a dog that was rescued from a horrible situation last fall.

Kronk is a big, beautiful Dogue De Bordeaux of about 6 years old that is hoping for a fabulous home to start over in. Kronk always looks as if he is smiling, doesn’t he? He has plenty to smile about these days, now that he is safe and taken care of. Sadly, that wasn’t always the case for Kronk. He was removed from a terrible situation along with another dog last fall. Kronk was living in an abandoned house in conditions that were too deplorable to imagine. He spent some time getting healthy and back on his feet, now he’s ready to move on with his life. Kronk was a little leery of new people when he arrived but we learned that with patience and time, Kronk learns to trust people and then just acts like a big, silly puppy. Once you’re his friend, he’ll love you forever. He is playful, active and strong, but he walks well on a leash and sits nicely when asked. He gets along with larger dogs, given the chance to get to know them, but will need a home with no children under 10. Kronk just melts when you give him a little love and attention, and that’s really all he’s asking for. He’ll love you so much in return if you give him a chance.

 

ADOPTION INFORMATION:
Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park Animal Shelter is located at 1 Humane Way, Forked River, NJ 08731. The hours for meeting adopting pets are Mon-Fri 12pm to 5:30, Sat & Sun 12pm to 4:30. We usually have between 50 to 70 dogs, and 100 to 150 cats available for adoption, as well as smaller animals such as rabbits. Most of our available dogs can be found by clicking on our “Photos” section of our page, and searching out our album, “Dogs Available for Adoption”. This album is updated almost daily but does not always include all of our available dogs. Some of our cats available can be found in our album, “Cats Available for Adoption”.

Damaged inlet wall at Shore to get repairs next week

TOMS RIVER — Emergency work to repair a gaping hole in the bulkhead of the Manasquan Inlet in Point Pleasant Beach is planned to start next week when crews can have better access to the damaged wall during prime hours. Mayor Stephen Reid said construction crews and divers plan to work on the bulkhead, damaged two…

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Construction Begins on New Ferris Wheel in Seaside Heights

Casino Pier announced the start of construction on their new ferris wheel to be built on the new portion of the amusement pier this week.

A new 40 meter Ferris Wheel will stand 131 ft tall & bright on our newly expanded pier in 2017. Manufactured by Technical Park, 34 gondolas seating 6 passengers will offer breathtaking views of the Jersey Shore.  One gondola will offer wheelchair accessibility.

“Some shiny and new pieces arrived for the Ferris Wheel! The west support is being put into place,” the company said on Facebook.  Photo Casino Pier, FB.

 

 

Officials Seeking Contractor Who Stole $1.5 Million from Hurricane Sandy Victims

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato is asking media outlets in a number of towns and states listed below to post the attached picture of Jamie Lynn Lawson, age 42, a Super Storm Sandy contractor wanted for fraudulent activity by the Ocean County Prosecutor. Lawson has been a fugitive since December 14, 2016. He is currently under indictment for theft and money laundering related to 14 victims of contractor fraud totaling $480,000. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office will be superseding that indictment to include 34 victims totaling approximately $1.5 million. Its alleged Lawson took money from the thirty-four homeowners in Ocean & Monmouth Counties and then did either no work or less than contracted services on their homes. He allegedly used the money for vehicles and personal expenses.

Jamie Lynn Lawson is believed to have been in the following areas since December of 2016:

Austin, TX
Dallas, TX
Addison, TX
Denton, TX
Irving, TX
Houston, TX
Port Lavaca, TX
Rowland, NC
Fairmount, NC
Lumberton, NC
Bishopville, SC
Greenville, TN
Siloam, GA
Livingston, AL
Sedalia, MO
St. Louis. MO
Tulsa, OK
Quapaw, OK
Mendenhall, MS
Brandon, MS
Florence, MS
Jackson, MS
Magee, MS

Lawson moved to New Jersey shortly after Superstorm Sandy and made application to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor. The State registered Lawson based upon his material misrepresentations on the application including his failure to disclose his prior criminal convictions. Shortly thereafter, he began taking contracts to perform Sandy related renovations and new home construction.

The specific counts of the original Indictment include Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity (Money Laundering) – Second Degree (more than $75,000), six counts of Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition – Second Degree (more than $75,000), nine counts of Theft by Failure to Make Required Disposition – Third Degree (more than $500 and less than $75,000), Tampering with Public Records for submitting a fictitious Home Improvement Contractor Application Third Degree and one count of Unregistered Home Improvement Contracting – Fourth Degree. Superior Court Judge Patricia B. Roe, J.S.C. set bail on the Indictment Warrant at $150,000, restricted him from engaging in home improvement & building contracts and required him to surrender his passport.

The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted in cooperation with the Brick Police Department, Toms River Police Department, Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs and New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. Anyone with information regarding Lawson’s whereabouts is asked to contact Sergeant Mark Malinowski of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Economic Crime Unit

Chadwick Island Bridge to be Replaced

Originally built in the 1950s, the Chadwick Beach Island Bridge has served the residents of the island well providing access from their homes to Route 35. It even weathered Superstorm Sandy in October 2012.

But age has taken its toll on the timber span and Ocean County will now oversee a study to determine the best course of action for rehabilitating or replacing bridge located on the northern barrier island in Toms River Township. The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) Board of Trustees approved $325,000 in federal funds for the study at its March meeting.

Funding for the study is provided through the Local Concept Development Phase of the NJTPA’s Fiscal Year 2018 Local Capital Project Delivery Program. The Local Capital Project Delivery Program awards grants to NJTPA member counties and cities to investigate all aspects of a project, including environmental, right of way access, design and feasibility issues. The NJTPA Board approved a combined $2.76 million for studies in FY 2018 and FY 2019 at its March 13 meeting in Newark.

Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari extended his appreciation to the NJTPA for providing the funds for the study.

He noted the Chadwick Beach Island Bridge is used by many bicyclists and pedestrians especially in the summer months.

The two-lane bridge on Strickland Boulevard crosses the Barnegat Bay, connecting Chadwick Beach Island and its 300 homes to Route 35.

In 1985, new deck boards, pile caps and railings were installed. The timber bulkheads and load-bearing piles are deteriorating and need to be replaced. The bridge’s width and sidewalk do not meet current standards.

According to the NJTPA, Local Concept Development is the first phase of the Local Capital Project Delivery Program, which guides projects from initial concepts all the way to construction.

During the initial phase, the County will identify and compare reasonable alternatives and strategies and select a preferred alternative. Projects that complete this initial investigative work may be eligible for eventual construction with federal funds. More information on the program can be found at www.njtpa.org.

5 more people charged as scammers who stole nearly $300K in Sandy aid

TOMS RIVER — Five property owners were charged Thursday with bilking the federal government out of nearly $300,000 in federal Hurricane Sandy aid for allegedly lying on their applications to get money to rebuild homes at the Shore damaged by the 2012 storm. In four of the cases state Attorney General Christopher Porrino laid out, the…

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Ocean County Split Over This Weekend's Seaside Heights Pro-Trump Rally

SEASIDE HEIGHTS-The MAGA March is coming to Seaside Heights this Saturday and Ocean County residents are split on whether or not it’s a good thing.

The Seaside Heights march has been designated as the official MAGA March for New Jersey and is part of a national pro Trump effort.

“It is about time we stand up for America. We are marching for our President, Vice President, Military, and First Responders. We are the silent majority and we are ready for a real change,” the organization said on its website.  “A change for how our Veterans are treated when the focus seems to be somewhere else.”

“It’s a peaceful pro American event. Ok. Right,” wrote Bradley Livingston. “I would be against this if it was an anti trump march. Again, nothing good will come of this.”

“I’m a very big Trump supporter. But I kinda agree with Brad,” replied Kenny TuShak “This could bring some unwanted attention and Seaside Heights is always under the gun.”

“We need to show support for Trump and our country which is in the process of being taken over,” said Kathy Serra. “WE can’t let the left think they are winning because they are not!”

Some want to use the event as a show of force against the alt-left uprising that has been gaining momentum across Ocean County in recent weeks.

“All the more reason to attend,” wrote Robert Heany.  “Time to put these pansies in their places. Make it ‘uncomfortable’ to confront the once passive right.”

“Will they be celebrating the loss of their health insurance, social security, Medicare and Medicaid? I’ll buy tickets to see that,” quipped Margaret Jelcich.

You can learn more about the event on their Facebook event page.

 

Opponent Calls on Guadagno to Come Clean on Taxpayer Funded Campaign Expenses

Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli launched a big accusation against New Jersey’s number two Republican, Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno last week.

He issued the following release:

“Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno should explicitly detail and publicly release all information regarding to travel and security expenses incurred by her and her official office senior staff since announcing her candidacy.” Ciattarelli said.

Ciattarelli said he was “troubled” that while Guadagno dinged Governor Christie during her kickoff announcement in January for the controversy surrounding the Governor’s travel and security costs, the Lt. Governor regularly travels to campaign events with a security detail funded by state taxpayers.

“Incumbent politicians like the Lt. Governor, who are running for re-election or election to a higher office, should not be forcing state taxpayers to cover their travel and security costs,” said Ciattarelli, who added that if the Lt. Governor has already been doing the right thing and reimbursing taxpayers, she should publicly say so. “With all Kim’s talk about auditing how state government spends money, perhaps she could start with her own office, and let taxpayers know exactly how much they have involuntarily contributed to her campaign over the last six weeks.”

“Any time the Lt. Governor makes a campaign stop – and she has made plenty over the past six and a half weeks – her campaign committee should fully reimburse taxpayers for any and all expenses incurred,” said Ciattarelli. “It strikes me as a bit hypocritical that the Lt. Governor’s stump speeches about fiscal responsibility and financial audits are sandwiched between trips up and down the Turnpike and Parkway in the back a state-owned SUV surrounded by a taxpayer-funded security detail.”

REPORT: Bail Reform Supporter Fails to Gain Republican Nomination in Middlesex

Sam Thompson, who represents Jackson Township in the New Jersey legislature failed to secure the nomination of the Middlesex County Republicans at their annual convention.  Thompson, a supporter and backer of NJ’s flailing new bail reform and speedy trial act fell short Wednesday night.  Here’s a full report from SaveJersey.

Jack Ciattarelli wasn’t the only Republican to score an upset of sorts on Wednesday night, Save Jerseyans, which means Asw. Betty Lou DeCroce (R-12) is no longer the only 2017 GOP legislative incumbent in real primary jeopardy. The basics: Also in Middlesex County, where Ciattarelli overcame NJGOP gubernatorial primary front runner Kim Guadagno and prevented the…

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Long-awaited $128M beach replenishment to start in Ortley Beach next month

TOMS RIVER — Beach replenishment for the northern Ocean County peninsula is set to start the middle of next month, with Ortley Beach as the first spot to get the sand. State environmental protection officials said Weeks Marine Inc., the Cranford-based contractor selected to perform the $128 million project, will spend two weeks beginning mid-April pumping…

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Deer stuck in frozen N.J. pond rescued but struggling to walk

ROXBURY – Officials rescued Sunday morning a deer stuck in a frozen pond for nearly 24 hours in Roxbury. The deer is out of the water but is struggling to walk on its own. The deer had been stuck in the pond located in a residential neighborhood overnight. An attempt to rescue the deer Saturday was…

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Former Jackson Business Administrator Turns Himself in to State Police on Corruption Charges

TOTOWA-When Jackson Township hired former Paterson Mayor Jose “Joey” Torres in 2010 to succeed Phil Del Turco as business administrator, everyone in the township knew is it was a mistake, except for the governing body. Appointed by Mayor Michael Reina with a stunning referral from then township attorney George Gilmore, the township council approved the appointment, despite Torres being legally qualified for the position.

In the all-or-nothing effort to appoint Torres, notorious for political backroom wheeling and dealing, Councilman Scott Martin suggested the township change their legal code to allow Torres in. In Torres’ tumultuous time in Jackson, the township furloughed DPW workers, threatened police department layoffs and many other negative impacts to the township as Torres used the position simply as a holdover until he ran for mayor in Paterson in 2014, after being deposed in his hometown a year earlier.

One of Torres’ most damaging and notorious backroom deals was the agreement he made with a local landscaper, in which township resources were used to provide a political ally with with tons of leaves, free of charge, which the landscaper then was given authority by Torres to convert the leaves into mulch for commercial resale.

That agreement led to years of complaints from local residents and an eventual lawsuit in which the town was forced to sue the landscaper, costing taxpayers nearly $250,000 in legal and professional fees during the investigation and subsequent lawsuit.

Now, Torres, might finally be heading to jail as he was indicted on political corruption charges in Paterson.  He turned himself into authorities earlier this week.

Earlier this month, federal authorities raided Torres’ offices as part of an unrelated investigation.  Subpoenas were also sent to multiple Ocean County town halls, including Jackson related to that second investigation.

Below is a report from the Star Ledger:

TOTOWA – Paterson Mayor Jose “Joey” Torres turned himself in to the State Police on Monday after being indicted last week on corruption charges. Torres, 58 of Paterson, walked into the State Police barracks in Totowa to answer charges that he conspired to have work performed on a property connected to one of his family members.…

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U.S. Attorney Fishman: You're Fired! says Donald Trump as he "Drains the Swamp"

WASHINGTON–All 46 U.S. attorneys serving as holdover appointments from the Obama administration were asked to resign by Attorney General Jeff Sessions Friday afternoon, Justice Department officials said. Among them include Paul Fishman, the U.S. attorney for New Jersey. A spokesman for his office said on Friday afternoon he could not be reached for comment. It is…

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