Police Blotter

Police blotter reports are generally written by the authoritative agency and only edited by Shore News Network for grammar and accuracy. If you have any questions regarding the information in these reports, please contact the issuing authority.

Man found shot to death inside apartment building in Suitland

Homicide Investigation Launched Following Shooting in Suitland

**Suitland, MD** – Homicide Unit detectives are conducting an investigation into a fatal shooting that occurred on Friday. The victim has been identified as 30-year-old Brian Speaks, a resident of Suitland. Authorities are offering a reward of up to $25,000 for any information that leads to an arrest and indictment in this case. Preliminary findings suggest that the crime was not random.

On Friday, at approximately 5:45 p.m., police responded to a report of a shooting in the 3500 block of Parkway Terrace Drive. Upon arrival, officers found the victim inside an apartment building suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives are working actively to identify potential suspects and establish a motive for the shooting. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone who has information relevant to this case is encouraged to contact the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, through the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Reference case number 24-0068482

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Man Shot Multiple Times Dead in Oxon Hill

Homicide Investigation in Oxon Hill

**Oxon Hill, MD** – Detectives from the Homicide Unit are investigating a fatal shooting that took place Saturday in Oxon Hill. The victim, identified as 30-year-old Denis Zepeda Cruz, was from Oxon Hill. A reward of up to $25,000 has been announced for information leading to an arrest and indictment. Preliminary investigations suggest the crime wasn’t random.

The shooting was reported on the 7300 block of Roanne Drive approximately at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday. Upon arrival, officers found the victim outside with gunshot wounds and he was pronounced dead on the scene.

Detectives are currently working to establish a motive and identify any suspect or suspects involved in the incident. Authorities have requested anyone with information regarding this case to contact the Homicide Unit at 301-516-2512.

Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers online at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, via the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). The case reference number is 24-0068762.

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Police Seek Public’s Help to Identify Suspect

Police Seek Public’s Help to Identify Suspect

**Keene, NY** – The New York State Police are requesting assistance in identifying a man involved in an incident during the summer in Keene and surrounding areas.

On July 9, at approximately 5:43 p.m., an unidentified Caucasian elderly male allegedly exposed himself to two children near the Hulls Falls Road Bridge over the Ausable River in Keene. The male was described as heavyset, balding with light-colored or white hair on the sides, wearing a light blue raincoat and dark blue pants, and was observed sitting on the riverbank across from the children. He left the scene in an unknown direction, and it remains unclear whether he departed by foot or vehicle.

State Police responded to the area and checked other local swimming spots where children may frequent. Investigations continue, with similar reports having been made to law enforcement agencies over the summer. The locations investigated include Split Rock Falls on State Route 9 in Elizabethtown and a swimming hole on State Route 73 across from Five Mountain Loop trailhead.

In all reported incidents, the suspect’s description has been consistent. Anyone with information regarding the July incident or any related occurrences in other locations over the

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Former Nurse Practitioner Sentenced for Fraudulent Prescriptions

Former Nurse Practitioner Sentenced for Fraudulent Prescriptions

**HARRISBURG, PA** – A former certified registered nurse practitioner from western Pennsylvania received a sentence Thursday of 11.5 to 23 months, followed by 8 years of probation. Joseph G. Sapp, 56, was penalized for writing fraudulent prescriptions for thousands of Oxycodone pills.

Sapp had previously admitted guilt to charges, which include possession with intent to deliver, Medicaid fraud, and forgery. The Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Narcotics Investigations and Medicaid Fraud Control Unit discovered that Sapp wrote prescriptions filled in Westmoreland, Allegheny, Fayette, and Washington counties.

Sapp issued prescriptions for himself and others in exchange for money, thereby defrauding Medicaid. According to Attorney General Michelle Henry, Sapp failed to uphold his professional responsibilities and contributed to the opioid epidemic by facilitating access to Oxycodone.

The investigation received support from multiple agencies, including the Penn Township Police Department, the Westmoreland County Drug Task Force, the Westmoreland County Sheriff’s Office, and the DEA. Sapp admitted to exploiting Medicaid to submit false prescription claims and illegally acquiring prescriptions under false identities. The prosecution was led by Senior

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Wellsville Police Arrest Local Man

Wellsville Police Arrest Local Man

**Wellsville, NY** – Wellsville Police have taken Jacob W. Evoy-Riggs, a 22-year-old resident of Wellsville, into custody. He is charged with DWI (Unclassified Misdemeanor) and DWI with a BAC of .08% or more (Unclassified Misdemeanor).

The arrest occurred following an incident on Jefferson Street. After processing, Evoy-Riggs received an appearance ticket and was released.

He is scheduled to appear in Wellsville Village Court on December 17th at 4:30 p.m.

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Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Investigation Underway in Temple Hills

**Fatal Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Investigation Underway in Temple Hills**

**TEMPLE HILLS, MD** – The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit is looking into a pedestrian hit-and-run accident that resulted in a fatality on Saturday night. The investigation aims to identify the victim, an adult female, with the intention of informing her family.

Police were called to the scene on the 4400 block of Saint Barnabas Road on Saturday at 8:50 p.m. They discovered the victim, who had suffered trauma, on the roadway. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the driver who struck the victim was traveling northbound on Saint Barnabas Road near Leisure Drive. The driver did not remain at the scene after the incident.

Authorities urge anyone with information regarding this case to contact the Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit at 301-731-4422. Anonymous tips can be provided through Crime Solvers at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (8477), referencing case number 24-0068760.

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Governor Murphy Enacts Stricter Penalties for Burglaries

Governor Murphy Enacts Stricter Penalties for Burglaries

**Gloucester Township, NJ** – Governor Murphy has signed new legislation increasing penalties for residential burglaries and home invasions in New Jersey. The law, which went into effect immediately, introduces two new offenses: second-degree residential burglary and first-degree home invasion burglary.

The enhanced penalties for home invasion burglary apply when a deadly weapon is used or bodily injury is threatened during a break-in. Convicted individuals could face 10 to 20 years in prison, fines up to $200,000, or both.

Residential burglary involves entering a home to commit an offense, punishable by five to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000. Both offenses fall under the No Early Release Act, requiring offenders to serve at least 85% of their sentence before parole eligibility.

Attorney General Matthew Platkin, at a Newark press conference, highlighted the law’s potential in holding accountable those who use juveniles in burglaries.

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Yonkers Police Apprehend Man for Invasive Act

**Yonkers Police Apprehend Man for Invasive Act**

**Yonkers, NY -** The Yonkers Police Department reported on the arrest of Gueovanni Patterson, 22, in connection to an invasive incident involving unlawful surveillance. Patterson was allegedly involved in using his cell phone to capture footage under a young female’s skirt.

This event occurred just before 1:30 p.m. on November 6, when the victim noticed Patterson’s actions and attempted to confront him, leading to his escape. Bystanders supported the victim and promptly alerted the authorities about the incident.

On Thursday, the police’s Intelligence Unit successfully identified and apprehended Patterson. He was charged with Unlawful Surveillance in the 2nd Degree, classified as a felony in New York State, and is currently detained on bail, awaiting his court appearance.

The police department urges anyone who may have been victimized by Patterson or in similar circumstances to contact the Yonkers Police Intelligence Unit at 914-377-7341.

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Veterans Park Temporary Closure Announced for Police Training

Veterans Park Temporary Closure Announced for Police Training

**Galloway, NJ** – Veterans Park, located at 636 S. New York Road, will be closed to the public for police training exercises. The park closure will occur today between noon and 4:30 PM.

This closure will also take place every Tuesday throughout November, maintaining the same hours of operation, from noon to 4:30 PM.

The Galloway Township Police Department is conducting the training exercises at the venue. They have expressed their gratitude to the public for their understanding during this time.

Authorities have apologized for any inconvenience caused by the temporary park closure. The purpose of the training is to enhance police operations in the township.

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Robbery Reported at Lake George Gas Station

Robbery Reported at Lake George Gas Station

**Lake George, NY** – New York State Police responded to a reported robbery at the Extra Mart Mobil Gas Station on State Route 9N in Lake George. The incident occurred on November 15, at approximately 9:07 p.m.

The investigation revealed that at around 9:00 p.m., two victims were approached while pumping gas. The suspect, described as wearing a black hoodie with white writing, black pants, white shoes, a hat, and a ski mask, demanded their purses.

The suspect allegedly displayed what appeared to be a handgun in the waistband of his pants. After taking the victims’ belongings, he proceeded to walk eastbound on State Route 9N.

Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the robbery to contact State Police SP Queensbury at 518-457-6811. Tips can also be submitted via email to crimetips@troopers.ny.gov.

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Elusive Pig On The Run In Bensalem

Elusive Pig On The Run In Bensalem

**Bensalem, PA** – Bensalem Township Police are actively searching for a small pig that has been evading capture for several weeks. The elusive pig has garnered online attention, with local residents claiming they have been feeding it.

Authorities urge anyone who spots the pig to contact the Bensalem Police at (215) 633-3719, rather than posting about it on social media. Police emphasize the importance of capturing the pig before it ventures onto streets, posing potential hazards.

Once captured, the pig will be taken to an animal rescue center. It will receive a veterinarian examination and be placed for adoption.

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Royal Farms Robbery Incident Under Investigation

Royal Farms Robbery Incident Under Investigation

**Glen Burnie, MD** – Early Sunday, officers responded to a robbery at Royal Farms on Ritchie Highway in Glen Burnie. The incident occurred when a male suspect entered the store at approximately 12:40 a.m.

The suspect asked the store clerk for two packs of cigarettes before implying he possessed a weapon and stealing the items. After the robbery, the suspect fled the scene. Despite efforts to locate him, officers were unable to find the suspect in the vicinity.

The suspect is described as a Black male in his 20s wearing a black and blue hooded sweatshirt. Regional Crimes Unit detectives are now handling the investigation and are urging individuals with any information to contact them at 410-222-4731 or use the Tip Line at 410-222-4700.

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Victim robbed of $6,000 and iPhone as Newark police search for suspect

**Newark, NJ -**

The Newark Department of Public Safety seeks assistance from the public to identify a man wanted for questioning in a robbery that took place on November 3. Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda has made this appeal in connection with the incident.

The robbery occurred around 3:30 a.m. on the 200 block of Park Avenue. The victim was in his vehicle when the suspect, armed with a handgun, approached and knocked on the driver’s side window. After the victim slightly opened the car door, the suspect forced it open and took $6,000 from the victim’s wallet.

The suspect also confiscated the victim’s iPhone after the victim managed to photograph the suspect’s vehicle, a beige Toyota Corolla with New Jersey registration U32RWY. Subsequently, the suspect fled the scene heading north on North 5th Street.

Director Miranda encourages anyone with information concerning the suspect’s identity to contact the Police Division’s 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477). Tips can also be submitted anonymously via the Police Division’s website, with confidentiality assured and potential for a reward.

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Wilkes-Barre Police K-9 Team Completes Training Program

Wilkes-Barre Police K-9 Team Completes Training Program

**Wilkes-Barre, PA** – The Wilkes-Barre Police Department has announced the graduation of Patrolman Olshefski and K-9 Tenshi from the Penn Vet Working Dog Center Law Enforcement K-9 Training Program, Patrol Class 11.

The department extended its congratulations to Officer Olshefski and K-9 Tenshi following their successful completion of the training program.

Both Patrolman Olshefski and K-9 Tenshi will now rejoin the Wilkes-Barre Police Patrol Division and resume their duties.

The training program aims to equip K-9 teams with the necessary skills for law enforcement operations.

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New York City Employee Indicted for $624K Pension Theft

Brooklyn, NY – New York City Employee Indicted for $624,000 Pension Theft

A Brooklyn man has been arraigned on charges of stealing approximately $624,000 from two retired New York City employees’ pensions. The charges include corrupting the government, grand larceny, identity theft, and offering a false instrument for filing.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez and New York City Department of Investigation Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber announced the indictment of Gregory Mathieu, 40, of Canarsie, Brooklyn. Mathieu worked as an Associate Retirement Benefits Examiner at the New York City Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS). He allegedly exploited his position to divert pension checks to himself from February 8, 2021, to January 2, 2024.

Mathieu is accused of reactivating suspended pension payments of a deceased retired Department of Sanitation supervisor and stealing retroactive and monthly payments totaling approximately $242,000. Additionally, he allegedly stole $199,000 from a 75-year-old retired Associated Railroad Signal Specialist by diverting funds from an account suspended due to uncashed checks.

Mathieu is suspended with pay and was released without bail after his arraignment before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun. He

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Queens Man Pleads Guilty to Second-Degree Arson

Queens Man Pleads Guilty to Second-Degree Arson

**Queens, NY** – Evan Person has pleaded guilty to second-degree arson after setting fire to cars and a home in South Ozone Park, critically injuring two people. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the plea, noting Person’s actions over a span of less than an hour which endangered lives and resulted in significant injuries to the home’s occupants.

District Attorney Katz expressed gratitude to the FDNY Fire Marshals for their role in the case. FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker highlighted the danger posed to New Yorkers and FDNY members by Person’s acts, commending the efforts of all involved for ensuring public safety.

Person, a resident of Linden Boulevard aged 35, was indicted on multiple charges. These included two counts each of first-degree arson and criminal mischief, along with burglary and endangering the welfare of a child. He pleaded guilty before Justice Toni Cimino on Tuesday and faces a 15-year prison sentence starting early January.

The incident, occurring on July 4, involved video evidence of Person lighting a BMW on fire, which subsequently damaged another vehicle, followed by an attack on a nearby home. The ensuing fire injured two individuals who were asleep in the basement

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Stafford Woman Arrested for Second DUI in Two Months

Stafford Woman Arrested for Second DUI in Two Months

**Stafford, VA** – A traffic stop on Wednesday led to the arrest of a 41-year-old Stafford woman for driving under the influence for the second time in two months.

On Wednesday at around 9:50 p.m., Sergeant A.T. Leckemby noticed a vehicle with expired registration traveling north on Richmond Highway. The driver did not initially stop, continuing onto Bells Hill Road and then Oak Drive before eventually pulling over.

The driver, Erina Cabral Morales, exhibited signs of intoxication, and her vehicle displayed an inspection sticker that had expired in 2022. She admitted to having consumed alcohol before driving, which she stated was her usual routine prior to going home, a destination she ambiguously referred to as being “two weeks” away.

Field sobriety tests led to Morales’s detention. A search revealed numerous empty or nearly empty liquor bottles in her vehicle, and records showed a prior DUI charge in October. Morales now faces charges of driving under the influence second offense within five years with a blood alcohol content above .2, drinking while driving, and having expired vehicle inspection and registration. She is currently held without bond at Rappahannock Regional Jail

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Teen Stabbed at Foxwood Village Mobile Home Park

Juvenile Stabbing Investigated in North Stafford

**North Stafford, VA** – Detectives in North Stafford are conducting an investigation into a stabbing incident that took place late Saturday night. The event transpired on November 16th at approximately 8:01 p.m., prompting deputies to swiftly arrive at the Foxwood Village Mobile Home Park after receiving a report.

Upon arrival, Deputy C.T. Richardson was the first responder to make contact with the victim. The victim sustained a minor stab wound to the arm and a more severe wound to the leg. Deputy Richardson applied a tourniquet to the leg before Fire and Rescue personnel took over and transported the victim to a local hospital. Meanwhile, deputies secured the crime scene and gathered information from witnesses.

It was revealed that the victim was accompanied by two friends while walking in the neighborhood. An altercation took place with another male, resulting in the assault on the victim. The group managed to escape the immediate vicinity before realizing the extent of the victim’s injuries, which are not believed to be from a random attack.

Efforts to locate a possible suspect included canvassing the neighborhood and deploying a drone, but no suspect has been apprehended. Detectives continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to

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