All News

Police Capture Home Burglar in Jackson

On Sunday, February 26, 2017 at approximately 4:40 am, Police Officers Michael Basso and Javier De La Torre responded to a residence located on Brewers Bridge Road on the report of a burglary.

Upon arrival, the residents reported that they believed that an unknown male had attempted to make entry to their house through an unlocked rear door. The residence had a video surveillance system and a recording was played for the officers showing a male subject at the rear door of the residence. The victim initially believed that his barking dog may have scared the suspect away.

A check of the area was conducted for the male suspect but he was not located. Upon further investigation at the residence, it was discovered that the female resident’s wallet was stolen from her purse, which had been on a counter in the room just inside from where the entry was made.

At approximately 7:05 am, Police Officer Cherrick Daniels was on patrol in Anillop Plaza on Brewers Bridge Road when he observed a male who matched the description of the suspect in this incident. Officer Basso responded to the area and was able to positively identify the male as the suspect in the home’s surveillance video he had observed and placed him under arrest.

Arrested:

Antunee Adams, age 21, of Jackson, NJ. He was charged with burglary and theft and released on summons pending a court appearance after being processed.

A short while later, the victim contacted headquarters to advise that the stolen wallet had been located, minus the money that had been inside, near the residence while the victim was walking their dog.

Jackson Police Officers Take the Polar Bear Plunge

Originally published by JPD Sgt. Christopher Parise,

JACKSON-On Saturday February 25, 9 members of the Jackson Police Department took part in the annual Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights. Our Officers were part of the approximate 7,000 people who braved the 42 degree water temperatures to help raise money for the Special Olympics of New Jersey. In the picture below is Sgt Larry Logan, P.O. Robert Reiff, Sgt Christopher Parise, P.O. Kyle Stybe, P.O. Wes Thomason, Sgt Fred Meabe, P.O. Keith French, P.O. Derek Thomason and P.O. Andy Falzarano. Approximately 40,000 people were present at the event which raised 1.8 million dollars for the Special Olympics of New Jersey.

Decomposed leg washes up along Delaware River

NATIONAL PARK — The lower part of a person’s decomposed leg was discovered Sunday after washed up along the shoreline of the Delaware River in Gloucester County, authorities said. A woman found the limb while walking her dog in National Park. The foot was attached to the limb, the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office said in a…

The Orthodox stylist who makes stars glimmer at the Oscars

From Mayim Bialik’s modest grace to Us the Duo’s elegant grunge, celebrity stylist Adena Rohatiner’s work lights up the red carpet By Lisa Klug LOS ANGELES — When the annual awards season hits Hollywood, celebrity stylist Adena Rohatiner can spends days considering as many as 75 looks for a single client’s outfit. But not her own.…

Jackson DECA Provides New Eyes for the Needy

by Molly Staffordsmith

On January 25th, 2017 Jackson Liberty High School DECA hosted their community service chapter project to benefit New Eyes For the Needy. Molly Staffordsmith and Alex Lanier, Sophmores, ran the club’s Cornhole Tournament in the main gym on Wednesday night.

The event lasted for two hours and was filled with music, fun, competition, and prizes. The winners of the event won prizes provided by local businesses in Jackson.
The turnout was more than anyone ever expected, and the support shown was tremendous. The two students worked long and hard to raise money for New Eyes For The Needy, an organization that raises money for those who are unable to purchase their own glasses. The goal that the students had to reach was to raise $900 for the cause, at the end of the day they raised well over $1,000. Congratulations and thank you to all that came out to support this great event.
Photos and story submitted by Molly Staffordsmith.

Jackson 5th Grader Makes the Cut with Justin Bieber

Lorenzo Azzollini is 9 years old and has been dancing since he was 3 years old and was one out of thousands who auditioned to perform with Justin Bieber’s Purpose Tour in Bologna,Italy this winter.

He won that chance and headed to Europe.

Lorenzo dances for Icon Dance complex in Englishtown. He’s a 5th grader at Switlik Elementary School when he’s not dancing for Justin Bieber.
Winners were chosen from their audition videos. Lorenzo even made headlines in the local Italian newspaper after his performance.

Justin Bieber, after meeting Lorenzo said he liked his name and if he has a boy one day, he’d name him Lorenzo!

Jackson 5th grader makes the cut with justin bieber

Jackson Female Student Athletes Recognized for Academic and Athletic Performance

Jackson Liberty student Danielle Notarfrancesco and Jackson Memorial student Jacie Van de Zilver were recognized by the NJSIAA and Women’s Sports Foundation for their excellence in sports and academics in January.

The award is given to girls who demonstrate their ability to excel  in athletics and to be role models for other girls.  The NJSIAA said in 1982, just 57,789 female student athletes participated in High School Sports.  Through their hard work and the hard work of many administrators, parents and faculty in the state, the number is now 117,840. New Jersey is host to 17 sports for girls and 24 state championship events, the most of any state in the United States.

Drug Deaths on the Rise in Ocean County

Drug deaths in Ocean County have double over two years despite law enforcement’s best effort to curb the rapidly growing addiction epidemic. Even with Narcan, the opiate reversing nasal spray, deaths continue to increase.
Last month, in conjunction with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office the Brick and Manchester police departments will begin an innovative initiative by partnering with Preferred Behavioral Health in Lakewood and Integrity House in Toms River to pilot the HARP program.

Initially, the two departments and their health providers will make the life changing option available two days a week. Those fighting addiction, regardless of their residency, can go to Manchester Police Department on Wednesday or Brick Police Department on Thursday to seek immediate critical help in fighting drug addiction.
Drug deaths on the rise in ocean countyThe premise of the program is simple – any person who voluntarily enters the two participating agencies and requests help with addiction to heroin or opiates or any substance shall be immediately screened for potential participation in HARP.

Although HARP is primarily designed to apply to persons who present themselves at the station, an officer who encounters a person outside the police station believing they would benefit from HARP has the discretion, based upon their training and experience, to the bring an individual to the police station if the person consents to the voluntary screening process. The officer/shift supervisor, upon completion of the HARP screening process shall provide transportation for the participant to the designated provider as soon as reasonably possible.

Drug deaths on the rise in ocean county

2017 Jackson Fire Election Results

On Saturday, January 18th, Jackson residents voted for their new fire district commissioners and fire district budgets.
In Jackson Fire District 2 (Consolidated 1&2), Marty Flemming and Robert Reddington, Jr. won 3 year seats and John Ryan won an unexpired one year term. A strong showing by lifetime resident and community volunteer John Alchevsky fell short.
Voters approved the district budget

.
In Jackson Fire District 3, Jackson police office John Seidler won his election against Vincent Nicosia and the district approved the budget.
In Jackson Fire District 4, voters came out to support Wallace Jameson and Ray Torres. Suffering defeats were Jackson Township’s building department head, Barry Olejarz and fire sub-code official, incumbent Ken Byrnes. Brian Ruditsky, a local volunteer firefighter and police officer also lost his bid in the most hotly contested race in the township where district voters voiced their opposition to the political and township establishment candidates.
Voters approved the fire district’s operating budget.
Jackson is broken into three fire districts. Fire districts 2, 3 and 4. Each fire district is independently operated.
After the consolidation of fire districts one and two into fire disctict two, commissioners are now chosen to manage the new consolidated district.
Jackson’s fire districts can seem confusing but if you visit your local fire district website or Facebook page, each provides information on stations in their district and district maps so you can see which district you reside in. All fire districts coordinate with each other during fires and other emergencies.

Photo by Jackson Fire District 3.

White Butterfly Delivers Valentines Day Cards to Jackson Police Officers

Kathy Water of the White Butterfly gift shop, owned by former township Mayor Michael Kafton delivered Valentines Day cards made by local residents and students to the Jackson Police Department.  Kafton arranged a table at his gift shop and let his customers write their own cards to the Jackson police officers.

Sweet Cannoli! New Bakery Opening In Jackson

Sweet cannoli, a new Italian bakery is coming to Cooksbridge Commons this spring.   It’s been years since Sal’s Pastry Shoppe went out of business after the plaza opened, but now at near full capacity and no other bakeries in town it should do well.  It is owned by Peter Como, owner of Mona Lisa Pizza and will be right next door to Bubakoo Burritos.

Jackson Orthodontics Providing Free Services for One Resident in Need

Do you know someone in need with severely crooked, crowded or spaced teeth? Somebody with a badly aligned bite who has not been able to receive orthodontic treatment?
Dr. Miriam T Furlong of Jackson Orthodontics is offering treatment at no cost to a deserving person in need.
In order to qualify, the person’s teeth or smile are causing embarrassment or difficulty in speaking, chewing or other functions.
The individual must show proof of hardship. One form of proof could be a qualification for reduced or free school lunches.
The person must agree to see a dentist for exams, cleanings, and other necessary dental work before, during and after orthodontic treatment and agrees to provide the necessary registration forms, come in for orthodontic appointments at times offered and have good compliance with treatment.
Dental insurance information must be provided, however you can qualify with or without insurance.
HOW TO APPLY: Submit the following via email to info@jacksonorthodontics.com (subject Need Treatment) or mail to Jackson Orthodontics 186 West Veterans Highway Jackson, NJ 08527 by the deadline March 17, 2017. Only a legal guardian may submit the application for a child.
-Your full name, the candidate’s name, and your relationship to the candidate.
– Your address, email address, and at least one phone number. If we are unable to contact you another candidate will be chosen.
-A letter explaining how treatment will improve the quality of life, and any difficulty you have experienced trying to get treatment.
-At least 2 photos including a close up smile (natural smile) just showing the mouth and a smiling full face (natural smile). You may include additional photos of the teeth and face.
-Candidate’s dentist name, office address and/or phone number (provide the most recent one if are looking for a new dentist)
-The name and phone number(s) of someone (friend, teacher, coach) who is not related to you that we can contact.
APPLICATIONS WILL BE REVIEWED AND ONE PERSON WILL BE SELECTED AND NOTIFIED BY FRIDAY APRIL 7, 2017.

Seaside Heights Man Charged for Beating Small Dog to Death

SEASIDE HEIGHTS-Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato announced the indictment of Nicholas Piccolino, 34, of Seaside Heights, for one count of Animal Cruelty in the 3rd degree for causing serious bodily injury and death to a 10 year-old female Bichon Frise dog named “Booshu”.

The indictment stems from an animal abuse incident reported on August 19, 2016, at approximately 9:55 pm, to the Seaside Heights Police Department.  Booshu’s owner alleged that Piccolino, who was alone with the dog in her kitchen, caused the dog’s death.  An investigation by NJSPCA Det. Sergeant Larry Donato, with assistance from the Seaside Heights Police Department, determined that during Piccolino’s time alone with Booshu, a resident of the house upstairs heard several loud banging sounds and a dog yelping in the kitchen below.  Shortly after, Piccolino notified the dog’s owner that something was wrong with her dog.  Booshu’s owner found the dog dead on the floor of the bathroom.  Piccolino claimed that Booshu “dirtied” herself in her crate and that while he was cleaning her up, he dropped her.

Booshu was transported to Red Bank Animal Hospital where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.  A subsequent necropsy performed on Booshu by Dr. Shannon Swist of the NJ Animal Health Diagnostic Lab found that Booshu suffered multiple blunt force injuries to her head and body which contributed to her death.

On September 13, 2016,  having received the necropsy report and having completed witness interviews, Det. Donato presented his findings to Ocean County Assistant Prosecutor Heidi Tannenbaum-Newman who approved Third Degree charges pursuant to NJSA Title 4:22-17c(1) and 4:22-17 c (3)(a) of Torment, torture, unnecessarily or cruelly beating a living animal resulting in their death.  Bail was set at the time of his arrest at $35,000.

The media and public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Heavy traffic expected for Polar Bear Plunge in Seaside Heights

SEASIDE HEIGHTS – The Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge has brought thousands of off-season visitors to the Jersey Shore every year for nearly a half century. As a result, the crowds and area residents alike have grown accustomed to a little extra traffic when this popular fundraiser is in town. This year, however, the…

Jackson Township Mayor Reina Supports League Of Municipalities Opposition of Bail Reform

Jackson township mayor reina supports league of municipalities opposition of bail reform
Jackson township mayor michael reina (r).

JACKSON-Jackson Township is a rural suburb nestled at the edge of the New Jersey Pinelands.  It’s New Jersey’s third largest town by size in area, with over one hundred square miles.  It’s a bedroom community of 54,000 and crime is very low here, but the mayor of the town tonight said even his low crime community will not be able to keep up with New Jersey’s Bail Reform and Speedy Trial Act and he fully supports a resolution being presented to the township council next week.

Jackson Township Michael Reina (R) might be the first mayor in the State of New Jersey to openly express criticism of the state’s new Bail Reform and Speedy Trial Act since it has been enacted when he said tonight that he fully supports a resolution that will be voted on by the township council Tuesday night.

He’s not alone though.  Last week, Ocean County Freeholders Joe Vicari and Gerry Little officially launched opposition to the reform law, along with the Ocean County Association of Police Chiefs. A week earlier, the New Jersey Association of Counties opposed legislation sponsored by Lakewood Senator Robert Singer that would have allowed governing bodies to break the 2% tax cap for costs associated with the new law.

Bail reform came into the local spotlight after Little Egg Harbor Police Chief Richard Buzby and Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato were powerless against a local judge’s decision to release a multiple offense child sexual offender back into the community after a pretrial hearing.

Related: How Jersey Shore Legislators Voted on Recent New Bail Reform Funding Bill

The Jackson Township council is expected to vote on the resolution against the new law which has essentially created a revolving door for criminals. It has made New Jersey’s streets less safe for residents and police officers alike.   The Toms River PBA last week called bail reform a very serious problem for their town.  The resolution to be voted on was circulated by the New Jersey League of Municipalities this week.

“The Criminal Justice Reform Act imposes upon municipal governments an undue financial hardship to implement as each municipality in some capacity must hire new personnel, invest in new equipment and information technology, and make capital and other necessary improvements to jail, court and ancillary court facilities,” the resolution reads. “Under this terribly flawed law, judges now assign a score to determine whether a defendant should be detained or freed. Serious offenders are being let go over prosecutor and law enforcement objection only to go and commit more crimes as soon as they hit the street.”

Related: Governor Chris Christie says bail reform opposition is “ridiculous crap”.

It states the new reform, which is unfunded by the state, is not only dangerous, and the town will not be able to afford to properly maintain the necessary staffing to comply with the requirements dictated by the state to enforce it locally.

“It is also a massive financial burden to our police department, municipal courts, municipal public defenders and the County Prosecutor’s Office.  Detention hearings are expedited and our officers are forced to spend hours on even simple offenses due to demands for our officers to file paperwork and complete cases, some demanding complex analysis, are simply unrealistic and the costs are only going to expand without any financial relief from the state,” it continued  “The Criminal Justice Reform Act law has put our residents at risk and threatens the fiscal health of the town and county. ”

Related: Who is benefiting from bail reform?

The council is expected to vote on the resolution Tuesday evening and certified copies will be sent to the Governor of the State of New Jersey, Chris Christie, the President of the New Jersey State Senate, Steve Sweeney, the Speaker of the General Assembly, Vincent Prieto, the New Jersey Association of Counties, the Office of County Counsel and all Ocean County municipalities.

“Yes, I support this resolution,” Reina said when asked his position. “You’re asking me if I support a resolution opposing a state law that helps put criminals back out on our streets, of course I do.”

Report: Man Threatens to Kill Police With AK-47 if Released; Released by Judge Under NJ Bail Reform

A story coming out of Jersey City via the Star Ledger newspaper highlights the increasing absurdity of New Jersey’s bail reform and speedy trial act.

After a known gang member assault a police officer and threatened to shoot cops with an AK-47 if they came around his hood, he asked the judge for a gps monitoring bracelet.

It’s no secret, the criminals of New Jersey know the new system and know how to play it, but most importantly, know that they now have home field advantage here in New Jersey.
According to the New Jersey Bail Reform watchdog page, the perp was released by a judge Friday, no need for a gps bracelet.

Report: man threatens to kill police with ak-47 if released; released by judge under nj bail reform

Here’s the report from the Star Ledger.

JERSEY CITY — A self-described gang member assaulted a police officer and threatened two others after he was caught stealing more than $500 worth of merchandise from Macy’s, authorities said. A security guard at the Newport Centre mall department store stopped 19-year-old Davonta Barr on Sunday after the teenager ripped security tags and damaged the items…

Jackson Police Report Another Weekend of Drug Related Incidents

Jackson police had another busy weekend with drug related incidents across the township. Here is last weekend’s police blotter published by the Jackson Police Department

Sunday February 18:

– OVERDOSE/FIRST AID: At 1236 hours, Police Officers Candido and Chesney responded to Brook Plaza on the report of an unconscious male laying in the parking lot. The officers located an unconscious 30 year old male and discovered evidence of recent heroin use. Narcan was administered and the male became semi conscious. Fire personnel from Station 55 arrived on scene to assist the male and he was later transported by first aid to an area hospital for treatment.

Saturday February 18:

– CDS ARREST: While on patrol at 0246 hours, Police Officer French conducted a motor vehicle stop with a 2002 Dodge on Bennetts Mills Road after observing motor vehicle violations. Upon speaking with the driver and detecting the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle, a search was conducted which resulted in the recovery of marijuana. The 20 year old male driver was placed under arrest and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled dangerous substance while operating a motor vehicle and motor vehicle violations. He was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.
– CDS ARREST: While on patrol at 2353 hours, Police Officer Daniels conducted a motor vehicle stop with a 2002 Saturn on Botanical Way. While speaking with the 25 year old male driver, the officer made observation of items in view inside the vehicle which were consistent with narcotics use. A search resulted in the recovery of multiple hypodermic syringes and items consistent with injecting heroin and prescription Suboxone. The male was placed under arrest and charged with possession of Suboxone without a prescription, possession of hypodermic syringes, possession of drug paraphernalia and motor vehicle offenses. He was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.

Sunday February 19:

– DISPUTE/WARRANT ARREST: At 0101 hours, Police Officers Roth, Basso and Kafton responded to a residence on Cottonwood Drive on the report of a dispute. During the investigation, a 36 year old male was placed under arrest for an outstanding warrant out of Ocean County. The male was processed and later turned over to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department.
– ATTEMPTED BURGLARY: At 1050 hours, a resident of Montana Drive reported that unknown suspect(s) attempted to make entry to his residence through a basement door. Minor damage was caused to the door during the incident, entry was not gained.
– CDS ARREST: At 1116 hours, Police Officer Uricks conducted a motor vehicle stop with a 2004 Mazda on West Veteran’s Highway for observed motor vehicle violations. During the stop, the officer detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. A search resulted in the recovery of marijuana. The 20 year old male driver was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana and motor vehicle offenses. He was processed and released on summons pending a court appearance.

Prosecutor: Toms River Fatal Fire Started by Discarded Smoking Material in Plastic Trash Can

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Toms River Police Chief Mitch Little today announced that the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Arson Unit/Major Crimes Unit, Toms River Police Department, Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s CSI have determined the cause of the fatal fire on February 14 at 1911 Fiddlers Run. The team, after exhaustive hours examining the fire scene debris, determined that the fire originated near the south wall of the residence basement in a plastic trash can. The cause of the fire is accidental and improperly discarded smoking material could not be eliminated.

After an autopsy by the Ocean County Medical Examiner, the victim of the fire is identified as Ellen Tanner, 64, a resident of the home. The manner of death is accidental and cause of death is smoke inhalation and heat related injuries as a result of the house fire.

The fire occurred on February 14th at 11:03 am. Police, Fire, and EMS units responded to the active structure fire at 1911 Fiddlers Run. Upon arrival the units observed a heavy smoke condition. They were advised by witnesses on the scene that a woman was still inside of the home. Toms River Police Officers Scott Fallano and Raymond Beyerle, who were first to arrive, entered the front door and tried to locate the woman. They were quickly turned back by the thick smoke. Once outside, they located a 67 year old male resident in the back yard who had escaped the blaze. He was trying to regain entry to his home to locate the woman. The structure was then fully engulfed in flames and the rescue attempt by police officers was not successful. The homeowner, who suffered burns to his hands, was removed to a safe distance. Once the firefighters arrived, they made a brave secondary attempt to rescue the woman. The firefighters, who were in full protective gear, entered the home. As they made their way towards the interior of the house, an unidentified Fireman suffered second degree burns to his neck and ear before having to retreat for safety reasons. He was treated and released at a local medical facility.

Responding fire units were Pleasant Plains, Silverton, East Dover, Toms River #1 & #2, Island Heights, and Manchester. Medical units responding were Toms River EMS Division, MONOC Paramedics, and Silverton Volunteer EMS.

Brick Police Remind Residents to Lock Car Doors After Rash of Burglaries

BRICK-A rash of vehicle break-ins in the township prompted the Brick Police Department to warn residents to lock their car doors at night.

“There have been numerous car burglaries this last week on the north side of the Township,” the department said. “All of the vehicles burglarized were unlocked. Burglars will normally look for the easy victim. Please remember to lock your vehicle doors and take your valuables inside your residence.”

Photo: Actor in stock photo. Not actual criminal.

Howell Police Investigating Fire at Fence Company

At approximately 1245 am, February 15, 2017, the Howell Police Department Communications Center received a phone call that there were flames visible on the property behind Taylor Fence. The Howell Police Department along with several Howell Township Fire companies (Adelphia, Ramtown, Southard, Squankum and Freewood Acres) with the assistance of NWS Earle and Colts Neck Fire Department responded to the scene. Howell Police EMS, Farmingdale-Howell First-Aid Squad and Howell First-Aid and Rescue Squad were also on scene.
The fire was obvious upon arrival as it was consuming a large section of wood fencing material. The material burning was stacked approximately thirty feet wide by thirty feet long and twenty feet high. The fire companies gained access to the area and began battling the fire, a task that took several hours to accomplish. To assist with fire suppression, large machinery was brought in to separate the material.
The matter is under investigation by the Howell Township Police Department Investigations Division, Howell Township Fire Bureau and Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office. It is deemed suspicious at this time. One firefighter sustained a knee injury and was transported to the hospital. The office/structure area of the business was not damaged.

Howell Township Police Chief Talks About Military Surplus

The Howell Police Department obtained an MRAP through a federal program that allows local law enforcement to accept equipment that has been declared military surplus, but Chief Kudrick details how other lesser equipment is helping his department save money on much needed equipment.

https://www.facebook.com/NJ.com/videos/10154497550571234/

Spaghetti Dinner Hosted by Berkeley Boy Scout Troop 76, March 4th

Boy Scout Troop 76 will be hosting a Spaghetti Dinner

Saturday, March 4th from 3-7 p.m. at the Bayville Volunteer Fire Company Number 1, located at 445 Atlantic City Blvd.

$10.00 per adult and $5.00 per child

Please support the Boy Scouts and their fundraising initiatives to send the troop to summer camp.

For more information, contact Edward F. Cammarato, Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop 76 201-248-4999.

Lacey Roller Hockey League Now Taking Registrations from Berkeley

 

Lacey Roller Hockey will allow Berkeley Twp. residents to join their league.

2017 Spring Registration will be held Friday February 24th from 6-8pm at the Lacey Recreation Center, 818 West Lacey Road Forked River, NJ (located behind the police station).

They will be offering an instructional league this year with Coach Skip Lytle. He will teach fundamentals along with helping current players hone their skills.

Joining Lacey Roller Hockey is a great opportunity for all ice hockey players to practice during the off season.

If anyone has any questions please feel free to contact Pattie at 609-709-4497 or visit http://www.laceyrollerhockey.com.

Toms River North's Got Talent

 

From the Toms River School District:

The National Honor Society at High School North hosted a “North’s Got Talent” cabaret with 16 show stopping numbers. The fundraiser was a huge success and everyone had a wonderful time. All proceeds were donated to the HSN Senior Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Toms River North Student Selected to Present at Rutgers University Junior Science and Humanities Symposium

From the Toms River School District:

Congratulations to HSN Authentic Science Research senior Nicolette Carbonetto for being the only Toms River student selected to do an oral presentation of her research at the Junior Science & Humanities Symposium hosted by Rutgers University. The oral PPT presentation is the highest level of competition at the symposium. Additionally, ASR seniors Christine Apostolico, Darrion Carrington, Stephanie Javier, Joe Signorelli and Matt Signorelli were chosen for the competitive poster board session at the JSHS. Good luck to the scientific Mariners!

Toms River PBA Hosts Hockey Game to Support Injured Officer

TOMS RIVER-On January 4th, The New Jersey State Police notified the Toms River Police Department of a serious crash involving one of their own officers.

Twenty eight year old Officer Brett Hansen was traveling on the Garden State Parkway in his personal vehicle near mile marker 90. He was off duty at the time his vehicle collided with a large truck.

Officer Hansen, who has been assigned to the patrol division since being hired in August 2015, sustained life threatening injuries.

Before joining the Toms River Police Department, Hansen worked for the Camden County.
The town police departments came together to show their support for Hansen and his family by playing a hockey game at Winding River Skating Center in Toms River on Saturday, February 18th.

Hansen’s injuries were severe. He had serious facial damage, losing his left eye and he may never see again out of his right eye. Hansen’s mother said he remains in a coma and it is not known yet how badly his brain has suffered damage.

His recovery could take years, but on May 17th, his benefits run out as he is forced to go on disability. Being a young officer, disability payments will be minimal and the family has set up a Go Fund Me account.

To date, $32,000 has been raised by the Ocean County and New Jersey police community at large.

While the Toms River Police won the hockey game, it was a bigger win for Team Hansen and the great Toms River region who came to support a young man who dreamed of one day becoming a police officer.

Toms river pba hosts hockey game to support injured officer

Multilayered LLC Challenging Jackson Zoning over Proposed Building Project

According to a public notice published this week, Feldchild, LLP seeks to build multiple shops and buildings for contractors at 504 Whitesville Road in Jackson and their attorney, Raymond F. Shea is challenging the township for an interpretation of zoning regulations that could prohibit the project.

Feldchild LLP is a business registered in Colorado and the owner identified as Rabbi Yechezkel Feldberger, former rabbi of Congregation Zera Abraham based out of Denver, Colorado.

According to county records, the property has switched hands several times since 2014. It was originally owned by Blanche Horowitz, fka Blanche Honigman of Lakewood, NJ. It was then transferred to Quack Properties, a company with a P.O. Box in Seaside Park prior to the 2014 transfer.

In 2015, it was then transferred to Winding River, LP. a limited partnership company out of Nevada with a mailing address of 561 Winding River Court, Brick, NJ.   The property at 561 Winding River Court is owned by Big Business, LP, another limited partnership company.

In 2016, Winding River, LP sued Quack Properties for $50,000 in punitive damages in a breach of contract lawsuit.

The property in question is just north of the intersection of Faraday and Whitesville on the southbound side of Whitesville Road.

A hearing has been scheduled before the zoning board on March 1st at 7pm at town hall.

 

JACKSON TOWNSHIP PUBLIC NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that FELDCHILD, LLP has applied to the Jackson Zoning Board of Adjustment for an Interpretation with respect to Article VII Section: 244-97A & D as it relates to an application for site plan to the planning board with respect to Lot 6 in Block 22401 for multiple contractor offices and shops of 10,000 square feet each. Both uses are expressly permitted in the zone but the local ordinance is silent with respect to multiple uses in one or multiple buildings. Applicant contends that the PM-1 zoning district does not expressly prohibit multiple buildings or multiple uses within said buildings. Alternatively, should the board determine otherwise, the applicant seeks whatever variances may be necessary to advance the proposed permitted uses to be processed through a site plan. Said application shall include a request for any and all other variances and/or waivers as may be required by submission and discussion of the plans. . The aforesaid has been scheduled for a hearing before the Jackson Township Zoning Board , at the Jackson Township Municipal Building, 95 West Veterans Highway, Jackson, New Jersey on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible. The application, maps and supporting documents are on file in the Jackson Township Zoning Board in the municipal building and are available for public inspection during normal business hours for a period of 10 days prior to the date of hearing. RAYMOND F. SHEA, JR., ESQ. RAY SHEA LAW, LLC Attorney for Applicant 2105 W. County Line Road Jackson, New Jersey 08527 (732) 364-7333 ($46.20)

Casanova Ristorante Owner to Receive Liquor License Transfer

JACKSON-Antonio Romeo DiSantillo, owner of the now close Casanova Ristorante and Romeo’s Plaza in Jackson has applied to the township to receive a liquor license for the currently closed restaurant.

The restaurant was the scene of what Ocean County Prosecutors are calling a “Murder for hire” plot.

According to testimony in court, DiSantillo claimed an associate, Hector Calderon shot and killed Peyman Sanandaji.   Court filings show Romeo DiSantillo owed Sanandaji $140,000.

Closing arguments in the case are expected to be heard today and a verdict is expected to be handed down in the near future.

 

From a township public notice:

TOWNSHIP OF JACKSON LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that application has been made to the Township of Jackson for a person to person transfer from Happy Time Cafe, Inc. to Antonio Romeo DiSantillo for premises located at 10 South New Prospect Road, the Plenary Retail Consumption License # 1511-33-021-00 1. Objections, if any, should be made immediately, in writing, to: Ann Marie Eden, Clerk, Jackson Township, Municipal Building, 95 W. Veterans Highway, Jackson, NJ 08527. Antonio Romeo DiSantillo.

 

Photo: Google Earth.

Concert Series Returns to Berkeley This Summer

BAYVILLE-Mayor Carmen F. Amato, Jr. is proud to announce the Sounds of Summer Concert Series will return to Veterans Park this summer. “I am pleased to announce the return of our popular and now expanded “Sounds of Summer Concert Series” for 2017,” Mayor Amato said.

This year, in addition to the regular Wednesday night shows, Berkeley Township will be adding two weekend shows to the lineup. “The series will start on Saturday, June 10th from 11:00am to 3:00pm, in conjunction with our Berkeley Township DARE Car Show, and we will feature long-time Jersey Shore talent, Rock N’ Rhythm – a five-part vocal group with a tight harmonious sound of both traditional Doo-Wop and contemporary styles,” Amato added.

“The first night of our Wednesday night Concerts, will begin on June 28th. Beginning at 6pm, we will feature opening act Julian, a man with a 1,000 voices, with Dominique, who sings a wide variety of music. The main act will be Michael DelGuidice & Big Shot, celebrating the music of Billy Joel. We will also have a fabulous fireworks display after the show,” Mayor Amato said.

July 12th, beginning at 6pm, we will feature Gerard Esposito, one of New Jersey’s most requested entertainers singing songs from VEGAS to BROADWAY, followed by the fabulous headliner, The Duprees.

July 26th, beginning at 6:30pm and again at 7:30pm, we will have the Cast of Beatlemania, a Beatles Tribute Band. The first set will feature the early years of that exciting era when the Fab Four ruled the world of rock ‘n’ roll. The second set will be the later years featuring music from Sgt. Pepper album.

August 2nd, beginning at 5pm, will be our Sixth Annual “Night out Against Crime.” Mayor Amato stated, “The Berkeley Township Police Department will be on hand along with our Township First Aid Squads, Township Fire Departments and other public safety agencies to greet residents and show the different types of equipment that they utilize. All of these public safety agencies will have their vehicles and equipment on display, as well. Our DARE Program will also be there with games and prizes for the children to enjoy.” The group performing at 7:30pm will be Radio Nashville, covering the Best Modern Country Music from the North of Nashville.

August 9th will be our Annual Beach Party at White Sands Beach in South Seaside Park at 23rd Avenue. From 5:30pm to 8:30pm Alotta Colada, a jamming island party band with great music, props and a lot of energy, will entertain crowds for the evening.

August 23rd, beginning at 6pm, we will feature local talent Jukebox Legends singing all the great songs of the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s, followed by New York Bee Gees, delivering songs from every decade of the Bee Gees catalog.

September 10th is Berkeley Township Community Pride Day. Community Pride Day begins at 10 am with rides and inflatables for the kids. We will have many vendors, local non-profits and community groups. The late afternoon will begin our musical entertainment with Sounds of the Street, a popular Doo-Wop group followed by The Infernos Band, America’s #1 Show Band and the area’s premier live performance group. After the show, we will have a fabulous fireworks display.

Our Finale will be Sunday, September 17th, from 11:00am to 3:00pm in conjunction with the Ocean County Car Show. Entertainment will be provided by the Rip Chords, best known for their 1964 smash hit, “Hey Little Cobra.”

As always, the cost of the summer entertainment is funded 100% by community and business donations. These donations fund Berkeley Township’s entire Summer Concert Series, our Beach Party, Berkeley Pride Day and other summer events. The funds are raised through the Mayor’s golf outing, our summer program book and outdoor stage advertising.

The first fundraiser, The Annual Mayor’s Golf Outing, is scheduled for June 1st. If you’re interested in being a sponsor or playing in the golf outing, you can contact Berkeley Recreation at: 732-269-4456.
Mayor Amato said, “As you can see we have a great mix of talented groups in our summer line up. There’s something for everyone! Please come on out for a great summer of entertainment and don’t forget to bring a chair! Refreshments are always provided by our local non-profit groups and organizations that use these concerts as their fundraisers. We hope to see you at the show!!!”

Concert series returns to berkeley this summerPHOTOS: Mayor Amato kicking off the 2016 Sounds of Summer & Mayor Amato, Jukebox Legends & Councilwoman Judy Noonan

 

Revolving Door of Bail Reform Well Oiled in Bergen County as Burglar Let out of Jail Again…and Again

TEANECK-Police in Teaneck arrested a man that has been in and out of the Bergen County Jail at least 31 times since 2002 on new burglary charges on Friday.

Ali Beretay, aka “Touch”, aka “Usher” has a rap sheet that includes burglary, criminal trespass, assaulting a police officer, resisting arrest and more was let out of jail after a pretrial hearing held under New Jersey’s new bail reform law.

According to jail records, Beretay was also charged with defiant criminal trespassing on February 7th and was also released after a bail reform pretrial hearing.

New York City jail records show Beretay was also arrested on January 25th for 3rd degree felony burglary and released.

According to judges in Bergen County, Beretay obviously poses no threat to the community and pinky-promised the judge to return to court for his hearing(s) on the new charges.

Beretay charge sheet courtesy of Bergen County Jail, provided by NJBailReform-Why NJ is Less Safe Facebook page.

 

 

 

Leaked Emails: Dems Think Obama's Nonprofit Army Destroyed The Democratic Party

Some Democrat organizers blame former President Obama’s grassroots nonprofit for helping destroy the Democrat party, leaked emails show. The leaders and activists didn’t take news of the nonprofit, Organizing For Action “relaunching” to protect Obamacare well, as they believe the shadow army drained valuable resources and energy from the official Democrat grassroots effort during the election.…

Report: Staten Island Student Gets Lower Grade Because She Didn't Bash Trump

Teachers tasked by taxpayers with educating their children are instead inserting their own anti-Trump biases into their lesson plans. A Staten Island, New York, educator teacher placed an anti-President Trump question onto a middle school homework assignment — and then defended it as “freedom of speech,” reported The New York Post. “Please keep your political views…

Man who sunk dog with truck on frozen Toms River gets 180 days in Ocean County Jail

by Al DellaFave, OCPO

TOMS RIVER-Andrew Mayer, 29, was sentenced today on his plea to Cruelty to Animals in the Third degree. The State was seeking a sentence of 364 days in the Ocean County Jail as a condition of Probation, along with restitution to the various rescue agencies that had requested it (of all the agencies involved in the rescue, only the NJSP and TR Fire District One replied asking for restitution, $6273.76 and $8,370.60 respectively). Also the State requested that Mayer be banned from companion animal ownership for 5 years.

Judge James Blaney sentenced Mayer to 180 days in the Ocean County Jail. He agreed with the State that some incarceration is appropriate for the reckless act that lead to a large rescue operation and caused the demise of his dog, Rolo. He did not sentence him to any probation. He did order him to pay $1,000 restitution to each of the two agencies seeking restitution, as he felt Mr. Mayer should take some financial responsibility for his actions. The judge did not deem a ban on companion ownership as necessary in this case, as Mayer expressed remorse and his acts were deemed reckless and no intent to harm his dog. He was also sentenced to pay minimum fines of $155. The Sheriffs officers took custody of Mayer and he was escorted to the County Jail. The related Criminal Mischief in the third degree charge and Pollution of water summons were dismissed as part of the sentence.

His acts on March 1, 2015, purposely, knowingly or recklessly failed to provide necessary care for and protection of his dog, Rolo, from harm by driving his pickup truck onto the frozen Toms River and as a result the vehicle cracked through the ice and his dog died.

Mayer then failed to notify authorities of this incident when he got safely to shore, resulting in a huge rescue operation that took place for hours involving the United States Coast Guard’s Aviation Unit, The New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit, NJ State Police/local marine units, multiple local police departments, fire companies and First Aid squads from Toms River, Beachwood, Pine Beach and Island Heights.

Mayer is released on his own recognizance to appear in court on a future date. The maximum he could face on each charge would be five years in New Jersey State Prison.

This case was a joint investigation by the NJ State Police, NJ SPCA, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, as well as the Toms River, Pine Beach, Beachwood and Island Heights Police Departments. Prosecuting attorney is Ocean County Assistant Prosecutor Heidi Tannenbaum-Newman.

Two Arrested After Stealing Car, Eluding Police

Two arrested after stealing car, eluding policeTwo individuals from Laurence Harbor were arrested following an extensive search by Manchester Township Police Officers on Thursday, February 16, 2017, after the stolen vehicle they were traveling in crashed into a wooded area.

At approximately 11am, during patrol operations on Manchester Boulevard, Ptl. Michael Terranova spotted a GMC Envoy reported stolen out of Old Bridge Township. When Ptl. Terranova attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver refused and sped away at a high rate of speed. In the interest of public safety and having a full description of the vehicle, Ptl. Terranova terminated the pursuit.

A short time later, officers passed through the Manchester Boulevard/Wranglebrook intersection and noticed vehicles pulled over on the side of the road, with occupants looking in the woods. Patrol officers stopped and discovered that the stolen GMC Envoy had lost control, left the roadway, and traveled approximately 100 feet into a wooded area before coming to a stop. Unable to open the damaged vehicle doors, the occupants climbed through windows and fled from the scene on foot.

Two arrested after stealing car, eluding policeAn extensive search of the area began, as the members of the Manchester Township Police Investigations Bureau, Patrol Bureau, and Narcotics Enforcement Team were called to the scene, as was K-9 Officer Marc Micciulla and his partner, Storm, for tracking purposes. Also responding was the New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit for aerial support, and K-9 Officer Christine Casullo from the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department. As a precaution, the nearby As We Grow Childcare was notified and placed on temporary lockdown, and a Nixle emergency message alerted the public to stay clear of the area.

Approximately 45 minutes after the search began, the suspects, George Noonan, 31, of Route 35 in Laurence Harbor, and Kristina Noonan-Bath, 32, of Norwood Avenue in Laurence Harbor, were found walking along Wranglebrook Road by Ptl. Christian Nazario, who placed them under arrest.

George Noonan was charged with possession of hypodermic needles, possession of drug paraphernalia, receiving stolen property, eluding, and hindering apprehension. Officers also found that he had multiple no bail warrants from numerous jurisdictions.

Kristina Noonan-Bath was arrested on warrants totaling $5,500 out of multiple jurisdictions. Both suspects were sent to Ocean County Jail pending court in default of bail. The Manchester Township Police Traffic Safety Officer Douglas Higgins is investigating the crash.

Toms River Students' DNA Published in Online Genome Project

The Toms River Regional School Board recognized three high school students and their teachers for participating in the Waksman Student Scholar Program. The Waksman Student Scholars Program provides avenues for high school science teachers and students to participate in, contribute to and molecular biology research. These students had their DNA sequences published on the NCBI website, they have accomplished what no other student in our district has.

Toms River Board Recognizes Life Saving Wrestling Coaches

The Toms River Regional School District’s Board of Education recognized High School North coaches Josh Huber and John DeMarco for their quick thinking as well as their certified training that led to saving the life of a Donovan Catholic student during a wrestling meet in Lakewood on January 4, 2017.

“We are proud of our coaches and the real reason for victory that evening,” the board said.

Pictured with coaches Josh Huber and John DeMarco is Board Member Christopher Raimann, HSN Athletic Coordinator Paul Barnoski and Superintendent David Healy.

Freehold Township High School Wins Monmouth County Consumer Bowl

HOWELL, NJ – Freehold Township High School came up winners in the 2017 Monmouth County Consumer Bowl, a game-show-style competition for teams of high school students held Feb. 14 at the Monmouth County Fire Academy.

Students from seven high schools answered consumer-related questions in a multiple choice and open-ended format to test their knowledge of consumer issues, such as Internet fraud and buying and leasing automobiles.

The six-member team from Freehold Township High School successfully earned its 2017 Monmouth County Consumer Bowl title against students from Colts Neck, Freehold Borough, Howell, Manalapan and Raritan and Saint John Vianney High School.

“The best part about this program is that all of our participating young adults gained some knowledge about what it takes to help them be smarter consumers and possibly future consumer advocates,” said Freeholder Serena DiMaso, who was on hand to congratulate the winners. “It is also a great way to promote the County’s Consumer Affairs office, which enforces consumer laws and helps people who suspect they might be victims of unscrupulous business practices.”

In the final round, Freehold Twp. faced-off with Howell High School. Though the scores were close, the Freehold Township team was victorious and won the 2017 County Consumer Bowl for the seventh time in eight years. .

“It’s important that teens understand consumer and business concepts, like credit and identity theft, banking and fraud, marketing and advertising,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the County’s Division of Consumer Affairs. “Consumer Bowl participants are a step ahead of their peers with their knowledge of consumer issues and are well-prepared to tackle issues in the marketplace.”

Team members are Anna Landre (team captain), Matthew Bernstein, Jake LaFronz, Michael Galanaugh and Raiyan Hussain. Their advisor is Dan Cooper; school principal is Elizabeth Higley.

The Freehold Township team now moves on to the regional competition on April 6 with home field advantage because the competition will be held at the Monmouth County Fire Academy. The winner of the regional competition will go on to compete in the 2017 New Jersey State Consumer Bowl scheduled for May in Trenton.

The New Jersey High School Consumer Bowl is a program of the state Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs. It was established in 1997 to help students learn about consumer issues that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Since the County’s Division of Consumer Affairs was established in 1977, the department has handled more than 50,000 complaints and resolved disputes, resulting in savings to consumers of more than $22 million; $9 million has been resolved in the past five years.

Consumer Affairs is a law enforcement agency, created and funded by the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders. It protects against consumer fraud and dishonest and dishonest business practices by enforcing the state Consumer Fraud Act and many other regulations.

Additional information about fraud and other consumer affairs programs can be found on the County website at www.VisitMonmouth.com, by calling 732-431-7900 or email ConsumerAffairs@co.monmouth.nj.us. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

OC Police Chiefs Call for Repeal of Bail Reform: Dangerous, onerous and fiscally disastrous

TOMS RIVER-The Ocean County Association of Chiefs of Police called upon call upon Governor Christie, the New Jersey Legislature, the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts and New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino to immediately suspend the use of the current public safety assessment computerized program that scores criminal defendants under New Jersey’s bail reform law.

The association, which represents the county’s municipal police chiefs also said the new system is, “Dangerous, onerous and fiscally disastrous to the taxpayers of this great state.”

Below is a resolution prepared by the Ocean County Association of Chiefs of Police:
Resolution 
Whereas, The Ocean County Association of Chiefs of Police consists of the law enforcement chief executives from all the law enforcement agencies currently active in the Ocean County, and,
Whereas, It is the goal of this Organization to promote the welfare and mission of its members, their relative agencies and the general public, and,
Whereas, the voters of The State of New Jersey recently approved a state constitutional amendment that called for bail reform for low level indigent offenders, and,
Whereas, that amendment was implemented by a state legislative enactment which took effect on January 1, 2017 and for which a computer generated Public Safety Algorithm (PSA) was designated to assess the threat level of respective arrestees , and,
Whereas, the required usage of that modality thus far has been observed to involve long delays and often produces what appear to be highly inappropriate results regarding the relative threat level of these offenders, and,
Whereas, These delays and this extra work being placed on our systems without budgetary support requires reallocation of budgetary items that are already in too short of supply due to existing funding restrictions, and,
Whereas, Existing State Law requires enactments that impose a financial impact on Counties and Municipalities to be supported by a concomitant State funding initiative that does not appear to have been provided in this case, and,
Whereas, Officers being redeployed to these activities are not available to answer even emergency calls for service, and has resulted in slower response times and the suspension of discretionary police activities that support and improve the quality of life in those communities, and,
Whereas, Certain inappropriately low threat assessments have also led to the ill-advised release of offenders who traditionally have, and we believe should, be remanded to custody for the safety of the public, and,
Whereas, Many of these releases relate directly to offenses against special victims such as sexual offenses, offenses against children, domestic violence victims and senior citizens to name but a few, and,
Whereas, Certain protections for these special victims appear to have been completely disregarded by the PSA, those protections having been built into our laws over the course of decades and often the result of collective tragedies, and,
Whereas, NJ Court officials announced yesterday that in those cases where incarceration is indicated under the PSA, extensive discovery must be provided to the defendant almost immediately further increasing the burden of this initiative and demanding additional staffing that currently does not and will not exist, and,
Whereas, in other cases, such as serial shoplifters, it is our understanding that inappropriately high threat levels have been observed, due again to data given inappropriate weight by the PSA and causing additional systemic work and incarceration senselessly for subjects who would have otherwise been released, and,
Now heretofore, be it resolved on this the eighth day of February, 2017, The members of this Association support the State mandate, State pay litigation initiated by New Jersey Counties and call upon Governor Christie, the New Jersey Legislature, the New Jersey Administrative Office of the Courts and New Jersey Attorney General Christopher Porrino to immediately suspend the use of the current PSA as being dangerous, onerous and fiscally disastrous to the taxpayers of this great State.

Everything You Need to Know About Saturday's Fire District Elections in Jackson

This Saturday is the day residents of Jackson can go out and vote for their local fire district commissioners and budgets.   Polls in Jackson are open from 2pm to 9pm on Saturday, February 18th.

Jackson Fire District 2 (Consolidated 1&2)

3 yr. Commissioner Seats Available: 2
Candidates: *John Alchevsky, *Martin Flemming III, Robert Reddington, Jr.

1 yr. Commissioner Seats Available: 1
Candidates: *John Ryan

Budget detail:  2017 Proposed Budget 2017 APPROPRIATIONS Salaries $682,615 Fringe Benefits 355,923 Election Expense 1,500 Office Expense 5,400 Professional Services 50,000 Travel Expenses 200 Advertising Expense 2,000 Insurance Expense 165,000 Maintenance & Repairs 140,000 Hydrant Rental 38,000 Supplies Expense 5,000 Training & Education 10,000 Uniforms & Personal Equipment 37,000 Utilities 40,000 Fire Supression Contracts 40,500 Payroll Service Fees 5,500 Physicals 10,000 Fuel 20,000 Replacement Equipment 36,500 Extrication Equipment 24,000 SCBA 20,000 Hose 5,000 Pagers 5,000 Operating Expenses 66,800 Losap 40,000 Capital Appropriations 490,000 Debt Service 137,021 Total Appropriations $ 2,432,959 REVENUES Fund Balance Utilized $655,500 Misc. Revenues 12,745 Interest Income 3,300 Supplemental Fire Grant 116,500 Amount to be Raised by Taxation 1,644 914 Total Revenues $ 2,432,959 Tax Rate Per $100 $0.0812

Voting place: Miller Avenue Firehouse, 785 Miller Avenue

Jackson Fire District 3 

3 yr. Commissioner Seats Available: 1
Candidates: *John Seidler, Vincent Nicosia

Budget detail: OPERATING APPROPRIATIONS: Current Operating Expenses $ 3,008,400.00 CAPITAL APPROPRIATIONS: a. Debt Service $ 84,105.00 b. Total Capital Improvements $ 100,000.00 c. Reserve for future Capital Outlays $ -0- d. Length of Service Award Program $ 30,000.00 TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS: Total revenues and fund balance $ 3,222,505.00. utilized to defray taxation: $ 264,651. 00 AMOUNT TO BE RAISED BY TAXES: $ 2,957,854.00.

Voting Place: Jackson Volunteer Fire Company Firehouse 200 Kierych Memorial Drive

Jackson Fire District 4

3 yr. Commissioner Seats Available: 2
Candidates: *Brian Ruditsky, *Ray Torres, Kenneth Byrnes, Wallace Jamison, n/a

Note: n/a – One candidate omitted at request of family member under threat of lawsuit.

Budget detail: OPERATING APPROPRIATIONS: Current Operating Expenses $ 1,546,141.00 CAPITAL APPROPRIATIONS: a. Debt Service $ -0- b. Total Capital Improvements $ 500,000.00 c. Reserve for future Capital Outlays $ -0- d. Length of Service Award Program $ 50,000.00 TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS: $ 2,096,141.00 Total revenues and fund balance utilized to defray taxation: $ 538,757..00 AMOUNT TO BE RAISED BY TAXES: $ 1,557,384.00

Voting Place: Jackson Mills Volunteer Fire Company firehouse, 465A North County Line Road.

Unsure of which fire district you should vote in, here is an online map.  Note fire district 2 includes previous zone of fire districts 1 & 2.

* Indicates JTOWN Magazine’s fire commissioner endorsement.

 

Police: Elderly Woman Victim of House Fire in Toms River

Originally published by Ralph Stocco, TRPD

TOMS RIVER-On February 14th at 11:03 am, Police, Fire, and EMS units responded to an active structure fire at 1911 Fiddlers Run. Upon arrival the units observed a heavy smoke condition. They were advised by witnesses on the scene that a woman was still inside of the home. Police Officers Scott Fallano and Raymond Beyerle, who were first to arrive, entered the front door and tried to locate the woman. They were quickly turned back by the thick smoke. Once outside, they located a 67 year old male resident in the back yard who had escaped the blaze. He was trying to regain entry to his home to locate the woman. The structure was now fully engulfed in flames and rescue attempts were not successful. The man, who suffered burns to his hands, was removed to a safe distance. The 64 year old woman, who also resided at that address, did not survive the fire. The man declined medical treatment at the scene.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by Toms River Detective Roger Hull, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office Arson Unit, Ocean County Sheriffs CSI, and Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention.

Responding fire units were Pleasant Plains, Silverton, east Dover, Toms River #1 & #2, Island Heights, and Manchester. Medical units responding were Toms River EMS Division, MONOC Paramedics, and Silverton Volunteer EMS.

As of 4:50 pm, investigators were still on the scene. There has been no determination as to the cause`

North Jersey Police Powerless in Stopping Man Who Got Out of Jail Three Times in One Week Under Bail Reform

HOPATCONG-A man posing as a DPW worker to commit burglaries is on the streets again in North Jersey, thanks to the state’s new public safety assessment and bail reform laws.

Police here say they are powerless to keep a dangerous repeat criminal in jail and off the streets.

“Major is accused of committing multiple burglaries in multiple jurisdictions over the last month or so. (See the towns that we know of above). Major would put on a tri color safety vest and pose to be a DPW worker. He would knock on doors and if no one answered he would break in and steal what he could,” according to the Hopatcong Police Department.

Police said their only method of protecting the communities from future robberies is to post his picture to alert potential victims.

Related: Last night on NJ101.5 radio, Governor Chris Christie touted the success of New Jersey’s bail reform and criticized opponents of the flailing legislation as “crap” and “propaganda”.

“There is nothing the Police can do about this because of the new bail reform law. In our efforts to keep the public safe we can only attach Major’s picture to this press release. If you see him on your property or a neighbor’s, please call 911,” the department said.

Police say Major drives a 1990’s green Dodge Pickup with a black ladder rack.

On Friday, with the help of the Hopatcong detectives, Byram Township Detectives, Sparta Township Detectives and the Sussex County Prosecutors Office, Major was investigated and arrested in Elmwood Park.

With the assistance of the Elmwood park police, drug paraphernalia, and proceeds from many burglaries were recovered.

After being released from the Elmwood Park burglaries, he was charged for two burglaries in Hopatcong.

“Because of the Elmwood Park charges, we were able to get a high enough score on the new PSA (Public Safety Assessment) to have him lodged in the Sussex County Jail on Saturday morning,” Hopatcong Police Department said. “Major was released a few hours later after a court hearing on Sunday.”

After being released Sunday, Major was arrested in Morris Township for committing another burglary. He was charged and later released. At this time Major is not incarcerated.

Police in all of the towns where Major was released by judges based on PSA are powerless in stopping him.

Major’s actions were highlighted today on a bail reform watchdog page, which bore the brunt of Governor Christie’s anger last night.

NJSPBA: Criminal Mocked Bail Reform "If they let me out again, I will do more crime."

SOUTH BRUNSWICK-Last night, Governor Chris Christie touted New Jersey’s bail reform as a success, at least one repeat criminal agrees with him.

On Saturday, 47 year old George Pescavage, Jr. robbed a South Brunswick liquor store and was found bleeding and frozen in a snow pile.

Patrol units responded to a reported attempted burglary at the Quick Aid Pharmacy located at 569 Milltown Road. Upon their arrival, officers observed visible signs of an attempted forced entry burglary to the rear door. During a subsequent cursory search of the area, Officers located a male subject matching the description given by witnesses loitering across the street in the Brunswick Shopping Center. The Officers made contact with the subject, identified him, and investigated further.

After being caught for a second crime in two days, he indicated to detectives that even he couldn’t believe that he was plainly released after just four hours.

“Even I was surprised how fast I got out, if they let me out again I will do more crime,” the man said, according to the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association.

Pescavage was released “with a pinky promise” to the New Jersey courts and the next day he was arrested trying to break into the local Quick Aid Pharmacy.

Police said he was again transported to Middlesex County Corrections, indicating that if he is again released so soon, he will again commit a similar crime in order to get by.