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WATCH: Emotional win by pin for special needs wrestler from Brick Memorial

MIDDLETOWN – A Brick Memorial wrestler made his varsity debut on Saturday and won his match. While that might not sound remarkable, it was a moment that won’t soon be forgotten by those who witnessed it. Moments after No. 17 Middletown North “officially” put a 32-29 victory over Brick Memorial in the books, David Richards, a…

Two charged for siding theft on LBI

Two charged for siding theft on lbiLong Beach Township Police Department was contacted on December 26, 2016 to investigate an alleged act of Burglary and theft of approximately $20,000 worth of siding from a home within Long Beach Township.

That siding, along with an additional $9,000 worth of siding stolen out of Beach Haven Borough and railing stolen from Stafford Township were located inside a residence within Long Beach Township.

Two charged for siding theft on lbiThe subsequent police investigation established probable cause to charge Joseph F. Cogliano Jr. and Daniel L. Smith for the offenses of burglary, theft of movable property, theft by deception, possession of stolen property, fencing and conspiracy. Anyone with further information pertaining to this investigation can contact Detective Patrick Mazzella 609-361-2073.

Man dead in crash in Egg Harbor Twp.

Egg Harbor, Atlantic County-On Saturday, January 14th, 2017 at approximately 3:16 pm, the Egg Harbor Township Police Department responded to 323 Zion Road, in the Scullville section of the Township, for a motor vehicle crash.
A 1997 Ford F150 Pickup Truck operated by Ronald Hurless,70 years of age of Egg Harbor Township, was traveling west on Zion Road when it is believed Mr. Hurless suffered a medical emergency. As a result, Mr. Hurless’s vehicle crossed over the east bound lane of Zion Road and struck a tree located in front of 323 Zion Road. The vehicle sustained heavy front end damage and Mr. Hurless was extricated from the vehicle by the Scullville Volunteer Fire Company.


The Egg Harbor Township Ambulance Squad and Atlanticare Paramedics treated Mr. Hurless at the scene. Mr. Hurless was transported by to Shore Medical Center in Somers Point, where he was later pronounced deceased.


Zion Road was shut down for approximately two and a half hours. The crash is being investigated by Sgt. Cherie Burgan, Ptlm. Kevin Devlin, and Ptlm. Joseph Griffiths of the EHT Police Traffic Safety Unit.

Man in critical condition after hit by vehicle in Lakewood, police say

LAKEWOOD — A 65-year-old man is recovering in the hospital on Sunday after he was struck by a vehicle Friday night, police said. The man, whose identity has not been released, is from Spring Valley, N.Y., and was walking in the area of Route 9 and Finchley Boulevard when he was hit by a vehicle around…

Gun stolen from police chief's home; man indicted

LAKEWOOD — A Willingboro man, who became known as the “Fourteenth Street Burglar,” was indicted Tuesday on a slew of charges in connection with a string of home burglaries in the summer and fall of 2015, including the home of the township’s former police chief. Barry E. Walker, 37, was charged with burglary, theft by unlawful…

Central Regional (63) at Donovan Catholic (56) – Boys Basketball

Maks Gruszecki scored 25 points, which included 12 shots from the foul line, to give Central Regional a, 63-56, win over Donovan Catholic in Toms River. Anthony Halloway scored 14 points with two 3-pointers and Zion Hardy had 11 points while netted seven shots from the foul line for Central Regional. Central Regional led Donovan Catholic…

Cherry Hill East (53) at Toms River North (59) – Boys Basketball

Jaden Rhoden, Mike Nyisztor and Mike Husni all picked up 11 points to lead Toms River North to a 59-53 win over Cherry Hill East in Toms River. Rhoden recorded a team-high eight rebounds in the win and also had five assists. Nyisztor and Husni both hit three 3-pointers while Nyisztor had seven rebounds and three…

Oakland Raiders Moving to Las Vegas?

The Oakland Raiders are expected to file the necessary paperwork in the coming weeks to relocate the NFL franchise to Las Vegas. After many years of trying to get a new stadium in Oakland, the Raiders have made a firm decision on their future, according to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport. The city of Oakland has made…

Aaron Rodgers magic perfect cure for what ails NFL

ANALYSIS/OPINION Insanity. Or, as the late great Washington Redskins owner Jack Kent Cooke once referred to RFK Stadium BEFORE a playoff game, “This is controlled delirium.” I’m betting that is what is was like wherever you were watching the Green Bay Packers-Dallas Cowboys Sunday afternoon, a game so deep in drama that it may have saved…

Falcons' defense goes prime time with showing against Seahawks

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Falcons’ high-scoring offense naturally gets most of the attention, but Atlanta’s aggressive young defense has also played a part in getting the team one victory away from a Super Bowl appearance. The Falcons picked off two passes, sacked Russell Wilson three times and shut down the Seattle Seahawks rushing game after the…

Lewis produces record-setting perfornance for Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Dion Lewis assessed his performance in Saturday night’s AFC divisional playoff game against the Houston Texans a little bit differently than most. “I did OK,” the New England Patriots running back said about his game. Other would call it historic. Lewis became the first player in NFL history to score a touchdown in…

Packers win thriller vs. Cowboys to advance to NFC Championship

ARLINGTON, Texas — Aaron Rodgers was left with a few seconds and one shot at winning it. That’s more than enough. The NFL’s hottest quarterback put the Green Bay Packers in position to advance to the NFC Championship and kicker Mason Crosby did the rest, booting a 51-yard field goal at the final gun to beat…

Steelers silence the Chiefs, 18-16, to advance to the AFC championship

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Killer B’s of the Pittsburgh Steelers — an all-world triumvirate composed of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, running back Le’Veon Bell and wide receiver Antonio Brown — can add a fourth member to their group. Chris Boswell, the Steelers kicker, set an NFL playoff record with six field goals as the Steelers held…

You Won't Believe What This Chain Is Taking Off the Menu

These are changes we’ve all been encouraged to make but that seem impossible to do. Nearly everything we eat seems to contain artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, sweeteners — so how is it possible to remove them from our diets? Yet Panera, the national bakery cafe chain, announced Friday it has removed those ingredients from its menu…

WATCH: Emotional win by pin for special needs wrestler from Brick Memorial

MIDDLETOWN – A Brick Memorial wrestler made his varsity debut on Saturday and won his match. While that might not sound remarkable, it was a moment that won’t soon be forgotten by those who witnessed it. Moments after No. 17 Middletown North “officially” put a 32-29 victory over Brick Memorial in the books, David Richards, a…

Port Authority wants to go after your license, registration if you cheat tolls

Port Authority officials will ask New Jersey’s Motor Vehicle Commission to suspend the registration privilege of chronic toll violators, similar to what is now done in New York State, as the agency moves to cashless toll collection. Officials at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey reached an agreement with New York State’s Department…

The Greatest Show on Earth Comes to an End in 2017

Since the 1800’s the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey circus has wowed audiences across America.  The two joined forces in 1919 as one and for nearly 100 more years continued their traveling circus.

In 1967, the circus was bought by what is now Feld Entertainment.

On Saturday, the company, which also manages Monster Jam and Disney on Ice announce the end of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey circus this spring.

“After much evaluation and deliberation, my family and I have made the difficult business decision that Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey will hold its final performances in May of this year,” Ken Feld said.  “Ringling Bros. ticket sales have been declining, but following the transition of the elephants off the road, we saw an even more dramatic drop. This, coupled with high operating costs, made the circus an unsustainable business for the company.”

“Nearly 50 years ago, my father founded our company with the acquisition of Ringling Bros. The circus and its people have continually been a source of inspiration and joy to my family and me, which is why this was such a tough business decision to make,” he added. “The decision was even more difficult because of the amazing fans that have become part of our extended circus family over the years, and we are extremely grateful to the millions of families who have made Ringling Bros. part of their lives for generations. We know Ringling Bros. isn’t only our family business, but also your family tradition.”

 

Video: Lefty's Tavern Broken Into; Suspect Caught on Video

 

https://www.facebook.com/112817298795488/videos/1201384123272128/

Barnegat Police are looking for help identifying the subject in videos taken from surveillance cameras at Lefty’s Tavern. This subjects was responsible for a burglary/theft that occurred at the restaurant around 4:00am on January 3rd 2017. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. William Hetrick at 609-698-5000 x218.

Video: Gas Station Robbed at Gunpoint; Police Seeking Assistance with Identification

https://www.facebook.com/OCProsecutor/videos/605588476305930/

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s office released surveillance video that was captured on the evening of January 5th as the Delta gas station located on Dover Road in South Toms River, New Jersey was robbed at gun point. We ask anyone with information to please contact South Toms River Police Detective Mike Schneidt at 732-349-6914 x117.

 

Foster Rescue Saves Pregnant Dog From Kill Shelter; Broadcasts Birth Live on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/itsaruffliferescue/videos/633732776813051/

When It’s a Ruff Life Rescue, a dog fostering network in New Jersey which has many canine foster homes in Ocean County found out about Little Miss Sunshine waiting on death row at a North Carolina kill shelter, the group sprung into action.

Little did they know just last week, that the dog they rescued was pregnant.  They also didn’t know until she was taken in for x-rays that she had been used as target practice in North Carolina. Doctors found several bb’s lodged under her skin.

After asking for donations, the community responded and food, toys, training pads and other items started pouring in.  There were also supplies for the babies.

Within a few days, a foster home was found for Little Miss Sunshine.   Then, she gave birth to her puppies which was broadcast live on Facebook.  Over 50,000 people watched the birth live.

Now named Abigail, she birthed 8 puppies, one did not make it.  She gave birth to 6 boys and 2 girls.

If you would like to get involved and help, visit It’s A Ruff Life’s Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

 

Roadway fatalities in Ocean County increased in 2016

In 2015, 38 died in roadway fatalities in Ocean County.  In 2016, that number rose by four to 42.  Below is a list of roadway fatalities reports by the New Jersey State Police.

Municipality Date Time Location Fatalities
Toms River 12/25/2016 1038 State Highway 166 (Alternate) 1
Plumsted Twsp 12/17/2016 0546 County 528 1
Toms River 12/12/2016 1757 State Highway 9 1
Lakewood Twsp 12/09/2016 1325 River Ave 1
Lacey Twsp 11/29/2016 1439 County 614 at Newark Ave 1
Toms River 11/22/2016 2310 State Highway 70 1
Manchester Twsp 11/09/2016 0839 County 571 at Bacon St 1
Plumsted Twsp 11/07/2016 1810 County 640 W MP 5.2 1
Beachwood Boro 11/06/2016 1816 State/Interstate Authority 444 N MP 78.9 1
Lakewood Twsp 11/03/2016 1217 State/Interstate Authority 444 N MP 88.3 1
Brick Twsp 10/06/2016 0246 State/Interstate Authority 444 N MP 93.7 1
Stafford Twsp 10/05/2016 1316 State/Interstate Authority 444 N MP 63.8 1
Lakewood Twsp 10/01/2016 2104 Williams St 1
Berkeley Twsp 09/28/2016 0744 State Highway 9 S MP 89 1
Little Egg Harbor T 09/17/2016 2053 County 539 N MP 5.4 3
Ocean Twsp 09/07/2016 2008 State Highway 9 S MP 77.9 1
Little Egg Harbor T 08/21/2016 0125 County 601 S MP 2.4 1
Barnegat Twsp 08/08/2016 0752 Ridgeway St N MP 0 1
Toms River 08/04/2016 2214 Wave Way E MP 0 at Harbor View Lane 1
Brick Twsp 08/03/2016 0010 State/Interstate Authority 444 N MP 93.3 1
Berkeley Twsp 08/01/2016 1543 County 618 E MP 6.3 1
Toms River 07/14/2016 0656 County 527 1
Jackson Twsp 07/03/2016 1852 County 526 E MP 22.9 at County Route 26 1
Manchester Twsp 06/24/2016 1035 State Highway 70 1
Lakewood Twsp 06/19/2016 2207 County 526 W MP 32.5 1
Toms River 05/28/2016 2033 State/Interstate Authority 444 S MP 82.2 1
Jackson Twsp 05/11/2016 0511 County 571 N MP 20.2 1
Little Egg Harbor T 04/16/2016 1428 Hamble Road E MP 0 1
Lakehurst Boro 04/16/2016 1313 State Highway 70 E MP 43.5 at County Route 12 1
Manchester Twsp 04/15/2016 0709 State Highway 70 E MP 37.6 1
Brick Twsp 04/13/2016 0505 State/Interstate Authority 444 S MP 92 1
Long Beach Twsp 03/22/2016 0838 County 607 S MP 15.8 1
Lakewood Twsp 03/19/2016 2140 County 526 E MP 32.2 1
Manchester Twsp 03/17/2016 1631 County 530 1
Toms River 03/09/2016 1116 County 623 S MP 5.1 1
Ship Bottom Boro 02/10/2016 1540 State Highway 72 W MP 26.4 at Barnegat Ave 1
Plumsted Twsp 02/06/2016 1846 County 640 E MP 1.7 1
Toms River 02/02/2016 1125 County 622 W MP 1.65 at County Route 86 1
Barnegat Twsp 02/01/2016 1201 State Highway 72 E MP 16.3 1
Manchester Twsp 01/22/2016 0918 County 530 E MP 22.9 1
Accident Count: 40 County Totals: 42

Cubs Diss Trump; Move White House Visit for Obama

It’s a tradition for the winners of major sports championships to visit the White House to celebrate their victory with the president. Usually, the World Series winners make the trip to Washington in the spring or summer. The Kansas City Royals, who won in 2015, visited President Obama in July. The 2014 champion San Francisco Giants…

Joint Base Mission Refueled After Winning New Tanker Mission

WASHINGTON-Despite efforts by the Obama administration to have another round of efforts to close military bases nationwide in 2015, the mission of Ocean County’s Joint Base MDL (JB-MDL) appears that it will not only continue, but grow.   That Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) went nowhere, but the Joint Base’s future remained in jeopardy until this past year when it not only survived threats of a new round of BRAC hearing, it was upgraded to the designation of Main Operating Base (MOB) by the U.S. Air Force.

That is according to U.S. Congressman Chris Smith.   With the designation of a Main Operating Base, one of five nationwide, JB-MDL is now slated to receive 24 new KC-46 Pegasus tankers to replace the current fleet of aging KC-10 Extenders.

“Securing this vitally important air refueling mission not only significantly enhances US military power but will ensure the sustainability of the JB from any future closure,” said Smith, Dean of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation who represents a large portion of the installation. “The servicemembers at the Joint Base have truly earned this mission. The skilled human capital that makes the base run, the proven track record of success in ensuring our military has the strategic ability to operate around the world and the strong support of our local communities brings unparalleled capabilities to the Air Force and our national security “Today’s decision is a big win for JB-MDL and a monumental step that will help maintain and secure the base—and its economic impact for New Jersey—for decades to come. It’s quite a day in the history of Joint Base MDL and in New Jersey.”

With this approval JB-MDL is one of only two bases named to receive the next generation tankers this round. The Air Force announced that Travis AFB in California will also receive 24 KC-46s.

“This is incredible news for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, the state of New Jersey and the future of national security in the United States,” said Congressman MacArthur. “I am grateful for the contributions and support of Governor Christie, Lieutenant Governor Guadagno, Senators Booker and Menendez, my colleagues in the House, Congressmen Smith and Norcross, as well as the hundreds of elected officials and community members who joined us in the fight to secure the KC-46. This truly was a team effort, and because of that, over 42,000 New Jersey residents in my district who are employed at the base and the thousands of additional jobs in the surrounding area that rely on its survival can breathe easy knowing the Joint Base will remain our nation’s premier air mobility installation by becoming the new home of the KC-46 air-to-air refueling tanker.”

The base’s current 32 KC-10s are continually targeted for retirement and will now be replaced by the new KC-46s.  The base also hosts eight KC-135 Stratotankers and 13 C-17 Globemaster III airlifters, and other planes and helicopters.

“It is a great day for New Jersey and the Joint Base! When the KC-46A mission is finalized, it will potentially provide mission stability to the Joint Base and provide financial and job security to the surrounding communities that depend on the Base,” said Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno. “As the Chairwoman of the New Jersey Military Installation Growth and Development Task Force, I’m proud and honored to have worked so closely on this project with the New Jersey Congressional Delegation as well as local leaders from Ocean and Burlington counties.  Together, we are the best team in the Nation.”

Last January, the Air Force announced that JB-MDL was one of 11 installations in the running for MOB4, and then made the candidates list of the final five bases announced in June 2016—joined by Dover AFB, Fairchild AFB, Grand Forks AFB, and Travis AFB.

Police Shut Down Toms River, Berkeley Massage Parlors

Police shut down toms river, berkeley massage parlorsOn January 4th, a four month prostitution investigation, led by Toms River Police Department Detective Tom Grosse, culminated in charges being filed against two individuals.  In conjunction with The Department of Homeland Security, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Group, and the U.S. Enforcement Removal Operation Unit, search warrants were executed at Redwoods Wellness Center, 515 Lakehurst Road in Toms River and a private residence on Edgebrook Drive North in Berkeley Township.

Redwoods, conducting business as a massage parlor, was suspected of soliciting prostitution.  Allegations of the prostitution were confirmed by way of the investigation as well as through the subsequent evidence procured as a result of the court authorized search warrants.

Nina X. Meng, 56, Edgewood Drive, owner and proprietor of Redwoods Wellness Center was arrested and charged with the promotion of prostitution.  James M. O’Brien, 59, of the same address in Berkeley Township, has also been charged with Promoting Prostitution.  Attempts to have Mr. O’Brien surrender himself have not come to fruition.  Anyone who may have information about Redwoods Wellness Center, its employees, or knows the whereabouts of Mr. Obrien, is urged to confidentially contact Toms River Detective Thomas Grosse at 732-349-0150 extension 1263 or by email at tgrosse@trpolice.org.

No Gun in Jackson School Bus "Gun Incident"

by Capt. Steven Laskiewicz, JPD


JACKSON-On Wednesday January 11, 2017 at approximately 7:05 am, multiple Jackson Police Officers responded to the Jackson Memorial High School on the report of a subject on a bus being in possession of a gun.

 

Upon investigation, it was discovered that two teenaged males on the bus were talking when for unknown reasons, one of the males reportedly yelled “gun”. In response, another teenaged male loudly exclaimed that the other subject had a gun. The bus driver then stopped the bus and called for assistance.

 

Responding officers escorted all students off of the bus and conducted a search for any weapons. No weapons were found and it was determined that no threats were made to any students. The two teenaged males involved in the incident were taken into custody and later turned over to family members. The incident is being followed up on by School Resource Officer Colin Menafra.

 

 

–          The media and the public are reminded that any persons arrested or charged with any offenses or crimes are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

 

How One Shore Town is Warning Drug Dealers to Stay Out

As you travel north along Route 9 from Lakewood into Howell Township, you might have noticed a new billboard.  In a joint venture between the Howell Municipal Alliance and the Howell Township Police Department, two Howell police officers greet motorists and would-be drug traffickers and users.

“Thinking of bringing drugs into Howell Township? Think again,” the billboard reads.

The billboard lies between the Riccardi Brothers paint store and Federicci’s, just about 1,000 feet north of the Lakewood-Howell border.

 

What's Going There? Jersey Paddler, Jo-Ann Fabrics, Pathmark, Foodtown in Brick

BRICK-There is mixed news today regarding the future of several high profile commercial properties in Brick Township that have been vacant, courtesy of Mayor John Ducey during his Tuesday evening Facebook Live discussion with residents.

In 2016, after 50 years in business, the Jersey Paddler closed its doors at their Route 88 location, near the intersection of Route 70 and the old Laurelton Circle.

Mayor John Ducey said there although there has been plenty of talk around town about the future of the Jersey Paddler site, but nothing concrete yet.   He said plans for a hotel and other such projects never materialized.

“The former owners still own the property and they’re looking to sell,” Ducey said. “A new business will be there. It’s zoned commercial so it will be some type of commercial use.”

As far as the former Jo-Ann Fabrics and Craft store at the intersection of Jack Martin Boulevard and Route 88 there will be a new business moving in soon, At Home Recreation.

At Home Recreation is a store similar to the old Branch Brook Pools business which sells above ground pools, hot tubs, patio sets, outdoor kitchens and pool tables.

They have 4 locations in New Jersey including East Brunswick, Ocean, Manahawkin and Hazlet. The Brick location will be their 5th store.

Ducey said the store sells seasonal products all year long.

“It’s a really awesome addition to Brick Township,” Ducey said. “It’s really exciting for the town.”

As for the old Pathmark plaza, Ducey said he is unsure of which stores are moving in, but said he was told by the owners that two food store chains are in negotiations with the owners and that the owners of the property definitely want to put food stores in the space.  He did not have the names of those food stores.

Moving on to the old Foodtown site on Route 88, Ducey said the land is still tied up in the courts and will soon be heard in trial after he rejected a proposal to build a condo complex  that had been approved by the prior administration.  The township is being sued by M&M developers over the future use of the parcel.

Ducey reiterated that although the town does not have anything to do with the negotiations between landlords and tenants, as mayor, he is often privy to what the owners of the properties let him know about their future tenants.

Photo: Jersey Paddler Google Maps/Google Earth.

No Relief in Sight for Brick Flooding Problem

BRICK-A resident concerned over the frequent roadway flooding problems at Jack Martin Boulevard and Burrsville Road in Brick asked Mayor John Ducey if he will be addressing this matter in the near future with the Ocean County engineer.

Ducey said that not only will he be asking for remediation, but he has asked several times in the past for it.

“We have that meeting usually in February,” the mayor said. “That’s always on our list every year and we get the same response every year and it’s not a good response.”

Ducey said the county engineers are waiting for a developer to develop the triangle property that lies at the intersection of Route 88, Jack Martin Boulevard and Burrsville Road.

Ducey said there was a proposal to build a Marriott hotel but fell through.  The county expects the developer of that land to pay for the repairs of the flood prone intersection.

“The county’s plan is to wait until it’s developed,” Ducey said.  “Then it’s off their pocket book and onto the developer’s pocketbook, but I’ll still make the request and see if the answer is the same this year.”

Ducey did not say whether or not past plans to develop the property had failed based on the county’s requirement for the expensive civil engineering project attached to the property.

Images by Google Earth/Google Maps.

No relief in sight for brick flooding problem

Ocean County Beach Replenishment Project Awarded to Weeks Marine

by Debra Hoover, NJDEP

TRENTON-The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, working in partnership with the Department of Environmental Protection, has awarded a contract to construct long-awaited engineered beaches and dunes for the northern Ocean County peninsula, one of the areas hardest hit by Superstorm Sandy, Commissioner Bob Martin announced today.

The Army Corps awarded a base contract of $92 million to Cranford-based Weeks Marine to conduct the first phase of construction. The total contract amount is expected to reach about $128 million as work progresses to additional areas of the peninsula where the state is continuing to work to secure access easements from property owners.

The overall project will cover some 14 miles of coastline along the Barnegat Peninsula and will protect the communities of Bay Head, Berkeley, Brick, Lavallette, Mantoloking, Point Pleasant Beach, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park and Toms River.

This is the last major stretch of beaches in New Jersey to be awarded a contract for construction of engineered systems of beaches and dunes. These systems are proven to protect lives, property and infrastructure, a major goal of the Christie Administration in the aftermath of Sandy.

“We are very pleased that this crucial project is moving forward,” Commissioner Martin said. “When completed, all of New Jersey’s coastal communities will be afforded the level of protection that comes with beach and dune systems that meet Army Corps’ engineering standards. The Christie Administration has remained steadfast – even in the face of challenges from some property owners over providing easements – in its commitment to building a full coastal system of engineered beaches that, in addition to providing protection, are vital to the state’s economy and identity.”

Work will begin in the spring and will progress in 1,000-foot sections to minimize impacts to residents and visitors.

“This represents one of the largest beach-fill contracts in the history of the United States Army Corps of Engineers,” said U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Philadelphia District Commander Lt. Col. Michael Bliss. “The engineered dune and berm system will serve the vital purposes of reducing risk and helping to protect people and property.”

The Barnegat Peninsula was hit especially hard when Sandy slammed the state in October 2012. The ocean breached the peninsula in Mantoloking. Record storm surge caused significant damage to Brick, Lavallette. Mantoloking, Seaside Heights, Seaside Park and the Ortley Beach section of Toms River. Homes, businesses, piers, boardwalks and infrastructure – including State Route 35 – were destroyed or severely damaged.

These areas did not have properly engineered beached and dunes when Sandy hit. Engineered beaches and dunes block and absorb the impact of storm surge, mitigating property damage.

A key component of the project is the construction of dunes and beaches along a four-mile stretch of sea wall in Mantoloking and Brick that the DEP teamed up with the New Jersey Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration to build as added protection for Route 35. This is the main artery and coastal evacuation route through a particularly vulnerable stretch of the peninsula that was severely damaged during Sandy.

This highway, since reconstructed to modern design standards with extensive flood controls, was the scene of a major breach at the Mantoloking Bridge during Sandy. The four-mile-long protective wall is comprised of steel sheet pilings driven deep into the sand that will serve as emergency backup protection, with the beach and dune system providing primary protection to the roadway.

Work will begin with beach and dune construction in southern Mantoloking, as well as all of Lavallette, Toms River, Seaside Heights and Seaside Park. Work in Bay Head, Berkeley, northern Mantoloking and Point Pleasant Beach will begin after all necessary easements have been obtained.

A total of 545 easements are needed for the project. An easement is a legal right of access to private or municipally owned property the Army Corps and DEP need to perform construction. Nearly 350 easements – or 64 percent – had been provided voluntarily. The state also obtained 54 additional easements through condemnation proceedings under the Eminent Domain Act and is pursuing additional condemnation proceedings.

“The Governor and I are grateful to the majority of property owners who voluntarily provided their easements because they recognize that this is the right thing to do for their neighbors and their communities,” Commissioner Martin said.

Over the course of the project, some 11 million cubic yards of sand will be pumped from offshore to build dunes and beaches. For most of the project area, dunes will be built 22 feet above sea level. Beaches will be constructed from 100 feet to 300 feet wide and 8.5 feet above sea level. The project area will receive periodic replenishment projects over the course of 50 years to replace sand lost through normal erosion.

The federal government will be paying for 65 percent of the project using money approved under the 2013 Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, which funds projects that Congress had previously authorized but had not been completed by the time Sandy hit in October 2012. New Jersey will pay for 35 percent of the project from the state’s Shore Protection Fund.

NJ Newspaper Public Notice Trough Grows to $1.6m in 10 Days. How Many Have You Read?

In December, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie waged war with New Jersey’s newspapers, some, like the local Gannett paper, Asbury Park Press, on life support from taxpayer funded public notice laws.

Christie claimed New Jersey taxpayers were paying $80 million annually for these archaic notices that reside in the back pages of New Jersey’s dwindling newspapers.  They are those hard to read for most…walls of text printed in tiny fonts that most of the industry’s shrinking reader base passes over on a daily basis.

The industry fought back and claimed New Jersey only spends $40,000,000 to keep their businesses alive.  Most of the industry editors and execs said if they lost this welfare lifeline, their papers would be forced to fire dozens of reporters.

The Shore News Network is giving both sides in the battle the benefit of the doubt and we’ve chosen $60,000,000 as the estimated cost per year of public notices to the New Jersey taxpayer.

According to that estimate, New Jersey taxpayers have already spent $1.64 million, just 10 days into the New Year on these costly and outdated public notices.

What if the actual cost is $80,000,000 annually as the Governor suggests?  That would mean taxpayers have already given their local newspapers $2.2 million already this year.  At that rate, they should deliver their papers for free in exchange for this government subsidy.

How many public notices have you read this year in your local newspaper? Should New Jersey newspapers continue to receive this taxpayer bailout?

 

Chief Welcomes New K-9 Unit

by Andrew Kudrick, Chief, Howell PD

HOWELL-Congratulations to Patrolman Jesse Moore #617 and his partner Opus on becoming a certified Police K-9 Patrol Team.

For the past 16 weeks, he and his partner were trained by Long Branch Police Sgt. Bobby Shamrock in obedience, tracking, building searches, agility, articles, building/area searches and criminal apprehension and handler protection. This is a tough, extensive training and certification obtained by very few officers.

A sincere thank you to Sgt Shamrock and Long Branch Police Director Jason Roebuck. You did an outstanding job!

Congratulations to Long Branch K9 Officer Omar Akel and his partner Hades who also graduated. Stay safe!!!

Monmouth County is now safer for both residents and the officers. It’s also more dangerous for the criminals!

Next up, 12 weeks of scent training to become certified in narcotics detection.

I’m very proud of Officer Moore. As a former K9 handler, I realize the inherent dedication and commitment and responsibility required to be a handler. I wish you a very safe tour. It will be the most rewarding years of your career. No doubt, you will proudly and honorably represent the Howell Police as well as the small police K9 community.

Overdose at Nursing Home Leads to Suspected Heroin Dealer

On Friday, 12/30/2016, at approximately 9:25 PM, the Stafford Township Police Department was dispatched to an overdose at the Manahawkin Nursing and Rehab located at 1211 Route 72 West in Manahawkin, NJ.

The initial Officers on the scene administered several doses of Narcan to the victim, and she was later transported to Southern Ocean Medical Center.

During the investigation, it was learned the victim was sold fentanyl/heroin from a resident who resides in the facility. A search warrant was obtained in the early morning hours of December 31st for the resident’s room, and was executed by the Stafford Township Drug Enforcement Unit. Approximately twenty (20) glassine envelopes containing suspected heroin/fentanyl were located within the room belonging to Walter Gibbs 59 years old of Atlantic City, NJ.

Mr. Gibbs was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Heroin) and Possession of CDS with the Intent to Distribute (Heroin).

He also had several outstanding warrants from Atlantic City, and later turned over to Atlantic County Sheriff’s Department.

Mr. Gibbs is scheduled to appear in the Ocean County Court at a later date.

Nationally Ranked Drug Sniffing K-9 Kramer Passes Away

Kramer, a retired drug sniffing K-9 who once served the Stafford Police Department passed away this week.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our retired K9s, Kramer. Kramer served alongside Patrolman Bob Campanile until Ptl. Campanile’s retirement a few years ago,” the department said.  “Kramer had a large tumor on his face and mouth, which developed rapidly over the last several months. Kramer served Stafford Township for many years and was Nationally ranked in patrol and narcotics.”

Armed and Dangerous Fugitive Wanted for Ocean County Crimes Captured in Philadelphia

On January 8th 2017, Andy Kulian 27 of Philadelphia, the suspect wanted in a series of home burglaries in the Silver Ridge retirement section of Berkeley Township, was arrested without incident by the Philadelphia Police Department.
On 12/30/2016 Andy Kulian, fled on foot from police after being approached by Berkeley officers who were investigating suspicious activity. Kulian was with an accomplice, Jose Cruz of Philadelphia who was arrested on scene. A handgun was found in the vehicle they were in.
An extensive search was conducted the night of the last incident for Kulian but met with negative results.
Kulian was charged with two counts of burglary, possession of weapons as well as hindering apprehension and eluding. Bail was set at $100,000 full.
The Berkeley Township Police would like to thank all those involved in the successful apprehension of Andy Kuilan.

DEA, Local Police Discover Heroin Lab at Ocean County Apartment Complex

During the closing months of 2016 the Toms River Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team, in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office Special Operations Group, and Lavallette Police Department, concluded a month long investigation into the distribution of heroin.  On December 22, 2016, Kevin Porter, 27, of Newark NJ was arrested and charged by the investigative team.  The arrest of Porter led to the seizure of 250 wax folds of heroin, 50 grams of powder heroin, and $750.00 in U.S. currency.

Further investigation led to the execution of a search warrant in Winteringham Village as well as a search of a residence on the 100 block of Philadelphia Avenue in Lavallette.  Detectives uncovered a full manufacturing facility where heroin was being mixed, packaged and stamped by Porter for resale.  Items included empty wax folds ready to be packaged, stamps, sifters, and several other items used to package and distribute heroin.

Porter was charged with possession of heroin, possession of heroin over one half ounce with the intent to distribute (2nd degree) and maintaining a heroin manufacturing facility (1st degree).  Bail was set at $75,000.00 no ten percent.

What was that? Loud explosion heard across Ocean County

Minutes ago, members from the 87th Explosive Ordnance Disposal team detonated an unexploded ordinance  retrieved from off base at the Joint Base MDL.

The detonation was similar to mortar training, and was a single explosion.

“If you heard a big BOOM, don’t freak out — it’s just the expert hands of 87th EOD,” the base said.
Because it’s overcast, the sound travelled further and seemed louder.

Dems Retain Power on Toms River School Board; Giovine President

TOMS RIVER-Despite some confusion about how to nominate and vote on a new board president and vice president, the Toms River Regional School Board managed to get the vote done at their annual reorganization meeting.

Democratic political operative Ben Giovine will lead the Toms River Regional School Board in 2017 after securing the nomination and election as president by his fellow board members. The board, minus Joe Nardini, Chris Raimann and newly elected board member Daniel Leonard voted in favor of Giovine.

Board member Christopher Raimann was also nominated for presidency, but a vote was not held after the Giovine vote cleared the board successfully.

For Vice President, Loreen Torrone and Nardini received nominations, but after a 4-4 board split, Torrone cast a vote for herself to break the tie.

Outgoing board President Rob Onofrietti was joined by Nardini, Raimann and Leonard, all of whom voted against Torrone’s nomination.

Giovine, was a former Democrat political field agent, organizer and Ocean County director for the campaign of the late John Adler.

The board in their first two votes, maintained political party lines.

Democrat political powerbroker and board attorney Steven Leone addressed those in attendance and let the audience know he would leave the meeting early to make a flight to Florida.

 

 

 

 

 

Mariners' Tutzauer Scores 1,000th Point Against Jackson Memorial

Ashley Tutzauer, a senior basketball player at High School North, scored 24 points and lifted High School North, No. 12 in the Star Ledger Top 20, to a 60-31 win over Jackson Memorial at Jackson. She connected on four 3-pointers and recorded her 1,000th career point in the victory.

Crowdfunding Set Up For Toms River Police Officer Injured in Crash on GSP

On January 4th, The New Jersey State Police notified TRPD of a serious crash involving one of our 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. He is being treated at a local medical facility and is expected to undergo numerous surgeries. We anticipate an extensive recovery for Officer Hansen with rapidly mounting medical costs. We will be announcing more information in the future as it becomes available.

A crowdfunding site to assist the family will be set up in the near future. In the meantime, donations can be made to the “Brett Hansen Fund” Mailed to Toms River PBA #137, P.O. Box 5011, Toms River NJ 08754

Dumbbell caused crash on NJ Turnpike

The New Jersey State Police is seeking the public’s assistance with the investigation of a motor vehicle crash on the NJ Turnpike involving a dumbbell that smashed through a windshield and seriously injured a man.

On Monday, January 9, at approximately 7:15 a.m., Jack A. DeCarlo, 75, Hamilton Twp., NJ, was driving a GMC Terrain south on the NJ Turnpike in Oldman’s Twp., Salem County, when a 50-pound dumbbell crashed through the windshield and struck him in the head. The SUV then travelled off the right side of the roadway into a ditch.

Mr. DeCarlo was airlifted to Crozer Medical Center in Chester, PA where he is being treated for serious injuries. His passenger, Patricia DeCarlo, 57, Hamilton Twp., NJ, sustained minor injuries. Anyone with information is asked to contact Moorestown Station at (856) 235-1937. Anonymous tips welcome.

NJ correction officer caught smuggling marijuana to juvenile offenders

Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino announced that a senior correction officer at the Garden State Youth Correctional Facility in Yardville, N.J., was indicted today on charges that he smuggled marijuana and tobacco to inmates inside the correctional facility in return for money.

Jaquae Hollingshead, 24, of Southampton, N.J., was indicted today by a state grand jury on charges of conspiracy, official misconduct and bribery in official matters, all second-degree charges, as well as third-degree charges of distribution of marijuana and money laundering. Hollingshead has been suspended from his position as a senior correction officer as a result of the allegations.

It is alleged that, on multiple occasions, Hollingshead allegedly smuggled marijuana and tobacco to inmates in the correctional facility. In return, he allegedly received bribes in the form of monetary payments made by friends or relatives of the inmates outside the prison. Inmates allegedly communicated with Hollingshead using a cell phone to arrange for the contraband to be smuggled.

“By smuggling contraband to inmates, corrupt correction officers compound the challenges faced by their fellow officers in maintaining security in our state correctional facilities,” said Attorney General Porrino. “We allege that Hollingshead betrayed his badge and compromised safety by smuggling contraband, including drugs, into a youth correctional facility.”

“I commend the investigators in the Department of Corrections who uncovered this alleged smuggling scheme,” said Director Elie Honig of the Division of Criminal Justice.  “We intend to aggressively prosecute this defendant to send a clear message that we won’t stand for crooked correction officers who undermine security in our prisons.”

“Thanks to everyone who collaborated on this investigation,” said New Jersey Department of Corrections Commissioner Gary M. Lanigan. “The overwhelming majority of New Jersey Department of Corrections staff is hard-working and honest.  However, a corrupt employee can undermine the integrity of the entire criminal justice system.  Every member of our staff knows that if he or she acts in an unlawful manner, then he or she should not be working for the NJDOC and is subject to the legal ramifications of that behavior.”

Deputy Attorney General Ronald Minsky presented the case to the state grand jury for the Division of Criminal Justice Gangs & Organized Crime Bureau. The indictment stems from an investigation by the Department of Corrections Special Investigations Division.  Senior Investigators Samuel Wise and Patrick Sesulka led the investigation for the Department of Corrections.

Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000, while third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. The second-degree charges carry a mandatory minimum period of parole ineligibility of five years. The third-degree money laundering charge carries an enhanced fine of up to $25,000.

The charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The indictment was handed up to Superior Court Judge Mary C. Jacobson in Mercer County, who assigned the case to Burlington County, where Hollingshead will be ordered to appear in court at a later date for arraignment on the charges.

Attorney General Porrino and Director Honig noted that the Division of Criminal Justice has established a toll-free tipline 1-866-TIPS-4CJ for the public to confidentially report public corruption, financial crime and other illegal activities. The public also can log on to the Division’s web page at www.njdcj.org to report suspected wrongdoing confidentially.

Defense Attorney: Ross Gigliotti, Esq., Gigliotti & Lehrfeld, LLC, Cherry Hill, N.J.

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Security guard stole $200k in cash after being fired from Casino sentenced

Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino announced that a former security guard at the Caesars Casino in Atlantic City was sentenced to prison today for committing an armed robbery at the casino in 2014 after he was fired from his job.

Izyiah Plummer, 22, of Atlantic City, was sentenced to 11 years in state prison, including nine years and four months of parole ineligibility, by Superior Court Judge Bernard E. DeLury Jr. in Atlantic County. Plummer pleaded guilty on Aug. 22, 2016, to all of the charges filed against him in an Aug. 20, 2015 indictment, including first-degree armed robbery, conspiracy, aggravated assault and weapons offenses.

Deputy Attorney General Kerry DiJoseph prosecuted Plummer and handled the sentencing for the Division of Criminal Justice Specialized Crimes Bureau-Casino Prosecutions Unit.

Three other defendants who were indicted with Plummer have pleaded guilty and face prison sentences in connection with the robbery. Aaron Evans, 26, of Atlantic City, pleaded guilty on Dec. 12 to second-degree theft and faces a recommended sentence of eight years in state prison. Nathaniel Greenlee, 23, of Bear, Delaware, and Donavon Jackson, 22, of Wilmington, Delaware, each pleaded guilty in June 2016 to second-degree theft. The state will recommend that each of those two men be sentenced to seven years in state prison. Evans, Greenlee and Jackson are scheduled to be sentenced on March 17.

The men were charged in an investigation by the New Jersey State Police Casino Gaming Bureau and the Division of Criminal Justice Specialized Crimes Bureau-Casino Prosecutions Unit. They were charged in connection with an armed robbery of a security guard and a second casino employee who were removing cash from a kiosk inside Caesars Casino on July 21, 2014.

“Plummer planned and executed a violent armed robbery that put lives at risk,” said Attorney General Porrino. “With this sentence, we’re protecting the public by keeping a dangerous criminal behind bars for many years.”

“Plummer thought he could evade capture by wearing a mask and using his inside knowledge of casino security to commit this heist, but the State Police quickly identified Plummer and his accomplices,” said Director Elie Honig of the Division of Criminal Justice. “Together we built a strong case that now has resulted in lengthy prison sentences.”

“Many people have dreams of getting lucky and walking away from a casino with the big jackpot, but unfortunately Izyiah Plummer chose to rely on robbery and violence to make his dream come true,” said Colonel Rick Fuentes, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Thanks to some great work by the lead State Police detectives and our partners, Plummer won’t be planning heists in the near future.”

The investigation revealed that at about 6:18 a.m. on July 21, 2014, Plummer and Evans arrived at Caesars Casino in a car driven by Greenlee, with Jackson in the passenger seat. Plummer and Evans entered the casino wearing masks and gloves and approached a security guard and another casino employee who were loading full cash boxes onto a trolley from a self-redemption terminal at a kiosk. Plummer pointed a handgun at the two employees. Plummer pointed the gun at the security guard’s head while Evans removed three cash boxes from the trolley. As the two robbers were fleeing the casino, one of them dropped one of the cash boxes and left it behind. Plummer and Evans escaped from the casino with two cash boxes containing approximately $181,200 and entered Greenlee’s vehicle.

Greenlee drove to Plummer’s apartment in the Venice Park section of Atlantic City. There proceeds of the robbery were divided among Plummer, Evans, Greenlee and Jackson. A search warrant was executed at Plummer’s apartment, where a black ski mask, bullets for a .38 special handgun and $43,900 in cash were found. A search warrant also was executed at Evans’ home, where $4,300 in cash was seized. Detectives found a handle from one of the cash boxes in the street in front of Evans’ home.

The lead detectives on the case for the New Jersey State Police Casino Gaming Bureau were Detective Michael Nelson and Detective Sgt. Charles Vicente. The Atlantic City Police Department, Pleasantville Police Department, Delaware State Police and Pennsylvania State Police provided valuable assistance in the investigation.

Defense Attorney: Andrew Butchko, Esq., Of Counsel at Helmer, Paul, Conley & Kasselman, P.A., Wildwood, N.J.