NEWTON, NJ – The members of the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders have come forward to express their full support of Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada, condemning an attack on his residence in the early morning hours of Monday, June 1.
An investigation is underway following the report of gunfire, as well as graffiti with “BLM” spray-painted on a sign, in the vicinity of Sheriff Strada’s home. “The New Jersey State Police and Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office are jointly investigating an incident that occurred during the early morning hours of June 1, 2020 in Hampton Township,” said Sussex County First Assistant Prosecutor Gregory Mueller.
“The matter is under active investigation and additional information will be released when available.” Sussex County Freeholder Joshua Hertzberg released a statement on behalf of fellow Sussex County Freeholders, Freeholder Director Sylvia Petillo, Freeholder Deputy Director Dawn Fantasia, Freeholder Anthony Fasano and Freeholder Herbert Yardley.
“The Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders expresses our full support of Sheriff Michael Strada; we condemn this violent, senseless attack on his home and family,” Freeholder Hertzberg said. “As elected officials, public criticism comes with the territory, but attacks that threaten the physical safety of individuals and their families are unacceptable.” Freeholder Hertzberg said the County will provide assistance in bringing the perpetrator(s) to justice.
Additionally, as the Freeholders have taken their oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and to protect and defend citizens’ rights to peacefully demonstrate.
“Conversely, if anyone believes that they can use violence or terroristic tactics to intimidate or weaken our resolve, they are sorely mistaken. We will, with all of the powers granted to us by our electorate, continue to defend our citizens, our local businesses and all who choose to peacefully assemble and demonstrate,” Freeholder Hertzberg said.
“I appreciate all of the people who have reached out to me, with their thoughts and concerns,” Sheriff Strada said. Following the incident, Sheriff Strada said he has temporarily relocated his family from their home. Sheriff Strada also said the sign by his home with the graffiti, was replaced at approximately 4 p.m. on Monday.
Sheriff Strada said that anyone within the community with any information about the individuals responsible for the incidents, should contact the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office at: 973-383-1570, the New Jersey State Police at: 973-383-1515 or the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office at: 973-579-0850.
