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Police Blotter

Hicksville man pleads guilty in drunken crash that killed bicyclist

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Tuckerton man pleads guilty to arson and criminal mischief in Little Egg Harbor fire

OCEAN COUNTY, NJ – A 21-year-old Tuckerton man has admitted to setting a fire that destroyed part of a Little Egg Harbor Township home in January 2024, prosecutors announced.

On September 29, Thomas Lester pled guilty before Superior Court Judge Dina M. Vicari to aggravated arson and criminal mischief. Prosecutors will seek a three-year state prison sentence on the arson charge and 12 months on the criminal mischief charge, to run concurrently, when Lester is sentenced on November 17.

The fire broke out in the early morning hours of January 8, 2024, at a residence on National Union Boulevard. Firefighters were able to bring the flames under control. A joint investigation by multiple agencies, including the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad and the New Jersey State Fire Marshal’s Office, determined the blaze began in the living room and was intentionally set using an open flame and an ignitable liquid.

Detectives identified Lester and Ethan Salter, 20, of Little Egg Harbor, as those responsible. Both men were arrested on March 7, 2024, and taken to the Ocean County Jail. Lester was later released under bail reform guidelines.

Salter pled guilty to aggravated arson in April 2025. His sentencing is also scheduled for November 17, and he remains detained pending that hearing.

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Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer credited the combined efforts of multiple law enforcement and fire investigation units for closing the case.

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Key Points

  • Thomas Lester, 21, of Tuckerton, pled guilty to aggravated arson and criminal mischief
  • Fire at Little Egg Harbor home in January 2024 was ruled incendiary
  • Co-defendant Ethan Salter pled guilty earlier and awaits sentencing in November
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Humpback Whale
Community News

Maine man admits trafficking whale teeth and bird parts in illegal wildlife trade

by Shore News Network October 1, 2025
By Shore News Network

Portland, ME – A Greene man pleaded guilty in federal court Tuesday to running a black-market operation that trafficked whale and bird parts across the United States, prosecutors said.

Sergey Bachkovsky admitted in U.S. District Court that from June 2023 through March 2024 he imported and sold restricted wildlife products online, including sperm whale teeth, blue whale and minke whale ear bones, scrimshaw carvings, and a broad-winged hawk carcass. Court documents also revealed that he intended to sell additional items such as bear teeth, whale vertebrae, and wings and feathers from eagles, hawks, owls, and vultures.

Federal officials said the scheme violated the Lacey Act, a longstanding law that bans trade in wildlife obtained illegally under U.S. or state rules. The sperm whale and blue whale have been protected under the Endangered Species Act for decades, while the Marine Mammal Protection Act and Migratory Bird Treaty Act restrict the sale and transport of whale and migratory bird parts without special permits.

Bachkovsky faces up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and fines reaching $250,000 or twice the profit from his trafficking operation. A sentencing date has not been set.

The case was announced by the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which investigated the case under Operation Raw Deal—a nationwide crackdown on the illegal import and resale of whale bones and teeth.

Federal prosecutors said the guilty plea follows similar recent prosecutions tied to the same investigation, including a case in South Carolina.

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October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Police Blotter

Man killed two kidnapped in Montgomery County apartment attack

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Two suspects wanted for murder and kidnapping in North Bethesda

NORTH BETHESDA, MD – Police are searching for two men accused of killing a 29-year-old in a North Bethesda apartment and then kidnapping two others during the same incident.

The Montgomery County Department of Police announced that warrants have been issued for 18-year-old Joshua Collins and 25-year-old Justin Michael Greene Collins. Both men are wanted on charges of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping, and two counts of armed robbery.

The case stems from a September 21 incident inside an apartment in the 5900 block of Montrose Road, where 29-year-old Akwalabeng Fontava was shot and killed. Investigators say that after the shooting, a man and a woman were abducted and forced into a vehicle. The male victim was later released in Burtonsville, while the female victim was located inside a car at Westfield Montgomery mall with a third suspect.

That third suspect, identified as 37-year-old Sheldon Milan Boykins, was arrested and is being held without bond.

Detectives continue to search for Joshua Collins and Justin Michael Greene Collins. Anyone with information on their whereabouts is urged to call 1-866-411-8477 or submit a tip online.

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Key Points

  • Police seek Joshua Collins, 18, and Justin Michael Greene Collins, 25, in North Bethesda homicide and kidnapping
  • Victim Akwalabeng Fontava, 29, shot and killed inside Montrose Road apartment on September 21
  • Third suspect, Sheldon Milan Boykins, arrested and held without bond
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Breaking News

Long Island man indicted in $61K pandemic relief fraud scheme

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Uber and Lyft drivers duped in $61K relief fraud case

BROOKLYN, NY – A Long Island man has been indicted on multiple felony charges for allegedly defrauding New York’s Empire State Development grant program and pocketing more than $61,000 by submitting falsified tax documents on behalf of Brooklyn workers.

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez and New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang announced Tuesday that 34-year-old Lasha Bukia of Riverhead was arraigned on a 25-count indictment before Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice Danny Chun. He faces charges including second-degree larceny, falsifying business records, offering a false instrument for filing, and scheme to defraud. Bukia was released without bail and is due back in court on December 3.

Investigators say that between November 2021 and October 2022, Bukia prepared and submitted fraudulent grant applications for nine Brooklyn residents, including Uber and Lyft drivers and home health aides. The victims ultimately received $369,000 in state relief funds, but prosecutors allege Bukia altered their tax documents to inflate income, making them appear eligible for larger grants. He then collected $61,000 from the recipients without their knowledge that the applications had been falsified.

The grants, created during the COVID-19 pandemic, were designed to help small businesses and workers cover expenses and lost income. Prosecutors say Bukia’s actions not only exploited vulnerable workers but also undermined a program critical to the state’s recovery efforts.

The case is being prosecuted by the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Public Integrity Bureau with support from the Investigations Division.

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Key Points

  • Lasha Bukia, 34, of Riverhead indicted on 25 counts for ESD grant fraud
  • Prosecutors say he falsified tax documents for nine Brooklyn workers, pocketing $61,000
  • Defendant due back in Brooklyn Supreme Court on December 3, released without bail
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Lottery Winners

Virginia Wawa sells Mega Millions ticket worth $2 million

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

$2 million Mega Millions ticket sold at Chesapeake Wawa

CHESAPEAKE, VA – A Mega Millions ticket sold at a Wawa in Chesapeake is now worth $2 million after matching the first five numbers in Friday night’s drawing, missing only the Mega Ball.

The winning ticket was purchased at the Wawa located at 471 Kempsville Road. The September 26 drawing produced the numbers 4-21-27-33-49 with Mega Ball 21. The ticket matched all five white balls, earning the $1 million second-tier prize, which was doubled to $2 million thanks to the 2X multiplier randomly assigned at purchase.

According to the Virginia Lottery, this was the only ticket in the nation to match the five numbers in that drawing. No ticket hit all six numbers, pushing the jackpot for the next drawing on Tuesday, September 30, to an estimated $497 million.

The winner has 180 days from the drawing date to claim the prize and is urged to sign the ticket immediately to establish ownership. The odds of winning the $2 million prize are 1 in 12,629,232.

All profits from the Virginia Lottery go toward K-12 education. Last fiscal year, Chesapeake schools received more than $31.9 million in Lottery funds, part of the $901 million raised statewide for public education.

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Key Points

  • $2 million Mega Millions ticket sold at Wawa on Kempsville Road in Chesapeake
  • Ticket matched first five numbers in September 26 drawing with 2X multiplier
  • Chesapeake schools received nearly $32 million in Lottery funds last year
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Police Blotter

Chapel Street shooting sends man to hospital

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Man shot in leg on North Chapel Street hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries

BALTIMORE, MD – A 49-year-old man is recovering after being shot in the leg Sunday evening in East Baltimore, according to police.

Officers were first called to an area hospital around 7:45 p.m. on September 28 for a walk-in gunshot victim. There, they found the man being treated for a non-life-threatening wound to his leg.

The victim told investigators he was shot by an unknown suspect while in the 1800 block of North Chapel Street. Police have not released details about a possible motive or suspect description.

Eastern District detectives responded to both the hospital and the scene of the shooting to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at 410-396-2433. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Metro Crime Stoppers by calling 1-866-7LOCKUP or using the Metro Crime Stoppers of Maryland website.

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Key Points

  • 49-year-old man shot in the leg Sunday night on North Chapel Street
  • Victim transported himself to a hospital, expected to recover
  • Eastern District detectives investigating, anonymous tips encouraged
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Police crime scene. File Photo.
Police Blotter

Truck slams into concrete median leaving driver dead in Delaware

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Truck driver killed after crash on I-95 in Newark

NEWARK, DE – A Pennsylvania man died Monday afternoon after his dump truck slammed into a concrete median on Interstate 95 in Newark, according to Delaware State Police.

The crash happened around 2:30 p.m. on September 29, when an unloaded Freightliner dump truck was traveling southbound in the center-left lane approaching the Churchmans Road overpass. For reasons still under investigation, the driver suddenly braked and swerved left, striking the concrete median.

The 46-year-old driver, from Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania, was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His name is being withheld pending family notification.

The crash closed the three left lanes of southbound I-95 for roughly three hours while the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Collision Reconstruction Unit investigated and cleared the roadway.

Police are asking anyone who witnessed the crash to contact Sergeant J. Jefferson at (302) 365-8484. Tips may also be shared anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333 or via private Facebook message to the Delaware State Police.

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Key Points

  • 46-year-old Pennsylvania man killed after dump truck crash on I-95 in Newark
  • Driver was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle
  • Southbound lanes closed for three hours during crash investigation
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Police Blotter

Man arrested at Wawa after refusing to leave and ignoring ban

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Man arrested for trespassing at Cambridge Wawa found with multiple warrants

CAMBRIDGE, MD – A 52-year-old man with no fixed address was taken into custody Sunday afternoon after refusing to leave a Wawa store where he had previously been banned, police said.

On September 28 at about 2:30 p.m., Cambridge Police responded to the convenience store for a report of trespassing. Officers were given the name Timothy Roberts along with a clothing description before arriving at the scene.

When they reached the store, officers found Roberts still on the property and placed him under arrest. During processing, police discovered he was wanted on multiple bench warrants issued by the Dorchester County Circuit Court for failure to appear.

Roberts was charged with trespassing on private property and turned over to the Dorchester County Department of Corrections, where he was held without bond.

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Key Points

  • Timothy Roberts, 52, arrested for trespassing at Cambridge Wawa
  • Roberts had been previously banned from the property
  • Found to have two outstanding Dorchester County Circuit Court bench warrants for failure to appear
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Lottery Winners

Marine vet from Towson strikes $25K jackpot in Lottery promotion

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Towson and Owings Mills men score big in Maryland Lottery ‘Unlock the Cash’ live game

BALTIMORE, MD – Two Baltimore County residents walked away with thousands in winnings after competing in the Maryland Lottery’s first-ever Unlock the Cash second-chance live game at Lottery headquarters.

Marine vet from Towson strikes $25K jackpot in Lottery promotion

The event featured six locked safes, each containing sealed envelopes with prize amounts ranging from $2,500 to $15,000. Selected to play were Eliezer Adari of Owings Mills and Patrick Meers of Towson.

In the first round, Eliezer opened an envelope worth $2,500 while Patrick secured $10,000. Both then chose a second safe, opening their envelopes simultaneously after a dramatic countdown. Eliezer revealed another $2,500, bringing his total to $5,000, while Patrick uncovered the $15,000 top envelope, raising his winnings to $25,000.

Patrick, a retired U.S. Marine now working for a health insurance company, said the experience was unforgettable. Eliezer, a retiree, shared that his prize money would go right back into playing the Lottery.

The Unlock the Cash promotion began August 22 and continues with two more drawings on October 9 and November 6. Each drawing will select two players who will visit Lottery headquarters in Baltimore to try their luck at unlocking safes for up to $25,000. Entries are earned by submitting $10 worth of non-winning Break the Bank scratch-offs or FAST PLAY Cash Combination tickets into the My Lottery Rewards program.

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Key Points

  • Towson’s Patrick Meers won $25,000 top prize, Owings Mills’ Eliezer Adari won $5,000
  • Players unlocked safes containing envelopes worth $2,500 to $15,000
  • Promotion continues with two more drawings scheduled for October 9 and November 6
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Police Blotter

One man jailed another wanted after DC robbery spree

by Local News Report October 1, 2025
By Local News Report

Arrest made in Southeast DC robbery involving pickaxe theft

WASHINGTON, DC – Police have arrested a Northeast man accused of carrying out a violent robbery in Southeast Washington last month, where suspects allegedly stole a pickaxe and threatened a victim before fleeing.

The incident happened on August 15 around 11:50 a.m. in the 3000 block of Nelson Place SE. According to investigators, two suspects confronted the victim after removing a pickaxe from his truck. The pair threatened the victim, stole his property, and escaped in a black SUV.

On September 21, officers located the suspects’ vehicle and arrested 24-year-old Gino Jacquesz Williams of Northeast. He was charged with robbery, theft from a motor vehicle, unlawful use of a vehicle, receiving stolen property, and leaving after colliding.

One man jailed another wanted after DC robbery spree

Detectives also tied Williams to a separate case the day before his arrest. On September 20, he allegedly stole items from a victim’s van on the 4200 block of Foote Street NE, threatening the owner before fleeing. For that incident, Williams now faces additional charges of theft from a motor vehicle and threats to do bodily harm.

An additional person of interest remains at large in connection with the Nelson Place robbery. Surveillance images of the second suspect have been released as the investigation continues.

Anyone who can identify this person or who has knowledge of this incident should take no action but call police at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Department’s TEXT TIP LINE at 50411. The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for a violent crime committed in the District of Columbia.

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Key Points

  • 24-year-old Gino Jacquesz Williams arrested for August 15 robbery in Southeast DC
  • Suspects stole a pickaxe and threatened the victim before fleeing in SUV
  • Williams also charged in a separate Foote Street theft the following month
October 1, 2025 0 comments
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Police Blotter

New Rochelle man arrested after shots fired and loaded gun found in couch

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

New Rochelle, NY – A 35-year-old man is facing felony charges after police recovered a loaded handgun hidden inside a couch following a shots fired incident on Webster Avenue last week.

At approximately 8:55 p.m. on September 24, New Rochelle police units responded to multiple reports of gunfire near Webster Avenue and Remington Place. Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male with short hair and a beard, possibly dressed in gray, and saw him run into 160 Remington Place after the shooting.

Officers secured an apartment inside the building while additional units set up a perimeter. Detectives later recovered one 9mm shell casing at the scene.

The suspect, identified as Kenneth Hairston, exited the apartment and was taken into custody without incident. A subsequent search revealed multiple 9mm rounds in a closet and a loaded SCCY 9mm handgun concealed in a couch.

Hairston has been charged under New York State law with criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, a C felony, and reckless endangerment in the first degree, a D felony.

The New Rochelle Police Department credited witnesses and residents for their cooperation in helping secure the arrest.


Cops say the suspect stepped out quietly, but the firepower left behind told another story.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Atlantic City Steel Pier
Community News

Atlantic City shuts beaches as hurricanes churn up deadly surf

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Atlantic City, NJ – Officials have closed all beaches in Atlantic City after massive swells and rip currents created by Hurricanes Imelda and Humberto made conditions too dangerous for swimmers.

The closure comes as the Atlantic City Beach Patrol ended its summer season Monday, leaving no lifeguards on duty. The timing coincides with the traditional last day of guarded beaches, September 30.

“Please stay out of the water,” urged Beach Patrol Chief Steve Downey. “It is huge surf down here, some of the biggest I’ve ever seen. We are asking people to avoid the dangerous surf and stay safely out of the water until further notice.”

Although the storms are still hundreds of miles offshore, the National Hurricane Center reported Tuesday morning that both systems are generating powerful swells spreading from the Bahamas up the U.S. east coast. The center warned the conditions are “likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.”

According to the United States Lifesaving Association, rip currents claim up to 100 lives annually at beaches across the country, underscoring the risk of entering the Atlantic waters while the storms remain active.


September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Police Blotter

Hospital worker stabbed in Columbus kitchen as suspect flees into woods

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Columbus, OH – A workplace confrontation inside Mount Carmel East Hospital erupted into violence Tuesday morning when an employee was stabbed multiple times in a kitchen area before the suspect fled into nearby woods, police said.

Officers were called to the hospital at approximately 8:45 a.m. Tuesday after reports of a stabbing between co-workers. Responding officers found the victim suffering from several lacerations in the hospital’s kitchen. The victim was rushed to the emergency room in critical condition and later stabilized.

Investigators identified the suspect as Makaela Wilson, who ran from the building with a knife in her hand. Surveillance video captured Wilson fleeing the hospital and attempting to hide the weapon under her shirt.

Police located Wilson in a wooded area near the hospital following a brief foot chase. Officers recovered a large knife at the scene. Wilson sustained minor self-inflicted injuries and was treated while in custody.

She has been charged with felonious assault, according to the Columbus Division of Police.


September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Community News

Police search for hit and run driver in crash that killed two New Jersey teens

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Cranford, NJ – Two teenage girls were fatally struck while riding an electronic bike on Burnside Avenue late Monday afternoon, sparking a countywide plea for public assistance in tracking down the driver involved.

The crash occurred at approximately 5:26 p.m. Monday near the intersections of Hillcrest Avenue, Burnside Avenue, and Lincoln Avenue, according to the Union County Prosecutor’s Office. The victims, both juveniles, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators are focusing on a 2021 black Jeep Compass Utility 4D Altitude 4WD with tinted windows that was believed to be in the area at the time of the crash. Authorities released a reference photo of the make and model as they seek witnesses and video evidence.

Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel urged residents and drivers who may have passed through the neighborhood Monday afternoon to review home surveillance systems and dash cameras for any footage of the Jeep before or after the crash.

The investigation is being led by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force in collaboration with the Cranford Police Department.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Alex Lanza of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office at (908) 370-4318 or Cranford Police Detective Jason D’Agostino at (908) 276-0171. Anonymous tips may be submitted by calling 908-654-TIPS (8477) or online at www.uctip.org. Information leading to an arrest and indictment could qualify for a reward of up to $10,000 through Union County Crime Stoppers.


September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Food & Dining

Brooklyn Square Pizza firing up new Marlboro pizzeria

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Marlboro, NJ – A New Jersey favorite known for its upside-down square pies is getting ready to expand again. Brooklyn Square Pizza will open its fifth location in Marlboro, owner Pietro “Peter” Grippo confirmed Monday.

The new restaurant is being built at 260 County Route 520 and is expected to open in January, though a specific date has not yet been set.

Brooklyn Square, which recently earned a top spot on many pizza lists online, already operates in Jackson, Manalapan, Toms River and Bradley Beach.

The Bradley Beach shop was the most recent to open, debuting this past spring.

Grippo’s store, a local hit in Jackson Township, became a national headline when he got an 8.9 score from Dave Portnoy, still one of the Barstool president’s highest scores ever given to a square pie.

Join us in wishing Grippo and Brooklyn Square much success in their latest venture as the brand continues to grow by leaps and bounds.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Featured News

New Jersey had to remove 1 million bogus registered voters ahead of 2025 election

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Trenton, NJ – New Jersey election officials confirmed the removal of more than 1 million inactive and ineligible voters from state rolls, a sweeping cleanup that comes as federal authorities review compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA).

The state reported earlier this month that over 100,000 inactive voters had been taken off the lists in the latest round of updates.

Current figures show 224,653 inactive registrations, a sharp decline from the 496,711 reported in 2022. The reduction follows a statutory notice from federal officials questioning whether New Jersey’s voter list maintenance met NVRA standards.

The issue carries political weight.

In the last gubernatorial race, Gov. Phil Murphy defeated Jack Ciattarelli by fewer than 84,000 votes. At that time, the state’s rolls contained nearly half a million inactive voters.

Federal data previously showed incremental growth in inactive voters: 412,572 in 2018, 413,728 in 2020, and nearly half a million by 2022. With the latest removals, New Jersey has cut that figure by more than half.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Business News

FirstEnergy to host public conference call as New Jersey electric prices soar

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

TRENTON, NJ – With electric bills climbing across New Jersey, FirstEnergy Corp. announced it will host a public conference call to review its third-quarter financial results and address customer concerns. The call is set for Thursday, October 23, at 9 a.m. EDT, following the company’s earnings release the prior evening.

The utility, which serves more than 6 million customers across six states, said its management team will walk through quarterly performance, financial outlook, and operational priorities before opening the floor to questions. Customers, investors, and other stakeholders can listen in via a live webcast on FirstEnergy’s investor relations website, where slides and presentation materials will also be posted.

The company’s announcement comes as households in New Jersey face higher utility bills heading into the colder months. FirstEnergy operates both distribution and transmission subsidiaries in the region, maintaining more than 24,000 miles of power lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic.

The webcast will remain available online for up to one year for those unable to join the live session.

Follow FirstEnergy online at www.firstenergycorp.com and on X @FirstEnergyCorp.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Business News

Jersey Mike’s names Betsy Mercado as first chief people officer

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Manasquan, NJ – Jersey Mike’s Subs has appointed Betsy Mercado as the company’s first-ever Chief People Officer, a newly created role aimed at guiding the brand’s people strategy as it accelerates nationwide and global expansion. The announcement is effective immediately.

Mercado will oversee leadership development, compliance, and the overall team member experience while advancing initiatives to build high-performance teams and sustain the brand’s culture. CEO Charlie Morrison said Mercado’s mix of franchise expertise and human resources leadership makes her “the ideal leader to advance our people-first culture” as the sandwich chain continues rapid growth.

Jersey Mike’s names Betsy Mercado as first chief people officer
Betsy Mercado, Chief People Officer, Jersey Mike’s.

Mercado brings more than 20 years of HR leadership experience across restaurants and franchises. She most recently served as Chief People Officer at Flynn Group, the world’s largest franchise operator, where she directed people operations for more than 2,700 restaurants and fitness clubs. She also previously held senior HR leadership positions at The Palm Restaurants.

In her new role, Mercado said she aims to “enhance an environment where every team member can grow, contribute meaningfully, and take pride in being a part of the Jersey Mike’s story.”

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Sports

Toms River BMX Rider Wins Silver at Salt Lake City X Games

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

X Games rocks Salt Lake City debut with record tricks and Monster Energy sweep

TOMS RIVER, NJ – The X Games marked its 30th anniversary with a high-octane debut in Utah, where athletes pushed the limits in BMX, skateboarding, and Moto X over three days of competition. Backed by Monster Energy as the title sponsor, riders and skaters set new records and landed never-before-seen tricks inside the Utah State Fairpark and Event Center.

BMX star Ryan Williams from Australia claimed double gold, winning BMX Dirt and BMX Dirt Best Trick by landing the world’s first triple backflip on dirt. The event also delivered a hometown highlight for New Jersey: 22-year-old Brady Baker of Toms River took silver in BMX Dirt, standing on the podium alongside Williams and Daniel Sandoval of California, who secured bronze.

In skateboarding, 19-year-old Filipe Mota of Brazil stunned fans in Street Best Trick with a Caballerial kickflip backside tailslide for gold. Fifteen-year-old Arisa Trew from Australia continued her dominance in women’s events, winning Vert Best Trick with a never-landed move and securing her eighth career gold. She also added silver in Women’s Vert.

Moto X brought the heat with Julien Vanstippen of Belgium taking Best Whip gold, while brothers Tom and Ben Richards earned silver and bronze in Best Trick. Tucson’s Kevin Peraza closed the weekend with a groundbreaking tailwhip wall ride transfer in BMX Park Best Trick, securing another gold for Monster Energy.

In all, Monster Energy athletes collected 21 medals – seven gold, eight silver, and six bronze – as the 74th edition of the X Games delivered a historic celebration of action sports.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Business News

Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group attorneys named to Best Lawyers in Toms River 2026

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

TOMS RIVER, NJ – Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group announced that five of its attorneys have been named to the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers in America, a peer-reviewed recognition honoring excellence in family law.

The honorees include partners Dianna C. Cavaliere, Robyn Howlett, Carmela Novi, and Rachel Partyka, who were each recognized for family law, along with Judge Philip Maenza (Ret.), recognized for family law mediation. In addition, Robyn Howlett earned the title of Lawyer of the Year in Family Law for the Toms River region.

Best Lawyers in America, one of the profession’s oldest peer-review publications, evaluates attorneys based on confidential assessments from colleagues. Recognition is given for professional expertise, ethical standards, and consistent client results.

Managing partner Bari Weinberger said the recognition reflects the “trust and respect” the firm’s attorneys have earned in the legal community. The announcement follows other honors for the firm this year, including being named a Best Law Firm for 2025 and having multiple attorneys listed as New Jersey Super Lawyers and Rising Stars.

Weinberger Divorce & Family Law Group, with offices across New Jersey, focuses exclusively on family law matters, including divorce, custody, and mediation.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Food & Dining

Harlem Shake teams with Citymeals on Wheels for Big Apple PigOut fundraiser

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

New York, NY – Harlem Shake is joining forces with Citymeals on Wheels to launch the Big Apple PigOut, a month-long campaign designed to raise money for homebound seniors in New York City. The partnership kicks off Wednesday and runs through November 1 at Harlem Shake’s Manhattan and Brooklyn locations.

The PigOut features a $35 combo with three new menu items: the Pigskin Burger made with two Pat LaFrieda beef patties, pork rinds, cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and BBQ sauce; Bacon Cheese Fries topped with cheese sauce, bacon, and chives; and a Double Chocolate Bacon Milkshake. Twenty percent of each combo purchase will be donated to Citymeals on Wheels.

Customers dining in or ordering delivery can also make additional donations, which Harlem Shake will contribute to the nonprofit. Founded in 1981, Citymeals on Wheels delivers meals to 22,000 older New Yorkers who are unable to shop or cook for themselves.

The fundraiser will be available at Harlem Shake’s flagship on West 124th Street in Harlem and its Brooklyn location on 5th Avenue in Park Slope.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Business News

Burger King sinks its fangs into Halloween with monster menu debut

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

TOMS RIVER, NJ – Burger King is rolling out its first-ever Monster Menu, a Halloween-themed lineup of new creations that hit restaurants nationwide on Tuesday. The chain, known for putting a spooky twist on the holiday, is offering items inspired by classic monsters and served in limited-edition packaging.

The Monster Menu features four new items: the Jack-O-Lantern Whopper, served on a bright orange bun topped with black sesame seeds; Vampire Nuggets, shaped like bats and fangs and packaged in coffin-style cartons; Mummy Mozzarella Fries, breaded sticks paired with marinara; and the Franken-Candy Sundae, a soft-serve dessert with OREO crumbles, purple candy syrup, and popping candy.

Joel Yashinsky, Burger King’s Chief Marketing Officer, said the promotion is part of the company’s annual effort to deliver “spirited” offerings during Halloween. He noted the brand has expanded the experience with themed packaging, collectible crowns, buckets, and Scooby-Doo toys.

For children, the chain is also revamping its King Jr. Meal, introducing Vampire Nuggets as the first major menu innovation for the kids’ meal in years. Each box includes a toy from a new Scooby-Doo series, allowing kids to join the Mystery Gang in solving spooky challenges.

The limited-time Monster Menu will be available at participating U.S. Burger King locations through Halloween.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Food & Dining

Arby’s loses battle to dismiss roast beef false advertising lawsuit

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Brooklyn, NY – A federal judge has cleared the way for a proposed class action lawsuit against Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc., which accuses the fast-food chain of misleading customers about the amount and quality of meat in its signature roast beef sandwiches.

Plaintiff Joseph Alongis filed the case on behalf of himself and other New York consumers, claiming Arby’s ads falsely represented that its sandwiches contained “rare roast beef” and at least double the meat actually served. The menu items at issue include the Classic Roast Beef, Double Roast Beef, Half Pound Roast Beef, Beef ’N Cheddar variations, and the Smokehouse Brisket.

Arby’s sought to dismiss the case, arguing that Alongis lacked standing to represent customers who purchased different sandwiches or ordered through online platforms such as Uber Eats, Grubhub, Seamless, and DoorDash. But U.S. District Judge Nusrat J. Choudhury ruled that Alongis had standing to pursue claims on behalf of both in-store and online customers in New York, finding that the alleged misrepresentations raised the same concerns across the product line.

The court partially granted Arby’s motion, dismissing certain aspects of the complaint, but allowed core claims under New York General Business Law §§ 349 and 350, which prohibit false and deceptive advertising, to proceed.

The ruling means Arby’s must now face discovery over whether its marketing misled consumers about the content of its popular roast beef sandwiches.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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New York City News

Judge allows lawsuit against NYPD officers to proceed in false arrest case

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Brooklyn, NY – A federal judge has ruled that parts of Isaiah Sano’s civil rights lawsuit against the City of New York and three NYPD officers can move forward, rejecting efforts by the city to dismiss the case in full.

Sano filed the suit in 2022, claiming Officers Devon D. Moses, Patrick Sanon, and Detective Brian Flynn falsely accused him of firing a gun outside his apartment building in October 2021. According to the amended complaint, the officers knowingly misrepresented video evidence, then arrested Sano two weeks later without probable cause.

Sano alleges he was taken to multiple precincts, subjected to a strip search, and questioned without being informed of his rights. He also claims officers mocked him during transport, with one allegedly saying, “Once I get you in cuffs, everything is over baby… Without you, I wouldn’t have a job,” before blasting music in the car.

The officers later reported that drugs were found on Sano during the arrest, but he contends the search and seizure were unlawful. His lawsuit, brought under 42 U.S.C. §§ 1983, 1985, and 1988, also includes claims under state law.

U.S. District Judge Dora L. Irizarry granted the city’s motion to dismiss in part but allowed several constitutional claims, including those related to false arrest, unlawful search, and malicious prosecution, to proceed.

The decision means the case will now enter discovery, keeping the officers and the city facing liability in federal court.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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Community News

Judge sides with Mantua schools in fight over special education evaluation costs

by Shore News Network September 30, 2025
By Shore News Network

Camden, NJ – A federal judge has ruled that the Mantua Township Board of Education is not required to pay for independent evaluations obtained by the parent of a former student, overturning a state administrative order that had forced the district to cover the costs.

The dispute arose after E.K., the parent of an autistic student identified as W.W., sought three outside educational assessments and then demanded reimbursement from the district under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). In 2022, a New Jersey administrative law judge granted the parent’s request, finding the Board had waived its right to challenge the invoices.

But in a decision released last week, U.S. District Judge Karen M. Williams reversed that outcome, holding that the administrative judge misapplied state regulations. The court granted judgment in favor of the Board, concluding that the waiver finding improperly sidestepped whether Mantua schools were actually responsible for the bills under federal and state special education law.

The IDEA requires public schools to evaluate students suspected of having disabilities and, in some circumstances, pay for independent educational evaluations if parents disagree with the district’s findings. Mantua officials argued they had followed proper procedures and were not obligated to cover the additional testing.

The ruling sends the case back into the district’s column after years of litigation, clarifying that the earlier administrative decision cannot stand.

September 30, 2025 0 comments
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