Two Seriously Injured In Early Saturday Morning Hit & Run

East Orange Man And Newark Woman Remain Hospitalized After Being Struck By A Motor Vehicle In Jersey City

Sunday, June 30, 2024, 7:15 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit is continuing the investigation into an early Saturday morning hit-and-run in Jersey City, that left an East Orange, New Jersey man and a Newark, New Jersey woman hospitalized in serious condition after the moped they were riding was struck by a motor vehicle that fled the scene. 

     According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at around 12:20 a.m., members of the Jersey City Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting a crash in the area of Martin Luther King Drive and Wilkinson Street in Jersey City.

      Upon arrival, Police Officers located two people, identified as a 36-year-old East Orange, New Jersey man, and a 23-year-old Newark, New Jersey woman both having sustained serious injuries from being struck by a vehicle while they were on a moped. Both individuals were immediately transported to Jersey City Medical Center where they remain being treated for their injuries.

     During the initial investigation, responding Officers learned that the vehicle that struck the two fled the scene. A short time later Police Officers recovered the vehicle.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. No arrests have been made at this time. Anyone with information or who may have witnessed the crash is urged to contact the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office at (201) 915-1345. All calls will be kept confidential.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 30, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON:

          

Satire: Republican & Democratic Paleontological Societies Keeping Old Swamp Creature Fossils On Display

Despite Calls To Display Newly Discovered Swamp Creatures Democrats & Republicans Still Keep Showing The Same Old Fossils

Sunday, June 30, 2024, 7:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Ryan Metz: Englebrook Independent News,

WASHINGTON, DC.- This week both Republican and Democratic Paleontological societies faced calls to end their display of old fossils, and instead present newly discovered swamp creatures for public viewing.

     Members of both societies have been asking for this change for over a year, with strengthened and renewed calls since their latest public display was widely panned by all as embarrassing and a waste of time.

     These old fossils have been on display for decades, generating massive amounts of funding for both societies over the years. However, public opinion has been steadily turning with most paleontological enthusiasts growing bored, tired, and in some cases even depressed that these fossils are still being displayed after all these years. Said one paleontologist, "It's crazy to me that no matter how many times we ask to see something new, they just bring out these same old fossils with a slightly different display background. They once were exciting, but now they're little more than just an old pile of bones. We really need to see something new here."

      Discoveries of other swamp creatures from more recent epochs have long been rumored, but little evidence has been released to the public. With the latest displays of these societies widely perceived to be abject failures, the newer swamp creatures are generating curiosity and renewed calls for change.

      Both societies as a result have been seeing huge decreases in their membership numbers with existing members leaving, and potential new members refusing to sign up. When asked about this both societies had a similar message. 

      According to the outreach director of the Democratic Society, "Look, our societies are the only game in town, and we keep it that way on purpose. Sooner or later, everyone has to come back to us. We will not be making any changes any time soon."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 30, 2024: WASHINGTON< NATIONAL, LOCAL, POLITICS, ELECTION 2024: 

   

   

Teacher Charged With Having Sexual Relationship With Young Student

43-Year-Old Teacher Charged Has Been Charged With Engaging In A Sexual Relationship With A Student

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 4:00 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

FREEHOLD, NJ.- Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago reported, that following an investigation, a Freehold Intermediate School teacher was taken into custody and jailed following being charged in connection with having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a preteen student.

     Allison Havemann-Niedrach, 43, of Jackson, New Jersey, has been charged with one count of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; and one count of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

     A joint investigation by members of the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office Special Victims Bureau and the Freehold Borough Police Department determined that Havemann-Niedrach engaged in sexual conduct with a child that began earlier this year.

     Havemann-Niedrach was taken into custody without incident early this week. Following being processed on the charges Havemann-Niedrach was remanded to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution where she remains pending future court proceedings in Monmouth County Superior Court in Freehold, New Jersey.

     The Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office has filed a motion to have Havemann-Niedrach detained pending trial.

     Anyone with information regarding this matter or any other matters involving Havemann-Niedrach conduct is urged to contact Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office Detective Dawn Correia at 800 533-7443.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MONMOUTH:  

      

  

Man Charged With Carjacking, Kidnapping & Weapons Offenses

33-Year-Old Man Charged Following An Apparent Domestic Dispute Thursday Night That Triggered An Amber Alert

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 1:30 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- A 33-year-old Paterson, New Jersey man was taken into custody Friday morning following an apparent domestic dispute that occurred late Thursday night in Paterson, New Jersey, that led to a 34-year-old Paterson woman and her 2-year-old child being carjacked at gunpoint, triggering a Statewide Amber Alert, which led to the woman and child being returned safely.

     According to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, on Friday, following being taken into custody, Junior Nunez, 33, of Paterson, New Jersey was formally charged with first-degree Kidnapping; first-degree Carjacking; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; second-degree Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons; third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child; and two counts of Disorderly Persons Offense of Simple Assault.

     The charges stem from an investigation that began on Thursday, June 27, 2024, when shortly after 10:30 p.m., members of the Paterson Police Department responded to a report of a kidnapping and carjacking in the area of Piercy and Holsman Streets in the City of Paterson.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers were advised by witnesses that a 34-year-old Paterson, New Jersey woman and her 2-year-old child had been carjacked and kidnapped at gunpoint. During the initial investigation, Police Officers identified Nunez as the suspect, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. 

      On Friday, June 28, 2024, at approximately 6:53 a.m., members of the Paterson Police Department arrested Nunez without incident, and the woman and her child were found unharmed and in good health.

      Following being processed on the charges, Nunez was remanded to an area county jail pending future court proceedings in Passaic County Superior Court I Paterson, New Jersey. 

      Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or you can contact the Paterson Police Department at (973) 321-1111. All calls will be kept confidential.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: LAW, LOCAL, PASSAIC:        

Man Injured In Friday Night Paterson Shooting

56-Year-Old Paterson Man Was Hospitalized After Being Struck By Gunfire Late Friday Night

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 11:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- Passaic County authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding a shooting that left a 56-year-old Paterson, New Jersey man hospitalized after gunfire erupted late last night on a Paterson, New Jersey street.

     According to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, on Friday, June 28, 2024, just shortly before 11:00 p.m., members of the Paterson Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting a shooting in the area of Market and Mill Streets in the City of Paterson.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a 56-year-old Paterson, New Jersey man, who had sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The man was immediately transported to Saint Joseph's University Medical Center for treatment, the man's condition is unknown at this time.

     During the initial investigation, Police Officers were able to locate evidence of a shooting at that location.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. No arrests have been made at this time as authorities continue to search for the gunman.

     Anyone with information regarding this shooting is urged to contact the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj,org or you can contact the Paterson Police Department's Shooting Investigation Unit at (973) 321-1342. All calls will be kept confidential.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, PASSAIC:

       

Woman Charged With Operating Prostitution Spas

53-Year-Old Egg Harbor Township Woman Charged With Operating 2 Brothels In Ocean County

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 9:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BARNEGAT, NJ.- Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer reported, that following an eight-month investigation into alleged prostitution activities, in Barnegat Township, New Jersey, and Stafford Township, New Jersey, a 53-year-old Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey woman woman was taken into custody and charged.

     On June 19, 2024, Kani Peng, 53, of Egg Harbor Township was formally charged with Promoting Prostitution; Maintaining a Nuisance, for Operating a House of Prostitution; Financial Facilitation; and Engaging in Prostitution. Peng was processed on the charges and released on a summons pending future court proceedings in Ocean County Superior Court in Toms River, New Jersey.

     Beginning in October 2023, through June 2024, Detectives of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, the Barnegat Township Police Department, and the Stafford Township Police Department conducted an investigation into alleged acts of prostitution being conducted out of two locations, the Rainbow Spa in Barnegat Township and the Bay Spa in Strafford Township.

     The investigation determined that women who were living at both the Rainbow Spa and the Bay Spa were engaging in sexual activity for money. Detectives further determined that Peng was the owner and manager of both locations and was seen on numerous occasions bringing supplies to both locations, including food, clothing, and cleaning supplies.

     On June 19, 2024, investigators executed court-authorized search warrants on Peng's residence in Egg Harbor Township, as well as the two spas. During the search, investigators found evidence that confirmed that prostitution activities were occurring at both locations and records confirming that Peng was the owner and operator of both spas.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, OCEAN: 

            

Passaic Man Convicted For Sexually Assaulting Child

On Thursday, A 36-Year-Old Passaic Man Was Convicted For Sexually Assaulting A Child Over 6 Years

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 8:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PASSAIC, NJ.- On Thursday, June 27, 2024, a jury sitting in Passaic County, New Jersey found Sergio Bernal, 36, of Passaic, New Jersey guilty of 14 counts of sex crimes and witness tampering in connection with the repeated sexual assaults of a child over 6 years in Passaic, New Jersey, beginning when the child was ten years old.

     According to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, on August 5, 2020, Detectives of the Passaic Police Department contacted the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office Special Victims Unit after a 16-year-old child came forward and reported being sexually assaulted in Passaic, New Jersey. an investigation was initiated.

     During the investigation, Detectives interviewed the child and multiple witnesses. During the interview, the child reported being sexually assaulted by Bernal on multiple occasions between October 2013 and August 2020, at multiple residences in Passaic, New Jersey.

     Based on the investigation, Bernal was taken into custody and charged with multiple sex crimes against the child. Detectives further learned that after Bernal was taken into custody he attempted to bribe several of the witnesses to recant their statements to Detectives. Following the learning of the bribery attempts, Bernal was additionally charged with bribery and witness tampering. 

     Following a trial in Passaic County Superior Court, on June 27, 2024, the jury convicted Bernal of 18 counts of first, second, and third-degree sex crimes and bribery offenses, including three counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault.

     Sentencing in the matter has been scheduled for October 29, 2024, before the Honorable Marilyn C. Clark, Judge of the Superior Court of Passaic County. Due to the nature and time span of the offenses, Mr. Bernal will face the potential of spending the rest of his life in New Jersey State Prison.

     Bernal remains detained in the Bergen County Jail and following sentencing, he will be transferred to the New Jersey State Department of Corrections to serve his sentence. If released on parole after serving at least 25 years in prison, Bernal will be subject to parole supervision for life and will be required to register as a sex offender pursuant to Megan's Law requirements.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, PASSAIC:   

       

Man Charged With Narcotics Offenses In Fatal Overdose

39-Year-Old Paterson Man Charged On Thursday With Drug Offenses For The May 2024 Westwood Overdose Death

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 6:15 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

WESTWOOD, NJ.- On Thursday, June 27, 2024, a 39-year-old Paterson, New Jersey man was taken into custody and jailed after being charged with multiple narcotics offenses in connection with the fatal overdose of a 38-year-old Westwood, New Jersey man that occurred early last month.

     According to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, on Thursday, May 2, 2024, shortly after 4:30 p.m., members of the Westwood Police Department and Emergency Medical Service Personnel responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting an unconscious and unresponsive man at a residence in Westwood.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a man, later identified as Lance Kerness, 38, of Westwood, New Jersey, and despite life-saving efforts, Mr. Kerness was pronounced deceased in the residence. Police Officers found evidence of possible drug use and notified the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Narcotics Task Force. 

     During an ensuing investigation by Detectives of the Bergen County Narcotics Task Force and the Westwood Police Department, Detectives were able to determine that Jesus A. Cantillo, 39, of Paterson, New Jersey, sold the narcotics to Mr. Kerness that ultimately caused his death.

     On Thursday, June 27, 2024, members of the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Narcotics Task Force and the Westwood Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at the Paterson home of Mr. Cantillo. During the search Detectives found narcotics, including fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana.

     Accordingly, Cantillo was taken into custody in Paterson, New Jersey, and formally charged with first-degree Possession With the Intent to Distribute Cocaine; second-degree Possession With the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl; and third-degree Possession With the Intent to Distribute Marijuana.

     Cantillo was processed on the charges and was remanded to the Bergen County Jail pending future court proceedings in Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack, New Jersey. The investigation into the fatal overdose of narcotics taken by Mr. Kerness remains active and ongoing, and additional charges are possible.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, BERGEN:

  

     

 

Man Sentenced To Prison For Kidnapping And Sexual Assault

38-Year-Old Dover Man Sentenced To 40 Years In Prison For Kidnapping & Sexually Assaulting His Ex-Girlfriend

Saturday, June 29, 2024, 5:00 A.M. ET. 3 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

DOVER, NJ.- Yesterday, a 38-year-old Dover, New Jersey man was sentenced to State Prison for kidnapping and repeatedly sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend in his car in September 2021 in Randolph Township, New Jersey.

     According to Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, on Friday, June 28, 2024, Jesse Meneses, 38, of Dover appeared in Morris County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable Stephen Taylor to a term of 40 years in New Jersey State Prison. The sentence was subject to the No Early Release Act which will require Meneses to serve 85% of of his custodial sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

     If granted parole, Meneses after serving 32 years and 3 months will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan's Law registration requirements and will be on parole supervision for life.

     On February 2, 2024, a jury sitting in Morris County, New Jersey found Meneses guilty on the charges of two counts of first-degree Kidnapping; three counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; three counts of second-degree Sexual Assault; three counts of third-degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact; three counts of fourth-degree Criminal Sexual Contact; one count of third-degree Terroristic Threats; one count of third-degree Witness Tampering; and one count of third-degree Conspiracy to Commit Witness Tampering.

     The charges and sentence stem from an incident that unfolded on September 5, 2021, in Randolph Township, New Jersey, when Meneses repeatedly sexually assaulted his ex-girlfriend inside his car. Following the assaults, Meneses then confined her inside his car as he drove from Randolph Township through Victory Gardens, ultimately ending up in Dover where she was able to escape and report Meneses to authorities.

     A joint investigation by members of the Dover and Randolph Township Police Departments, and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office led to Meneses being taken into custody and charged. Following being charged, Meneses between April 2022 and October 2022, contacted family members of his ex-girlfriend to change the report that she made to authorities.

     Following Friday's sentence, Meneses will remain in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his transfer to the New Jersey State Department of Corrections to begin his prison term.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MORRIS: 

  

         

  

Man Sentenced To Prison For Driving While License Suspensions

60-Year-Old Absecon Man Sentenced To State Prison For Repeatly Driving While His Driving License Is Suspended

Friday, June 29, 2024, 12:00 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

MAYS LANDING, NJ.- Yesterday, a 60-year-old Absecon, New Jersey man appeared in Atlantic County Superior Court and was sentenced to New Jersey State Prison for repeatedly driving while his New Jersey driver's license was suspended for past driving while intoxicated charges.

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, Thomas J. Fox, III appeared before the Honorable Dorothy Incarvito-Garrabrant, J.S.C., and was sentenced on two counts of fourth-degree Driving During License Suspension for Prior DUIs to concurrent 15-month State Prison terms with a mandatory parole ineligibility of 180 days. Fox had been previously found guilty of both counts following a jury trial in April 2024.

     The sentence is a result of an investigation that began on February 14, 2018, when a Galloway Township Police Officer conducted a vehicle stop on Fox after he was observed engaging in a motor vehicle infraction on Route 50 in the township. During the motor vehicle stop, Fox was unable to produce a valid New Jersey Driver's License. Following a computer check, the Police Officer discovered that Fox's license was suspended for two prior driving while intoxicated convictions.

     Accordingly, Fox was subsequently charged by the Galloway Township Police Officer and was later indicted by an Atlantic County grand Jury. After being convicted in April, Judge Incarvito-Garrabrant remanded Fox to the county jail pending yesterday's sentencing.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC:         

Two Additionally Charged In Bayonne Undercover Narcotics Investigation

Bayonne Couple First Charged On June 18, 2024, In Narcotics Investigation, Face Multiple Additional Charges

Friday, June 29, 2024, 10:30 A.M. ET. 3 Minute Read By George Petruska: Englebrook Independent News,

BAYONNE, NJ.- A 29-year-old Bayonne, New Jersey man, and a 23-year-old Bayonne, New Jersey woman who were first charged on June 18, 2024, following an undercover narcotics investigation with numerous narcotics violations, have been additionally charged with 11 additional counts of narcotics offenses.

     According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, Giovanny Alfaro, 29, of Bayonne, and Jamie Juarez, 23, of Bayonne, are each additionally charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine; Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Within a 1,000 Feet of School Property; Possession With the Intent to Distribute Cocaine Within 500 Feet of Public Property; Possession With the Intent to Distribute Marijana; Possession With the Intent to Distribute Marijuana Within 1,000 Feet of School Property; Possession With the Intent to Distribute Marijuana Within 500 Feet of Public Property; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; two counts of Possession With the Intent to Distribute Oxycodone; Possession With the Intent to Distribute Oxycodone Within 1,000 Feet of School Property; and Possession With the Intent to Distribute Oxycodone Within 500 Feet of Public Property.

     Both Alfaro and Juarez were first taken into custody on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, after numerous transactions were conducted with an undercover officer. The transactions included the of an illegal firearm and the sale of illicit narcotics. 

     The additional charges were filed based on the recovery of additional narcotics following a court-authorized search warrant on vehicles that were seized at the time of Alfaro's and Juarez's arrests.

     Alfaro was served with the additional charges at the Hudson County Correctional Facility where he is being detained pending trial. Juarez was served with a complaint summons pending her first appearance in Hudson County Central Judicial Processing Court in Jersey City, New Jersey.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 29, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON:

         

Woman Charged In Overdose Death Of Infant Son

32-Year-Old Philadelphia Woman Charged With Allowing Her 10-Month-Old Son To Be Exposed To Xylazine

Friday, June 28, 2024, 7:15 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

MEDFORD TOWNSHIP, NJ.- Last week, a 32-year-old Philadelphia, Pennsylvania woman was taken into custody and is awaiting extradition back to New Jersey to face charges in connection with allowing her infant son to be exposed to an illicit drug, ultimately leading to the infant's death in November 2022.

     According to Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw, Vanessa Hampton, 32, of the Frankford section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was formally charged last week with second-degree Manslaughter; and third-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance. Hampton is currently being detained in the Philadelphia City Jail system awaiting extradition to New Jersey.

     The charges stem from an investigation that began in November 2022, when members of the Medford Township Police Department responded to a residence following receiving a 911 Emergency Call reporting an unresponsive infant. The infant boy was immediately transported to Virtua Hospital in Voorhees, New Jersey, and later transferred to Children's Hospital in Philadelphia. The boy failed to regain consciousness and was tragically pronounced deceased a week later.

     Following the infant's death an autopsy was performed by the Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office, and the death was ruled to be homicide. Concluding that the infant boy died from drug intoxication after being exposed to Xylazine.

     Xylazine, commonly going by the street name, "Tranq" is widely used in veterinary medicine as a sedative, muscle relaxant, and analgesic. In the United States, Xylazine is not approved for human consumption or medical treatment. Based on the investigation Detectives allege that Hampton was responsible for exposing her infant son to the drug, which resulted in the child's death.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 28, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, BURLINGTON, PHILADELPHIA:  

     

 

  

 

UPDATE: Man Charged With Murder In Thursday's Shooting

34-Year-Old Morris County Man Charged In Yesterday's Shooting Death In Small Warren County Community

Friday, June 28, 2024, 5:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

INDEPENDENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ.- Warren County authorities have charged a 34-year-old Netcong, New Jersey man in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred yesterday morning in Independence Township, New Jersey. 

     According to Acting Warren County Prosecutor Anthony A. Picione, Anthony J. Garvin, 34, of Netcong, New Jersey, was taken into custody in Pennsylvania, following being formally charged with first-degree Murder; and second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. 

     Garvin is currently being detained in the Berks County Prison in Leesport, Pennsylvania pending extradition back to Warren County, New Jersey.

     The charges stem from an investigation that began, when at around 8:20 a.m., on Thursday, June 27, 2024, Warren County authorities along with New Jersey State Police responded to a report of a shooting on Alphano Road in Independence Township. Upon arrival, Police Officers discovered an individual, who was reported as being deceased from gunshot wounds from Garvin. 

     Following the shooting Garvin fled the scene causing a shelter-in-place order for the area. Following a swift-moving investigation, and just a little over three hours later, Garvin was located and taken in Pennsylvania.

     Warren County authorities have not released the identity of the victim or the circumstances surrounding the incident.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 28, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, WARREN, PENNSYLVANIA:

       

Suspect In Custody In Thursday Morning Shooting

Suspect In Thursday Morning's Shooting Incident In Independence Township Has Been Apprehended

Thursday, June 27, 2024, 1:00 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read By George Petruska: Englebrook Independent News,

INDEPENDENCE TOWNSHIP, NJ.- An unidentified suspect in a Thursday morning shooting incident in Independence Township, New Jersey, has been apprehended in Pennsylvania at 11:30 a.m., after evading law enforcement for just over 3 hours.

     According to Warren County Acting Chief Assistant Prosecutor Kevin Brotzman, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, just shortly after 8:15 a.m., members of the Independence Township Police Department responded to a report of a shooting on Alphano Road in the Township.

     Following the initial response, members of the New Jersey State Police and Warren County Prosecutor's Office Detectives responded to the scene. 

     The suspect fled the scene following the shooting and has since been taken into custody. There was no information provided regarding charges being filed or the nature of the shooting.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 27, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, WARREN:

     

Man Convicted Of The 2022 Sexual Assault Of 5-Year-Old

41-Year-Old Atlantic City Man Convicted Of Raping His Girlfriend's 5-Year-Old Daughter

Thursday, June 27, 2024, 11:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

MAYS LANDING, NJ.- Yesterday, a jury sitting in Atlantic County, New Jersey found a 41-year-old Atlantic City, New Jersey man guilty of the charges of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; and second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child for the 2022 Christmas Day rape of a 5-year-old girl.

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, following a trial, the jury found that Oscar Oberlino Gomez Miralda, 41, of Atlantic City committed an act of sexual penetration upon a 5-year-old girl on December 25, 2022, at the child's home in Atlantic City, New Jersey. 

    The sexual assault was discovered by the child's mother, who placed a camera phone to record her daughter's bedroom while the mother was at work. Gomez-Miralda was in a relationship with the child's mother and lived in the home at the time of the sexual assault.

     When sentenced Gomez-Miralda will face 25 years to life in New Jersey State Prison, on the conviction of first-degree aggravated sexual assault, and 10 years for the conviction of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 27, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC:   

 

Man Indicted For Murder In Pleasantville Shooting

35-Year-Old Galloway Township Man Who Fatally Shot Man While Out On Bail Awaiting Sentencing Indicted

Thursday, June 27, 2024, 9:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PLEASANTVILLE, NJ.- On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, a 35-year-old Galloway, New Jersey man who was released from jail pending sentencing on a prior gun charge, was indicted on charges of murder and weapons offenses, for fatally shooting a 38-year-old man inside a Pleasantville, New Jersey apartment on May 9, 2024.

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, on Tuesday, a Grand Jury sitting in Atlantic County, New Jersey returned an indictment charging Kalief Lyons, 35, of Galloway Township, on the charges of first-degree Murder; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; and second-degree Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons.

     The indictment stems from an incident that unfolded on May 9, 2024, when at just around 11:00 p.m., members of the Pleasantville Police Department responded to a ShotSpotter Activation for multiple gunshots in the area of 9 West Pleasant Avenue in Pleasantville.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found Baseem Taliaferro, 38, inside the first-floor apartment of 9 West Pleasant Avenue, with a gunshot wound to his chest. Mr. Taliaferro was pronounced deceased at the scene.

     During the investigation, a witness stated to investigators that an argument had occurred between Lyons and several other people in the area of 9 West Pleasant Avenue just around twenty minutes before the shooting. Following the argument, Lyons left the area, but video surveillance footage of the area captured Lyons walking to the rear of 9 West Pleasant Avenue wearing a ski mask. Lyons was then observed walking away from the area, just two minutes after gunshots rang out and without wearing the ski mask.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 27, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC:        

Bergen County Man Charged With Making False Public Alarms

26-Year-Old Fair Lawn Man Apprehended In Queens New York For Causing Public Alarms 

Thursday, June 27, 2024, 7:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

HACKENSACK, NJ.- Yesterday, a 26-year-old Fair Lawn, New Jersey man was apprehended in Queens, New York, in connection with a string of threatening phone calls and emails targeting Bergen County businesses, crisis centers, and law enforcement agencies.

     According to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, in March 2024, Detectives of the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Cyber Crimes Unit and Intelligence and Terrorism Unit launched an investigation into a pattern of fictitious phone calls and emails targeting Bergen County crisis centers, local businesses, and law enforcement agencies about an individual armed with a deadly weapon or an explosive device who was planning an attack.

     During the investigation, Detectives determined that in January, March, and April 2024. Clyde Johnson, 26, of Fair Lawn, New Jersey allegedly made false reports via phone calls and emails affecting locations and law enforcement agencies throughout Bergen County, New Jersey, which included the communities of Franklin Lakes, Paramus, Wyckoff, Maywood, Fair Lawn, Fort Lee, and Bergenfield.

     Accordingly, charges were filed against Johnson on the crimes of four counts of second-degree False Public Alarm; third-degree Attempted False Public Alarm; and third-degree False Public Alarm.

     On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, with the assistance of the New York City Police Department and the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations Division, Johnson was located and apprehended in Queens, New York. 

     Following being taken into custody, Johnson was remanded to the Queens County Jail as a Fugitive from Justice pending extradition back to Bergen County, New Jersey to face trial on the charges.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 27, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, BERGEN, QUEENS:

     

    

 

Man Convicted In 2020 Suffocation Death

32-Year-Old Lindenwold Man Convicted For Robbing & Then Suffocating Man In Mount Laurel Hotel Room

Thursday, June 27, 2024, 4:30 A.M. ET. By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ.- Yesterday, Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw reported, that a jury sitting in Burlington County, New Jersey, has convicted a 32-year-old Lindenwold, New Jersey man for luring a 31-year-old Camden man to the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Mount Laurel, robbing the man and then viciously suffocating him death inside a hotel room back in May 2020.

     Following a trial, the jury deliberated for just two hours before convicting Jawaad Ali, 32, of Lindenwold, who represented himself on the charges of first-degree Murder; first-degree Robbery; first-degree Kidnapping; second-degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery; second-degree Desecration of Human Remains; Wrongful Impersonation; and fourth-degree Credit Card Theft.

     Following the reading of the verdicts, the Honorable Terrence R. Cook, J.S.C. scheduled sentencing for September 27, 2024, in Burlington County Superior Court in Mount Holly, New Jersey, at which time Ali will face up to life in New Jersey State Prison. Two co-defendants who participated in the crime have pleaded guilty to charges and are awaiting sentencing.

     The charges stem from an investigation that unfolded on May 8, 2020, when authorities uncovered that Ali, along with Asia Boone and Anthony Sermond-Guyton lured Samer Alhalayqa, 31, of Camden, New Jersey to the Fairfield Inn & Suites located on Century Parkway in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. Upon Mr. Sermond-Guyton entering the third-floor hotel room, the trio robbed him, taking his belongings and then suffocating him to death. Following being suffocated to death the trio dragged his body into the hallway.

     During the subsequent investigation, Detectives uncovered that the trio used Sermond-Guyton's credit card to withdraw money from a nearby ATM Machine, order items from Amazon, and pay for pizza from a Papa John's takeout pizzeria.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 27, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, BURLINGTON:   

 

        

Scientists Now Have Proof Wildfires Are Increasing Worldwide

Over The Past Two Decades, Wildfires Are Increasing In Numbers & Intensity

Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 6:00 P.M. ET. By Ryan Metz: Englebrook Independent News,

MANHATTAN, NY.- For years, scientists and conservationists alike have been sounding the alarm on the increase and intensity of wildfires across the globe, but now they have solid proof that they were right. A recent analysis of satellite images reveals that extreme wildfires have more than doubled in frequency over the past two decades, and many are blaming climate change.

     Wildfires are classified by their Fire Radiative Power (FRP). This is the thermal radiative energy output from fires that is measured in watts and joules per second. The study by Cunningham et al, in Nature, Ecology and Evolution found that the average FRP has increased by a factor of 2.3, or more than double (see graph below).

     Infrared records were used to measure the energy intensity of 31 million fire events over the past two decades, with a focus on the most extreme ones, roughly 2,900 major events. The researchers then calculated that there was a 2.2-fold increase in the frequency of extreme events globally from 2003 through 2023 and a 2.3-fold boost in the average intensity of the top 20 most intense fires each year.

     The places most likely to experience these more intense wildfires are Canada, Russia, and the United States due to their large contiguous forests and coniferous trees. The frequency of wildfires in these countries is much larger than the 2.2-fold increase elsewhere, with an 11.1-fold increase in pine and spruce forest lands and a 7.3-fold increase in boreal or taiga forest lands. "It's the extreme events that we care about the most, and those are the ones that are increasing quite significantly," says lead author Calum Cunningham, an ecologist at the University of Tasmania in Hobart, Australia. "Surprisingly, this has never been shown at a global scale."

     While climate change is a significant driver, other factors like land management practices and invasive species also play a major role. Scientists and firefighters are urging action on multiple fronts to mitigate wildfire risk. This includes sustainable forest management, controlled burns to reduce fuel loads, and investing in fire prevention technologies.

FILED UNDER: JUNE 26, 2024: WORLD< NATIONAL, LOCAL, SCIENCE & NATURE:    

     

         

  

Man Charged With Murder In Jersey City Triple Shooting

20-Year-Old Jersey City Man Charged With Murder In Triple Shooting Has Been Apprehended In Florida

Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 3:15 P.M. ET. By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- A 20-year-old Jersey City, New Jersey man wanted in connection with the April 7, 2024, Jersey City Triple shooting that killed one and injured two was apprehended on Sunday, June 23, 2024, in Orlando, Florida.

     According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, Darren Estevez, 20, of Jersey City, New Jersey, is formally charged with first-degree Murder; first-degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; and two counts of second-degree Aggravated Assault.

     Estevez was taken into custody on Sunday, in Orlando, Florida, by members of the Orlando Police Department on an unrelated matter. Estevez was charged as a Fugitive from Justice and is presently lodged at the Orange County Corrections Department pending an extradition hearing and his return back to Hudson County, New Jersey.

     According to the Prosecutor, in the early phases of the investigation, Detectives of the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Unit arrested Aaliyah Rivera, 23, of Jersey City, New Jersey on the charges of first-degree Murder as an Accomplice; first-degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder. Rivera was taken into custody at the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office on April 24, 2024, and is presently lodged in the Hudson County Correctional Facility pending trial in Hudson County Superior Court.

     On Sunday, April 7, 2024, at just around 9:00 p.m., members of the Jersey City Police Department responded to a report of multiple shots being fired in the area of Central Avenue and Bowers Street in Jersey City.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found two victims with apparent gunshot wounds. The two were immediately transported to Jersey City Medical Center, where one of the victims, Freddie Posey, 25, of Jersey City, New Jersey succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased a short time later at the Medical Center. The other victim, a 30-year-old Jersey City, New Jersey woman was treated for non-life-threatening injuries and was released.

     A third victim, identified as a 24-year-old Jersey City, New Jersey man drove himself to University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office at (201) 915-1345 or http://www.hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip/.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 26, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON: 

      

  

Man Indicted For Vehicular Homicide In Fatal Crash

30-Year-Old Voorhees Man Indicted For Causing The Death Of A Mother Of An Infant In An April 2024 Fatal Crash

Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 2:00 P.M. ET. By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News, 

MAYS LANDING, NJ.- Today, a Grand Jury sitting in Atlantic County, New Jersey, has returned an indictment charging Stephen Sirch, 30, of Voorhees, New Jersey, on the charge of second-degree Vehicular Homicide in connection with a fatal crash that occurred on April 3, 2024, in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, that claimed the life of a 29-year-old woman.

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, on April 3, 2024, at approximately 2:15 p.m., members of the Hamilton Township Police Department responded to a serious motor vehicle crash on Black Horse Pike in Hamilton Township, New Jersey.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a two-vehicle crash. The initial investigation determined that Sirch's vehicle struck a vehicle being driven by Karina E, Castillo, 29, of Clementon, New Jersey, causing fatal injuries to Ms. Castillo, who was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

     The subsequent investigation by members of the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office Crash Investigation Unit and the Hamilton Township Police Department determined that Sirch was traveling at a high rate of speed when he struck Ms. Castillo's vehicle causing her death.

"The rules of the court requires us to include a statement, that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations and the defendant and or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt."

FILED UNDER: JUNE 26, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC: