Rep. Cori Bush May Become The Next Squad Member To Be Ousted

Missouri Congressional Rep. Cori Bush May Become The Second Squad Member To Be Ousted, Polls Reveal

Friday, July 26, 2024, 11:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges: Englebrook Independent News,

ST. LOUIS, MO.- U.S. House Representative Cori Bush, D-Mo, may be in serious trouble and might be following in the footsteps of ousted U.S. House Representative Jamaal Bowman, D-NY, who was dealt a devastating blow in last month's New York Democratic primary.

     Bush has come under fire for anti-Israel views over the Israel-Hamas war, which was triggered following the October 7, 2023, brutal attack on Israeli citizens by Hamas militants that slaughtered 1200 people, including women and children.

     Since the start of the war, Bush, along with her fellow Squad members, has called for the U.S. to stop sending military aid to Israel and has continued to support anti-Israel and pro-Hamas protesters who set up encampments colleges and universities across the U.S. Bush has remained silent on protesters calling for "Death To Israel" and "Death to America." Over her tenure as a U.S. Lawmaker, Bush was accused of misusing campaign funds for her personal security as she joined Squad Members in calling to "Defund The Police."

     Bush once called out critics over her stance on defunding the police by saying "that people need to suck it up, I have important work to do." Since first becoming a U.S. House member, Bush has really done little or nothing to aid her constituents. Instead, just like her fellow squad members, she is more concerned about making headlines rather than putting forward legislation to help the people of Missouri.      

      In June, polls showed that Bush was trailing her Democratic challenger, St. Louis County prosecuting attorney Wesley Bell, by 23 points. Although in July, Bush has narrowed Bell's lead, she still is running behind Bell a recent poll reveals.

     In a recent survey, 56% of voters support Bell for the August 6th primary for Missouri's 1st Congressional District, while Rep. Bush trails with 33%. Bell also leads Bush in job performance and favorability ratings. 61% of the survey's respondents gave Bell a positive rating on his job performance, while only 49% gave Bush a positive rating. Further, 60% of surveyed respondents are favorable toward Bush, while 64% are favorable toward Bell.

     Now may be the time for Bush to suck it up, "voters have important work to do," In voting in Bell and ousting her from Missouri's 1st Congressional District.

FILED UNDER: JULY 26, 2024: NATIONAL, POLITICS, WASHINGTON, MISSOURI: 

    

       

 

              

 

Man Convicted Of Sexually Assaulting A Child

66-Year-Old Phillipsburg Man Was Convicted Of The Repeated Sexual Assaults Of A Child

Friday, July 26, 2024, 7:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BELVIDERE, NJ.- Acting Warren County Prosecutor Anthony A. Picione reported that on Thursday, July 25, 2024, a jury sitting in Warren County, New Jersey, convicted a 66-year-old Phillipsburg, New Jersey man for the years-long pattern of sexually abusing a young child.

     Yesterday, following a trial, the jury found Joseph A Gares, 66, of Phillipsburg, New Jersey, guilty on the charges of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; four counts of second-degree Sexual Assault; second-degree Criminal Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault; fourth-degree Lewdness; and second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

     During the trial, Acting Assistant Prosecutors Gloria Rispoli and Brent DiMarco presented evidence that between the years 2012 and 2016, Gares sexually assaulted the child on multiple occasions when the child was between the ages of eight and eleven years old.

     Following the verdict, the Honorable H. Matthew Curry, J.S.C. has tentatively scheduled sentencing for August 30, 2024, at which time Gares faces a potential life sentence in New Jersey State Prison.

FILED UNDER: JULY 26, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, WARREN:       

The Obamas Formally Endorse Kamala Harris For Democratic Presidential Nominee

On Friday, The Obamas Finalize The Anointment Of Vice President Kamala Harris For Her Presidential Bid In 2024

Friday, July 26, 2024, 7:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges: Englebrook Independent News,

WASHINGTON, DC.- In a video released on Friday morning, former President and former First Lady Barack and Michelle Obama have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for her presidential bid in the 2024 General Election.

     "Michelle and I couldn't be prouder to endorse you and to do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office," former president Obama told Harris on a phone call joined by former first lady Michelle.

     Vice President Harris thanked the Obamas for their support during the phone call and expressed gratitude for their years-long friendship.

     "Oh my goodness, this means so much to me. I am looking forward to doing this with the two of you, Doug and I. And getting out there, being on the road," Harris said on the call. 

     "But most of all, I just want to tell you the words you have spoken and the friendship that you have given all these years mean more than I can express. It means so much, and we are gonna have fun with this too, aren't we," Harris continued. 

     Former first lady Michelle Obama said she is proud of Harris and expects the upcoming election to be historic.

     "I can't have this phone call without saying to my girl, Kamala, I am proud of you. And this is going to be historic," Michelle said to Harris.

     In their joint statement announcing their endorsement, the Obamas complimented Harris and her list of accomplishments she has made to the country.

     Friday's endorsement by the Obamas will guarantee the anointment of Vice President Harris as the Democratic nominee for her run for president against former president Donald Trump, subverting the votes of over 14 million Americans who voted for President Biden as their Democratic nominee. 

     Many Democratic leaders have said that the 14 million or so voters who voted for Biden before he stepped down on Sunday also voted for Harris. You have to ask yourself just how many of those voters would have voted for Harris if she was on top of the ticket.

FILED UNDER: JULY 26, 2024: NATIONAL, LOCAL, WASHINGTON, POLITICS:          

   

Belvidere Man Charged With Possessing Child Pornography

20-Year-Old Belvidere Man Was Charged With Possession Of Child Pornography

Friday, July 26, 2024, 6:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BELVIDERE, NJ.- Acting Warren County Prosecutor Anthony A. Picione reported that following an investigation into online child pornography activities, a 20-year-old Belvidere, New Jersey man was taken into custody and charged for allegedly possessing images of child sexual abuse material.

     The investigation began after the Warren County Prosecutor's Office Cyber Crimes Unit received a tip that an individual in the Warren County, New Jersey area was uploading and storing digital images depicting nude and or sexually explicit children on a social media application, Snapchat.

     During the investigation, Detectives were able to trace the source of the uploads and determined that the images were being uploaded from the residence of Kyle F. Fasulka, 20, of Belvidere, New Jersey.

     Following identifying the location, Detectives executed a court-authorized search warrant on Fasulka's residence. During the search, several electronic devices were seized, and an initial search of the devices uncovered that Fasulka was accessing the internet to upload images depicting nude and or sexually explicit prepubescent and pubescent children.

     Accordingly, following the initial search of the electronic devices, Fasulka was taken into custody and formally charged with third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child for Possessing Child Pornography. Fasulka was processed on the charge, pending future court proceedings in Warren County Superior Court in Belvidere, New Jersey.

"The rules of the court require 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: JULY 26, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, WARREN:

    

      

 

UPDATE: Suspect Identified In Shooting Of Police Officer In Rahway

Union County Authorities Release the Identity Of The Suspect Who Shot A Perth Amboy Detective Las Night

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 4:30 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

RAHWAY, NJ.- The suspect in last night's shooting of a Perth Amboy Detective who was attempting to serve an arrest warrant has been identified as Angel Santiago, 20, of Rahway, New Jersey.

     As first reported, Perth Amboy Detectives had traveled to Rahway to execute an arrest warrant on Santiago in connection with an aggravated assault that occurred in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

     According to Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel, on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, shortly before 8:45 p.m., as Police Detectives exited their vehicle, there was an exchange of gunfire between Detectives and Santiago. During the exchange, the Perth Amboy Detective was struck three times by gunfire in the leg, and Santiago was struck by a single gunshot to his lower leg.

     The Detective was immediately transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where he underwent surgery for his injuries and has been listed in stable condition.

     Santiago was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, where he remains in the custody of the Union County Prosecutor's Office for the outstanding warrant from July 23, 2024. Additional charges are pending. 

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. A handgun was recovered at the scene following the shooting. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Union County Prosecutor's Office Detective Sergeant Dennis Donovan at (732) 232-2049 or Detective Christine Spady at (908) 403-1623.

FILED UNDER: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, UNION, MIDDLESEX: 

  

  

Man Pleads Guilty To Attempted Murder In Shooting

20-Year-Old New Brunswick Man Pleads Guilty For His Role In April 5th Shooting That Injured Two

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 3:30 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ.- Yesterday, a 20-year-old New Brunswick, New Jersey man appeared in Middlesex County Superior Court and entered a guilty plea on the charges of first-degree Attempted Murder; and second-degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose for his role in the April 5, 2024, New Brunswick early morning shooting that injured two.

     According to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, on April 5, 2024, at around 2:00 a.m., members of the New Brunswick Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting a shooting in progress at 66 Easton Avenue in the City of New Brunswick.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a woman and a man who had sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Both victims were immediately transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital for treatment and have since been released.

     A swift-moving investigation led by Detective Sean Freeman of the New Brunswick Police Department determined that the woman was struck by gunfire that came from a motor vehicle. During the investigation and within a couple of days, Detective Freeman was able to identify four suspects that were involved in the shooting, and all four were taken into custody.

     Accordingly, Christian Farmer, 20, of New Brunswick, was charged with second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; two counts of first-degree Attempted Murder; and one count of second-degree Aggravated Assault.

     Three other men, Walter Rodriguez-Cardenas, 21, of Plainfield, New Jersey, Ryan Nasi, 21, of Hillsborough, New Jersey, and Sayyid Acosta, 21, of Plainfield, New Jersey, were all charged with various offenses for their roles in the shooting.

     Following negotiations with the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, Farmer appeared before the Honorable Craig C. Corson in Middlesex County Court and pled guilty to first-degree Murder; and second-degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose.

     Sentencing in the matter has been scheduled for September 30, 2024. At that time, the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office will recommend that Farmer be sentenced to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison for attempted murder and 5 years in New Jersey State Prison for firearms. Both sentences will be subject to parole ineligibility terms.

FILED UNDER: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MIDDLESEX:

         

Teen Charged With Manslaughter In Shooting Death Of Bayonne Teen

17-Year-Old Jersey City Boy Charged In Sunday's Bayonne Shooting Of  Teen Who Tragically Died Yesterday

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 1:30 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- On Wednesday, a 17-year-old Jersey City, New Jersey boy was arrested and charged in connection with Sunday's shooting of a 17-year-old Bayonne, New Jersey boy who succumbed to his injury and was tragically pronounced deceased yesterday.

     According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at around 2:30 p.m., members of the Bayonne Police Department and the Bayonne Fire Department responded to a report of an unresponsive male inside an apartment located at 124 West Third Street in the City of Bayonne.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found the juvenile male, later identified as John Dominguez, 17, of Bayonne. The juvenile was immediately transported to Bayonne Medical Center, where he succumbed to a gunshot to his chest and died yesterday at the Medical Center just around 3:00 p.m.

     Following the teen's death, the Regional Medical Examiner's Office determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the chest and the manner of death to be a homicide.

     After receiving the determination of the Medical Examiner, Detectives of the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Unit arrested the 17-year-old Jersey City boy and formally charged him as a juvenile with Manslaughter; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.

     The teen's name was not released because this remains a juvenile matter, and the custody status was not reported at this time.

"The rules of the court require 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: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON:

       

 

 

Teen Charged With Shooting Death Of A Man

15-Year-Old Trenton Boy Arrested Yesterday In Norfolk, Virginia For The July 9th Shooting Death Of Trenton Man

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 12:00 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

TRENTON, NJ.- On Wednesday, the United States Marshals Service apprehended a 15-year-old Trenton, New Jersey, boy in Norfolk, Virginia, wanted in connection with the July 9, 2024, early morning shooting death of 47-year-old Luis Torres Marrero of Trenton, Jersey.

     According to Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, the teen is charged with one count of first-degree Murder; one count of second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. The boy was arrested incident on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

     The arrest is a result of an investigation conducted by Detectives of the Mercer County Homicide Task Force and the Trenton Shooting Response Team that began on July 9, 2024, when, at approximately 12:25 a.m., members of the Trenton Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting a sick or injured person on the 200 Block of East Hanover Street in the City of Trenton.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found Luis Torres Marrero, 47, of Trenton, suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound to his head. Mr. Torres Marrero was immediately transported to Capital Health Regional Medical Center for treatment. Despite fighting for his life, Mr. Torres Marrero tragically succumbed to his injury and was pronounced deceased on July 14, 2024.

     A swift-moving investigation by Detectives were able to identify the Trenton teen as the shooter and the individual responsible for the death of Mr. Torres Marrero, and a warrant was issued for the teen's arrest.

     After being apprehended yesterday, the teen will remain detained in Virginia pending extradition to New Jersey to stand trial on the charges.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Mercer County Homicide Task Force Detective Zachary Ortman at (609) 273-2451 or Detective Sgt. William Jett, Jr. at (609) 331-5010.

FILED UNDER: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MERCER, VIRGINIA:     

  

Suspects In Custody In Overnight Shooting Of Police Officer

Suspects In Custody Following An Overnight Shooting, Injuring Police Officer & Two Others In Rahway

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 10:45 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

RAHWAY, NJ.- Multiple people have been taken into custody after a Police Officer and two others were injured, including the suspected gunman in Wednesday night's shooting in Rahway, New Jersey.

     The Perth Amboy Detective who was executing a search warrant in front of a Broad Street residence in Rahway, New Jersey, was struck at least three times in the leg as suspects fled the residence. The Detective was transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital where he is listed in stable condition.

     According to Police Officials, the gunman was with others when Perth Amboy Detectives, along with members of the Rahway Police Department, approached them. Within seconds the gunman opened fire on Police Offices, striking the Detective multiple times in the leg.

     During the exchange of gunfire, Police Officers shot the gunman in the leg, and another individual was injured, but their injury was not reported.

     On Thursday morning, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Plakin released a statement saying the detective is recovering after undergoing treatment.

     "All of New Jersey is praying for his recovery as he undergoes treatment at an area hospital, and we are grateful to the many law enforcement officers who responded and rendered aid immediately after the shooting.

     "Our officers deserve our gratitude for the enormous risks they take on a daily basis to keep our communities safe. As the state's chief law enforcement officer, I am resolute in my commitment to work with our law enforcement and community partners to end gun violence in our state and to do everything in our power to prevent this kind of violence against law enforcement in the future. We must continue to work together to prevent and disrupt gun violence of every kind in New Jersey."

FILED UNDER: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, UNION, MIDDLESEX: 

           

     

 

  

Man Charged With Weapons And Narcotics Offenses

53-Year-Old Cape May Man Charged With Multiple Weapons & Narcotics Offenses

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 9:00 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ.- Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey H. Sutherland reported on Monday, July 22, 2024, that members of the Cape May County Gangs, Guns, and Narcotics Task Force concluded an investigation into the narcotics distribution activities of Robert A. James, 53, of Cape May County Court House, New Jersey.

     On Monday, Detectives of the Cape May County Gangs, Guns, and Narcotics Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and the New Jersey State Police executed court-authorized search warrants on James's residence and motor vehicle.

     During the search, Investigators located and seized one B5 Systems AR-Style Assault Rifle; one loaded Ruger 9mm Handgun; one loaded Taurus 9mm Handgun; one Loaded .38 Caliber SPL Revolver; two bags containing numerous different colored and shaped Pill believed to be MDMA; $5,800 in cash, and various types of Paraphernial consistent with the packaging and distribution of narcotics.

     Following the search, James was taken into custody and jailed after being charged with four counts of second-degree Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons; four counts of second-degree Possession of a Weapon During a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense; one count of fourth-degree Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; one count of third-degree Possession with the Intent to Distribute MDMA; one count of third-degree Possessing a Firearm Without a Serial Number; and one count of second-degree Unlawful Possession of an Assault Rifle.

     James was processed on the charges and was remanded to the Cape May County Jail pending future court proceedings in Cape May County Superior Court in Cape May, New Jersey.

"The rules of the court require 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: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, CAPE MAY:

       

Man Sentenced To Prison On Weapons Charge

Glassboro Man Will Spend The Next 5 Years In Prison For Unlawful Possession Of A Handgun

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 8:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

VINELAND, NJ.- On Monday, a 38-year-old Glassboro, New Jersey, man learned that he will spend the next 5 years in New Jersey State Prison following being sentenced by a Cumberland County Superior Court Judge for illegally possessing a handgun in May 2023 in Vineland, New Jersey.

     According to Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae, on May 18, 2023, members of the Vineland Police Department conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of West Landis Avenue and Orchard Road in Vineland on a car being driven by Joshua D. Alpheaus, 38, of Glassboro, New Jersey.

     During the motor vehicle stop, Officer Ward, Officer Vega, and Sergeant Day of the Vineland Police Department discovered that Alpheaus was in possession of a handgun with a high-capacity magazine. During the investigation, Police Officers learned that Alpheaus did not have a permit to carry a weapon. 

     Accordingly, Alpheaus was taken into custody and formally charged. Subsequently, on April 26, 2024, Alpheaus appeared in Cumberland County Superior Court and entered a guilty plea to Unlawful Possession of a Handgun.

     On Monday, July 22, 2024, Alpheaus once again appeared in Cumberland County Superior Court and was sentenced to the Honorable Niki Arbittier, J.S.C, to a term of 5 years in New Jersey State Prison subject to mandatory one year of incarceration before becoming eligible for parole.

FILED UNDER: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, CUMBERLAND: 

  

Man Sentenced To Prison For 2023 Fatal Crash

20-Year-Old Edison Man Sentenced To State Prison Speeding & Killing A Man In 2023 Piscataway Fatal Crash

Thursday, July 25, 2024, 6:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PISCATAWAY, NJ.- On Friday, a 20-year-old Edison, New Jersey, man was sentenced to New Jersey State Prison in connection with the June 3, 2023, Piscataway, New Jersey, fatal motor vehicle crash that claimed the life of a 24-year-old Carteret man.

     According to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, on June 3, 2023, shortly after 1:30 a.m., members of the Piscataway Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting a serious motor vehicle crash on Stelto Road near the intersection of Mindy Lane in Piscataway.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers and Emergency Medical Personnel found a two-vehicle crash, with one vehicle engulfed in flames.

     The initial investigation by responding Police Officers determined that a Lexus sedan driven by Ahmadsabir Ashaq, 20, of Edison, New Jersey, struck a Ford Focus driven by Shailesh Gurrapu, 24, of Carteret, New Jersey, after being struck the Ford Focus, the struck a utility pole bursting into flames. Mr. Gurrapu was killed in the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Both Ashaq and his passenger sustained injuries and were transported to an area hospital for treatment.

     A subsequent investigation led by Patrolman William Kloos of the Piscataway Police Department and Detective James Alleva of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office determined that Ashaq was traveling at approximately 110 miles per hour just seconds before it struck the Ford Focus that was attempting to turn on Mindy Lane. It was further determined that the high rate of speed led to the crash and the death of Mr. Gurrapa.

     Accordingly, Ashaq was later taken into custody and formally charged. On March 28, 2024, Ashaq pled guilty to one count of second-degree Vehicular Homicide, and on Friday, July 19, 2024, the Honorable Sheree Pitchford, J.S.C., sentenced Ashaq to a term of 5 years in New Jersey State Prison subject to the No Early Release Act which will require Ashaq to serve 85% of his custodial sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Ashaq will be required to serve an additional 3 years of parole following his release from prison.

     Following Friday's sentence, Ashaq will be turned over to the New Jersey Department of Corrections to begin serving his sentence.

FILED UNDER: JULY 25, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MIDDLESEX:     

Man Sentenced To Prison The Murder Of A Woman

48-Year-Old Man Sentenced To 45 Years In New Jersey State Prison For The 2018 Stabbing Death Of Takeela Wilson

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 3:15 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez reported on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, that Ishmeal Coleman, 48, of Jersey City, appeared in Hudson County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable John A. Young, J.S.C., to 45 years in New Jersey State Prison for the 2018 stabbing death of Takeela Wilson.

     Following a multi-week trial, on February 16, 2024, a jury sitting in Hudson County, New Jersey, found Coleman guilty on the charges of first-degree Murder; third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and fourth-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.

     Judge Young ordered Coleman's sentence to be subject to the No Early Release Act which will require Coleman to serve 85% of his custodial term before becoming eligible for parole.

     The conviction and sentence stem from an incident that occurred on August 12, 2018, when, at around 4:30 p.m., members of the Jersey City Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting an injured woman at 391 Forrest Street in Jersey City. Upon arrival, Police Officers found Takeela Wilson of Jersey City deceased from an apparent stab wound to her chest. Ms. Wilson was pronounced deceased at 4:35 p.m.

     An autopsy performed at that time by the Regional Medical Examiner's Office determined Ms. Wilson's death to be a stab wound to her chest and the manner to be homicide.

     A swift-moving investigation by Detectives of the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office and the Jersey City Police Department were able to identify Coleman as the person responsible for the stabbing death of Ms. Wilson. Coleman was located and taken into custody and was remanded to the Hudson County Correctional Facility. Following yesterday's sentence, Coleman will be turned over to the New Jersey Department of Corrections to begin serving his prison term.

FILED UNDER: JULY 24, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON:     

UPDATE: Monday's Clifton, New Jersey Fiery Fatal Crash

Passaic County Authorities Release Driver's Identified & Preliminary Cause Of Monday's Fatal Crash On Route 3

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 12:30 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

CLIFTON, NJ.- Today, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes reported the driver of the tractor-trailer that was killed in Monday morning's firey crash on Route 3 West in Clifton, New Jersey, has been identified as Luis Santiago, 55, of Linden, New Jersey.

     Authorities have confirmed that Mr. Santiago was operating a tractor-trailer carrying chemicals and was traveling West on Route 3 through Clifton, New Jersey, when Mr. Santiago clipped a New Jersey Transit Bus carrying 29 passengers, causing Mr. Santiago's truck to crash into the side barrier wall on Route 3, catch fire and explode, killing Mr. Santiago.

     Passaic County Authorities have confirmed that none of the 29 passengers on the bus were injured during the crash.

FILED UNDER: JULY 24, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, PASSAIC:     

   

Married Couple Sentenced To Prison For Sexually Assaulting Two Women

Old Bridge Husband & Wife Sentenced To Prison For Practicing Medicine Without License & Sexual Assaults

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 9:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

OLD BRIDGE, NJ.- On July 9, 2024, an Old Bridge, New Jersey husband and wife were sentenced to terms in New Jersey State Prison and a Middlesex County Jail sentence in connection with practicing and administering medical care without being licensed and sexually assaulting two women that occurred in July 2022.

     According to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, an initial investigation led by Detective Jessica Caffey of the Old Bridge Police Department uncovered that on July 20, 2022, a woman went to receive medical treatment at the residence of Orger Sibaja-Bolanos, 67, of Old Bridge, New Jersey. Sibaja-Bolanos represented and posed as a doctor. During the woman's visit, Sibjaj-Bolanos sexually assaulted her and administered injections to her.

     During the investigation, Detective Caffey determined that Sibaja-Bolanos was not a licensed doctor and was not allowed to administer injections. Accordingly, Sibaja-Bolanos was taken into custody and formally charged with second-degree Sexual Assault; third-degree Aggravated Assault; third-degree and third-degree Unlicensed Practice of Medicine.

     Approximately three weeks later, on August 8, 2022, a second woman came forward. The ongoing investigation quickly uncovered that Sibaja-Bolanos sexually assaulted and gave her injections on multiple occasions in July 2022. Sibaja-Bolanos was again charged with second-degree Sexual Assault; third-degree Unlicensed Practice of Medicine; and third-degree Financial Facilitation.

     During Detective Caffey's further investigation, it was learned that Sibaja-Bolanos's wife, Rosa Perez, 64, of Old Bridge, New Jersey, assisted in the unlicensed practice of medicine. Following the discovery, Perez was formally charged with third-degree Unlicensed Practice of Medicine; third-degree Conspiracy to Commit the Unlicensed Practice of Medicine; and third-degree Financial Facilitation. 

     On October 23, 2023, Perez appeared in Middlesex County Superior Court and pled guilty to third-degree Conspiracy to Commit the Unlicensed Practice of Medicine. In January 2024, Sibaja-Bolanos pled guilty to two counts of second-degree Sexual Assault.

     On July 9, 2024, Sibaja-Bolanos appeared in Middlesex County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable Sheree V. Pitchford, J.S.C., to a term of 10 years in New Jersey State Prison. This sentence is subject to the No Early Release Act, which requires Sibaja-Bolanos to serve 85% of his custodial term before becoming eligible for parole. He will also be required to register as a sex offender under Megan's Law and be on parole supervision for life.

     Perez was sentenced to 364 days in county jail as a condition of a three-year term of probation.

FILED UNDER: JULY 24, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MIDDLESEX:

                

  

Police Officer Charged With Physically Assaulting A Woman

42-Year-Old Palisades Park Police Officer Charged With A Series Of Alleged Threats & Physical Assaults Of A Woman

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 6:45 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

HASBROUCK HEIGHTS, NJ.- On Monday, a 42-year-old South Hackensack, New Jersey man, who is employed as a Police Officer with the Palisades Park Police Department, was taken into custody and charged in connection with a series of continued threats and the physical assaults of a woman.

     According to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, on Friday, July 19, 2024, the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Confidential Investigation Unit received information regarding the alleged assault of a woman and endangering the welfare of two children that had occurred in the past.

     An investigation by Detectives of the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office quickly determined that between 2019 and 2023, David Chun, 42, of South Hackensack, New Jersey, threatened and assaulted the woman on multiple occasions in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey. Detectives also determined that Chun assaulted the woman in front of two young children.

     Accordingly, following the investigation, on Monday, July 22, 2024, Chun was taken into custody at the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office in Paramus, New Jersey, and was formally charged with six counts of second-degree Aggravated Assault; one count of third-degree Aggravated Assault; one count of fourth-degree Aggravated Assault; seven counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child; two counts of third-degree Terroristic Threats; and one count of a Disorderly Persons Offense of Criminal Mischief.

     After being processed on the charges, Chun was remanded to the Bergen County Jail pending future court proceedings in Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack, New Jersey.

"The rules of the court require 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: JULY 24, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, BERGEN:

    

   

Man Charged With Sexually Assaulting A Child

44-Year-Old Demarest Man Charged With Aggravated Sexual Assault & Child Endangerment Offenses

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 6:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

DEMAREST, NJ.- On Monday, a 44-year-old Demarest, New Jersey, man was taken into custody and jailed after being charged in connection with the multiple sexual assaults of a child who was under the age of thirteen at the time of the assaults.

     According to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella, on Monday, July 22, 2024, the Division of Child Protection and Permanency contacted the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office Special Victims Unit regarding the alleged sexual assault of a child under the age of thirteen that had occurred in the past.

     Following a swift-moving investigation and after Detectives of the Bergen County Special Victims Unit interviewed witnesses, including the victim, Detectives determined that Errol D. Daludado, 44, of Demarest, sexually assaulted a child under the age of thirteen in Demarest, New Jersey, in Demarest on multiple occasions.

     Accordingly, on Monday, July 22, 2024, Daludado was taken into custody in Demarest and formally charged with two counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; and third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

     Daludado 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 rules of the court require 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: JULY 24, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, BERGEN:

   

Man Sentenced To State Prison For Narcotics And Weapons Offenses

23-Year-Old Atlantic City Man Will Spend The Next Decade In Prison For Weapons & Narcotics Offenses

Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 6:00 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News, 

MAYS LANDING, NJ.- On Monday, July 22, 2024, Nahjajuan Ellis, 23, of Atlantic City, New Jersey, appeared in Atlantic County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable Donna M. Taylor, J.S.C., to New Jersey State Prison on narcotics and weapons charges.

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds, Ellis was sentenced to a term of 10 years in State Prison on the charges of first-degree Maintaining a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility; second-degree Possession of Heroin and Fentanyl with the Intent to Distribute; and second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun. Ellis will be required to serve 42 months of his custodial term before becoming eligible for parole.

     The sentence stems from an investigation that unfolded on January 26, 2023, when Detectives of the Vice Unit of the Atlantic City Police Department executed a court-authorized search warrant at an apartment in Atlantic City. Prior to Detectives entering the apartment, Ellis was seen exiting the front door and was immediately taken into custody.

     During the search, Detectives found a stolen loaded handgun and over a half-ounce combination of heroin and fentanyl. Police additionally found paraphernalia that is consistent with the packaging of narcotics for street-level sales, along with stampers, ink pads, and digital scales. Further, Detectives seized $8,565 in cash consistent with narcotics sales.

     During Monday's sentencing hearing, Ellis was additionally sentenced to concurrent terms on unrelated charges of third-degree Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute; and Obstruction of Justice.

FILED UNDER: JULY 23, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC:     

N.J. Democratic Senator Bob Menendez Will Step Down From Senate Seat

N.J. Senator Bob Menendez Will Step Down From His Senate Seat Effective August 20, 2024

Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 5:00 P.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges: Englebrook Independent News,

WASHINGTON, DC. On Tuesday, New Jersey Democratic Senator Bob Menendez submitted a letter stating that he will resign from the Senate effective August 20, 2024.

     Tuesday's announcement is a major moment in the political downfall of the once-powerful New Jersey Democratic Senator. It will finally end his scandal-plagued tenure in the Senate. Today's announcement comes just one week after he was convicted on all 16 counts of the indictment on July 16, 2024, for his role in a years-long bribery scheme.

     Receipt of the Senator's resignation was announced at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday on the Senate floor during a brief exchange between Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senate Presiding Officer Senator Peter Welch, the Democratic Senator from Vermont.

     New Jersey's Democratic Governor, Phil Murphy, is expected to appoint a replacement to fill the remainder of Menendez's term, which ends on January 3, 2025.

     Today's announcement will also bring an end to Menendez selling his power in the Senate for his own financial gain.

FILED UNDER: JULY 23, 2024: NATIONAL, LOCAL, POLITICS, WASHINGTON DC:

      

  

Three Men Sentenced To Prison For The Murder Of Teen

Three Jersey City Men Were Sentenced To State Prison For 2018 Shooting Death Of  A Jersey City, New Jersey Teen

Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 2:45 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- On Friday, July 19, 2024, three Jersey City, New Jersey, men appeared in Hudson County Superior Court and were sentenced by the Honorable Mitzy Galis-Menendez to New Jersey State Prison for their roles in the 2018 shooting death of Jayden Fondeur, 17, that occurred in Jersey City, New Jersey.

     According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, on Friday, Rayquan Carmichael, 23, of Jersey City, was sentenced to 40 years in State Prison on the charge of Murder. The sentence will run consecutive to a seven-year sentence on an unrelated Unlawful Possession of a Weapon charge and a four-year sentence on an unrelated Burglary charge, for a total New Jersey State Prison sentence of 51 years.

     Isaiah Huggins, 24, of Jersey City, was sentenced to 42 years in State Prison for Murder. The sentences are the result of convictions against both men. On March 13, 2024, a jury sitting in Hudson County found Carmichael and Huggins guilty on the charge of Murder and related Weapons Offenses.

     Jahmari Hector, 21, of Jersey City, was sentenced to six years in State Prison subject to The No Early Release Act, which will require Hector to serve 85% of his custodial sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Hector had previously pleaded guilty on May 20, 2024, to a charge of Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Assault for his part in the shooting death.

     On Tuesday, September 18, 2018, at around 6:30 p.m., members of the Jersey City Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call reporting shots fired in the area of Old Bergen Road and Pamrapo Avenue in Jersey City.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found an unresponsive male, later identified as Jayden Fondeur, 17, of Jersey City, New Jersey, with an apparent gunshot wound to his neck. Mr. Fondeur was subsequently pronounced deceased a short time later.

     A subsequent autopsy performed at the time by the Regional Medical Examiner's Office determined the cause of death to be a gunshot wound to the neck and the manner of death to be a homicide.

     Following a swift-moving investigation by Detectives of the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office and the Jersey City Police Department, Detectives were able to identify Carmichael, Huggins, and Hector as suspects and the individuals responsible for the fatal shooting of Mr. Fondeur. All three were taken into custody and charged.

FILED UNDER: JULY 23, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON:        

 

BREAKING: Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle Resigns Amid Calls From Lawmakers To Step Down

After Refusing To Resign In The Wake Of The Agency's Failures In The Attempted Assassination Of Trump, Cheatle Steps Down On Tuesday

Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 1:15 P.M. ET. 3 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges: Englebrook Independent News,

WASHINGTON, DC. On Tuesday, Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle, in an internal email to Secret Service staff and in a letter to President Joe Biden, said she would be resigning effective immediately in wake of the Saturday, July 13th failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania.

     Cheatle, who came under fire on Monday by both Democratic and Republican Lawmakers during her testimony before members of the House Oversight Committee, provided few details and answers into how a 20-year-old man, Thomas Matthew Crooks, who took his father's AR Style rifle and climbed on top of a roof and open fire wounding former President Trump and killing a husband and father of two, and former firefighter Cory Comperatore, and severely injuring another two attendees. 

     Cheatle admitted under oath in her opening statement to members of the Oversight Committee that the Secret Service on "July 13th, We Failed. As the director of the United States Secret Service, I take full responsibility for any security lapse of our agency." she said. "We must learn what happened, and I will move heaven and earth to ensure that an incident like July 13th never happens again."

     House Republicans and Democrats alike, including House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, who had been calling on Cheatle to resign, calling her and the agency under her watch "The Face of Incompetence. It is my firm belief, Director Cheatle, that you should resign," Comer said during the hearing.

     Cheatle from the day of the assassination attempt provided few details and even blamed local law enforcement for the security lapses that local officials refuted in numerous press releases.

     Following her resignation, President Biden praised Cheatle for not firing her, which was what Biden should have done immediately after the July 13th attempt on former President Trump's life.

     Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said, "I am grateful to Kimberly Cheatle for her leadership as Director of the United States and for her lifelong devotion to our country."

     Since being sworn into office on September 17, 2022, Cheatle has shifted hiring standards instead of focusing on training. A change in standards may have led to the catastrophic failures of July 13th in Butler, Pennsylvania.

     Under her watch, in 2023, ranking of the best places to work in federal as measured by the Office of Personnel Management's annual Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey and compiled by the Partnership for Public Service, the United States Secret Service came in 413 for overall engagement and satisfaction out of 459 subcomponent agencies.

FILED UNDER: JULY 23, 2024: WASHINGTON, NATIONAL: