Manchester Man Wanted For Murder

35-Year-Old Manchester Township Want Wanted For The June 27, 2024, Shooting Death Of Seaside Heights Woman

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

MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ.- A 35-year-old Manchester Township, New Jersey man remains on the run after being charged in connection with the alleged shooting death of Gabriella Caroleo, 25, of Seaside Heights, New Jersey, that occurred during the afternoon hours on Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Manchester Township.

     According to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, Maxwell Johnston, 35, of Manchester Township, New Jersey has been formally charged with first-degree Murder; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession with a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and second-degree Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons.

     The charges stem from an investigation that unfolded on Thursday, June 27, 2024, when shortly before 5:00 p.m., members of the Manchester Township Police Department responded to the area of Ridgeway and Hope Chapel Roads in the Township after receiving a 911 Emergency Call reporting a gunshot victim.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found Ms. Caroleo suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound to her stomach. Ms. Caroleo was immediately airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, where despite life-saving efforts Ms. Caroleo sadly succumbed to her injury and was subsequently pronounced deceased.

     A swift-moving investigation by Ocean County Authorities was quickly able to identify Johnston as the suspect and the individual responsible for the shooting death of Ms. Caroleo.

     According to authorities, Johnson has not been taken into custody and remains at large. A warrant has been issued for his arrest and his name has been entered into the National Crime Information Center database.

      "We have been working diligently with our law enforcement partners to locate Johnston. Great teamwork has been exhibited by all respective law enforcement agencies and officers involved in this investigation. We are focused on finding Johnston and bring him into custody. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Maxwell Johnson should contact Detective Denis Mitchell of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 929-2027, extension 2476, or Detective Richard Conklin of the Manchester Township Police Department at (732) 657-2009, extension 4211," Prosecutor Billhimer stated.

"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: JULY 2, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, OCEAN:

 

         

 

Police Officer Charged In Gloucester Township Hit & Run Investigation

28-Year-Old West Deptford Man Charged For Running Down A Bicyclist & Fleeing The Scene

Wednesday, July 3, 2024, 11:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ.- A 28-year-old West Deptford, New Jersey man who is employed as a Gloucester Township Police Officer has been formally charged in connection with running down a bicyclist and fleeing the scene, leaving the bicyclist lying in the roadway seriously injured in the early morning hours of June 20, 2024.

     According to Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay, Christopher Bucceroni, 28, of West Deptford, New Jersey, has been charged with third-degree Knowingly Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident Resulting Serious Bodily Injury.

     The charge is a result of an investigation that began on June 20, 2024, when shortly before 2:20 a.m., members of the Gloucester Township Police Department responded to the area of Erial and Blackwood-Clemento Road following receiving a report of a hit-and-run crash involving a motor vehicle and a bicyclist.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found an 18-year-old male bicyclist in the roadway suffering from serious injuries after being struck by the motor vehicle. The man was immediately transported to Cooper University Hospital for treatment, where he remains listed in critical condition.

      During the ensuing investigation, Detectives confirmed that a dark-colored Sport Utility Vehicle struck the bicyclist in the roadway, and then fled the scene. Later in the day on June 20, 2024, Bucceroni surrendered at the Gloucester Township Police Department. Detectives further determined that Bucceroni was off-duty at the time of the collision and not acting in any capacity as a Township Police Officer.

      The investigation remains active and ongoing at this time. There was no further information made available by Camden County Authorities.

"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: JULY 3, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, CAMDEN:       

    

 

Firefighter Charged With Forgery And Records Tampering

61-Year-Old West Long Branch Firefighter Charged With Creating False Training Certificates

Wednesday, July 3, 2024, 8:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ.- On Monday, a 61-year-old West Long Branch firefighter was taken into custody and released on a summons after being formally charged in connection with the falsification and destruction of official public records.

     According to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago, on Monday, July 1, 2024, Ronald Guidetti, 61, of Long Branch, New Jersey was formally charged with one count of third-degree False Uttering; third-degree Forgery; and fourth-degree Falsifying or Tampering with Records. 

     Following surrendering to Monmouth County Authorities, Guidetti was processed on the charges and was released on a summons complaint pending future court proceedings in Monmouth County Superior Court in Freehold, New Jersey.

     The charges stem from an investigation that was initiated earlier this year by the Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office. When there were concerns raised regarding the validity of two training certificates for a single firefighter at the West Long Branch Fire Company No. 2.

     During the investigation, Detectives determined that not only did Guidetti create the certificates in order to achieve a response to an Open Public Records Act request filed with the Fire Company, but Guidetti then removed the certificates from the filing system and destroyed them once the request was fulfilled.

"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: JULY 3, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MONMOUTH:  

  

State Trooper Charged With Attempted Sexual Assault Of Teen Girl

31-Year-Old New Jersey State Trooper Nabbed In Undercover Child Sex Sting

Wednesday, July 3, 2024, 6:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

FREEHOLD, NJ.- On Monday, July 1, 2024, a 31-year-old New Jersey State Trooper was taken into custody and charged following an undercover investigation into attempting to lure an underage girl for a sexual encounter and obtaining sexually graphic images of the child.

     According to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago, on Monday, Shane H. Dempsey 31, of Brick Township, New Jersey was criminally charged with second-degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child in Permitting the Child to Engage in the Production of Child Pornography; second-degree Attempted Engaging in Prostitution; second-degree Attempted Luring; second-degree Attempted Sexual Assault; and third-degree Attempted Endangering the Welfare of a Child for Sexual Conduct.

     The investigation began earlier this year and was initiated by a Prosecutor's Office Detective acting in an undercover capacity on the social media application Whisper. While monitoring the app, the Detective was contacted by another user, later identified as Dempsey, who then attempted to solicit sexually explicit images and expressed an interest in paying money in exchange for a sex act from a person Dempsey believed to be a 14-year-old girl.

     Following the investigation, On Monday, July 1, 2024, Dempsey was taken into custody at the New Jersey State Police Headquarters in Ewing Township, New Jersey.

     After being processed on the charges Dempsey was remanded to the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, pending future court proceedings in Monmouth County Superior Court in Freehold, 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: JULY 3, 2024: LOCAL, LAW, MONMOUTH:       

Woman Sentenced To State Prison On Multiple Charges

35-Year-Old Toms River Woman Sentenced To State Prison For Robbery, Narcotics, & Assault Charges

Wednesday, July 2, 2024, 6:15 A.M. ET. 3 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

TOMS RIVER, NJ.- Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer reported, that on Friday, June 28, 2024, Olivia Paige, 35, of Toms River, New Jersey appeared in Ocean County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, J.S.C. to seven years in New Jersey State Prison in connection with a previously entered guilty plea to a charge of Robbery. The sentence will be subject to the No Early Release Act which will require Paige to serve 85% of her custodial term before becoming eligible for parole.

     Judge Ryan additionally sentenced Paige to three years in New Jersey State Prison in connection with a previously entered guilty plea to a charge of Possession of Cocaine. Finally, Judge Ryan sentenced Paige to eighteen months in New Jersey State Prison in connection with a previously entered guilty plea to a charge of Aggravated Assault. Judge Ryan ordered that the sentences will run concurrently with each other.

     The sentences stem from three separate incidents that occurred and escalated throughout the year 2023, Paige pleaded guilty to all the charges before Judge Ryan on April 22, 2024.

     On January 11, 2023, members of the Brick Township Police Department responded to a shoplifting report from a convenience store located on Maple Avenue in the Township. Upon arrival, Police Officers determined that Paige was the individual responsible for taking the items without paying for them. Paige was located by Police Officers behind the store and had the items in her possession. While being taken into custody, Paige was found to be in possession of cocaine and was charged. Following a court hearing Paige was released.

     On April 14, 2023, members of the Lakewood Township Police Department responded to a report of a disorderly person in the area of First Street. Upon arrival, Police Officers encountered Paige who was screaming profanities and acting erratic. As Police Officers tried to calm Paige she spit in their faces. Paige was subsequently taken into custody and charged. Following a court hearing Paige was again released.

     On August 29, 2023, members of the Lakewood Township Police Department responded to the area of Clifton Avenue on a report of a robbery. Upon arrival, Police Officers learned that a woman was sitting in her car on Clifton Avenue when she was approached by a woman who was later identified as Paige brandishing a knife and demanding money. The woman complied with Paige's demand. During a search of the area, Police Officers subsequently located Paige in a nearby eatery. Paige was found to be in possession of the knife and was taken into custody and charged. 

     Paige has been detained in the Ocean County Jail since her arrest on August 29, 2023.

FILED UNDER: JULY 3, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, OCEAN:              

  

Man Charged With Possession Of Child Pornography

71-Year-Old Brick Township Man Charged With Possessing Sexually Explicit Images Of Children

Wednesday, July 3, 2024, 6:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BRICK TOWNSHIP, NJ.- On Tuesday, a 71-year-old Brick Township, New Jersey man was taken into custody and jailed following the execution of a search warrant at his home that revealed that he was using the internet to view, download, and possess nude and or sexually explicit digital images of children.

     According to Ocean Count Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office was contacted by the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force after receiving a cyber-tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an individual in the Ocean County area was uploading digital images of child pornography to the internet.

     A subsequent investigation by members of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office High Tech Crime Unit identified an IP Address in Brick Township residence as the location from which an individual was uploading the images of child pornography. The individual residing at the residence was ultimately identified as Robert Lasher, 71, of Brick Township, New Jersey.

     Following the identification of Lasher, on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, Detectives of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, the Brick Township Police Department, and the United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations executed a court-authorized search warrant on Lasher's home. An initial examination of Lasher's electronic devices uncovered several digital images of nude and or sexually explicit images of prepubescent and pubescent children.

     Accordingly, following the execution of the search warrant, Lasher was taken into custody and charged with one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child for Possessing Child Pornography.

     Lasher was processed on the charges and was remanded to the Ocean County Jail pending future court proceedings in Ocean County Superior Court in Toms River, New Jersey. The Ocean County Prosecutor's Office has filed a pretrial motion to have Lasher detained pending the resolution of the filed against him.

"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: JULY 3, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, OCEAN:

  

  

Man Sentenced To Prison For Sexually Assaulting Preteen Girls

58-Year-Old Convicted Child Predator Sentenced To Prison For Sexually Assaulting 5 Preteen Girls Over 10 Years

Tuesday, July 2, 2024, 6:00 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BRIDGETON, NJ.- Last Friday, a 58-year-old Vineland, New Jersey man appeared in Cumberland County Superior Court and was sentenced to State Prison in connection with the sexual assaults of five girls who were all under the age of thirteen years old, and during a time frame of ten years, that occurred in the City of Vineland, New Jersey.

     According to Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae, following an investigation by the Vineland Police Department, on September 8, 2022, Jesus Figueroa, 58, of Vineland, New Jersey was taken into custody and charged with several counts of first-degree Aggravated Assault; second-degree Sexual Assault; and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

     The charges stem from multiple incidents that occurred over a ten-year period. During the ten years, Figueroa sexually assaulted five girls who were all under 13 years old when the assaults began.

     On February 21, 2024, Figueroa pleaded guilty to five counts of second-degree Sexual Assault. In return for the guilty pleas, the Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office would recommend that Figueroa be sentenced to a term of 10 years in State Prison on each of the counts and that the sentences would run concurrently with each other.

     On Friday, June 28, 2024, Figueroa appeared in Cumberland County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable Nikki Arbittier, J.S.C. to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison on each count subject to the No Early Release Act which will require Figueroa to serve 85% of his custodial term before becoming eligible for parole. Judge Arbittier ordered that the sentences would be served concurrently.

     Upon release, Figueroa will be required to register as a sex offender under Megan's Law Registration requirements and will be subject to parole supervision for life.

FILED UNDER: JULY 2, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, CUMBERLAND:               

This May Be Coming Soon, To A U.S. Farm Near You

Denmark Is The First Country To Tax Livestock Greenhouse Gas Emissions, To Combat Climate Change

Tuesday, July 2, 2024, 2:00 P.M. ET. 3 Minute Read, By Ryan Metz: Englebrook Independent News,

COPENHAGEN, DK.- On June 24, 2024, the Danish government announced that a deal has been reached between Farmers, Politicians, Business leaders, and others that would result in the taxation of livestock burps and other greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Denmark is the first country to trial such a tax which is scheduled to start by 2030.

     The tax, as approved, will start at $17 per ton of emission, rising over the next five years to $43 per ton in 2035. The proceeds from this tax will be used to help transition the farming and livestock industries in Demark to more sustainable systems that produce fewer greenhouse gasses.

     Currently, agriculture is the leading source of GPGs in Denmark, with livestock being responsible for nearly 15% of all GHGs worldwide. "Agriculture is Denmark's largest emitter of CO2. It can not continue. That is why we are the first country in the world to introduce a climate tax and speed up green measures, so that we are more certainly on track to reach the 2030 target. Now there is a lot of work to be done to realize the agreement," Lars Aagaad, Denmark's Climate, Energy, and Supply Minister, said in a statement.

     Despite being only 133 out of 192 countries in terms of size, Denmark is one of the largest exporters of pork worldwide and has a substantial beef and dairy industry.

     Large numbers of livestock are thought to contribute to GHG emissions through burps and flatulence. Much of this is generated by the burps of cows, as well as other ruminant animals like goats and sheep. As these animals digest grass and other plants, a process called enteric fermentation occurs which creates methane. This methane byproduct is considered to be a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change as well as the emission of CO2.

     "Today, we are writing a new chapter in Danish agriculture history," said Minister of Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries, Jacob Jensen. "Denmark is a proud food-producing nation, where we have some of the world's most skilled farmers, for whom we now ensure a stable framework to continue producing world-class food for many years into the future. With the agreement, we create growth and jobs throughout the country, while taking care of our climate, environment, and nature."

     Other countries such as New Zealand have also considered a similar tax, though in the case of New Zealand, the plans were halted due to concerns of damaging the industry and economy. Now that Denmark has officially taken this first step, we are likely to see some other nations following suit.

FILED UNDER: JULY 2, 2024: WORLD, NATIONAL, LOCAL, SCIENCE & NATURE, CLIMATE CHANGE:      

  

Toms River Townhouse Complex Fire Ruled Accidental

Ocean County Authorities Have Ruled An Early Monday Morning Fire That Destroyed 6 Townhouses Accidental

Tuesday, July 2, 2024, 9:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By George Petruska: Englebrook Independent News,

TOMS RIVER, NJ.- A Toms River, New Jersey fire that injured six people, including three firefighters, when the fire ripped through the Mariners Townhouse Complex on Kettle Creek Road, leaving six townhouse units uninhabitable early Monday Morning has been ruled by Ocean County Authorities accidental.

     According to Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer, on Monday, July 1, 2024, shortly before 3:30 a.m., members of the Toms River Police Department and the Toms River Fire Department responded to multiple 911 Emergency Calls reporting a residential structure fire on Kettle Creek Road in Toms River.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers and Firefighters two townhouse units fully engulfed in flames. Three residents who were safely able to escape the burning structures were transported Community Medical Center in Toms River for treatment of minor injuries. Where two were treated and released later Monday morning. The third individual was transferred to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick for further treatment. Three firefighters received minor injuries during the fire and were treated and released.

     A swift-moving and extensive investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Arson Squad, the Ocean County Sheriff's Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Toms River Police Department's Detective Bureau, and the Toms River Township Bureau of Fire Prevention has determined that the cause of the fire was accidental and that a failure of energized electrical equipment can not be ruled out as to the cause.

     As of Monday afternoon, two residential were completely destroyed in the blaze and four other units were uninhabitable due to heavy smoke and water damage. 10 people have been left without a home.

FILED UNDER: JULY 2, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, OCEAN:      

 

Man Sentenced To State Prison On Firearms Charge

25-Year-Old Atlantic City Man Was Sentenced Last Tuesday To 5 Years In Prison on 2020 Gun Charge

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

MAYS LANDING, NJ.- On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Jerome Ford, 25, of Atlantic City, New Jersey, appeared in Atlantic County Superior Court and was sentenced by the Honorable Bernard E. DeLury, J.S.C. to a term of five years in New Jersey State Prison on a charge of second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.

     Judge DeLury further ordered the sentence to be subject to the Graves Act which will require Ford to serve 42 months of his custodial sentence before becoming eligible for parole. 

     According to Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Renolds, the charge stems from an investigation when in February 2020, members of the New Jersey State Police Atlantic City Task Force pulled over a motor vehicle in which Ford was a front-seat passenger following a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, State Troopers noticed the smell of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. They conducted a search of the motor vehicle out of concern for the safety of the occupants.

     During the search, State Troopers found a loaded .38 caliber, Rohm Gesellschaft Derringer Special handgun in the waistband of Ford's pants. During the investigation, State Troopers learned that Ford did not have a permit to possess or carry a handgun. Ford was then taken into custody and charged.

     Ford still has a pending case where he has been indicted by an Atlantic County grand jury on the charges of first-degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder; first-degree Attempted Murder; second-degree Aggravated Assault; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; first-degree Witness Tampering; first-degree Gang Criminality; as well as other related charges. 

     The charges in that matter stem from a shooting investigation that occurred on May 13, 2022, in Atlantic City, New Jersey with his co-defendant Emmanuel Williams.

FILED UNDER: JULY 2, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC: 

  

     

 

Grandson Charged With Murdering His Grandmother

UPDATE: 34-Year-Old Perth Amboy Man Charged With The Murder Of His Grandmother On Sunday

Tuesday, July 2, 2024, 6:00 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PERTH AMBOY, NJ.- Yesterday, a 34-year-old Perth Amboy, New Jersey man was taken into custody and formally charged in connection with the murder of his grandmother that occurred on Sunday, inside her downtown Perth Amboy home.

     According to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone, on Sunday, June 30, 2024, shortly after 1:00 p.m., members of the Perth Amboy Police Department responded to a 911 Emergency Call from a family member who found an elderly woman unresponsive inside her State Street home.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found the woman, identified as Awilda Verrette, 80, of Perth Amboy, who was pronounced deceased inside her home. Perth Amboy Police notified the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office and an investigation ensued.

     A swift-moving investigation by Detective Jeremy Harris of the Perth Amboy Police Department and Detective Jose Rosario of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office quickly determined that Raymond Maldonado, 34, of Perth Amboy, was in violation of a prior issued restraining order and was the individual responsible for the murder of his grandmother.

     Accordingly, Maldonado was taken into custody on Monday, July 1, 2024, and formally charged with one count of first-degree Murder; and fourth-degree Criminal Contempt for Violation of a Restraining Order. Maldonado was processed on the charges and was remanded to the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center pending future court proceedings in Middlesex County Superior Court.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with additional information regarding the death of Ms. Verrette is urged to contact Detective Harris of the Perth Amboy Police Department at (732) 324-3800 and Detective Rosario of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-3289.

"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: JULY 2, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MIDDLESEX: 

  

Camden Man Killed After Being Gunned Down Friday Night

43-Year-Old Camden Man Was Killed After Being Struck By Gunfire Late Friday Night In Camden, New Jersey

Monday, July 1, 2024, 8:00 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

CAMDEN, NJ.- Camden County Authorities are continuing the investigation into the circumstances surrounding a shooting that claimed the life of a 43-year-old Camden, New Jersey man late Friday night on a Camden City, New Jersey Street.

     According to Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay and Camden County Police Chief Gabriel Rodriguez, on Friday, June 28, 2024, shortly after 11:30 p.m., members of the Camden County Police Department responded to a ShotSpotter activation for multiple gunshots on the 1000 Block of Liberty Street in the City of Camden.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers located a man, later identified as Donald Green, 43, of Camden, New Jersey unresponsive from multiple gunshot wounds.

     Mr. Green was immediately transported by Police Officers to Cooper University Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries and was subsequently pronounced deceased at 12:22 a.m. Saturday, June 29, 2024.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing. No arrests have been made at this time as Detectives continue to search for the gunman and a motive for the shooting death.

     Anyone who may have additional information regarding the fatal shooting of Mr. Green is urged to contact Detective Jeremy Jankowski of the Camden County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Unit at (856) 225-5950 and Detective Andrew Mogck of the Camden County Police Department at (609) 519-8588. You may also submit a tip at CAMDEN.TIPS.

FILED UNDER: JULY 1, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, CAMDEN:  

   

Man Convicted Of Sexually Assaulting A Child

On Friday, A 76-Year-Old Pennsauken Man Was Found Guilty Of The Multiple Sexual Assaults Of A Young Girl

Monday, July 1, 2024, 7:00 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News, 

PENNSAUKEN, NJ.- On Friday, June 28, 2024, a jury sitting in Camden County, New Jersey found a 76-year-old Peensauken, New Jersey man guilty of repeatedly sexually assaulting a young girl on multiple occasions in 2018 in Pennsauken, New Jersey, and Riverton, New Jersey.

     According to Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay, following a trial in Camden County Superior Court, on Friday, the jury convicted Joseph Jackson, 76, of Pennsauken, New Jersey of two counts of second-degree Sexual Assault involving a young girl under the age of thirteen. Jackson was also convicted of two counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

     The sexual assaults occurred between April and December of 2018 at Jackson's residence in Pennsauken, New Jersey, and between November and December of 2018 in Riverton, New Jersey a community in Burlington County. The sexual assaults began when the girl was 9 years old.

     After the child came forward and reported the abuse, and following an investigation by the Camden County Prosecutor's Office and the Pennsauken Police Department, Jackson was taken into custody and formally charged on March 5, 2019.

      Jackson has been scheduled to appear in Camden County Superior Court on December 6, 2024, to be sentenced on the guilty verdicts at which time Jackson will face the potential New Jersey State Prison term of up to 10 years, on each count.

FILED UNDER: JULY 1, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, CAMDEN:    

  

 

Woman Found Murder Inside Her Perth Amboy Home

Middlesex County Authorities Are Actively Investigating The Murder Of An 80-Year-Old Perth Amboy Woman

Monday, July 1, 2024, 5:30 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

PERTH AMBOY, NJ.- Middlesex County Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the murder of an 80-year-old Perth Amboy, New Jersey woman who was found deceased yesterday afternoon by a family member inside her Perth Amboy home.

     According to Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Coiccone, on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at just around 1:15 p.m., members of the Perth Amboy Police Department received a 911 Emergency Call reporting a woman found unresponsive by a relative inside her State Street Perth Amboy home.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found the woman, identified as Awilda Verrette, 80, deceased from injuries inside the home. Ms. Verrette was subsequently pronounced deceased. 

     The initial investigation by Detective Jeremy Harris of the Perth Amboy Police Department and Detective Jose Rosario of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office determined that the murder was not a random act of violence.

     The investigation remains active and ongoing anyone with information regarding the death of Ms. Verrette is urged to contact Detective Harris of the Perth Amboy Police Department at (732) 324-3800 or Detective Rosario of the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office at (732) 745-3289. All calls will be kept confidential.

FILED UNDER: JULY 1, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, MIDDLESEX: 

   

Fatal House Fire Under Investigation In Bayonne

6-Year-Old Girl Perishes In Sunday Night House Fire In Bayonne, New Jersey

Monday, July 1, 2024, 3:30 P.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

BAYONNE, NJ.- Residents in a Bayonne neighborhood are mourning the loss of a 6-year-old girl who tragically perished in a house fire late last night, as Hudson County Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause and origin of the fire.

     According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, on Sunday, June 30, 2024, shortly after 11:40 p.m., members of the Bayonne Police Department and the Bayonne Fire Department responded to multiple 911 Emergency Calls reporting a house fire located at 438 Avenue C in the City of Bayonne.

     Upon arrival, Emergency responders found a fully involved fire throughout a two-story structure. Firefighters were told that a person was trapped on the second floor. During fire suppression, Firefighters used ladders to gain access to the second floor where they located the victim, later identified as Saniya Fenton, 6, of Bayonne, New Jersey, unresponsive from injuries sustained in the fire.

     The child was immediately was immediately transported to Bayonne Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries and was sadly pronounced deceased at 1:00 a.m. Monday morning.

      In a press release. "Any loss of life in a fire is tragic, however, when we see such a young person taken from our community, it is that much more difficult," said Bayonne Fire Chief Keith Weaver. "I also want to thank our brave firefighters for doing an excellent job at keeping the fire contained to the building of origin."

     During the fire, four other individuals and three firefighters suffered minor injuries in the fire and were transported to the Medical Center and treated and have all been released.

     At this time the cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation by the Hudson County Regional Arson Task Force and the Bayonne Fire Department. Foul play is not suspected. Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office at (201) 915-1345.

FILED UNDER: JULY 1, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, HUDSON:   

        

U.S. Supreme Court Rules Ex-Presidents Have Protection From Prosecution

Court Rules: Ex-Presidents Have Absolute Immunity From Prosecution For Acts While In Office

Monday, July 1, 2024, 11:30 A.M. ET. 2 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges: Englebrook Independent News,

WASHINGTON, DC.- Today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 decision in the case of Trump v. United States that a former president has absolute immunity from prosecutions for acts while in office, but limited immunity for unofficial acts.

     In the decision, the Court remanded the case back down to the lower court, as the justices did not apply the ruling directly to whether former President Trump is immune from prosecution regarding efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

     The ruling in the case arose from Trump's appeal from Special Counsel Jack Smith's federal election interference case in which Smith charged former President Trump with Conspiracy to Defraud the United States; Conspiracy to Obstruct an Official Proceeding; Obstruction and Attempt to Obstruct an Official Proceeding; and Conspiracy Against Rights.

     The charges stem from Special Counsel Jack Smith's investigation into whether former President Trump was involved or was the cause of the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot and any election interference in the results of the 2020 election.

     Following pleading not guilty on Smith's indictment, Trump argued that he should be immune from official acts in the official capacity as president. 

     Monday's ruling will give way for the lower court to decide whether Trump acted as President or as a candidate leading up to and following the events of the January 6, 2021 riot. The question that now comes into play is whether Trump who did not officially leave office until January 20, 2021, is immune from prosecution.

  

     No matter the decision of the lower court, today's ruling will surely guarantee that Smith's case will not go to trial before the November 5, 2024 Election.

     This is a developing story and will be updated:

FILED UNDER: JULY 1, 2024: NATIONAL, LOCAL, WASHINGTON, POLITICS, ELECTION 2024: 

  

        

             

  

Trio Faces Charges In Two Paterson, New Jersey Shootings

3 Men & A Juvenile Have Been Charged  In Connection With 2 Paterson Shooting Investigations

Monday, July 1, 2024, 8:30 A.M. ET. 4 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent New,

PATERSON, NJ.- Local, State, and Federal Authorities have arrested a 23-year-old Lodi, New Jersey man, a 23-year-old Paterson, New Jersey man, a 20-year-old Malden, Massachusettes man, and a 17-year-old Paterson, New Jersey Juvenile in connection with two shootings that occurred in the City of Paterson on April 17, 2024, and June 4, 2024.

     According to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, Gabriel Mercado, 23, of Lodi, New Jersey was formally charged with first-degree Attempted Murder; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; third-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child; and fourth-degree Aggravated Assault.

     The charges stem from an incident that unfolded on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, when at approximately 10:51 p.m., members of the Paterson Police Department responded to a report of a shooting in the area of 10th Avenue and and East 23rd Street in the City of Paterson. 

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a 29-year-old Paterson man having sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. The man was transported to Saint Joseph's University Medical Center for treatment and subsequently released. 

     Following a motor vehicle stop, on Thursday, Mercado and Issac Mejia, 23, of Paterson, New Jersey, were taken into custody by members of the New Jersey State Police Violent & Organized Crime Control North Bureau in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tabacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Mercado was additionally charged and Mejia was charged with second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon During a Controlled Dangerous Substance Offense; third-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance; third-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute; and fourth-degree Possessions of a High Capacity Magazine.

     Mercado had been charged and released on bail conditions in connection with an April 17, 2024, shooting in a Paterson residential neighborhood. Following that investigation, Mercado was formally charged with first-degree Attempted Murder; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; third-degree Receiving Stolen Property; third-degree Hindering Apprehension; fourth-degree Possession of a Defaced Firearm; and fourth-degree Possession of a High Capacity Magazine.

     In addition during Mercado's arrest, two additional people were taken into custody, Steven Batista, 20, of Malden, Massachusettes, and a 17-year-old Paterson, New Jersey juvenile male.

     Following being taken into custody, Batista was formally charged with first-degree Attempted Murder; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; third-degree Hindering Apprehension; fourth-degree Possession of a Defaced Firearm; fourth-degree fourth-degree Joyriding; fourth-degree Obstruction of Justice; and fourth-degree Tampering with Evidence.

     The 17-year-old juvenile was charged with acts of juvenile delinquency, constituting crimes of first-degree Attempted Murder; second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; second-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; third-degree Hindering Apprehension; fourth-degree Possession of a Defaced Firearm; fourth-degree Possession of a High Capacity Magazine; fourth-degree Juvenile in Possession of a Firearm; fourth-degree Resisting Arrest by Flight; fourth-degree Obstruction of Justice; and fourth-degree Tampering with Evidence.

     The charges filed against Batista and the juvenile stem from an investigation that began on April 17, 2024, when shortly after 3:00 p.m., members of the Paterson Police Department responded to a report of a shooting in the area of Lyon and Mercer Streets in the City of Paterson. Upon arrival, Police Officers later identified an intended target of shooting who was uninjured.

     A swift-moving investigation by Paterson Police Detectives and Detectives of the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office was able to identify Mercado, Batista, and the juvenile as the individuals responsible for the shooting. The three were arrested later that day without incident in Paterson, New Jersey.    

     Batista and the juvenile, along with Mercado appeared in Passaic County Court, and Mercado and the juvenile were released on bail conditions pending future court proceedings. Batista appeared in Passaic County Superior Court, and on April 30, 2024, a Superior Court Judge granted the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office motion to have Batista detained pending trial. 

     The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office has filed a detention motion to have Mercado and Mejia detained pending trial in the June 4, 2024 shooting.

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

"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 1, 2024: LAW, LOCAL,PASSAIC:   

        

  

Man Indicted On Charges For Assaulting Police Officer

31-Year-Old Galloway Township Man Indicted On Charges For The April 7, 2024 Attack On Police Officers

Monday, July 1, 2024, 5:30 A.M. ET. 1 Minute Read, By Art Fletcher: Englebrook Independent News,

MAYS LANDING, NJ.- Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds reported, on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, that a Grand Jury sitting in Atlantic County, New Jersey has returned an indictment against Keith Kiminsky, 31, of Galloway Township, in connection with an April 7, 2024, incident that led to multiple Police Officers being injured.

     On Wednesday, the grand jury indicted Kiminsky on charges of first-degree Attempted Murder; Aggravated Assault; Resisting Arrest; Obstruction; and multiple Weapons Offenses.

      According to the Prosecutor, on April 7, 2024, members of the Galloway Police Department responded to multiple 911 Emergency Call hang-ups at a Galloway Township residence, to check on the residents of the home.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers encountered Kiminsky who exited the residence and attacked one of the responding Police Officers with a serrated kitchen knife, slashing the officer across the face. Kiminsky then fought with several Police Officers on the ground as they tried to subdue him, as he failed to drop the knife injuring other officers.

     The Officer who was slashed across the face was immediately transported to an area hospital where he underwent emergency surgery for a serious injury to his right cheek, the injury was so severe that the officer's teeth and the inside of his mouth were exposed.

     Kiminsky remains detained in the Atlantic County Justice Facility, and the case will be scheduled for an arraignment hearing on the indictment.

"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: JULY 1, 2024: LAW, LOCAL, ATLANTIC: