Early Saturday Morning Paterson Shooting

18 YEAR OLD AND 12 YEAR OLD STRUCK BY GUNFIRE EARLY THIS MORNING IN PATERSON NEW JERSEY

     " An 18-Year-Old Was Struck By Gunfire On The Street & A 12-Year-Old Was Grazed By A Bullet Inside His Home AT 3:00 A.M. This Morning."

August 20, 2022 3:37 P.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Saturday, August 20, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim Baycora announced that On Saturday, August 20, 2022, at approximately 3:00 a.m., Members of The Paterson Police Department were dispatched to the area of Rosa Parks Boulevard and Putnam Street in Paterson, New Jersey on a report of Shots Fired.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers located a potential crime scene, and an 18- Year-Old Paterson man who had sustained a Non-Life Threatening Gunshot Wound and a 12-Year-Old Juvenile who was grazed by a Stray Bullet in a residence. The 18-year-old victim was immediately transported to Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey for treatment. The juvenile victim was treated at the scene for Non-Life-Threatening Injuries.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact The Paterson Police Ceasefire Unit at 973-321-1342.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 20, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC: 

Two Found Dead In Car

PASSAIC COUNTY AUTHORITIES ARE ACTIVELY INVESTIGATING THE DEATHS OF A MAN AND A WOMAN

     " Police Are Investigating 2 People Found Shot To Death Inside A Car Friday Morning, August 19, 2022."

August 20, 2022 2:44 P.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Friday, August 19, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim Baycora announced that on Friday, August 19, 2022, at approximately 11:40 a.m., Members of The Paterson Police Department and The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office responded to the area of Elizabeth Street and Getty Avenue in Paterson, New Jersey where Police Officers discovered two deceased individuals, a man and a woman, inside a vehicle with apparent Gunshot Wounds.

     The investigation is active and ongoing. The Shooting appears to be an apparent Murder Suicide, more information may become available once released by authorities.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact The Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact The Paterson Police Detective Bureau at 973-321-1120.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 20, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC:  

Man Sentenced To Prison

MAN SENTENCED TO 28 YEARS IN PRISON FOR THE 2020 STABBING DEATH OF HIS ROOMMATE

     " Tong Cheng Sentenced To 28-Years In New Jersey State Prison For August, 2020 The Stabbing Death Of Yuting Ge."

August 19, 2022 6:41 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News, 

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- On Thursday, August 18, 2022, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez announced on Thursday, The Honorable John A. Young Sentenced Tong Cheng, 28, of Jersey City, New Jersey to 28 Years in New Jersey State Prison for the Stabbing Death of his roommate, Yuting Ge, 23, on August 8, 2020.

     Mr. Cheng, Pleaded Guilty to One Count of Aggravated Manslaughter on May 11, 2022. Mr. Cheng Sentence is subject to The No Early Release Act. The State was represented in this case by Hudson County Assistant Prosecutor Adam Salzer.

     “The State hopes the conclusion of these proceedings provides comfort to the victim’s family as they continue to cope with the loss of a promising young man who had his entire life ahead of him,” said Hudson County Assistant Prosecutor Adam Salzer.

     On Saturday, August 8, 2020, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Members of The Jersey City Police Department responded to an apartment on New York Avenue near Hutton Street on a report of a Suspicious Condition. Upon Arrival, Police Officers discovered the lifeless man, later identified as Yuting Ge, 23, of Jersey City. Mr. Ge was subsequently pronounced deceased at the scene.

     The Cause of Death was determined to be Multiple Stab Wounds and The Manner of Death was determined to be Homicide. Mr. Ge was a student at Stevens Institute of Technology at the time of his Death. Mr. Cheng, an alumnus of Stevens Institute of Technology Graduate School, was Arrested without incident at a hotel in Weehawken, New Jersey on Monday, August 10, 2020.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 19, 2022: LAW, HUDSON:   

Man Sentenced To Prison

24 YEAR OLD MAN SENTENCED TO STATE PRISON FOR THE 2018 FATAL SHOOTING IN JERSEY CITY

     " James Crawford Was Sentenced On Friday, August 12, 2022 To 30-Years In Prison For The Fatal Shooting Of Eric Crocker."

August 16, 2022 5:05 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- On Monday, August 15, 2022, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez announced that on Friday, August 12, 2022, The Honorable Angelo Servidio sentenced James Crawford, 24, to Thirty Years in New Jersey State Prison for his role in the Fatal Shooting of Eric Crocker, 23, in Jersey City, New Jersey on September 4, 2018.

     Mr. Crawford, of Jersey City, New Jersey was Convicted by a jury of First Degree Murder; Second Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. Mr. Crawford will not be eligible for parole for Thirty Years.

     Following a four week trial, The Jury was hung on the Conspiracy to Commit Murder charge against Mr. Crawford and could not reach a unanimous decision on the Murder and Conspiracy to Commit Murder Charges brought against codefendant Alexander Harris, 33, of Jersey City. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office intends to have Harris retried on the Charges. A third codefendant, Jahmir Thomas, Pleaded Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Assault.

     On Tuesday, September 4, 2018, at approximately 5:55 p.m., The Jersey City Police Department responded to a report of Gunshots in the area of Lembeck Avenue and Ocean Avenue in Jersey City. Upon arrival, Police Officers found a male victim, later identified as Eric Crocker, 23, of Bayonne, New Jersey suffering from multiple Gunshot Wounds to his Chest. Mr. Crocker was pronounced deceased at Jersey City Medical Center at approximately 6:30 p.m. The Regional Medical Examiner’s Office determined The Cause of Death to be multiple gunshot wounds to his chest and The Manner of Death to be Homicide.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 16, 2022: LAW, HUDSON: 

Robbinsville Police Department Member Charged

ROBBINSVILLE TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEE CHARGED WITH THEFT AND OTHER CHARGES

     " Eric Coran Has Been Charged With Alleged Theft & Money Laundering For Stealing $250,000. Worth Of Equipment From The Robbinsville Police Department."

August 15, 2022 6:28 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

ROBBINSVILLE, NJ.- On Friday, August 12, 2022, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri and Robbinsville Township Police Chief Michael Polaski announced that on Thursday, August 11, 2022, a 21-Year Employee of The Robbinsville Township Police Department has been Charged with Stealing and Selling Property and Equipment belonging to The Police Department for Personal Gain.

     On Thursady, August 12, 2022, a Criminal Complaint was signed Charging Eric Coran, 41, of Medford, New Jersey with Second Degree Official Misconduct; Multiple Counts of Theft; Criminal Computer Activity and Impersonation; and Second Degree Money Laundering. Mr. Coran has been Employed by The Robbinsville Township Police Department as a communications officer since 2002.

     Mr. Coran's responsibilities included Purchasing, Ordering, Programming, and Maintaining Police Equipment including Police Radios, Emergency Lights, Sirens and Controllers. Mr. Coran was terminated from his job on Friday after being suspended without pay since July 2022.

     The charges are the result of an investigation by The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Public Corruption Unit and The Robbinsville Township Police Department. 

     The investigation determined that between July 2021 and July 2022, Mr. Coran abused his position by Fraudulently Obtaining and Altering Purchase Orders issued by The Township of Robbinsville to make unauthorized purchases for his own uses; making unauthorized purchases for his own uses utilizing The Township’s Amazon account; and utilizing other means to steal Robbinsville Property and Funds.

     Further, Mr. Coran Sold various Police Radios, Emergency Lights, Sirens and Controllers over The Internet using an alias and mailed them throughout the United States utilizing his Medford, New Jersey residence as a return address. The approximate value of the Stolen Property is more than $250,000. 

     The investigation also uncovered that Mr. Coran utilized the credentials of both Chief Christopher Nitti and Chief Polaski without authorization to access and make alterations in a software program used by The Township of Robbinsville for budgeting and financial purposes to further and cover up his Crimes.

     “No one is above the law, especially public servants,” Prosecutor Onofri said. “Individuals who abuse their positions and violate public trust should be prepared to face the consequences.”

     “Eric was a long-time, trusted employee serving 21 years with the police department. He was an important member of the team,” Chief Polaski said. “We were both shocked and disappointed to learn that this had been going on.”

     Mr. Coran’s Criminal Acts were uncovered in July when Motorola contacted The Robbinsville Township Police Department regarding service of one of the stolen radios. The matter was brought to the attention of The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and a joint investigation ensued.

     The case is presently being Prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Rachel Cook, Chief of The Public Corruption Unit. If Convicted Second Degree crimes carry a penalty of Five to Ten Years in New Jersey State Prison and a $150,000 fine. Third Degree Crimes carry a penalty of Three to Five Years in New Jersey State Prison and a $15,000 fine. If convicted of The Second Degree Crime of Money Laundering, Mr. Coran faces a penalty of Five to Ten Years in New Jersey State Prison, which will run Consecutive to the Theft Charges, and a $200,000 fine. Additionally, Mr. Coran would be subject to a $500,000 Anti-Money Laundering Profiteering Penalty. The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office has filed a motion to Detain Mr. Coran pending trial.

" 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 AUGUST 15, 2022: LAW, MERCER:  

Friday Paterson Carjacking

31 YEAR OLD PATERSON WOMAN ACCUSED OF CARJACKING TWO STATE EMPLOYEES WHO WERE DRIVING HER

     " Imani McRae Has Been Charged In Connection With Assaulting & Carjacking 2 State Employees Who Were Driving Her & 7-Year-Old Child To Paterson."

August 15, 2022 4:48 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Saturday, August 13, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim Baycora, and Sayreville Police Chief John Zebrowski announced that based upon a swift moving investigation by The Paterson Police Department, in conjunction with the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office and The Sayreville Police Department, Imani McRae, 31, of Paterson, New Jersey, was Arrested and Charged in connection to a carjacking investigation that took place on August 12, 2022, in the area of 20th Avenue and Railroad Avenue in Paterson, New Jersey.

     Ms. McRae has been Charged with First Degree Carjacking; Second Degree Robbery; Second Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Second Degree; Two Counts of Third Degree Terroristic Threats; and Two Counts of Fourth Degree Aggravated Assault. In addition, Ms. McRae has been Charged in another jurisdiction with Third Degree Eluding; Fourth Degree Aggravated Assault; and Fourth Degree Hindering Apprehension stemming from the arrest, in Middlesex County, New Jersey.

     On Friday, August 12, 2022, at approximately 12:35, p.m. Members of The Paterson Police Department responded to the area of 20th Avenue and Railroad Avenue in Paterson, New Jersey on a report of a carjacking. 

     Upon arrival, Police Officers were flagged down by a 41-Year-Old woman and a 47-Year-Old woman who advised Officers they were employed by a New Jersey Agency and were transporting Ms. McRae and her Seven-Year-Old Child to Paterson, New Jersey. 

     The two women further told Police Officers that when they arrived in the area of 20th Avenue and Railroad Avenue Ms. McRae became Agitated and Assaulted the 41-year-old woman and the 47-year-old woman while in the motor vehicle. Both victims were Forced to Exit the vehicle at which point Ms. McRae fled the scene in the motor vehicle with the Seven-Year-Old Child.

     An immediate investigation was launched to try to ascertain the location of Ms. McRae and the Seven-Year-Old Child. During the investigation the Seven-Year-Old Child was later located by Members of The Paterson Police Department at approximately 2:25 p.m. in the area of Rosa Parks Boulevard and Franklin Street in Paterson, New Jersey. 

      Approximately Two Hours later Ms. McRae was apprehended by The Sayreville Police Department at approximately 4:33, p.m. in the area of Radford Ferry Road in South Amboy, New Jersey with the assistance of The South Amboy Police Department.

     If Convicted Ms. McRae will face the sentencing exposure for Ms. McRae on First Degree Carjacking is Ten to Thirty Years in New Jersey State Prison with Eighty-Five Percent term of service before parole eligibility pursuant to The No Early Release Act and Five Years parole supervision; on Second Degree Robbery it is Five to Ten Years in New Jersey State Prison with Eighty-Five Percent term of service before parole eligibility pursuant to The No Early Release Act and Three Years parole supervision, on Endangering the Welfare of a Child it is Five to Ten Years in New Jersey State Prison, on each count of Third Degree Terroristic Threats it is Three to Five Years in New Jersey State Prison, on each count of Fourth Degree Aggravated Assault it is up to Eighteen Months in New Jersey State Prison; on Third Degree Eluding it is Three to Five Years in New Jersey State Prison, and on Fourth Degree Hindering Apprehension it is up to Eighteen Months in New Jersey State Prison.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office intends to file a motion for the Pretrial Detention of Ms. McRae which will be heard by a Superior Court Judge.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact The Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact The Paterson Police Department Major Crimes Division at (973) 321-1120.

" 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 AUGUST 15, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC: 

Kearny New Jersey Man Charged

KEARNY MAN CHARGED IN THE MAY 2021 KIDNAPPING AND SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A 32-YEAR-OLD WOMAN

     " Horus G. Nunez-Velazquez Charged In Connection With The Kidnapping & Sexual Assault Of A Mentally Incapacitated Woman In May Of 2021."

August 14, 2022 6:23 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Friday, August 12, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim M. Baycora announced the Arrest and Detention of Horus G. Nunez-Velazquez, 35, of  Kearny, New Jersey, following a joint investigation by The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Sexual Investigations Unit in conjunction with The Paterson Police Department. Mr. Nunez-Velazquez was Apprehended in Pennsylvania on June 9, 2022, in which he was processed on the outstanding Arrest Warrant which was filed on February 17, 2022, and subsequently extradited back to New Jersey.

     Mr. Nunez-Velazquez has been Charged with One Count of First Degree Kidnapping; Multiple Counts of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; Third Degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact; and Fourth Degree Refusal to Allow a Biological Sample to be Drawn. 

     On May 19, 2021, the mother of a 32-Year-Old Mentally Incapacitated Woman contacted The Paterson Police Department to report her daughter missing from her residence. 

     The subsequent investigation revealed that Mr. Nunez-Velazquez had met the woman online, picked her up from her residence and took her to a nearby park and subsequently to his apartment. During a forensic interview, the woman disclosed numerous Sexual Acts with Mr. Nunez-Velazquez in a park, in his car and in his apartment. 

     After the Assaults, Mr. Nunez-Velazquez drove the woman back to her home and shoved her out of his vehicle when he noticed he was being followed by the woman’s family. Mr. Nunez-Velazquez was later identified as the suspect, was charged accordingly, and taken into custody.

     If Convicted Mr. Nunez-Velazquez will face the sentencing exposure on First Degree Kidnapping is a minimum of Twenty-Five Years in New Jersey State Prison without the possibility of parole. The sentencing exposure on First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault is Ten to Twenty Years in New Jersey State Prison with Eighty-Five Percent  term of service before parole eligibility pursuant to The No Early Release Act. The sentencing exposure on Third Degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact is Three to Five Years in New Jersey State Prison. Fourth Degree Refusal to Allow a Biological Sample to be Drawn carries a maximum of Eighteen Months. 

     Further, if convicted, Mr. Nunez-Velazquez would be required to submit to an evaluation as to the nature of his Sexual Conduct at the Adult Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Avenel, New Jersey. Mr. Nunez-Velazquez will also be subject to Parole Supervision for Life and Megan’s Law Registration Requirements.

     Mr. Nunez-Velazquez is currently detained at The Passaic County Jail. The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office filed a motion for pretrial detention, which was granted by Superior Court Judge Marybel Mercado-Ramirez on Thursday, August 11, 2022.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident or other incidents regarding this individual to contact The Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO.

" 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 AUGUST 14, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC:

 

Cherry Hill New Jersey Man Charged

CHERRY HILL MAN CHARGED AFTER ALLOWING A TWO YEAR OLD ACCESS TO FENTANYL THAT RESULTED IN HER DEATH

     "Walter H. Clark Of Cherry Hill Has Been Charged With Aggravated Manslaughter & Child Endangerment In The Death Of A 2-Year-Old."

AUGUST 14, 2022 4:33 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

CHEERY HILL, NJ.- On Wednesday, August 3, 2022, Camden County Prosecutor Grace C. MacAulay and Cherry Hill Police Chief Robert Kempf announced a 27-Year-Old Cherry Hill, New Jersey man has been Charged in the July 27, 2022 Death of a 2-Year-Old Girl.

     Walter H. Clark, 27, of Cherry Hill, New Jersey has been Charged with One Count of First Degree Aggravated Manslaughter; One Count of Second Degree Aggravated Assault; and Two Counts of Second Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

     On July 23, 2022, at approximately 7:46 p.m., Members of The Cherry Hill Police Department and Cherry Hill Emergency Medical Service Personnel responded to a residence located on The 300 Block of Evergreen Avenue in Cherry Hill on a report of a 2-Year-Old Girl who was not breathing. Upon arrival, Police Officers found the girl unconscious. The child was immediately transported to Cooper University Hospital where she was subsequently pronounced deceased at 9:06 p.m.

     A subsequent investigation conducted by The Camden County Prosecutor's Office Homicide Unit in conjunction with The Cherry Hill Police Department Investigative Unit determined that the Child tested Positive for Controlled Dangerous Substances, specifically Cocaine and Fentanyl, in the Child's System.

     As a result of the investigation Mr. Clark was taken into Custody and Formally Charged. A detention hearing was held and a Camden County Superior Court Judge Granted the motion to have Mr. Clark Detained pending the outcome of the Charges against him.

" 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 AUGUST 14, 2022: LAW, CAMDEN:    

Two Charged In Armed Carjacking

TWO MEN HAVE BEEN CHARGED IN THE JUNE 16, 2022 ROCHELLE PARK ARMED CARJACKING

     " Elijah Battle & Anthony Aguilar Have Been After An Investigation Into The June 16, 2022 Armed Carjacking In Rochelle Park, New Jersey."

August 13, 2022 10:53 A.M ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

ROCHELLE PARK, NJ.- On Friday, August 12, 2022, Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella announced the Arrests of Elijah Battle, 25, of Paterson, New Jersey and Anthony Aguilar, 24, currently incarcerated in the Bergen County Jail in Hackensack, New Jersey on Carjacking Related Charges. 

     The Arrests are the result of an investigation conducted by The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Squad under the direction of Chief Jason Love, The Rochelle Park Police Department under the direction of Chief Dean Pinto, and The Maywood Police Department under the direction of Chief Terence Kenny.

     During a Two-Month-long investigation by Members of the above Law Enforcement Agencies, Mr. Battle and Mr. Aguilar were identified as suspects in an Armed Carjacking that took place in Rochelle Park, New Jersey on June 16, 2022, as well as a Motor Vehicle Burglary which took place in Maywood, New Jersey on the same day.

     On Thursday, August 11, 2022, Detectives of The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Arrested Mr. Battle without incident in Passaic, New Jersey. Later in the afternoon, Mr. Aguilar was served with his charges at The Bergen County Jail in Hackensack, New Jersey.

     Mr. Battle and Mr. Aguilar are both Charged with the following offenses: First Degree Carjacking; Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun; Second Degree Possession of Weapons for Unlawful Purposes; Second Degree Certain Persons not to Possess Weapons; Third Degree Burglary to a Vehicle; Third Degree Theft; and Third Degree Receiving Stolen Property.

" 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 AUGUST 13, 2022: LAW, BERGEN: 

Man Charged In 2019 Homicide

ATLANTIC CITY NEW JERSEY MAN CHARGED IN THE 2019 MURDER FOR HIRE SHOOTING DEATH

     " Khalif S. Toombs Of Atlantic City Has Been Charged In Connection To The Fatal Shooting Of Lamar King On January 1, 2019."

August 13, 2022 9:18 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ.- On Friday, August 12, 2022, Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds announced that a 32-Year-Old Atlantic City man has been Charged in connection with the January 1, 2019 Fatal Shooting of Lamar King.

     Khalif Toombs, 32, of Atlantic City, New Jersey has been Charged with One Count of First Degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder; One Count of First Degree Accomplice in the Procurement of Murder by Promise of Payment; One Count of Second Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and One Count of Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.

     On January 1, 2019, Members of The Atlantic City Police Department responded to the area of The 700 Block of North Ohio Avenue on a report of a Shooting. Upon arrival, Police Officer found a victim, later identified as Lamar King inside a car, having succumbed to multiple Gunshot Wounds. Mr. King was subsequently pronounced deceased at the scene.

     A subsequent investigation conducted by Members of The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office in conjunction with The Atlantic City  Police Department led to the Shooter being identified and taken into custody in 2019. Further investigation determined that Mr. Toombs Hired the Shooter to Murder Mr. King.

     If Convicted Mr. Toombs will face a Mandatory Life Imprisonment in New Jersey State Prison, for Hiring another to Commit Murder.

     Anyone with information regarding the Shooting Death of Mr. King is urged to contact The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office at (609) 989-7800.

" 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 AUGUST 13, 2022: LAW, ATLANTIC:

      

Man Sentenced In 2021 Homicide

MAN SENTENCED TO PRISON IN THE 2021 MORRISTOWN TRAIN STATION MURDER

     " Lamar Harris Has Been Sentenced To Prison For Beating A Man To Death With A Brick At The Morristown Train Station In 2021."

August 12, 2022 6:49 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

MORRISTOWN, NJ.- On Thursday, August 11, 2022, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, New Jersey Transit Police Chief Christopher Trucillo, and Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson announced that Lamar Harris, 34, of Morristown New Jersey has been Sentenced to Eighteen Years in New Jersey State Prison.

     On March 29, 2021, at approximately 12:29 a.m., Members of The Morristown Police Department and Members of The New Jersey Transit Police responded to The Morristown Train Station located on Morris Street in Morristown, New Jersey on a report of a deceased male.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a male victim, later identified as Matthew Palla, having succumbed to head injuries lying on a stairway inside the train station. A Brick was discovered near Mr. Palla's Body.

     A Subsequent Autopsy  performed by The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office, determined the cause of Death to be Blunt Force Trauma to the Head and the Manner of Death to be Homicide. The ensuing investigation, including video surveillance, revealed the Mr. Palla and Mr. Harris were together in Morristown and in the vicinity of the Morristown Train Station prior to the homicide. The investigation also revealed that Matthew Palla was in possession of approximately $800 prior to the homicide.

     On June 15, 2022, Mr. Harris Pled Guilty to First Degree Aggravated Manslaughter and Third Degree Theft by Unlawful Taking before the Honorable Stephen J. Taylor, P.J.Cr. On August 11, 2022, Judge Taylor imposed a Sentence of 18 Years in New Jersey State Prison subject to The No Early Release Act, which makes Mr. Harris ineligible for parole until he has Served Eighty-Five Percent of the sentence, on the Aggravated Manslaughter. Judge Taylor also imposed a concurrent sentence of Five Years in New Jersey State Prison on the Theft Charge. Mr. Harris was also ordered to pay $800 restitution.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 12, 2022: LAW, MORRIS: 

  

Paterson New Jersey Man Charged

PATERSON MAN CHARGED WITH MULTIPLE COUNTS OF FIRST DEGREE SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A COUPLE

     " William Vazquez Has Been Charged After Jumping Out Of The Bushes At Great Falls Park & Sexually Assaulting A Man & Woman Last Year."

August 10, 2022 6:21 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Wednesday, August 9, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim M. Baycora announced the Arrest and Detention of William Vazquez, 32, of Paterson, New Jersey. Mr. Vazquez was charged on August 4, 2022 with Multiple Charges including Sexual Assault and Weapons Offenses following a joint investigation by The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Sexual Investigations Unit in conjunction with The Paterson Police Department.

     Mr. Vazquez has been Charged with multiple counts of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault; Second Degree Sexual Assault; Second Degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose; Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; Third Degree Invasion of Privacy; and Fourth Degree Aggravated Assault for Pointing a Firearm.

     On August 9, 2021, a woman and a man who were at he Great Falls in Paterson, New Jersey located a Paterson Police officer in the area and reported that they were Sexually Assaulted at Gun Point by a stranger who jumped out of the bushes carrying a silver revolver in his hands. The Paterson Police Department then notified the Sexual Investigations Unit of The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office. As part of the ensuing investigation, formal statements were taken from each victim and the suspect’s vehicle was identified at the scene. Mr. Vazquez was later identified as the suspect and was Charged accordingly.

     If convicted, The Sentencing Exposure for Mr. Vazquez on First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault is Ten to Twenty Years in New Jersey State Prison with Eighty-Five Percent of the term to be served before parole eligibility pursuant to The No Early Release Act. The sentencing exposure on Second Degree Sexual Assault and Second Degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon carries Five to Ten Years in New Jersey State Prison, each with Parole Disqualifiers. The sentencing exposure on Third Degree Invasion of Privacy is Three to Five Years in New Jersey State Prison each. Fourth Degree Aggravated Assault for Pointing a Firearm carries a maximum of Eighteen Months. Further if convicted, Mr. Vazquez would be required to submit to an evaluation as to the nature of his sexual conduct at The Adult Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Avenel, New Jersey. Vazquez will also be subject to Parole Supervision for Life and Megan’s Law Registration Requirements once released from Prison. 

     Mr. Vazquez is currently Detained at The Bergen County Jail in Hackensack, New Jersey.  The Passaic County Prosecutor's filed a motion for Pretrial Detention, which was granted by The Honorable Judge Scott Rumana.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident or other incidents regarding this individual to contact The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO.

" 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 A Reasonable Doubt."

FILED UNDER AUGUST 10, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC: 

Jersey City Homicide Investigation

EARLY SUNDAY MORNING SHOOTING IN JERSEY CITY LEAVES ONE HOSPITALIZED AND ONE DEAD

     " Shooting In The Area Of Monticello Avenue & Astor Place Leaves A 49-Year-Old In Critical Condition & Keshean Nettles Dead."

August 8, 2022 5:14 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

JERSEY CITY, NJ.- On Sunday, August 7, 2022, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez announced The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Unit and The Jersey City Police Department are investigating a Shooting on Monticello Avenue in which one man has died and a second man was critically injured.

     On Sunday, August 7, 2022, at approximately 3:02 a.m., Members of The Jersey City Police Department responded to the area of Monticello Avenue and Astor Place in Jersey City, on a report of Shots Fired.

     Upon arrival, Police Officers discovered two victims, a 46-Year-Old man with an apparent gunshot wound to the middle body and a 49-Year-Old man with an apparent gunshot wound to the upper body.

Both men were immediately transported to Jersey City Medical Center where Keshean Nettles, 46, of Jersey City, succumbed to his injury and was subsequently pronounced deceased at approximately 3:35 a.m. The Cause and Manner of Death are pending the findings of the Regional Medical Examiner’s Office. The 49-Year-Old man, a Jersey City resident, remains hospitalized in critical condition.

     The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Unit and Jersey City Police Department are actively investigating this case. No arrests have been made at this time. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor at 201-915-1345 or to leave an anonymous tip at: https://www.hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip/.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 8, 2022: LAW, HUDSON: 

Paterson Highway Shooting

TWO MEN STRUCK BY GUNFIRE WHILE RIDING IN A CAR ON ROUTE 80 AND MARYLAND AVENUE

     " A 41-Year-Old Paterson Man & A 31-Year-Old Paterson Man Were Both Struck By Gunfire Saturday Afternoon."

August 7, 2022 6:37 P.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Sunday, August 7, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim Baycora announced that on Saturday, August 6, 2022, at approximately 3:25 p.m., Members of the Paterson Police Department were notified that a 41-Year-Old Paterson man and a 38-Year-Old Paterson man had arrived at Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey by way of private vehicle, both men seeking treatment for Non-Life Threatening Gunshot Wounds. 

     Based upon the initial investigation, the Shooting occurred while the men were in a motor vehicle in the area of Maryland Avenue and Route I-80 in Paterson, New Jersey. A potential crime scene was located in that area.

     No Arrests have been made and The Investigation remains active and ongoing.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact The Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact The Paterson Police Ceasefire Unit at 973-321-1342.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 7, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC: 

Winfield Park Man Found Guilty

UNION COUNTY JURY CONVICTS MAN IN THE AUGUST 30, 2021 SLASHING ATTACK OUTSIDE A RAHWAY BAR

     " Michael G. Johnston Of Winfield Park Convicted Last Thursday Of Second Degree Aggravated Assault & Related Weapons Offenses."

August 5, 2022 5:20 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

ELIZABETH, NJ.- On Thursday, August 4, 2022, Union County First Assistant Prosecutor James O. Tansey announced that on Thursday, July 27, 2022, a Jury sitting in Union County, New Jersey has Returned Guilty Verdicts against a man that Slashed a Rahway, New Jersey man's throat last year.

     Michael G. Johnston, 45, of Winfield Park, New Jersey was found Guilty of One Count of Second Degree Aggravated Assault; One Count of Third Degree Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon; Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; and Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.

     On August 30, 2022, at approximately 1:45 a.m., a Rahway Police Department Patrol Unit was in the area of the CVS Pharmacy located in The 800 Block of Saint George's Avenue, when the Patrol Unit was approached by a 25-Year-Old man who was Bleeding from Neck. 

     According to authorities, the man was rendered medical attention and was transported to University Hospital in Newark, New Jersey for treatment.

     An investigation by Detectives from The Rahway Police Department quickly led to Mr. Johnston being identified as the suspect in the case. A short time later Johnston was Arrest at his Winfield Park home and has remained detained in The County Jail pending the outcome of the Trial.

     Sentencing for Mr. Johnston has been scheduled for next month in Union County State Superior Court.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 5, 2022: LAW, UNION:   

Paterson Homicide Investigation

PASSAIC COUNTY AUTHORITIES CONTINUING TO INVESTIGATE AN AUGUST 1, 2022 HOMICIDE

     " Late Monday Night Shooting At 237 Park Avenue, Paterson, New Jersey Claims The Life Of A 29-Year-Old Man."

August 3, 2022 9:19 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Wednesday, August 3, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim Baycora announced that on Monday, August 1, 2022, at approximately 9:00 p.m., Members of The Paterson Police Department responded to the area of 237 Park Avenue on a report of Shots Fired. 

     Upon arrival, Police Officers found a 29-Year-Old man having sustained Multiple Gunshot Wounds. The man was immediately transported Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

     No Arrests have been made and the investigation is active and ongoing.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact The Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact The Paterson Police Detective Bureau at 973-321-1120.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 3, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC: 

Paterson Police Officer Indicted

FORMER PATERSON POLICE OFFICER INDICTED ON CHARGES FOR THE MAY 2021 ASSAULT OF A MAN IN CUSTODY

     " Spencer Finch Indicted On Charges Of Official Misconduct, Tampering With Public Records & A Weapon Offenses For The Beating Of A Man."

August 3, 2022 6:44 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Friday, July 28, 2022, Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes announced the Indictment of former Paterson Police Officer Spencer Finch, 45, of Mahwah, New Jersey.

     A Grand Jury sitting in Passaic County, New Jersey has returned an Indictment Charging Mr. Finch with One Count of Second Degree Official Misconduct; One Count of Second Degree Aggravated Assault; One Count of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose; One Count of Third Degree Tampering With Public Records or Information and One Count of Third Degree Perjury.

     The alleged Charges stem from an incident that occurred on May 26, 2021, when Mr. Finch, at the time was a Paterson Police Officer, Arrested a man and Charged him with Terroristic Threats and other Offenses. Mr. Finch prepared and submitted an Affidavit of Probable Cause. Mr. Finch also prepared, signed and submitted a Paterson Police Offense Report in which Finch wrote:

The victim was “out of control”.  Finch told the victim he was under arrest for Terroristic Threats.  Finch told the victim to put both hands behind his back.  The victim took an aggressive stance and clenched his fist.  Following a struggle, the victim was handcuffed “after several minutes”.  Once handcuffed and seated with his back against the wall, the victim tried to “head-butt” Finch.

     However, the Body Camera Video of another Paterson Police Officer and surveillance video from the apartment building where the incident occurred showed:

The victim was in a hallway. He was agitated, pacing and screaming into a cell phone, but he maintained his distance from the officers.  Finch, in full uniform, advanced on the victim. Finch did not tell the victim he was under arrest nor did he tell him to put his hands behind his back.  Finch struck the victim with an overhead, open palmed strike to the face.  Following a struggle, the victim is brought to the ground, approximately twenty seconds later. Finch struck the victim multiple times in the head with a flashlight.  The victim was handcuffed behind his back approximately thirty-five seconds after being initially struck by the defendant. The victim was seated in the hallway with his back against the wall. The defendant then kneed the victim in the face or chest without justification.

     Prior to the Date of the incident, The Paterson Police Department had banned the use of large “C” or “D” cell type flashlights. This was the type of flashlight Mr. Finch possessed and used to strike the victim multiple times.

     Following Mr. Finch’s Arrest, The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office filed a motion for Pre-Trial Detention which was denied by the Court. At that time, Mr. Finch was released on Pre-Trial Supervision pending the outcome of the case.

     Any member of The Public who wishes to make a complaint to this office regarding Police Misconduct of any Passaic County Agency may contact the Public Integrity Unit of The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office or the Tips Line at 1-877- 370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org.  

" 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 AUGUST 3, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC:

Sunday Morning Paterson Shooting

25 YEAR OLD PATERSON MAN REMAINS HOSPITALIZED AFTER BEING SHOT SUNDAY MORNING

     " Paterson Man Remains In Critical Condition After Being Shot In The Area Of McBride Avenue & Walker Street, Paterson, New Jersey."

August 1, 2022 3:33 A.M. ET By Art Fletcher Reporting For: Englebrook Independent News,

PATERSON, NJ.- On Sunday, July 31, 2022,Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Paterson Police Chief Ibrahim Baycora announced that on Sunday, July 31, 2022, at approximately 3:38 a.m., Members of the Paterson Police Department responded to the area of Walker Street and McBride Avenue in Paterson on a report of Shots Fired. 

     Upon arrival, Police Officers located a potential crime scene, but no victim was located. A short time later, Members of The Paterson Police Department were notified that a 25-Year-Old Paterson man had arrived at Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson, New Jersey seeking treatment for a non-life threatening Gunshot Wound. The man remains hospitalized and is listed in critical condition.

     No arrests have been made and the investigation remains active and ongoing.

     The Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact The Passaic County Prosecutor's Office Tips Line at 1-877-370-PCPO or tips@passaiccountynj.org or contact The Paterson Police Ceasefire Unit at 973-321-1342.

FILED UNDER AUGUST 31, 2022: LAW, PASSAIC: