JULY 23, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
Click on image to enlarge
REWARD OFFERED BY CRIME STOPPERS IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP ARMED ROBBERY
AND ATTEMPTED MURDER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick state that the investigation into
armed robbery and attempted murder that took place at the Exxon gas
station located at 650 Franklin Boulevard on July 22, 2008 is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of
$2,500.00 for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of
the individual responsible for the robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 22, 2008 at approximately 2:18
a.m. a gas station attendant was robbed at gunpoint and shot by an
unknown individual prior to fleeing the business. The assailant is
described as a black male approximately 18 years old wearing a dark
colored tee shirt, dark colored jeans, tan work boots and wearing what
appeared to be a white tee shirt around his head. The actor walked
into the store area of the gas station, approached the counter and
demanded money from the clerk while pointing what was described as an
automatic weapon at him. The store clerk handed over a sum of money to
the actor who then immediately shot the clerk in the chest. The actor
then fled
on foot from the establishment running east toward Route 27.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can be provided anonymously by
calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All
calls are confidential.
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JULY 22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
PLAINFIELD MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Chief William Parenti announce that a month-long
narcotics investigation resulted in the arrest of defendant Bobby L.
Holloman, Jr., (age 24) of Garfield Avenue in Plainfield. Defendant
Holloman was charged with 3rd degree Possession With Intent to
Distribute CDS (Cocaine), 3rd degree Resisting Arrest, and disorderly
persons Possession of CDS (Marijuana) under 50 Grams.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 21, 2008 at approximately 12:35
p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force along with members of the North
Plainfield Police Department were conducting a narcotics investigation
in the area of the Pathmark parking lot located on Route 22 East,
North Plainfield, New Jersey. There, Task Force members approached
defendant Holloman, who was driving a Gold Infiniti in the Pathmark
parking lot. As they approached defendant Holloman, Task Force members
identified themselves as police officers. Upon seeing the police,
defendant Holloman attempted to flee. Task Force members gave several
verbal commands to “stop” to defendant Holloman, which he ignored.
Ultimately, Task Force officers were able to stop defendant Holloman,
remove him from his vehicle and place him under arrest. A subsequent
search of defendant yielded eight (8) bags of crack cocaine located in
his pants pocket with an estimated street value of approximately
three-hundred twenty dollars ($320.00). Defendant Holloman was also
found to have one-thousand eleven dollars ($1,011.00) in U.S. currency
on his person which was seized. Defendant Holloman’s vehicle was later
searched and found to contain one (1) bag of marijuana.
Following his arrest, defendant Holloman was lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail was set at $15,000 cash or bond by the Honorable
Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
GAS STATION ATTENDANT SHOT BY ARMED ROBBER
Click on image to enlarge
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that on July 22, 2008 at
approximately 2:18 a.m. a gas station attendant was robbed at gunpoint
and shot by an unknown individual prior to fleeing the business.
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the
Franklin Township Police Department are currently investigating the
shooting incident at the Exxon gas station located at 650 Franklin
Boulevard. The assailant is described as a black male approximately 18
years old wearing a dark colored tee shirt, dark colored jeans, tan
work boots and wearing what appeared to be a white tee shirt around
his head. The actor walked into the store area of the gas station,
approached the counter and demanded money from the clerk while
pointing what was described as an automatic weapon at him. The store
clerk handed over a sum of money to the actor who then immediately
shot the clerk in the chest. The actor then fled on foot from the
establishment running east toward Route 27. The shooting incident was
captured on the store video camera and detectives were able to print
out a picture of the shooter. The store clerk was taken to an area
hospital where he is being treated for a single gunshot wound to the
chest. Doctors operated on the victim and he is now listed in serious
condition. Members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit processed the scene of the shooting.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick ask that if anyone has information
pertaining to this incident please contact the Franklin Township
Police Department at 732-873-5533 or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at 908-575-3300. This information can be provided anonymously
by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free TIPS Line at 1-888-577-TIPS
(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on
either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
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JULY 18, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
REWARD IN BERNARDSVILLE BURGLARY INCREASED
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Chief
Kevin Valentine of the Bernardsville Police Department announced that
the owner of a Mountain Top Road, Bernardsville, New Jersey residence
that was burglarized between March 18th and March 21st, 2008 has
personally posted an additional $1,000.00 reward for the arrest and
indictment of the individual(s) responsible for burglary, theft and
criminal mischief that occurred to his home.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the individual(s) gained entry by
breaking a first floor window. Once inside numerous items having
sentimental value to the owner, were taken or broken. In a second
floor bathroom water was left
running in a tub.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, previously announced a reward of
$1,000.00 on June 30, 2008 for information which leads to the arrest
and indictment of the individual(s) who are responsible for the
burglary, theft and criminal mischief.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Valentine and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can either be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free tip line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All
calls are confidential.
ONE ARRESTED, HIGH GRADE MARIJUANA SEIZURE
IN WARREN TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Warren
Police Chief Russell Leffert announce that on July 17, 2008 a
narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the Warren
Township Police Department resulted in the arrest of Michael Netta
(DOB 6/26/78) of King George Road in Warren. Defendant Netta was
arrested for Possession of Marijuana with intent to distribute, 3rd
degree, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 1000
feet of a School Zone, 3rd degree, and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Prosecutor Forrest states that as a result of a three-month
investigation, on July 17, 2008, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with members of
the Warren Township Police Department executed a Superior Court Search
Warrant at the residence of Michael Netta.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that yesterday at approximately 4:00 p.m.,
defendant Michael Netta was observed leaving his King George Road
residence driving a blue Saab. Defendant Netta was surveilled to a gas
station located on Mount Bethel Road, in Warren. At the gas station,
defendant Netta was approached by members of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office and members of the Warren Township Police
Department and advised of an investigation that involved defendant
Netta distributing marijuana from his residence. Also at this time
additional members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and
Warren Township Police Department, executed a Superior Court Search
Warrant on defendant Netta’s King George Road residence.
As a result of the Superior Court Search Warrant executed on the
residence, a total of approximately two pounds of high grade
marijuana, (street value approximately $4,000.00), numerous plastic
baggies, a marijuana grinder and a digital scale were seized.
Defendant Netta was transported to the Warren Township Police
Department for processing. Defendant Netta was released released on
his own recognizance from Warren Township Police Department.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
SOMERVILLE MAN ARRESTED SELLING TO UNDERCOVER DETECTIVE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning stated that on July 17, 2008 a
narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the Somerville
Police Department resulted in the arrest Luis Herrera Mendez (DOB
7/3/79) of West High Street, Somerville, New Jersey. Defendant Mendez
was arrested for Distribution of Cocaine, 3rd degree (three counts)
and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 1000 feet of
a School Zone, 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 1, 2008 defendant Luis Herrera
Mendez met with an undercover detective at the Friendly’s Restaurant
located on Route 22 East, Somerville, New Jersey, which is within 1000
feet of the Immaculata High School, also located in Somerville. At the
restaurant, defendant Mendez sold the undercover detective two bags of
cocaine for $80.00. On July 15, 2008 once again defendant Mendez met
with the undercover detective at the restaurant and sold the
undercover detective two bags of cocaine for $80.00.
On July 15, 2008, at approximately 8:45 p.m. the undercover detective
met with defendant Mendez in front of the Social Security Building,
Municipal parking lot 2 in Somerville, New Jersey. This time defendant
Mendez sold the undercover detective two bags of cocaine for $90.00.
Once the undercover narcotics transaction was complete, members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and Somerville Police Department
approached defendant Mendez and placed him under arrest. The Social
Security Building is located within 1000 feet of the Somerville Middle
School.
Defendant Mendez was transported to the Somerville Police Department
for processing. Defendant Mendez was lodged in the Somerset County
Jail with bail to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
KEVIN BAXTER SENTENCED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that on July 18, 2008, defendant Kevin Baxter, age 42, of 17 Brokaw
Boulevard, Apt. #5, Plainfield, New Jersey, was sentenced on his
conviction for first degree Robbery and first degree Carjacking.
Defendant was also sentenced subsequent to a guilty plea on an
unrelated indictment charging him with fourth degree Aggravated
Assault.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on May 15, 2008, defendant was
convicted of robbery and carjacking after a seven (7) day trial before
the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C., and a jury. Subsequent to this
guilty verdict, defendant pled guilty to the aggravated assault
indictment. In exchange for his guilty plea on that indictment, the
State agreed to recommend the sentence on this charge run concurrent
to the sentence on the robbery and carjacking. Judge Marino sentenced
the defendant to fifteen (15) years State Prison with 85% of that
sentence to be served without parole pursuant to the No Early Release
Act on the first degree robbery charge. Defendant received a
concurrent fifteen (15) year State Prison sentence with 85% of that
sentence to be served without parole on the carjacking charge. On the
aggravated assault charge, defendant received eighteen (18) months
State Prison to run concurrent to each of the sentences imposed on the
robbery and carjacking charges.
Defendant was convicted of robbing the Unity Bank in North Plainfield
and carjacking a nearby vehicle during his flight from the bank. On
the morning of May 23, 2006, defendant entered the Unity Bank and
handed a note to bank teller Andres Castillo indicating he wanted
money or he would shoot Castillo dead. Defendant also verbally stated
he had a gun and made gestures through his clothing indicating he had
a gun. Several of these gestures were captured on video, which video
was admitted at trial in evidence. Defendant was not successful in
robbing money from the bank teller. Defendant fled the bank. Defendant
was followed from the bank by the branch manager and a bank patron.
During his flight from the scene, defendant confronted a young man and
his mother as they were attempting to leave for work in their vehicle
which was parked outside their home. This confrontation occurred two
blocks from the bank. Defendant attempted to steal the vehicle
operated by victim Diego Ortiz. In furtherance of this attempt,
defendant pulled Ortiz’ mother, Carmen Pazmino, from the passenger
area of the vehicle and entered into the passenger side of the
vehicle. Defendant told Diego Ortiz he had a gun and had to go.
Defendant pushed Ortiz out of the car through the driver side door.
Ortiz suffered minor injury to his knees. Defendant was unable to
complete the carjacking as Diego Ortiz took the keys from the vehicle
before he was pushed from the car. Defendant once again fled the area
on foot and was later apprehended hiding in the basement of a private
home.
As for the indictment charging aggravated assault, while incarcerated
at the Somerset County Jail on March 15, 2007, defendant got into a
verbal altercation over his meal with Corrections Officer Hector
Garcia. The incident occurred in a jail pod area filled with other
inmates. The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation
wherein defendant threw a mop bucket and wringer at Corrections
Officer Garcia. Defendant also kicked Corrections Officer Garcia
during the incident. Defendant was ultimately subdued by Garcia and
other corrections officers.
The prosecution of this case was handled by Somerset County Assistant
Prosecutor Joseph V. Rocchietti. Defendant was represented at trial
and sentencing by Matthew B. Katzenbach, Esq., Assistant Deputy Public
Defender.
Back
JULY 16, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
KIDNAPPING SUSPECT BROUGHT TO SOMERSET COUNTY JAIL
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine announced that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office transported Petra
Rodriguez from Kings County District Court in Brooklyn, New York to
the Somerset County Jail after defendant Rodriguez waived extradition
and agreed to stand trial in Somerset County New Jersey. Defendant
Rodriguez was arrested on July 8, 2008 by detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office and the Bernardsville Police Department for
the kidnapping of a Guatemalan woman from Bernardsville on July 1,
2008. Defendant Rodriguez was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with
her bail set at $200,000.00 cash. Defendant is expected to be
arraigned in Somerset County on July 17, 2008.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
July
15, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
OPERATION “DÉJÀ VU” DEFENDANT SENTENCED
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on July 14, 2008, defendant Tahmez Love, age 35 (d/o/b 8/25/72),
formerly of Fairview Avenue, Somerville, was sentenced to ten (10)
years in New Jersey State Prison, with four (4) years to be served
without eligibility for parole, for a number of drug and weapons
related crimes that were investigated during Operation Déjà Vu, a
four-month long investigation into the distribution of cocaine in the
Somerset County and Middlesex County areas. The investigation resulted
in charges against forty-three (43) individuals and the seizure of
approximately five ounces of cocaine, with an estimated street value
of $14,000.00, as well as heroin, ecstasy, three firearms, and more
than $2,500.00 in suspected drug proceeds.
Defendant Love was sentenced to one count of second degree Possession
of CDS (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, one count of second
degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, one count of third degree
Possession of CDS (ecstasy) with the Intent to Distribute, one count
of Possession of CDS (heroin), and one count of fourth degree
Obstruction of the Administration of Law under Indictment No.
07-12-00841-I.
Operation “Déjà Vu” began in July 2007 when detectives from the
Somerset County Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force learned that
an individual known as “Juan” was selling cocaine in the Hillsborough
Township area. The investigation revealed that Juan was actually
co-defendant Tashy Gumbs (d/o/b 6/16/1967), formerly of Third Street,
Somerville. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office was familiar with
co-defendant Gumbs, having successfully prosecuted him for drug
distribution charges in October 2002 that resulted in a nine-year
prison sentence. After being released from prison on June 14, 2007,
co-defendant Gumbs immediately resumed his narcotics distribution
business. The investigation was designated operation “Operation ‘Déjà
Vu’ because it resulted in its primary target, co-defendant Gumbs,
being returned to prison less than four months after being released
for similar charges.
The investigation revealed that co-defendant Tashy Gumbs obtained his
cocaine from two sources, defendant Tahmez Love, and co-defendant
Aaron Banks (d/o/b 9/29/92), formerly of Birchwood Court, New
Brunswick. Collectively, defendant Love along with co-defendants Gumbs
and Banks supplied cocaine primarily to buyers in Somerville, Green
Brook, Bridgewater, Hillsborough, and Franklin in Somerset County, as
well as in North Brunswick in Middlesex County.
On October 23, 2007, detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office, with the assistance from officers from the North Brunswick
Police Department, executed a search warrant at co-defendant Banks’
Birchwood Court, North Brunswick residence. There, police seized
approximately four and a half ounces of crack cocaine, along with
three firearms (a nine millimeter handgun, a .380 caliber handgun, and
a .25 caliber handgun). In addition, police seized various items of
drug paraphernalia and more than two thousand dollars in cash.
Defendant Banks physically struggled with the police as they proceeded
to arrest him at that time.
Co-defendants Gumbs and Banks were subsequently arrested and
eventually admitted their roles in the cocaine distribution operation.
On May 14, 2008, Banks was sentenced to ten (10) years in New Jersey
State Prison, with five (5) years to be served without eligibility for
parole after pleading guilty to Indictment No. 07-12-00824-I charging
one count of second degree Possession with Intent to Distribute
Cocaine, one count of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine,
one count of second degree Possession with Intent to Distribute
Cocaine while in a School Zone, and one count of third degree
Resisting Arrest. Banks was also sentenced on Indictment No.
07-12-00859-I to second degree Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted
Person. On July 11, 2008, Gumbs was sentenced to ten (10) years in New
Jersey State Prison with four (4) years to be served without
eligibility for parole after pleading guilty to two counts of second
degree Possession of CDS (cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, two
count of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, one count of
third degree Possession of CDS (ecstasy) under Indictment No.
07-12-0083
“OPERATION BLOOD
MONEY” DEFENDANT SENTENCED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on July 14, 2008, defendant Azikwa Rustin, age 21 (d/o/b
3/16/87), formerly of Second Street, Somerville, was sentenced to ten
(10) years New Jersey State Prison with thirty (30) months to be
served without parole for a number of drug distribution and weapons
charges under three separate investigations, including “Operation
Blood Money” - a six-month long investigation into the distribution of
cocaine in Somerville. The investigation resulted in charges against
sixty-one (61) defendants and the seizure of more than 6 ½ ounces of
cocaine, MDMA (ecstasy), heroin, marijuana, two handguns, ammunition,
gang related materials, and $ 6,772.00 in U.S. Currency.
Rustin was sentenced to second degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS,
second degree Possession with Intent to Distribute CDS, and third
degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS, under Accusation 08-01-00022-I;
to third degree Receiving Stolen Property and third degree Eluding,
under Indictment No. 08-06-00369-I; and to fourth degree Distribution
of CDS, second degree Possession of a Firearm while Committing a CDS
Offense, third degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, and third
degree Possession of a Defaced Weapon, under Indictment Number
08-01-00022-I.
The Operation was designated “Blood Money” because it targeted the
distribution of cocaine in Somerville by two ranking members of the
“Sex Money Murder” set of the Bloods criminal street gang, as well as
the money generated by those cocaine sales. In recent years, law
enforcement officials in Somerset County have seen an increase in the
number of individuals claiming affiliation with criminal street gangs,
including the “Bloods.” One of the primary sources of income for
criminal organizations such as the “Bloods” is the sale of controlled
dangerous substances. To combat this problem, consistent with the
Governor’s new Strategy for Safe Streets and Neighborhoods, and the
Attorney General’s plan for its implementation, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along
with the newly created Gangs and Guns Task Force, launched two
separate, simultaneous investigations of defendant Azikwa Rustin and
co-defendant Christopher DeGrasse (aka “YB”) (d/o/b 4/9/84) of
Somerset Street, Somerville, New Jersey. Defendants Rustin and
DeGrasse were targeted because police received intelligence
information that both were responsible for a large percentage of the
cocaine sales in Somerville, and both were affiliated with the “Sex
Money Murder” set of the Bloods criminal street gang. The
investigation revealed that collectively defendants Rustin and
DeGrasse sold cocaine to dozens of individuals in the Somerset County
area.
On May 18, 2008, Task Force detectives, with the assistance of the
Somerville Borough Police Department and the Somerset County Sheriff’s
Department, executed a Superior Court search warrant upon defendant
Rustin’s Second Street, Somerville, residence. There, police seized 40
bags cocaine, 4 bags of crack, drug packaging materials, “Bloods” gang
literature, $670.00 in cash and drug paraphernalia.
As to the other investigations, defendant Rustin was arrested in April
2008 after Somerville police officers discovered him and co-defendant
Kenneth Gordon, age 18 (d/o/b 7/27/89), formerly of Warren Street,
Somerville, operating a stolen all terrain vehicle. After a brief
pursuit, the police apprehended both defendants. Defendant Rustin
pleaded guilty to the charges stemming from this incident and the
Operation Blood Money investigation on June 17, 2008.
In December 2007, defendant Rustin was arrested after the vehicle he
had been operating had entered into a DWI checkpoint, located on Route
206 in Hillsborough. During the course of the stop, Hillsborough
police officers detected the odor of raw marijuana in the vehicle. As
a result of a search of defendant Rustin’s vehicle, police discovered
thirty-six (36) bags of marijuana, weighing a total of less than one
ounce, and a .38 caliber revolver. The serial number on the firearm
had been defaced. Defendant Rustin pleaded guilty to the charges that
resulted from this investigation on April 11, 2008.
Back
JULY 14, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
OPERATION “RAGS TO RICHES”
COCAINE DEALER SENTENCED
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on July 14, 2008, defendant Josef Greene (dob 3/1/79), of West
3rd Street, Plainfield, was sentenced to ten (10) years in prison with
a 59-month period of parole ineligibility on his guilty plea to
charges of 1st degree distribution of cocaine and 2nd degree
conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Defendant Greene’s charges and
guilty plea stemmed from his involvement in Operation “Rags to
Riches,” a four month narcotics investigation that culminated in
March, 2007, with the filing of charges against forty-five (45)
individuals and the seizure of more than a half kilogram of cocaine,
more than 300 decs of heroin, $18,720.00 in U.S. Currency, and a
handgun. The investigation was dubbed Operation “Rags to Riches”
because of the broad spectrum of individuals supplied by this CDS
distribution operation, which ranged from the unemployed to
professionals, including a doctor, lawyer and high school teacher.
The investigation revealed that defendant Shane Martinez sold cocaine
to a number of individuals, including co-defendant Eric Gambrell (dob
3/9/75), of South Avenue, Plainfield, who thereafter sold the cocaine
to approximately two dozen customers in various counties, including
Somerset. The investigation further revealed that defendant Martinez,
with the assistance of defendant Steve Purcell (dob 4/16/77) of West
7th Street, Plainfield, obtained his cocaine from defendant Josef
Greene (dob 3/1/79), West 3rd Street, Plainfield. On March 6, 2007,
defendant Greene sold his co-defendant Shane Martinez ½ kilogram of
cocaine for $10,750.00. Both defendant Greene and Martinez were
arrested in co-defendant Purcell’s driveway immediately after the
sale.
The State was represented by Assistant Somerset County Prosecutor W.
Brian Stack, and defendant Greene was represented by Alan D. Bowman,
Esq., of Edison
Repeat Drug Dealer Convicted of
Distributing/ Possessing With Intent to Distribute Cocaine
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on July 14, 2008, defendant Timothy Jones (dob: 11/23/60) of
Francisca Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, was convicted of 3rd degree
distribution of cocaine and 3rd degree possession with intent to
distribute cocaine following a two-day bench trial before the Hon.
Julie M. Marino, J.S.C.
Defendant Jones’ charges stemmed from an August 23, 2007 arrest by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force. On that date, Task Force detectives arrested Jones and his then
girlfriend, Joan Davis, after watching defendant Davis conduct a
hand-to-hand transaction with a third party (from whom police
recovered cocaine). Following defendant Davis’ arrest, she attempted
to discard an additional quantity of cocaine under the truck in which
defendants Davis and Jones were travelling, but the police recovered
it. Police also recovered $200 (from the cocaine sale) and two
cellular telephones from defendant Jones.
In February, 2008, Davis pled guilty and attempted to exonerate
defendant Jones by claiming he was not involved in her cocaine sale or
possession. At trial, both defendant Jones and Davis testified that
Jones was not involved in Davis’ CDS activities. Judge Marino found
that Jones’ and Davis’ testimony was not credible, and that Jones and
Davis worked together to sell cocaine.
At the time of the offense, defendant Jones was on probation for a
February, 2006 conviction for 3rd degree distribution of CDS in Union
County. Defendant also has a 1991 conviction for 4th degree Aggravated
Assault in Ohio. Based on defendant’s record, he is eligible to be
sentenced to an extended term of incarceration of up to 10 years in
prison. Defendant Jones is scheduled to be sentenced on September 5,
2008.
During the trial, the State was represented by Assistant Somerset
County Prosecutor W. Brian Stack, and defendant Jones was represented
by Robert Blackman, Esq., of Edison.
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP MAN ARRESTED FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Chief of Police Dennis Manning announced today that Nana
Adu-Sarkodie a.k.a. “Sam”, 31, of Washington Township (Warren County)
who was wanted for Attempted Murder (1st degree) has been arrested.
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and detectives
from the Somerville Police Department traveled to various locations in
New Jersey and New York during the course of their investigation
searching known locations associated with the defendant Adu-Sarkodie.
As a result of those contacts, detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office were contacted on Saturday July 12, 2008, by
Steven Lieberman, Esq., who indicated that he was representing the
defendant, Nana Adu-Sarkodie. Mr. Lieberman indicated the defendant
would be turning himself in on Monday July 14, 2008, at 2:00 p.m.
On Monday July 14, 2008, at 2:00 P.M. Mr. Lieberman and Nana
Adu-Sarkodie arrived at the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and
the defendant was subsequently arrested and lodged at the Somerset
County Jail. Bail was set by Judge Edward Coleman at $250,000 with a
full cash or bond option.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 9, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
GREEN BROOK TOWNSHIP
ROAD WORKER
CHARGED WITH OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Green
Brook Chief of Police Martin Rasmussen announced today that the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the Green Brook Police
Department arrested Steven Jones (age 37) who resides on Robin Court
in Green Brook. Jones was charged with third degree Official
Misconduct, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:30-2. Jones, a Green Brook
Township Department of Public Works employee, committed theft by
purchasing gasoline for his personal vehicle on his Township issued
Exxon Mobile credit card.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in March 2008, Detective Mike Schutta
of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office met with Detective Sergeant
(DSGT) Samuel Caramela of the Green Brook Township Police Department
regarding an allegation of official misconduct and theft. DSGT
Caramela advised that defendant Steven Jones was a suspect in a
complaint regarding improper use of a Township issued Exxon Mobil
credit card.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that during various interviews with Township
of Green Brook officials, they summarized the protocol and procedures
for the use of the Township issued Exxon Mobile card. Generally, when
it is determined that a particular employee is entitled to a Township
gasoline credit card, they are given an Exxon Mobile corporate card to
be used at a Township of Green Brook Exxon Station. When the employee
is issued the credit card, he/she is instructed that the card is to be
used solely for the fueling of Township vehicles and equipment. The
credit card is issued in the name of the individual employee with the
Township of Green Brook listed as the card owner.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in an attempt to monitor employees’ use
of these gas credit cards, at the end of each month, the Township
receives a statement from Exxon Mobile delineating individual employee
usage of their assigned credit card, including amount purchased and
location where purchased.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the defendant’s supervisor indicated
that that when he was reviewing the Exxon Mobile statement for the
month of December, he noticed a questionable gas credit card charge
listed under the defendant’s employee ID. The supervisor noted that on
Sunday, December 23, 2007, the defendant had charged $10.00 worth of
gasoline at an Exxon station in Rahway. This struck the defendant’s
supervisor as odd since defendant was not working on Sunday, the 23rd
in Rahway. Further inquiry revealed that the defendant made a previous
unauthorized charge on the Township credit card on December 5, 2007,
in the amount of $6.00 in Rahway. The defendant’s supervisor informed
township administrators of his finding and ultimately the police.
The defendant turned himself into detectives of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at 10:00 a.m. today. The defendant was processed
and released on his own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 9, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERSET COUNTY
ORGANIZED CRIME AND NARCOTICS TASK FORCE ARREST
SOMERVILLE-Somerset
County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Green Brook Police Chief Martin
Rasmussen, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA),
and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) announce the arrests of Victor
Fetchina (66) and Dwayne Demko (28), both of Greenbrook Road in Green
Brook, New Jersey. Defendant Victor Fetchina and defendant Dwayne
Demko have been charged with Manufacture/Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (marijuana) with the intent to distribute, 3rd
degree, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), a
disorderly persons offense, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
disorderly persons offense.
On July 9, 2008 the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
contacted members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force in reference to marijuana plants
possibly being grown on the property on Greenbrook Road in Green
Brook. As a result of this information, members of the Task Force,
along with DEA agents and the NJSP detectives responded to the
residence at approximately 12:00 p.m. Police located and seized nine
(9) marijuana plants. Four of the plants were approximately four feet
tall, while the other five were approximately two feet tall. Police
also found marijuana and drug paraphernalia inside the residence.
Defendant Fetchina’s
roommate, defendant Dwayne Demko, was also arrested as a result of the
investigation.
It is estimated that one fully grown marijuana plant yields
approximately one pound of ingestible marijuana. Thus the nine plants
seized in the investigation, if fully matured, would have yielded
approximately nine pounds of ingestible marijuana. The street value of
nine pounds of marijuana is approximately $36,000.00.
Defendants Fetchina and Demko were lodged in the Somerset County Jail.
Bail for each defendant was set at $10,000 with a 10% provision to
apply by the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 8, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
CRIME STOPPERS REWARD INCREASED IN
BRIDGEWATER SCHOOL VANDALISM INCIDENTS
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bridgewater
Chief of Police Richard Borden state that the investigation regarding
acts of vandalism that occurred at the Hillside Intermediate School in
Bridgewater Township during the past two months is still continuing.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that over the holiday weekend, between July
3rd and July 7th, additional vandalism occurred on the grounds of
Hillside School when individual(s) damaged a gazebo. The individual(s)
also climbed onto the school roof and damaged an electrical box and
roof vents with an unknown object.
During the months of May and June, vandals spray painted graffiti on
school buildings, ripped out an underground sprinkler system and
damaged rails and fences which are part of the school’s nationally
certified wildlife habitat. Additionally, on or about June 7, 2008 two
bird houses were vandalized resulting in the death of 5 baby blue
birds that were part of an ecological project.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced that the initial
reward of $500.00 has now been increased to $1,500.00 for information
which leads to the arrest and indictment of the individual(s)
responsible for the vandalism.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Borden and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can either be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free tip line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward
monies. All calls are confidential.
POLICE LOCATE
KIDNAPPED WOMAN IN NEW YORK
Somerville–Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine announce that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and Bernardsville Police
Department responded to the area of 178th Street and Broadway,
Washington Heights, New York City last night in an attempt to locate
Pavlina Diaz-Escobar who was a possible victim in a kidnapping.
Arrangements were made to meet the possible kidnappers in the area of
178th Street and Broadway. Once in the area, detectives observed a
white 1998 Ford Expedition that was reported to have been observed
earlier in the day in the Bernardsville area by the victim’s
boyfriend. After observing the suspect vehicle, detectives along with
New York City Police surrounded the truck and ordered the occupants
out of the vehicle. Detectives observed the victim seated in the rear
of the vehicle and detained the driver and the other passenger.
The driver of the vehicle, Walter Marroquin, advised detectives that
he was driving Pavlina Diaz-Escobar to the area of 178th and Broadway
at the request of his girlfriend, Petra Rodriguez. Marroquin claimed
that he did not know Diaz-Escobar was being held against her will. He
stated to police that he was only doing his girlfriend a favor by
dropping off the woman.
Detectives later spoke to Diaz-Escobar who advised them that Petra
Rodriguez had taken her from Bernardsville to New York City and was
holding her against her will. She advised detectives that Rodriguez
was suppose to drop her off in Bernardsville, New Jersey early
yesterday morning. Diaz-Escobar said her boyfriend, Arnulfo
Hernandez-Vasquez, apparently paid a service an agreed upon sum of
money to have her transported to the United States from Guatemala.
Diaz-Escobar said she left Guatemala on June 27, 2008, traveled
through Mexico and entered the United States via Texas. Diaz-Escobar
said she was then transported to the southern New Jersey area where
she was picked up by Petra Rodriguez and driven to Bernardsville early
yesterday morning.
Once in the Bernardsville area, Petra Rodriguez met with
Diaz-Escobar’s boyfriend, Arnulfo Hernandez-Vasquez. Upon meeting her
boyfriend, Petra Rodriguez demanded an additional sum of money for the
transportation of Diaz-Escobar from the southern New Jersey area. Once
her boyfriend refused to pay the additional money, Rodriguez locked
the doors or her vehicle, fled the area, and traveled to the New York
City area with Diaz-Escobar. She advised detectives that she was held
against her will for the entire day until detectives were able to free
her. Detectives attempted to locate Rodriguez at her last known
address in New York City but she was not home.
An arrest warrant has been issued for Rodriguez charging her with
Kidnapping, 1st degree. Detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office, the Bernardsville Police Department, and the New
York City Police Department are attempting to locate and arrest
Rodriguez. Somerset County law enforcement authorities met with
federal agents from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.)
yesterday and provided them with all the information regarding our
investigation for their review and whatever action they deem
appropriate.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Valentine request that if anyone has
information pertaining to this incident please contact the
Bernardsville Police Department at 908-766-0037 or the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at 908-575-3300. This information can be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free TIPS Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
POLICE ARREST
WOMAN IN NEW YORK FOR KIDNAPPING
Petra Rodriguez
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine announced the arrest of
Petra Rodriguez for the kidnapping of a woman from Guatemala.
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the
Bernardsville Police Department responded to Brooklyn, New York in an
attempt to arrest defendant Petra Rodriguez who was charged with 1st
Degree Kidnapping. At approximately 3:05 p.m. on this date detectives
along with New York City police responded to 2720 Atlantic Avenue,
Brooklyn, New York and arrested defendant Rodriguez for the kidnapping
of a women from Guatemala. Defendant Rodriguez was arrested without
incident and brought to the 75th Police Precinct where she was
processed and taken to central booking. Defendant Rodriguez will be
held in Riker’s Island pending extradition to New Jersey.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JULY 7, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
CRIME STOPPERS OFFERS REWARD IN
BOUND BROOK BANK ROBBERY
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bound Brook
Borough Acting Police Chief Thomas White state that the investigation
into the robbery of the Capital One Bank on July 3, 2008 is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of
$1,000.00 for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of
the individual responsible for the robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 12:30 p.m. an
individual presented a teller with a note and demanded money. The
teller gave the suspect an undetermined amount of money and the robber
then fled the bank on foot.
The suspect is described as a white male, 30-55 years of age, wearing
dark pants and dark shoes with a light colored striped dress shirt and
black baseball hat.
Prosecutor Forrest, Acting Chief White and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can be provided anonymously by
calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All calls are
confidential.
BRIDGEWATER MAN ARRESTED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT
AND ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bridgewater
Police Chief Richard Borden announced today that the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office, along with the Bridgewater Township Police
Department, arrested Jose Fabio Alpizar of Linden Street, Bridgewater
for Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 5, 2008 the victim, a 15 year
old female from Raritan Borough, reported to police that 46-year old
defendant Alpizar had sexually assaulted her at his township residence
while she was there visiting with another family member. When
interviewed by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes and
Child Abuse Unit and the Bridgewater Police Department, the victim
provided details about the sexual assault.
Defendant Alpizar was charged with one count of Sexual Assault (2nd
Degree) and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (2nd
Degree) and was lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail to be
set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
WARREN
COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Somerville
Chief of Police Dennis Manning announced today that Nana Adu-Sarkodie
a.k.a. “Sam”, 30 (DOB: 6/15/77), of Washington Township (Warren
County) has been charged with the attempted murder of Christopher
Edmundson, 31, of Bridgewater.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Somerville Police Department
received a 911 phone call at approximately 8:23 p.m. on July 6, 2008
from Erika Mcgill, 24, of Somerville regarding a dispute occurring at
her Mechanic Street, Somerville residence. She stated to police that
her ex-boyfriend, defendant Nana Adu-Sarkodie, arrived at her house
unexpectedly and began fighting with her current boyfriend,
Christopher Edmundson. Mcgill explained during the fight defendant
Adu-Sarkodie brandished an approximated one-foot long butcher knife
and stabbed Edmundson once in the head causing him to fall to the
ground. He then stabbed Edmundson twice in the back with the weapon
while he was on the ground.
Edmundson was treated at an area hospital for his injuries. Defendant
Nana Adu-Sarkodie has been charged with attempted murder and
possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. Defendant Adu-Sarkodie
remains at large. Defendant Abu-Sarkodie is described as a black male,
5’7” tall, 170 lbs. He was last seen operating a 1999 Mazda 626,
bearing New Jersey license plate WNU-77L. He may also be operating a
1997 Mazda 626, bearing New Jersey license plate WGE-81B. Prosecutor
Forrest and Chief Manning request that if anyone knows the whereabouts
of defendant Adu-Sarkodie to contact either the Somerville Police at
908-725-0331, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad at 908-231-7100 or Somerset County Crime Stoppers at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All calls are
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
POLICE INVESTIGATING
ALLEGED KIDNAPPING
Pavlina Diaz
Somerville–Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine announced that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and detectives from the
Bernardsville Police Department are investigating the possible
kidnapping of a 20-year-old female from Guatemala. Bernardsville
Police received a 911 call at approximately 8:03 a.m. from Henry
Hernandez reporting that a 20-year-old female was being held against
her will. Henry Hernandez was contacted by his brother, Arnulfo
Hernandez-Vasquez, who said his girlfriend, Pavlina Diaz, age 20, was
transported from Guatemala to Claremnot Road and Seney Drive in
Bernardsville for a monetary fee that was paid by Arnulfo
Hernandez-Vasquez. Once in the Bernardsville area, the driver of the
vehicle demanded additional money from Hernandez-Vasquez.
Hernandez-Vasquez advised the driver that he did not have any
additional money and he thought he had paid the agreed upon fee. The
driver then sped away from the area while operating a 1998 white Ford
Expedition bearing New York license plate EEH-5685. The vehicle was
last seen heading south on Route 202 from the center of Bernardsville.
The vehicle was reported to have contained multiple other individuals
in addition to the driver and the reported victim, Pavlina Diaz. This
vehicle is registered to Petra Rodriguez (DOB 07/12/68). Rodriguez’s
last known address is in the Bronx, New York. Detectives from the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the Bernardsville Police
Department are attempting to locate the driver of the vehicle and the
whereabouts of the 20-year-old female from Guatemala.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Valentine request if anyone has
information pertaining to this incident please contact the
Bernardsville Police Department at 908-766-0037 or the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at 908-575-3300. This information can be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free TIPS Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
Back
JULY 3, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
PLAINFIELD MAN ARRESTED AFTER SELLING COCAINE IN FRONT OF
POLICE DEPARTMENT PARKING LOT
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Chief William Parenti announce that on July 2, 2008
a narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the
North Plainfield Police Department resulted in the arrest of Domingo
Lopez-Orellana, aka “Mingo,” (DOB 6/18/70) of West Front Street in
Plainfield, for selling seven (7) ounces of high-grade rock cocaine
with a street value of $10,000.00 to an undercover detective while
parked in a vehicle in front of the North Plainfield Police Department
parking lot.
The arrest resulted from a month-long undercover investigation which
revealed that a Hispanic male identified as “Mingo” (later identified
as the defendant) sold cocaine in the North Plainfield area. During
the investigation, an undercover detective was able to infiltrate and
make contact with “Mingo” to purchase a large quantity of high-grade
rock cocaine.
On July 2, 2008 an undercover detective assigned to the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
met with defendant Lopez-Orellana in the Wachovia Bank parking lot
located on Somerset Street in North Plainfield. The undercover
detective negotiated with defendant Lopez-Orellana to purchase a large
quantity of cocaine. Defendant Lopez-Orellana and the undercover
detective agreed to meet at a secondary location on Vine Street in
North Plainfield. Defendant Lopez-Orellana stated that he would return
within a short time with the cocaine. Defendant
Lopez-Orellana subsequently made contact and informed the undercover
detective that he had 7 ounces of cocaine to sell the detective, and
the undercover detective agreed to purchase the cocaine from
defendant. Defendant Lopez-Orellana then met with the undercover
detective on Vine Street in North Plainfield, where the undercover
detective was waiting in a vehicle parked on the street immediately in
front of the North Plainfield Police Department parking lot. There,
defendant Lopez-Orellana handed the undercover detective a plastic
shopping bag containing a Ritz cracker box, which contained seven (7)
ounces of high-grade rock cocaine wrapped in paper towels and a
plastic bag. The undercover detective handed defendant Lopez-Orellana
a sum of U.S. currency for the cocaine. Task Force Officers then
approached defendant Lopez-Orellana and placed him under arrest
without incident. The location of the sale was also within 1000 feet
of the Somerset Six School in North Plainfield.
Following his arrest, defendant Lopez-Orellana was charged with 1st
Degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine over
5 ounces), and 3rd Degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance Within 1000 Feet of a School. Bail was set by the Honorable
Edward M. Coleman, J.S.C. at $100,000.00 cash or bond with no 10%
option.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
BANK ROBBERY IN BOUND
BROOK
SOMERVILLE- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bound
Brook Acting Police Chief Thomas White announce that at approximately
12:30 p.m. a white male 30-55 years of age, wearing dark pants and
dark shoes with a light colored striped dress shirt and black baseball
hat entered the Capital One Bank kiosk located in the Shop Rite at 611
West Union Avenue in Bound Brook and handed a teller a note demanding
money. The man made off with an undetermined amount of money. The
actor fled the store on foot in an unknown direction. No weapon was
used and no one was hurt.
Bound Brook Police were assisted in the investigation by members of
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Squad and Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit, Somerset County Sheriff’s Office,
the Bridgewater Police Department and the FBI.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bound Brook Police
Department at 732-236-0800, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crime Squad at 908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers Tips line at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or
“Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide information by telephone or
online you will be provided a confidential claim number, which you
will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All calls are confidential.
Back
JUNE 30, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
CRIME STOPPERS OFFERS REWARD IN BERNARDSVILLE BURGLARY
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bernardsville Chief of Police Kevin Valentine are requesting
information regarding a burglary of a residence located on Mountain
Top Road, Bernardsville, New Jersey that occurred between March 18th
and March 21st, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the individual(s) gained entry by
breaking a first floor window. Once inside numerous items having
sentimental value to the owner, were taken or broken. In a second
floor bathroom water was left running in a tub.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of
$1,000.00 for information which leads to the arrest and indictment of
the individual(s) who are responsible for the burglary, theft and
criminal mischief.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Valentine and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can either be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free tip line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All
calls are confidential.
Back
JUNE 27, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
MAN CHARGED WITH WRITING BAD CHECKS
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Michael P. Ambrose (DOB: 09-15-1960) of Peterson Road,
Hillsborough, New Jersey has been charged with 2nd Degree, Bad Checks
and 3rd Degree, Bad Checks.
Prosecutor Forrest states that an investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit
revealed that defendant Ambrose was initially given a personal loan by
Mr. Scott Quagliato for $65,000.00 in a written agreement in December
of 2005 and was subsequently loaned another $35,000.00. In the written
agreement Mr. Ambrose was required to pay $3,250.00 every 6 weeks and
to pay off the $100,000.00 within 12 months pursuant to an additional
agreement to be entered into with Mr. Quagliato.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Ambrose made the required
payments for the first 8 months until September 26, 2006 when a check
he wrote to Mr. Quagliato for $33,365.00 drawn on Somerset Valley
Savings Bank was returned for insufficient funds. On September 27,
2006 defendant Ambrose wrote another check for $33,000.00 to Mr.
Quagliato to be drawn on Bank of America however this check was never
deposited due to the return of the first check for insufficient funds.
Then on December 30, 2006 defendant Ambrose wrote a check to Mr.
Quagliato for $100,000.00 with the memo line reading, “payment in
full.” This check was also returned for insufficient funds.
Defendant Ambrose’s issuing of the $100,000.00 check that was returned
for
insufficient funds ultimately led to him being charged with 2nd
Degree, Bad Check. The check written for $33,365.00 that was returned
for insufficient funds led to the 3rd Degree, Bad Check charge.
Defendant Ambrose turned himself in to county detectives today without
incident.
Bail for defendant Ambrose was set by the Honorable Edward M. Coleman,
P.J.Cr. at $40,000.00 with at 10% option. He is currently being lodged
at the Somerset County Jail.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
June
25, 2008
News ReleaseS
SUSPECTS INDICTED IN ROBBERY CONSPIRACY
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
today that the Somerset County Grand Jury returned an indictment
charging defendant Edward Davis, age 26, of North Plainfield and
defendant Keith Hunter, Jr., age 19, of Plainfield with Conspiracy to
Commit Robbery, Second Degree, and Attempted Robbery, Second Degree.
Defendant Davis was indicted additionally with charges of Forgery and
Uttering a Forged Writing, Third Degree offenses. The second degree
offenses carry a maximum of 10 years incarceration with 85% to be
served before parole eligibility pursuant to the No Early Release Act.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Franklin Township Police Department
received information on Tuesday, June 3, 2008, of the plot between a
juvenile, K.C., defendant Davis and defendant Hunter to commit the
robbery and assault. The elaborate plot included juvenile K.C.
providing defendant Davis and defendant Hunter the time frame when the
robbery was to occur, a detailed map of the residence, specific
instructions for them to commit the assault and robbery of juvenile
K.C.’s foster parents and instructions on what to do with other
victims who were present inside the home at the time of robbery.
Juvenile K.C. had also planned on providing them with a key to enter
the residence and juvenile K.C. advised them to steal various jewelry
and money located inside the home.
Detectives from both the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the
Franklin Township Police Department worked extensively on the
investigation and the suspects were developed, identified and located
as a result of an exhaustive investigation.
Detectives were able to corroborate the plot through various means and
able to locate defendant Davis at his place of employment in Cranford,
New Jersey. Defendant Hunter was also located at a residence in
Plainfield. Both defendants Davis and Hunter were subsequently
arrested and charged with Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, second degree
and Attempted Robbery, second degree. K.C. was also arrested and
charged with Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, second degree and Attempted
Robbery, second degree.
The defendants are currently housed in the Somerset County Jail in
default of bail set in the amount of $75,000.00 cash or bond by the
Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C. Judge Marino also ordered, as a
special condition of bail, that Hunter and Davis have no contact with
the juvenile K.C. or the foster family.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
WITNESS INDICTED FOR PERJURY
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
today that a witness in the murder trial of defendant Michael Ramsey
has been indicted by the Somerset County Grand Jury. Defendant Stacia
Simms, age 20, of New Brunswick was indicted for making two false
statements during the April trial in State Superior Court, Somerville.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Michael Ramsey, formerly a
Franklin (Somerset) resident, was found guilty of murder on April 4,
2008, of the drive-by shooting death of 15-year-old Terrell Spruill in
the Somerset section of Franklin on August 10, 2006. Defendant Ramsey
was sentenced to life imprisonment, 30 years without parole, by the
Honorable Edward M. Coleman, P.J.Cr. on May 16, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Simms is charged with Perjury
for testifying that she never saw defendant Ramsey with a handgun on
August 10, 2006, and that she dropped defendant Ramsey off at his
mother’s house on Phillips Road at about 7:30 p.m. that day, about 90
minutes before the shooting on Matilda Avenue. These aspects of her
testimony conflict with a taped statement defendant Simms gave to
police three days after the shooting. Defendant Simms’ taped statement
given to police was corroborated by other witnesses interviewed who
had been at or near the crime scene, as well as ballistic, and
fingerprint evidence.
During the trial, Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor Frank P.
Kolodzieski, II played for the jury the tape of defendant Simms’
statement to police. On the tape, defendant Simms, who said she was
driving her father’s car around the Parkside neighborhood on the night
of the shooting with defendant Ramsey and Eric Anderson, told police
she saw defendant Ramsey with a gun in his waistband earlier that day
and heard the gun go off during the shooting. Simms also told police
during that statement that she had heard defendant Ramsey laughing
after shooting.
Perjury is a third degree offense, which carries a maximum term of
five years incarceration and a $15,000.00 fine.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
MAN INDICTED FOR
ATTEMPTED MURDER
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces the
return of an indictment by the Somerset County Grand Jury charging
defendant Lucius Wilkerson, Sr., age 61, of Frederick Street, Franklin
Township (Somerset County), New Jersey, with the attempted murder of
Reginal Walker, age 36, of Lewis Street, Somerset, New Jersey. The
grand jury also indicted defendant Wilkerson with Possession of a
Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Third Degree. The case was presented
to the grand jury by Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor Frank P.
Kolodzieski, II.
Prosecutor Forrest states that at approximately 12:20 p.m., Saturday,
May 31, 2008, Franklin Township Police responded to 481 Lewis Street
after receiving a report of a fight at that location. After arriving
at the scene, Franklin Police Officers were informed by a witness that
defendant Wilkerson had been involved in the fight and is believed to
have fled to his home. Franklin Police Officers responded to defendant
Wilkerson’s home where they located him along with a Swiss army style
knife which is believed to have been used to stab the victim.
Defendant Wilkerson was taken into custody at that time and
subsequently transported to Franklin Township Police Headquarters.
Prosecutor Forrest states that the victim was able to transport
himself to an area hospital following the attack. Franklin Police
Officers located the victim at St. Peter’s Hospital Emergency Room in
New Brunswick. Hospital personnel advised police that the victim was
in critical condition with multiple stab wounds. The fiancé of the
victim and step-daughter of the defendant, advised police that she was
involved in a verbal dispute with the defendant when the victim
arrived. She states that after the victim told the defendant to stop
yelling at her, the defendant took out a knife and charged the victim
stabbing him several times. The victim was able to throw a punch
during the attack striking the defendant in the face and knocking him
to the ground. At this point the victim was able to escape from the
attack, got into his vehicle and drove himself to the hospital where
he collapsed outside of the emergency room. The victim is currently
listed in critical condition with multiple stab wounds to the stomach,
chest and back.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Wilkerson has been lodged in
the Somerset County Jail with bail set in the amount of $150,000.00
cash by the Honorable Edward M. Coleman, P.J.Cr. on May 31, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick request anyone with information to
contact the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-2300,
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will
be kept confidential.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Back
June
19, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
Crime Stoppers Reward Posted
in
Bridgewater School Vandalism Incidents
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Chief of Police Richard Borden are requesting information
regarding vandalism that occurred at the Hillside Intermediate School
in Bridgewater Township during the past two months.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that during the months of May and June,
vandals spray painted graffiti on school buildings, ripped out an
underground sprinkler system and damaged rails and fences which are
part of the school’s nationally certified wildlife habitat.
Additionally, on or about June 7, 2008 two bird houses were vandalized
resulting in the death of 5 baby blue birds that were part an
ecological project.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of
$500.00 for information which leads to the arrest and indictment of
the individual(s) responsible for the vandalism.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Borden and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can either be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free tip line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All
calls are confidential.
CRIME STOPPERS REWARD INCREASED IN
GANGS AND GUNS TASK FORCE ARREST
AND GUNS SEIZURE IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township
Police Chief Craig Novick state that the investigation into the
whereabouts of Rahmel Francois a/k/a “Chose” (DOB 12/03/08) is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County has announced that the initial
reward of $1,000.00 has been increased to $2,500.00 for information
which leads to his arrest.
The Somerset County Gangs and Guns Task Force, working closely with
the Franklin Township Crime Suppression Unit (CSU), received
information that defendant Rahmel Francois of Norris Road in Franklin
Township (Somerset County), was selling drugs from his residence. The
investigation started in March 2008 when Somerset County Prosecutor
Wayne J. Forrest formed a unit specifically assigned to combat any
gang and gun violence in Somerset County. The Task Force received
additional information that defendant Francois was associated with
defendant Christopher Morris. Defendant Morris is a self-admitted
member of West Coast Piru, a set of the Bloods Criminal Street Gang.
Armed with this information, the Gangs and Guns Task Force and the
Franklin Township Police CSU established surveillance on defendant
Francois’ residence. As the investigation progressed, the Task Force
received additional information that defendant Morris was intending to
commit an armed robbery of a business in Edison, New Jersey. The
Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Edison Police Department
were subsequently contacted to join in the investigation. The
investigation quickly progressed when defendant Morris was observed
meeting with defendant Francois at the Norris Road residence on
Thursday evening, April 24, 2008. During this meeting, defendant
Morris obtained from defendant Francois a 9mm Sig-Sauer semi-automatic
handgun loaded with hollow point ammunition to commit the robbery.
Defendant Morris was then followed to the robbery location and was
apprehended by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, assisted by
the Edison Police, just prior to committing the robbery. The handgun
found in defendant Morris’s possession was later found to be reported
stolen from Connecticut.
After the arrest of defendant Morris, the Somerset County Guns and
Gangs Task Force applied for and obtained a Superior Court issued
search warrant for defendant Francois, his residence and vehicle used
by defendant Francois. Task Force officers observed defendant Francois
leaving his residence driving a white Toyota RAV-4 with another male
passenger. Task Force officers then attempted to conduct a motor
vehicle stop of defendant Francois and to execute the search warrants.
Defendant Francois refused to stop for the police, fled, and the
police initiated a vehicle pursuit. Defendant Francois fled at high
speeds in a reckless manner putting the community at great risk, at
which time the pursuit was terminated. Task Force Officers responded
to defendant Francois’ residence and conducted a search where they
located approximately 2 ounces of high-grade marijuana, having a
street value of approximately $1,000.00, a loaded Glock 26 9mm
semi-automatic handgun, an extra Glock high capacity magazine loaded
with hollow point bullets, a Cobray M-11 (Mac 11) assault weapon, a
high capacity magazine for the assault rifle, approximately 100 rounds
of ammunition, and $5,000.00 in cash. A National Crime Information
Center (NCIC) check revealed that the Glock 26 9mm semi-automatic
handgun was reported stolen from Denver Colorado on April 25, 2005.
On Sunday, April 27, 2008 defendant Francois’ vehicle, a 2001 white
Toyota RAV 4, bearing New Jersey registration NNU-45N, was recovered
in Somerset section of Franklin Township, New Jersey.
A criminal history check revealed that defendant Rahmel Francois was
convicted of the felony of Possession of Narcotics with the Intent to
Distribute in Arapahoe County, Colorado, on May 28, 2004. Based on
that conviction, defendant Francois is prohibited from possessing
firearms in New Jersey.
On June 11, 2008 defendant Rahmel Francois was indicted and charged
with the following crimes:
Second degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery;
Second degree Eluding;
Second degree Certain Persons not to Possess Weapons;
Second degree Possession of Firearms while Committing a CDS Offense;
Third degree Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute;
Third degree Possession of an Assault Weapon;
Third degree Receiving Stolen Property;
Fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Large Capacity Ammunition
Magazine; and
Fourth Degree Violation of Firearms Registration Provision
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman ask if anyone has any information to contact the Somerset
County Crime Stoppers’ Tips Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Give Tips” or
“Crime Stoppers.” Whether you provide information by telephone or
online you will be provided a confidential claim number, which you
will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All calls are confidential.
Back
JUNE 18, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
METHAMPHETAMINE SEIZURE
LEADS TO ARRESTS IN MANVILLE
Somerville-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Manville
Police Chief Mark Peltack announce the arrest of Enrique Pamular, Ruby
Pascua, and Ariel DeJesus of 8th Avenue in Manville, New Jersey on
June 17, 2008 for narcotic-related offenses.
As a result of a four-month investigation initiated by the United
States Drug Enforcement Administration (D.E.A.) Newark Field Division,
a Superior Court Search Warrant was executed at approximately 1:15 PM
at an 8th Avenue residence in Manville. Members of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the
Manville Police Department assisted the D.E.A. in the execution of the
search warrant. As a result, thirty-five grams of crystallized
methamphetamine and $5,551.00 in U.S. Currency was seized from the
residence. The methamphetamine seized has a street value of
approximately $4,000.00. Defendant Enrique Pamular, (DOB: 01/31/58)
and defendant Ruby Pascua (DOB: 12/04/68) were arrested as a result of
the investigation.
The crystallized methamphetamine, also referred to as “Ice”, was found
in seven separate clear plastic bags hidden in four children’s DVD and
VHS cassettes. A third individual, defendant Ariel DeJesus (DOB:
04/30/58), was also arrested and charged with possession of drug
paraphernalia, a disorderly person’s offense. Both defendant Pamular
and defendant Pascua were charged with 2nd degree possession of
methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and 3rd degree
possession of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school (Roosevelt
Intermediate School). Bail was set at $50,000 cash or bond for
defendant Pamular and defendant Pascua, and both were lodged in the
Somerset County Jail. Defendant Dejesus was released.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
JUNE 13, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL, HOME AND SCHOOL ASSOCIATION
PRESIDENT ARRESTED FOR THEFT
Somerville-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced today
that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office arrested Gretchen Lee
(age 37) who resides on Malcolm Avenue in North Plainfield. Lee was
charged with Theft, N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3a, third degree, after she stole
approximately $2,624.82 for the St. Joseph School, Home and School
Association, North Plainfield, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation began on March 25,
2008, when Detective Sergeant John Fodor and Detective Michael Schutta
of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Special Investigations
Unit, met with Thomas Toolan, Director of the Office of Finance for
the Diocese of Metuchen. Director Toolan advised the detectives that
he considered defendant Gretchen Lee a suspect in an investigation
involving multiple incidents of theft of cash from the St. Joseph’s
School Home and School Association. At the time of the complaint,
defendant was serving as the President of the Home and School
Association.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Home and School Association is the
equivalent of a PTA (parent-teacher association) or PTO (parent
teacher organization). The Home and School Association is managed by
an Executive Advisory Board which is comprised of a President,
Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer. The Association’s members,
including the Advisory Board members, are parents of the students of
St. Joseph’s School. The School’s Principal (Sister Mary Clearly) and
Administrator Father (Father George Farrell) of St. Joseph’s School
serve as ex-officio members of the Executive Board and are present at
the board meetings. The board members serve for a term of two years
and are appointed by the Administrator Father and Principal of St.
Joseph’s School.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the President of the Association is
responsible for conducting the Executive Board meetings and
coordinating various activities within the Association. Included in
those activities are fund-raising events. The President is responsible
for overseeing the fundraising projects and delegating
responsibilities among the various officers. The Treasurer of the
Association is in charge of the Association’s finances. The Treasurer
is responsible for keeping an accounting of all dues and money that
comes into the Association. The Treasurer is required to prepare a
financial report that is presented at the monthly Executive Board
meetings and maintain an accounting of finances.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Treasurer is also responsible for
maintaining the Association’s checkbook and providing checks to the
President when requested. In order to sustain a proper accounting of
expenditures, the President is required to submit an expense report
each time he/she receives a check from the Treasurer. Before the
President can allocate or spend any of the Association’s money on
school related activities he/she must first receive approval from the
Executive Advisory Board.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that any
money that is generated by the Association through its various
fundraising events must be given to the Treasurer. The Treasurer
deposits the monies received and then re-issues checks for any
expenses incurred. In order to receive reimbursement from the
Association’s funds, the individual seeking reimbursement must submit
an itemized expense report including a receipt or proof of purchase.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in January of 2008 St. Joseph’s
Principal, Sister Mary Cleary, contacted the Administrator Father of
the school, George Farrell, regarding a discrepancy in the Home and
School Association’s finances. Specifically, Sister Cleary was made
aware that the Associations President Gretchen Lee, defendant, was
withholding money she had obtained from several fundraising events.
Father Farrell initially attempted to handle the matter internally
within the diocese and requested that defendant meet with himself and
Sister Clearly on several occasions in order to resolve the matter. In
anticipation of confronting defendant about the missing cash Sister
Cleary asked Corrinna Hill, former President and Treasurer of the Home
and School Association, to conduct an audit of the Association’s
finances.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Ms. Hill prepared a report dated
January 31, 2008 which highlighted the extent of the missing cash from
