December
17, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
OPERATION “NET-BET BLITZ”
Anthony Pecoraro
Richard Todd Burger
Stephen Barone
Daniel Alaimo
Peter Carfaro
(Click on images to enlarge)
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and New
Jersey State Police Superintendent Joseph “Rick” Fuentes announce that
on December 15, 2007, five individuals were arrested in connection
with a four month gambling investigation dubbed Operation “Net-Bet
Blitz,” so named because it resulted in the dismantling of a Internet
sports betting gambling operation that accepted thousands of dollars
in illegal sports wagers monthly.
The investigation was a joint operation conducted by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
and the New Jersey State Police Organized Crime North Unit. It began
when authorities learned that gamblers in Somerset County were placing
bets through www.beteastsports.com, an illegal sports betting website
connected to the gambling operation. Thereafter, undercover detectives
were able to infiltrate the gambling operation, identify individuals
who served as New Jersey agents for the internet gambling operation
and were able to place dozens of bets on sporting events through
www.beteastsports.com.
As the investigation progressed, detectives learned that defendant
Anthony Pecoraro, aka “Cheese,” (dob: 3/15/63) of Deputy Minister
Drive, Colts Neck, maintained a “package” (or group of players who bet
under codenames) on the website. Defendant Pecoraro controlled access
to the site for these players by distributing their codenames and
passwords, setting gambling limits, settling disputes, and paying or
collecting money based on the outcomes of the bets.
Defendant Pecoraro was assisted in his gambling operation by defendant
and former NFL lineman Richard Todd Burger, aka: Todd Richard Burger (dob:
3/20/70) of Rachel Court, Freehold, who collected gambling debts for
Pecoraro.
On three separate occasions during the course of this investigation,
an undercover State Police detective met with an associate of Pecoraro
in Bridgewater. During these meetings, Pecoraro’s associate collected
money purportedly owed by the undercover detective to Pecoraro for
gambling losses.
The investigation also revealed that defendants Stephen Barone (dob:
1/5/63) of Lancaster Way, Jackson, and Daniel Alaimo (dob: 2/22/56) of
Grove Avenue, Metuchen, acted as “agents” who steered other gamblers
to, and managed certain gamblers for, defendant Pecoraro in exchange
for a percentage of the money generated by their gambling activity.
Finally, the investigation revealed that defendant Peter Carfaro (dob:
5/15/81) of 19th Street, Brooklyn, New York, operated his own gambling
operation, on this and other websites, on Staten Island and Brooklyn,
and placed bets with Pecoraro through Barone.
On December 15, 2007, detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office and New Jersey State Police arrested defendants Pecoraro and
Alaimo at the Cheesequake Rest Area on the Garden State Parkway, as
they met to exchange money owed to defendant Pecoraro for gambling
losses. After the meeting and incident to defendants’ arrest,
detectives seized $42,914.00 in cash and a $4,000.00 check made out
from defendant Alaimo to defendant Pecoraro.
Subsequent to the arrests of defendants Pecoraro and Alaimo,
detectives arrested defendant Burger at his Freehold residence and
seized $1,277.00 from him.
Finally, detectives arrested defendants Barone and Carfaro at a Diner
on Route 9 in Freehold as they met to exchange money owed for gambling
losses. After the meeting and incident to defendants’ arrest,
detectives seized $5,280.00 from defendant Carfaro.
Following the arrests, police searched the vehicles, residences and
businesses of defendants Pecoraro and Barone.
From defendant Pecoraro’s Colts Neck residence, detectives seized two
computers, $20,000.00 in cash, and a safe containing $900.00 and
financial records. From defendant Pecoraro’s business, Traffic Safety
Services, LLC, Hadley Road, South Plainfield, detectives seized a
computer and financial records.
From defendant Barone’s Jackson residence, detectives seized two
computers, a CPU unit, financial records, and a .357 Magnum handgun.
From defendant Barone’s business, A Taste of Italy, Rt. 9 South,
Howell, police seized two computers.
Following their arrests, all five defendants were charged with
Promoting Gambling, 3rd degree and Conspiracy to Promote Gambling, 3rd
degree. Bail for all five defendants was set at $20,000.00 each with a
10% option by the Hon. Thomas H. Dilts, J.S.C.
The following agencies assisted in this investigation: the New Jersey
State Police Troop B Criminal Investigative Office, the Middlesex
County Prosecutor’s Office, the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office,
the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, the Colts Neck Police
Department, the Freehold Police Department, the Howell Police
Department, the Jackson Police Department and the South Plainfield
Police Department.
Prosecutor Forrest and Colonel Fuentes state that the investigation is
ongoing and anyone with information should contact the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force at (908)
231-7100 or the New Jersey State Police Organized Crime North Unit at
(973) 882-1055. Information can also be provided anonymously by
calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers TIPS Line at 1-888-577-TIPS
(8477), or online at www.888577tips.org and click on “Give Tips” or
www.scpo.net and click on “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 defendants are presumed innocent until and
unless proven guilty.
DEFENDANT WHO ROBBED COMMERCE BANK IN
GREEN BROOK, NEW JERSEY PLEADS GUILTY
Somerville - Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces that on Friday,
December 14, 2007 Marcus D. Hunter (31 YOA) of 7 Ricord Street in
Newark, New Jersey, plead guilty to two indictments charging him with
two counts of 1st degree Armed Robbery; 2nd degree Possession of a
Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose; 4th degree Aggravated Assault; 2nd
degree Eluding and 4th degree Possession of a Defaced Firearm and 2nd
degree Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Defendant Hunter
was previously convicted of 1st degree Aggravated Manslaughter on
Camden County Indictment No. 95-10-2470-I.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 23, 2007 at approximately 12:14
p.m., Somerset County Communications 911 received a call reporting a
bank robbery that had just occurred at the Commerce Bank located at
1000 Washington Avenue in the Township of Green Brook. The caller to
911 provided information to the 911 dispatcher regarding the suspect’s
vehicle and description of the suspect. Green Brook Police responded
to the scene and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad and Crime Scene Investigation Unit also responded to the scene.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Acting Chief Sean Whelan of the
Watchung Police Department, while traveling down Somerset Street in
Watchung, observed the defendant’s vehicle, a black 1999 Ford Escort,
coming towards him. The vehicle made a U-turn in front of Acting Chief
Whelan and Acting Chief Whelan advised his headquarters and requested
a marked patrol unit to assist in identifying the driver of the
vehicle. The vehicle proceeded on Rt. 22 West and Acting Chief Whelan
continued to follow the vehicle. The defendant’s vehicle turned on
Rock Avenue and proceeded to head North. The marked Watchung Patrol
Unit activated its emergency lights and siren at this time to stop the
vehicle. The defendant accelerated and fled from the officer reaching
speeds of 70 and 80 mph through residential neighborhoods. The
defendant pulled his vehicle into a driveway on Long View Drive in
Green Brook and fled on foot through a wooded area. Acting Chief
Whelan and Officer Brian Smith of the Watchung Police Department
pursued the defendant on foot and the defendant was subsequently
apprehended and turned over to the Green Brook Police Department.
During the course of the investigation detectives learned that the
defendant had entered the Commerce Bank, wearing a ghost-type mask
similar to the one in the movie “SCREAM”, and demanded money from two
tellers at gunpoint. While demanding money the defendant hit one of
the tellers with a closed fist in the back of the head. While pointing
his firearm at both tellers he also ordered two other bank employees
at gunpoint to retrieve and give him currency that had fallen on the
floor. The tellers turned over over approximately $5,000.00 of U.S
currency at which point the defendant left the bank on foot. A patron
outside observed the defendant enter the black Ford Escort and flee.
A search warrant was subsequently executed on the defendant’s vehicle.
As a result of said search warrant, detectives recovered the
defendant’s mask, U.S currency from the robbery, and a loaded Smith
and Wesson 9 mm semi-automatic handgun. Later analysis revealed that
this firearm was operable and that the serial number was defaced.
The Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C., accepted defendant’s guilty
plea wherein the defendant faces 14 years in State Prison with 85% of
the term imposed to be served without parole. First Assistant
Prosecutor A. Peter De Marco, Jr. represented the State. The defendant
was represented by Robert Gaynor, A.D.P.D.
SOMERSET COUNTY POLICE ACADEMY
RECRUIT GRADUATION
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Department Chief William Parenti, President,
Somerset County Association of Chiefs of Police, announce that on
Wednesday, December 19, 2007 at 9:30 a.m., the Somerset County Police
Academy will be conducting its commencement ceremony for its Basic
Police Training Recruit Class No. 39-07.
The Somerset County Police Academy is in its 20th year of providing
quality law enforcement training. This recruit class is the
thirty-ninth police class to graduate since the Academy was
established. The graduating class of twenty-eight police recruits is
comprised of officers from law enforcement agencies in Somerset,
Hunterdon, and Middlesex Counties, as well as private citizens from
Somerset, Hunterdon and Middlesex Counties who entered the Academy
through the New Jersey State Legislature and the New Jersey Police
Training Commission approved Alternate Route Program. The Somerset
County Police Academy was the first Academy in this State to offer
this program.
The Basic Course for Police Officers, as it is referred to, lasts 24
weeks at the Somerset County Police Academy. This is one of the most
comprehensive of its kind in the State. This year’s commencement
ceremony will include remarks by Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J.
Forrest, Academy Director Dr. Richard Celeste, Police Recruit Class
Leader, Matthew Carney, Woodbridge Township Police Department.
A number of awards will also be presented at the graduation ceremony
and each recruit will receive their New Jersey Police Training
Commission certification. Music for the ceremony will be provided by
members of the Somerset County Pipes and Drums.
The ceremony will be held at the Nash Theater at Raritan Valley
Community College, Route 28, in Branchburg, New Jersey.
For further information, please contact the Somerset County Police
Academy at 908-526-1200.
Back
December 12, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
OPERATION “RAGS TO RICHES” COCAINE DEALER
PLEADS GUILTY
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on December 11, 2007, defendant Shane Martinez (dob 3/17/77), of
East 9th Street, Plainfield, pled guilty to drug distribution and
weapons charges pursuant to a plea agreement that calls for him to be
sentenced to ten (10) years in state prison and requires him to
testify truthfully against his codefendants.
Defendant Shane Martinez was one of the primary cocaine dealers 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 codefendant 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), of West 3rd Street, Plainfield.
On March 6, 2007, Task Force detectives arrested defendants Martinez
and Greene in the driveway of defendant Purcell’s West 7th Street,
Plainfield residence immediately after defendant Greene sold a
half-kilogram of cocaine to defendant Martinez for $10,750.00.
On December 11, 2007, defendant Martinez appeared before the Hon.
Julie M. Marino, J.S.C., in Superior Court in Somerville and pled
guilty to 1st degree Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to
Distribute, 2nd degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, and 3rd
Degree Unlawful Possession of a Handgun. The terms of the plea
agreement call for defendant Martinez to be sentenced to ten (10)
years in state prison, with a thirty (30) month period of parole
ineligibility. While providing a factual basis for his guilty plea,
defendant Martinez admitted that between January and March, 2007, he
distributed more than five (5) ounces of cocaine to a number of
individuals. Defendant Martinez also admitted that he obtained the
cocaine from defendant Josef Greene and sold it to defendant Eric
Gambrell, and that defendant Steve Purcell assisted him in his cocaine
distribution operation by calling various cocaine dealers in an
attempt to obtain cocaine for Martinez, and by picking-up cocaine from
defendant Martinez following a traffic accident in an effort to avoid
discovery by law enforcement. Finally, defendant Martinez admitted
that the .357 magnum handgun found in his Plainfield residence
belonged to him, and that he did not have a permit for the gun.
Back
December 6,
2007
NEWS RELEASES
SEXUAL ASSAULT CONVICTION
IN SOMERVILLE
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Pamela Balogh was found guilty after trial by jury on Thursday,
December 6, 2007, before the Honorable Edward M. Coleman, P.J.Cr.
Defendant Balogh, age 40, formerly of Glen Gardner, New Jersey, was
convicted of second degree Sexual Assault, third degree Aggravated
Criminal Sexual Contact, fourth degree Criminal Sexual Contact, and
third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The offenses occurred
primarily at Immaculata High School in Somerville, New Jersey, and
other locations within the Somerset County area, between December 2004
and September 2005. Defendant Balogh, is currently unemployed, but at
the time of her arrest, she was employed at North Hunterdon High
School. The case was investigated by the Somerset County Prosecutor's
Office. Defendant Balogh, who was represented at trial by James Wronko,
Esq., is being held in the Somerset County Jail in default of bail
pending sentence. The State was represented by Assistant Prosecutor
Laurie A. Head-Melillo.
CRIME STOPPERS OFFERS REWARD FOR BANK
ROBBERY IN MANVILLE
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Manville
Borough Police Chief Mark Peltack state that the investigation into
the robbery of PNC Bank on November 30, 2007 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 11:47 a.m. an
individual presented a teller with a note stating that he had a gun
and was robbing the bank. The teller put an undetermined amount of
money into a black plastic bag supplied by the robber who then fled
the bank across South Main Street and into a burgundy colored vehicle
which then drove away traveling southbound.
The perpetrator was described to detectives as a white male,
approximately 5’9”-6’0”, thin build, 25-35 years of age, thin nose,
wearing a green parka jacket with a hood, black wool type cap, gloves
and blue jeans.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Peltack and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can be provided anonymously by
calling the Manville Police Department at 908-725-1900, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at 908-575-3300 or the
Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tips Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or
online at www.888577tips.org and click on “Give Tips” or www.scpo.net
and click on “Crime Stoppers.” Whether you provide information by
telephone or online you will be provided with a confidential claim
number, which you utilize to obtain your reward monies. All calls are
confidential.
Back
December 4,
2007
NEWS RELEASE
FIRE INVESTIGATION AT THE WASHINGTON
VALLEY
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Warren
Township Police Chief Russell Leffert announce that detectives are
investigating a fire that occurred at the Washington Valley Fire
Department, 146 Washington Valley Road, Warren Township, New Jersey,
early this morning.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 4:27 a.m. on this
date, a Warren Township patrolman observed smoke coming from the eaves
of the Washington Valley Fire Department building. Upon arrival of the
firefighters, they entered the apparatus bay and discovered that it
was completely filled with smoke. Once the fire was located it was
quickly extinguished. Several pieces of apparatus as well as fire
fighting equipment-sustained fire, heat and smoke damage.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Leffert state that the Prosecutor’s
Office Arson Task Force in conjunction with the Warren Township Police
Department are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Warren Township
Police Department at 908-753-1000, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at 908-575-3300 or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers TIPS Line
at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org and click on
“Give Tips” or www.scpo.net and click on “Crime Stoppers.” All calls
are confidential.
Back
December 3, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
DEFENDANT WILLIAM E. MARTIN, JR. SENTENCED
William E. Martin (click to enlarge)
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on December 3, 2007, defendant William E. Martin, Jr., 35, of
North Plainfield was sentenced on charges stemming from the April 17,
2005 shooting death of John Grover of Hillsborough at the Gatto’s Bar
& Grill in Manville.
Prosecutor Forrest states that the joint
trial of defendant William E. Martin, Jr. and co-defendant Peter J.
Ciarletta had commenced with preliminary hearings on September 10,
2007. Each defendant was indicted and being tried on charges of first
degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder, first degree Murder, two counts
each of second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
and two counts each of third degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.
Defendant Martin was also facing trial on a separate indictment
charging him with second degree Certain Persons not to have Weapons.
Defendants were facing a possible maximum sentence on the most serious
charges of life in prison. On September 17, 2007, a jury was sworn and
the testimony commenced on September 18, 2007. After the first day of
testimony, counsel for defendant Martin sought a plea agreement from
the State. On September 19, 2007, prior to the beginning of trial
testimony, the State tendered a plea offer to both defendants. The
defendants accepted the State’s plea offers and the Court permitted
the entry of the guilty pleas after the trial commenced.
On September 19, 2007, defendant Martin
pled guilty to the amended charge of first degree Aggravated
Manslaughter, and one count each of second degree Possession of a
Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, and third degree Unlawful Possession
of a Weapon. Defendant also pled guilty to the separate indictment
charging second degree Certain Persons not to have Weapons. Defendant
Martin’s plea agreement called for an aggregate sentence of twenty
eight (28) years in State Prison with 85% of said sentence to be
served before defendant becomes eligible for parole under the “No
Early Release Act”. Co-defendant Ciarletta pled guilty to charges of
second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose and third
degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. Co-defendant Ciarletta pled
guilty without the benefit of a plea agreement. Co-defendant Ciarletta
is subject to a mandatory minimum period of parole ineligibility of at
least three (3) years for these offenses involving a firearm. The
State will be seeking the statutory maximum sentence on co-defendant
Ciarletta for these charges.
In his plea allocution, defendant Martin
admitted his affiliation with the Pagans Motorcycle Gang and that he
armed himself with the purpose to do harm to another if he felt it
necessary on April 17, 2005. Defendant indicated he observed the
victim, John Grover, wearing a Hells Angels T-shirt at Gatto’s Bar and
thought he might be affiliated with the Hells Angels Motorcycle Gang.
Upon questioning by the Honorable Edward M. Coleman, P.J.Cr. defendant
Martin acknowledged that the Pagans Motorcycle Gang were rivals of the
Hells Angels Motorcycle Gang. Defendant admitted he made a derogatory
comment when he passed by John Grover’s seat at the bar as he
(defendant Martin) exited the bar with co-defendant Ciarletta.
Defendant stated he turned and fired a 9mm handgun from the sidewalk
outside the bar hitting John Grover in the lower torso area with the
gunfire after he heard someone follow him out of the bar and allegedly
make threatening comments in his direction. Defendant admitted he knew
Grover was not armed with a weapon. Defendant further admitted he did
not have any permits to legally carry the weapon, nor could he legally
own or carry such a weapon because of his prior indictable
convictions.
Co-defendant Ciarletta admitted at his
plea allocution that he had accompanied defendant Martin to Gatto’s at
the time of John Grover’s death on April 17, 2005 and that he was in
possession of a .22 caliber revolver. Ciarletta admitted he possessed
this weapon to use it unlawfully against the person of another if such
a situation presented itself. Co-defendant Ciarletta admitted he did
not have the required statutory permits to possess or carry the .22
revolver.
During the trial testimony leading up to the defendants’ guilty pleas,
witnesses indicated that John Grover was a regular customer at Gatto’s
and had gone to the bar on April 17, 2005, for lunch with a friend.
Witness testimony confirmed that the defendants were ‘staring down’
Grover after he was observed wearing a T-shirt purported to portray a
Hell’s Angel Motorcycle Gang insignia. Further testimony revealed one
of the defendants made a comment in John Grover’s direction as they
exited the bar. John Grover moved toward the doorway only asking the
defendants what they had said. Testimony revealed John Grover was shot
twice as he stood unarmed in the Gatto’s doorway. Grover died from
these gunshot wounds. The witnesses further testified that John Grover
was not a member of any motorcycle gang and did not even own a
motorcycle.
Both defendants were scheduled for sentencing on December 3, 2007. On
this date, defendant William E. Martin, Jr. appeared before the
Honorable Edward M. Coleman, Presiding Judge of the Criminal Court,
who sentenced the defendant to twenty-eight (28) years in the New
Jersey State Prison with 85% of said sentence to be served without
parole under the No Early Release Act on the charge of first degree
Aggravated Manslaughter. Defendant Martin also received sentences of
ten (10) years, five (5) years to be served without parole on the
charge of second degree Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful
Purpose; five (5) years, 2-1/2 years to be served without parole on
the third degree charge of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon; and ten
(10) years, five (5) years to be served without parole on the second
degree charge of Certain Persons not to Have Weapons. These sentences
were to run concurrent with each other and concurrent to defendant
Martin’s twenty-eight (28) year sentence on the Aggravated
Manslaughter charge. Co-defendant Ciarletta’s sentence was adjourned
to a date in the near future as his attorney was unable to appear at
the Somerset County Court House on the morning of December 3, 2007.
Defendant Martin was represented at his sentencing by David R. Oakley,
Esq. Defendant Ciarletta is represented by J. Michael Farrell, Esq.
Assistant Prosecutor Joseph V. Rocchietti represented the State in the
sentencing of defendant William E. Martin, Jr.
Back
November
30, 2007
News Release
REWARD OFFERED IN FAR HILLS BURGLARY
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Far Hills
Police Chief Ken Hartman announce the family of a Far Hills
residential burglary has posted a $100,000.00 reward for information
leading to the arrest and indictment of persons involved in the
burglary.
The details of the investigation are as
follows. The burglary occurred on Sunday November 18, 2007 at
approximately 11:30 a.m. at the family’s residence in Far Hills.
Proceeds of the burglary included over 2.5 million dollars in assorted
watches, jewelry and twenty (20) gold buffalo one ounce coins taken
from a safe inside the residence. Two masked actors gained entry into
the residence by prying open a garage door that leads inside the
residence. The actors were seen on video surveillance entering the
master bedroom and specifically targeted the safe and assorted high
end watches in an attached closet.
Video surveillance revealed the suspect
vehicle is between a 2003-2005 dark red or maroon Chevrolet "Astro"
Van and was seen entering the driveway soon after the homeowners
vacated the property. The van had no front license plate and has a
light colored pinstripe along the door paneling. The vehicle displayed
a third brake light that was mounted on the roof line. The Chevy also
had no rear door on the driver's side. All windows of the vehicle
appear to have black tint with the exception of the two front windows.
The rear cargo door is a two piece tailgate door that opens outward
and is split in the center. The rear window glass contains a light
colored aftermarket Chevrolet "bow tie" decal mounted in the center of
the window. The vehicle was on the property for approximately fifteen
(15) minutes.
Actor #1 is between 5'5-5'7, with a heavy
build, wearing a black jacket over a light hooded sweatshirt, jeans
and dark colored shoes, unknown race.
Actor #2 is a light skinned male between 5'6-5'7, medium build,
wearing a dark jacket over a dark hooded sweatshirt, dark pants and
black gloves carrying a crow bar. The jacket had a patch insignia on
the right elbow.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Hartman request anyone with any
information pertaining to the investigation, please contact either the
Far Hills Police Department at 908-234-1192 or the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at (908) 231-7100. All calls
are confidential.
JUVENILE WAIVED TO ADULT COURT
Somerville- On November 30, 2007, Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J.
Forrest announced that a juvenile, Michael Covil, age 17, who was
involved in the shooting death of Ammar Simmons, was referred to the
Criminal Division where the juvenile would be tried as an adult on
charges of second degree aggravated assault and third degree
terroristic threats. Covil was 16 years old at the time of the
incident. He is currently lodged in a juvenile detention facility and
will remain there on $100,000 bail, set by the Honorable Robert Reed
today.
An investigation by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office into the
death of Ammar Simmons on July 15, 2007 in Franklin Township has so
far resulted in charges of murder against Fabian Austin, an adult, and
Xavier Bailey, a 17 year old juvenile who was recently waived to adult
court. Police reports indicate that Covil, who is a member of the
bloods street gang, gave the victim what is known as a “g-check,” a
test of gang related knowledge, which the victim failed. Covil then
started throwing punches at the victim as punishment for failing the
“g-check.” As a result of Covil’s actions, other members of the bloods
began to attack Mr. Simmons, including defendant Austin and defendant
Bailey. During the assault, a garbage can was thrown at Mr. Simmons
and he was slammed to the ground. Ultimately, Mr. Simmons was shot and
killed during the assault.
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.
BANK ROBBERY AT PNC BANK IN MANVILLE
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Manville
Borough Police Chief Mark Peltack announce that detectives are
investigating the robbery of the PNC Bank branch located at 339 South
Main Street. Manville Police responded to a silent holdup alarm at
approximately 1147 hours. Upon arrival police had learned that an
unknown white male had just fled from the bank after presenting a
teller with a note and a black plastic bag stating that he had a gun
and was robbing the bank. The teller put an undisclosed amount of US
currency into the bag and handed it to the suspect who fled the bank
on foot.
Detectives from Manville Police Department, the Prosecutor’s Office
Major Crimes Squad and Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit and the
FBI responded to the scene and conducted a canvass along with numerous
interviews. As a result of the interviews the following is the
description of the suspect:
W/M, approx 5’9”-6’0”, thin build
Wearing a green parka jacket with a hood
Black wool type cap, gloves and blue jeans
25-35 years of age, thin nose
It is believed the suspect fled on foot across South Main Street into
a burgundy colored vehicle that drove away southbound. It is believed
the suspect was the lone occupant of the vehicle.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Peltack request if anyone has any
information to contact the Manville Police Department at 908-725-1900,
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-575-3300 or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tips Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org and click on
“Give Tips” or www.scpo.net and click on “Crime Stoppers.” All calls
are confidential.
Back
November 27, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
SCHOOL PLANT FACILITIES SUPERVISOR CHARGED WITH OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Police Department Chief Dennis Manning announced the arrest
of Vincent Aufiero (Age 51) of Overlook Drive, Neptune Township, New
Jersey. Defendant Aufiero was charged with four counts of Official
Misconduct, second degree, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:30-2. Defendant
Aufiero is the former School Plant Facilities Supervisor for the
Somerville Board of Education.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the arrest was made after a nine month
investigation by members of the Somerville Police Department’s
Detective Bureau and the Special Investigations Unit of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office. The investigation began when the Borough
of Somerville received a complaint about fraudulent purchases by
defendant Aufiero. A coordinated investigation was launched by the two
law enforcement agencies with the cooperation of the Somerville public
school system.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that
defendant Aufiero had purchased kitchen cabinets from the Home Depot
store located in Bridgewater, New Jersey. These cabinets were paid for
by the Somerville Board of Education. Defendant Aufiero submitted a
purchase order to the Board’s business department claiming that the
items were purchased for “bleacher repairs”. Detectives examined the
school system’s records of the transaction and the accompanying
invoice. A subpoena for records was later served on the Home Depot and
interviews were conducted regarding the purchase. The investigation
determined that defendant Aufiero purchased those cabinets, the school
system paid for them, and defendant had them installed in his own
home.
Defendant Aufiero also went to a local vendor and ordered a custom
apron front sink and billed that item to the school system through a
purchase order and invoice which the Board of Education paid. This
custom apron front sink, valued at over eleven hundred dollars at the
time of purchase, was located in defendant’s home by detectives when a
search warrant was executed at that home.
Prosecutor Forrest further stated that the detectives, with the
assistance of the Somerville public school system staff, found that
defendant Aufiero purchased a number of residential water heaters and
boilers from school vendors and billed them to the school system. A
check of school records and an inspection by the current school plant
facilities staff found that these water heaters and boilers were not
located in any of the Somerville school buildings and their
whereabouts are presently unknown.
Prosecutor Forrest said that defendant Aufiero, a New Jersey
State-licensed master plumber, was also a principal in a corporation
that bid on plumbing projects within the school system. Defendant
Aufiero’s license number was found on documents submitted by the
business Mechanical Piping Services of Wall Township, New Jersey.
Defendant Aufiero, who procured plumbing contractors for the school
system in his position as school plant facilities supervisor, used
Mechanical Piping Services to acquire plumbing business from the
Board. These aforementioned activities occurred without the knowledge
or consent of school board staff. Additionally, defendant Aufiero did
not disclose his business interest in Mechanical Piping Services in
his yearly financial disclosure statement to the school board.
Defendant Aufiero was awarded a number of plumbing projects under the
Mechanical Piping Services name. As a result of this investigation,
the Somerville Board of Education contracted with an outside plumbing
firm to evaluate Mechanical Piping Services’ work and found that a
number of plumbing projects were paid for, but never completed.
Defendant Aufiero, a yearly contractual employee, was not re-hired at
the conclusion of the 2006-2007 school year. Aufiero surrendered to
detectives this morning with his attorney.
Prosecutor Forrest stressed that the investigation of defendant
Aufiero and other individuals connected with his activities and the
activities of Mechanical Piping Services is continuing. Anyone with
information concerning these or other crimes is asked to immediately
contact the Somerville Police Department Detective Bureau at (908)
725-0331, Detective John Burke at the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at (908) 231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tips
Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org and
click on “Give Tips” or www.scpo.net and click on “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 and
unless proven guilty.
Back
November
21, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
HOMICIDE ARREST IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that:
Alphonse S. Capell (31)
5D Ari Drive
Somerset, New Jersey
has been charged first degree Murder and second degree Desecrating
Human Remains for the killing and dismemberment of 33 year-old
Franklin Township resident Coty Lynn Micklo.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on October 25, 2007, the decomposing and
dismembered body of an unknown female was discovered in a plastic bag
and plastic tarp which were contained in a “Protégé” luggage bag and
clothes laundry bag in the rear of a white Ford Mustang parked outside
of 5D Ari Drive in Franklin Township. The gruesome discovery was made
by a tow truck driver and maintenance worker from Somerset Mews
apartment complex who were supposed to remove the Mustang from the
property. It was subsequently discovered by detectives from the
Prosecutor’s Major Crimes Squad and Franklin Township Police
Department that the Mustang was the property of defendant Alphonse
Capell of 5D Ari Drive, Somerset. It was also determined that
defendant Capell had been incarcerated since August 20, 2007 at a
Middlesex County Department of Adult Corrections facility.
On October 26, 2007 detectives along with the Regional Medical
Examiner were able to positively identify the remains as being Coty L.
Micklo. It was also determined that the dismemberment was consistent
with cutting and two hacksaw blades were recovered with the body parts
from inside the bags. The investigation had also uncovered that Micklo
and defendant Capell had been in a relationship in the past.
Interviews conducted by detectives had shown that Micklo had not been
seen alive by friends or family since late 2006.
An intense investigation involving the tracking of cell phones,
countless hours of interviews, and numerous search warrants has
provided detectives a wide array of evidence that led to the charges
being filed against defendant Capell today.
Detectives placed defendant Capell in the Somerset County Jail on the
evening of November 20, 2007 with a bail of $1,000,000.00 cash set by
Superior Court Judge Peter A. Buchbaum pending the filing of the
charges today.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick ask if anyone has any information
that could assist police with this investigation to contact either the
Franklin Township Police Department Detective Bureau at (732)
873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes 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 and click on
“Give Tips” or www.scpo.net and click on “Crime Stoppers.” All calls
are confidential.
(click on image to enlarge)
Back
November
20, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
BURGLARY IN FAR HILLS
(click on images to enlarge)
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Far Hills
Police Chief Kenneth Hartman announce the investigation of a
residential burglary that occurred on Sunday November 18, 2007, at
approximately 11:30 a.m. at a Liberty Corner Road residence in Far
Hills. Proceeds of the burglary included over 2.5 million dollars in
assorted jewelry, gold coins, and other valuable items taken from a
safe inside the residence. Two hooded actors gained entry into the
residence by prying open an exterior garage door that leads into an
attached garage. Once inside the residence the actors forced their way
into a locked bedroom where the safe was located. The actors gained
entry into the safe and removed its contents before fleeing from the
residence.
A suspect vehicle was also observed on the property’s exterior video
surveillance system. The vehicle is described as a mid 90's Maroon
Chevrolet "Astro" Van and was seen entering the driveway soon after
one of the homeowners departed the residence with members of the
household staff. The van has no front license plate and has a light
colored pinstripe along the door paneling. The vehicle displayed a
third brake light that was centered in the rear window on the top of
the hatch. The Chevy van also had no side sliding door on the driver's
side. All windows of the vehicle appear to be tinted with the
exception of the front window and driver’s side and front passenger
side windows. The rear license plate was light in color. The vehicle
was on the property for approximately fifteen (15) minutes.
The actors who were depicted on an interior video surveillance system
are described as:
Actor #1 is between 5'5-5'7, with a heavy build, wearing a black
jacket over a light hooded sweatshirt, jeans and dark colored shoes,
unknown race.
Actor #2 is a light skinned male between 5'6-5'7, medium build,
wearing a dark jacket over a dark hooded sweatshirt, dark pants and
black gloves carrying a crow bar. The jacket had a patch insignia on
the right elbow.
It is unknown if there was a third actor driving the suspect vehicle.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Hartman request anyone with any
information pertaining to the investigation, please contact either the
Far Hills Police Department at 908-234-1192, Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes 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 and click on “Give Tips” or www.scpo.net
and click on “Crime Stoppers.” All calls are confidential.
Back
November 16, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
CORRECTIONS OFFICER JOSE CARRASQUILLO
PLEADS GUILTY
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that suspended Somerset County Corrections Officer Jose Carrasquillo,
32 years of age and a resident of Middlesex Borough, pleaded guilty
today before the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C., to the crimes of
third degree Official Misconduct, fourth degree Theft by Deception and
fourth degree False Swearing. In exchange for his guilty plea, the
State agreed to permit defendant Carrasquillo entrance into the
Somerset County Pretrial Intervention Program. Under the terms of the
plea agreement, defendant Carrasquillo will be required to resign his
position as a Somerset County Corrections Officer and accept, as well,
a permanent bar from future law enforcement positions. Defendant also
will be required to make restitution in the amount of $276.15 to
Somerset County.
Defendant’s Carrasquillo’s guilty plea was the result of an
investigation which revealed that on two occasions in 2006, he
falsified medical reports which he then remitted to Somerset County
resulting in payment for hours he did not work in his capacity as a
corrections officer at the Somerset County Jail. Defendant altered the
reports of doctors who were treating him for an injury he received in
his capacity as a corrections officer. Defendant changed the reports
to indicate he was unable to work on certain dates, contrary to the
actual findings and notations of the doctors. Defendant was
subsequently paid $275.16 for hours of work which he did not complete
because of his falsification of the records. Defendant Carrasquillo’s
illegal activities were discovered after internal review of the
medical records revealed discrepancies between the reports forwarded
to Somerset County by the doctors and those supplied by the defendant.
When questioned during the investigation, defendant gave a sworn
statement denying he falsified the medical reports.
Defendant was represented in this matter by James Addis, Esq.
Assistant Prosecutor Joseph V. Rocchietti represented the State in the
prosecution of this matter.
Back
November 2, 2007
NEWS RELEASES
BABYSITTER CHARGED WITH ENDANGERING THE WELFARE
OF A CHILD
Somerville– Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Chief William Parenti announced that the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Abuse Unit, in conjunction with
the North Plainfield Police Department, arrested Demelin Castillo, age
24 (D.O.B. 07/30/1983), of Watchung Avenue, North Plainfield, New
Jersey on one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The arrest
occurred on Thursday, November 1, 2007, at the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office, Somerville, New Jersey. Victim J.L., a six (6)
months old (D.O.B. May 2007) baby boy, was pronounced dead at
approximately 12:23 p.m. on 11/01/07 at Muhlenberg Hospital,
Plainfield, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that North Plainfield police responded to a
911 call from defendant Castillo’s home, where she was babysitting for
the victim at the time of the incident. Police and emergency medical
personnel found the victim to be unresponsive, wearing a jacket which
would have constricted his movement, and lying face down on a futon
mattress on the floor. The victim was then transported to Muhlenberg
Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Further investigation revealed
that defendant Castillo was solely responsible for the victim’s care
and left the victim unattended for an extended period of time,
resulting in his death. An autopsy is scheduled for today to determine
the exact cause of death.
Defendant Castillo was charged with one count of Endangering the
Welfare of a Child 2nd Degree and 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.
JURY FINDS FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP MAN GUILTY OF SEXUAL ASSAULT
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that on Thursday, November 1, 2007, a Somerset County petit jury
convicted 26 year old defendant, Benjamin DelVecchio, formerly of 536
Garfield Avenue in Franklin Township, of sexually assaulting a 20 year
old woman. The crime occurred two years ago in 2005.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant first met the 20 year old
victim in the early evening of October 18, 2005, where he socialized
with her and others at a restaurant and bar in Raritan. After leaving
the bar, Benjamin DelVecchio proceeded to drive the 20 year old victim
to her car, which was parked nearby in Manville. The victim became
physically incapacitated during the car ride with defendant and
eventually passed out in the front passenger seat of his vehicle.
Defendant, seizing an opportunity to exploit the semi-conscious woman
who was unable to resist, parked his vehicle and removed the victim’s
clothing. He then digitally penetrated the victim’s vagina and
attempted intercourse. The victim sustained minor injuries to her
vaginal area as a result of the sexual assault.
Following the jury’s guilty verdict on 2nd degree Sexual Assault the
judge revoked defendant’s bail and remanded him to the Somerset County
Jail. Defendant faces up to ten (10) years in prison, where
eighty-five (85) percent of his prison term will be served without
parole. Defendant must also register as a sex offender under Megan’s
Law. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Merrill M.
Mezzacappa. Steven B. Lieberman, Esq. represented defendant. The
Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C. presided over the case.
Back
November 1, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
FORMER BOUND BROOK MUNICIPAL INSPECTOR PLEADS GUILTY TO OFFICIAL
MISCONDUCT
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
today that former Bound Brook municipal housing inspector, Di Shawn
Gandy, age 34 of Phelps Avenue, New Brunswick, New Jersey, entered a
plea of guilty to a charge of third degree Official Misconduct, before
the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C. The former Inspector offered
payment in exchange for sexual acts from a tenant of a Bound Brook
apartment between November 2003 and January 2004.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that an investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Special Investigations Unit, and
the Bound Brook Police Department disclosed that in September of 2003,
Bound Brook Housing Inspector Di Shawn Gandy was hired by the Township
as a Housing Inspector. Defendant Gandy was responsible for the
inspection of rental apartments in Bound Brook, including smoke
detectors, electric fixtures, apartment occupancy numbers and internal
and external hazardous conditions of rental properties.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in November of 2003, defendant Gandy
inspected and failed two apartments located on Vosseller Avenue, Bound
Brook, New Jersey. Defendant Gandy admitted during his plea that while
at the apartments he offered $50.00 to a female tenant to have sexual
intercourse with him while he was on duty as an Inspector.
Defendant will be sentenced by the court following the completion of a
pre-sentence investigation report to be completed by the Somerset
County Probation Department.
Back
October 31, 2007
NEWS RELEASES
GUILTY VERDICT
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on Wednesday, October 31, 2007, Raymond Martin, age 37, of
Hampton Garden, Middlesex Township, New Jersey, was found guilty by a
Somerset County jury of three counts of third degree Distribution of
Cocaine and one count of third degree Resisting Arrest. The four-day
trial was held before the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, Judge of the
Superior Court of New Jersey, Criminal Part.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Martin committed these crimes
between the dates of February 1, 2005 and April 19, 2005. During this
time, defendant Martin sold crack cocaine to an undercover narcotics
detective from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force on three separate occasions. Specifically,
defendant Martin sold cocaine to the undercover detective on February
1, 2005 in the parking lot of Walmart, on March 31, 2005 in the
parking lot of the Rhythm’s of the Night restaurant, and on April 19,
2005 again in the parking lot of Rhythm’s, all located on Main Street
in Manville. Immediately after the last undercover buy, several
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task
Force and officers from the Manville Police Department arrested
defendant Martin. As the officers moved in to arrest him, defendant
Martin fled from the police, who chased him. As he looked back at the
team of officers following him, defendant unknowingly ran straight
into a second group of arresting officers. One of these officers
grabbed a hold of defendant, who continued to run, dragging the
officer with him. It took the combined efforts of at least three
police officers to finally detain defendant. In total, defendant
Martin sold approximately five grams of cocaine to the undercover
detective in exchange for $480.00.
The jury deliberated for approximately two hours before returning
their verdict. Defendant Martin faces a maximum term of five years in
prison. Defendant Martin was released on bail pending his sentencing.
STANDOFF IN SOMERVILLE
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest along with
Chief Dennis Manning of the Somerville Police Department announced
that the S.W.A.T. Team was deployed for a standoff that had occurred
at 33 South Adamsville Road in Somerville, New Jersey on October 30,
2007.
Prosecutor Forest stated that at approximately 5:40 p.m. the
Somerville Police Department received a 911 call for assistance at 33
South Adamsville Road. Upon arrival the officers learned that a Jared
J. Razzano, age 25 of South Adamsville Road was inside his residence
and refused to come outside to speak with the police. He also stated
that he did not want anyone to come inside the house and that he was
in his room armed with a shotgun. Officers also discovered that Jared
J. Razzano was an avid hunter and had access to numerous high powered
rifles with scopes.
Based on this information the Somerville Police Department secured a
perimeter and requested the assistance of the Somerset County S.W.A.T.
Team and Crisis Negotiation Team. Members of the Somerset County
Emergency Response Teams responded to the scene and set up a secure
perimeter. The Crisis Negotiation Team subsequently attempted to make
contact with Mr. Razzano via a bull horn however he did not respond.
At approximately 8:30 p.m. the S.C.E.R.T. commander requested that
PSEG shut off the power to the Razzano home.
At approximately 8:40 p.m. a white male wearing black clothing exited
the residence and attempted to flee, however was subdued by members of
the S.W.A.T. Team. This individual identified as Jared J. Razzano was
subsequently turned over to Somerville Police Department.
A subsequent search of the residence resulted in the seizure of the
following weapons:
1. Winchester .22 Cal.
2. Mossberg 12 Ga.
3. Mossberg 12 Ga.
4. Remington 20 Ga.
5. Fox Savage 12 Ga.
6. JC Higgins Sears 12 Ga.
7. Companion 12 Ga.
8. Ithaca 12 Ga.
9. Browning .308 Cal.
10. Marlin .30 X .30 Cal.
11. Winchester .30-06 Cal.
12. Daisy B.B. Gun
The investigation is currently under review by the Somerville Police
department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.
PLAINFIELD POLICE OFFICER INDICTED IN CAR CRASH
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that a Somerset County Grand Jury indicted Rodney D. Sanders, age 38,
a North Plainfield, New Jersey resident and Plainfield Police Officer.
Defendant Sanders was indicted on one count of Assault by Auto, 3rd
Degree, following a crash that occurred on July 31, 2007 on State
Highway 22, North Plainfield, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest said that on July 31, 2007, at approximately 11:40
p.m., a three-car collision occurred on State Highway 22 East near the
intersection of Wilson Avenue in North Plainfield, New Jersey. The
North Plainfield Police Department responded to investigate, as did
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Collision Analysis
Reconstruction (C.A.R.) Team.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that
immediately prior to the collision, one of the victims, Joseph J.
McKernan, age 69, of Plantation, Florida, was operating a 2002 Chevy
pick-up truck and was traveling in the left lane eastbound on State
Highway 22 approaching the intersection of Wilson Avenue. At about the
same time, another victim, Sherifat A. Kasunmu, age 34, of Newark, New
Jersey, was operating a 1995 Nissan Altima in the right lane of State
Highway 22 and was approaching the same intersection. At that time, a
third vehicle, a 1999 GMC Yukon Denali, operated by defendant Rodney
D. Sanders, age 39, of Warfield Road, North Plainfield, New Jersey was
also traveling eastbound on State Highway 22. The defendant attempted
to pass McKernan’s vehicle, however, the defendant impacted the right
rear passenger side of McKernan’s vehicle. Following the defendant’s
initial impact with McKernan’s vehicle, he then impacted the rear of
Kasunmu’s vehicle. Kasunmu’s vehicle rotated and was forced off the
highway and onto the lawn of the Red Tower II restaurant.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Kasunmu was airlifted by the New Jersey
State Police Medivac helicopter to Robert Wood Johnson University
Hospital in New Brunswick. McKernan and the defendant refused medical
services at the scene. The defendant was subsequently arrested for
driving while intoxicated after failing a field sobriety test and
breathalyzer. The breathalyzer registered that the defendant had a
blood alcohol level of .23%
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant faces a maximum penalty of
five years incarceration if convicted. The defendant is currently free
on a bail of $5,000.00 (10% to apply).
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.
MEN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF PIRATED RECORDINGS
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Department Chief Craig Novick announced today that on
October 30, 2007 the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office arrested
Solomon McWarren, age 54, who resides on Hamilton Street, Somerset,
New Jersey and Cordell Tolor, age 60, who resides on Park Avenue,
Plainfield, New Jersey. Defendant McWarren and defendant Tolor were
charged with 3rd degree, Possession of Pirated Recordings after
selling 2 movie DVDs and 4 music CDs to an undercover detective.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation conducted by
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Franklin
Township Police Department, and Investigators from the Motion Picture
Association and Recording Industry Association disclosed that in
October of 2007, a store named E&S Concepts located at 715 West
Somerset Street, Franklin Township, New Jersey was identified as
selling pirated DVDs and audio CDs.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on two separate occasions members of
the investigative team purchased pirated movie DVD’s and music CD’s
from the store. On October 30, 2007 following the second purchase, the
investigative team entered and searched the store.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that during the search of the store on
October 30, 2007, 1,378 music CDs and 563 movies DVDs were
confiscated. In reviewing the movie DVDs, the investigation revealed
that several films had not yet opened in theaters. The search of the
business also revealed that defendant McWarren and defendant Tolor
were also in possession of 216 pairs of counterfeit Nike sneakers, 26
counterfeit Timberland boots, 3 counterfeit North Face jackets, and 7
counterfeit Coach handbags.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant McWarren and defendant Tolor
were arrested and released on their own recognizance. Defendant
McWarren and defendant Tolor are expected to be in court on November
16, 2007.
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
October 30, 2007
NEWS RELEASE
OPERATION “DÉJÀ VU”
Tashy Gumbs
Tahmez Love
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that between October 23 and October 30, 2007, forty-four individuals
were charged with a variety of drug and weapons offenses following a
four-month investigation designated “Operation ‘Déjà Vu.’” The
investigation was designated operation “Operation ‘Déjà Vu” because it
resulted in its primary target, defendant Tashy Gumbs (d/o/b
6/16/1967), of Third Street, Somerville, being returned to jail less
than four months after being released from prison on a 2003 Somerset
County CDS Distribution conviction.
On March 7, 2003, defendant Tashy Gumbs was convicted of 3rd degree
bail jumping and 3rd degree distribution of CDS, and sentenced to nine
years in prison with a 39 month period of parole ineligibility.
Defendant Gumbs was released from State Prison on June 14, 2007.
Within weeks, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office learned that
Gumbs was again distributing cocaine, and commenced the investigation
that led to his arrest on October 30, 2007.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the operation, conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force, with the assistance of the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s
Office, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department, the Somerville
Borough Police Department, the North Brunswick Police Department, the
New Brunswick Police Department, and the New Jersey State Police K-9
and Aviation Units, resulted in the seizure of more than five ounces
of cocaine and three firearms, as well as the arrests of several
street-level drug dealers and approximately three dozen drug buyers.
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
defendant Tashy Gumbs. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office was
familiar with 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,
Gumbs immediately resumed his narcotics distribution business.
The investigation revealed that defendant Gumbs obtained his cocaine
from two sources, defendant Aaron Banks (dob 9/29/82) of Birchwood
Court, North Brunswick, and defendant Tahmez Love (dob 8/25/72) of
Fairview Avenue, Somerville. Collectively, defendants Gumbs, Banks and
Love 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. Defendant Love was also
recently prosecuted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, having
been convicted most recently in November 2006, for third degree
Possession of CDS.
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 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 was arrested and charged with 2nd degree Conspiracy to
Distribute CDS, 2nd degree Possession With Intent to Distribute /
Distribution of CDS, 2nd degree Possession With Intent to Distribute
CDS Within 1000 Feet of a School, and 2nd degree Possession of a
Firearm While Distributing CDS (3 counts). Following his arrest,
defendant Banks was lodged in the Middlesex County Jail. Bail was sent
at $150,000.00, cash only, by the Hon. Dennis V. Nieves, J.S.C.,
Middlesex County.
On October 30, 2007, detectives arrested defendants Gumbs and Love and
executed search warrants upon residences and vehicles used by the
defendants in their narcotics distribution network. As a result of the
warrants, detectives seized approximately twenty grams of crack
cocaine from defendant Love’s residence, as well as Heroin, Ecstasy,
various items of drug paraphernalia and $440.00 in U.S. Currency.
Detectives also seized Ecstasy, drug paraphernalia and $292.00 in U.S.
Currency from defendant Gumbs.
In total, detectives seized approximately five ounces of cocaine with
an estimated street value of $14,000.00, as a result of this
investigation, as well as Heroin, Ecstasy, three firearms, and more
than $2,500.00 in suspected drug proceeds.
The following individuals were arrested and charged as part of this
investigation:
Defendant Tashy Gumbs was charged with 2nd degree Conspiracy to
Distribute CDS, 2nd Degree Possession With Intent to Distribute /
Distribution of CDS, and 3rd degree Possession of CDS. Following his
arrest on October 30, defendant Gumbs was lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail to be set.
Defendant Tahmez Love was charged with 2nd degree Conspiracy to
Distribute CDS, 2nd Degree Possession With Intent to Distribute /
Distribution of CDS, 3rd degree Possession of CDS, and 4t
