May 29, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERSET COUNTY GRAND
JURY ISSUES 407 COUNT INDICTMENT IN INTERSTATE RACKETEERING, MONEY
LAUNDERING & CONSPIRACY CASE
“Operation Stop Payment”
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that the Somerset County Grand Jury has returned a 407 Count
Indictment charging fifteen defendants in an interstate Racketeering,
Money Laundering and Conspiracy case. The underlying investigation,
code-named “Operation Stop Payment”, focused primarily on: identifying
the number of defendants involved in this criminal enterprise;
identifying any individuals, financial institutions or other business
and government entities that were victimized by this criminal
enterprise; and stopping the payment on fictitious payroll checks that
were manufactured by this criminal enterprise on an almost daily
basis.
Prosecutor Forrest said defendant Eric Eugene Criss, a/k/a Tariq
Samaad, defendant Tonijah Emanuel Criss, defendant Tia-Staucia Estee,
a/k/a Tia Perrin, defendant Terrell Maurice Perrin, and defendant
Trezmynn Emond Criss (hereinafter “main defendants”), were each
charged by the Grand Jury with second degree Racketeering for conduct
committed within the State of New Jersey and elsewhere. Defendants
Tonijah Emanuel Criss and Trezmynn Emond Criss are the sons of Eric
Criss. Defendant Tia-Staucia Estee a/k/a Tia Perrin is the
step-daughter of Eric Criss and the wife of defendant Terrell Perrin.
These main defendants were also charged with second degree money
laundering, second degree transferring false government documents,
second degree conspiracy to commit theft by deception, and second
degree theft by deception.
Prosecutor Forrest said Count Two of the Indictment charges defendant
Eric Criss with being the Leader of Organized Crime. Prosecutor
Forrest said defendant Eric Criss’ criminal enterprise was primarily
devoted to defrauding banking and financial institutions located
throughout the State of New Jersey, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
and the States of New York, Connecticut, and Ohio.
Prosecutor Forrest said the scheme to defraud banks was accomplished
through the manufacturing and uttering of fictitious payroll checks to
unsuspecting bank tellers. Defendant Eric Criss, along with members of
his enterprise, would obtain legitimate payroll or business checks and
scan the checks into a computer system. The main defendants would then
alter the checks by imposing a fictitious “payee name” along with a
new check number before printing a new check. The main defendants
would then create fictitious drivers licenses and credit cards bearing
the name of the fictitious “payees”. The drivers licenses and credit
cards were used as proof of identification when the fictitious checks
were presented to the tellers. The phony drivers licenses would
contain a photograph of the “runners” who worked for the enterprise
and who presented the fictitious checks for payment.
Prosecutor Forrest said the runners would typically receive between
ten and twenty percent of the face value of the checks they cashed for
the enterprise. Defendant Eric Criss typically received fifty percent
of the face value of each check cashed. The remaining balance was
split between the enterprise members who supervised the runners
responsible for cashing the checks.
Prosecutor Forrest said the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office,
Special Investigations Unit, began an investigation following a
referral from Bedminster Township Police Detective Sergeant Craig
Meyer. Sergeant Meyer initially investigated a report that the Peapack-Gladstone
Bank accepted and cashed fourteen fictitious checks that were drawn
against a legitimate payroll account. The fraudulent payroll checks
contained the legitimate name and bank account information for Custom
Alloy Corporation of High Bridge (Hunterdon County), New Jersey. The
fictitious checks were cashed over a two-day period and at eight
different Peapack-Gladstone Bank branches in Somerset, Morris and
Union Counties.
The investigation is being led by Detective Sergeant John W. Fodor,
IV, and is supervised by Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Murphy, of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office. Sergeant Meyer and Special Agents
from the United States Secret Service also assisted in the
investigation. During the investigation, County Detectives obtained
bank surveillance photographs which provided important evidence used
to identify and arrest the runners who actually presented the
fictitious checks at Peapack-Gladstone Bank branches.
Prosecutor Forrest said the investigation uncovered the existence of
an organized criminal enterprise headed by defendant Eric Criss. The
investigation, conducted by the Prosecutor’s Office Special
Investigations Unit, lasted approximately six months and was known as
“Operation Stop Payment”. During that time period, County Detectives
collected copies of fictitious checks and bank surveillance
photographs from banks located in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York,
Connecticut and Ohio. The banks have reported losses in excess of
$600,000.00 in fictitious checks linked to this criminal enterprise.
Prosecutor Forrest said that by manufacturing and cashing fictitious
payroll checks “almost everyday was a payday for the defendants”.
Prosecutor Forrest said County Detectives, in conjunction with local
law enforcement and the United States Secret Service, arrested
numerous runners who were employed by defendant Eric Criss’ criminal
enterprise and presented fictitious checks.
Prosecutor Forrest said County Detectives, along with members of the
Elizabeth Police Department, also executed two Search Warrants in
February 2008 at different locations in the City of Elizabeth, Union
County. Prosecutor Forrest identified the locations as an office suite
#11, 570 North Broad Street, Elizabeth, and a commercial store front
known as 555 Westminster Avenue, Elizabeth. Both locations were rented
by defendant Eric Criss.
Prosecutor Forrest said, during the execution of those Search
Warrants, County Detectives also uncovered confidential business
records belonging to Verizon Wireless. Verizon Wireless maintains
office buildings and a corporate headquarters in Somerset County.
Corporate security officials with Verizon Wireless confirmed that the
documents recovered by County Detectives were customer account
summaries belonging to 2,700 Verizon Wireless customers. The customer
account summaries contained personal identification information, such
as the customer’s name, address, cellular account information, Social
Security number and/or Federal Taxpayer Identification Number. Verizon
Wireless corporate officials reacted quickly to the breach of their
confidential records. Verizon Wireless volunteered to assist law
enforcement by contacting each one of their effected customers.
Prosecutor Forrest said the Somerset County Grand Jury charged
defendant Tihee Jabbar Brisbane with multiple counts of second degree
computer related criminal activity stemming from the theft of the
Verizon Wireless customer account summaries. Defendant Brisbane had
previously been employed as a telemarketing representative for Verizon
Wireless from November 3, 2003, until January 26, 2005. Defendant
Brisbane worked at the Verizon Wireless offices located in Branchburg,
Somerset County.
Prosecutor Forrest said the Special Investigations Unit also seized
three automobiles and a motorcycle during the investigation. The three
automobiles and motorcycle are identified as:
2007 Chrysler 300 (N.J. Reg. VYK-10N)
2006 Dodge Magnum (N.J. Reg. WCB-31R)
2001 JEEP Grand Cherokee (N.J. Reg. WMK-85N)
2006 Kawasaki (N.J. Reg. V371A).
Prosecutor Forrest said each one of the vehicles was registered to
defendant Eric Criss at “71 South Orange Avenue, South Orange, N.J.”
That address is the business location of a Mailbox Etc. store and not
a residential address. Documents obtained during the investigation
confirmed that defendant Eric Criss leased the 2007 Chrysler 300 and
2006 Dodge Magnum. Defendant Eric Criss purchased the 2001 JEEP Grand
Cherokee, and the 2006 Kawasaki motorcycle.
Prosecutor Forrest said the New Jersey Division of Taxation joined the
investigation of defendant Eric Criss. The Division of Taxation
determined that defendant Eric Criss failed to pay gross income taxes
to the State of New Jersey and failed to file State income tax reports
for the calendar years 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007. As a result, Counts
Six and Seven of the Indictment charge defendant Eric Criss with the
third degree crimes of failing to pay gross income taxes to the State
and failure to file State income tax reports.
Prosecutor Forrest said his Office has filed civil forfeiture
Complaints in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset County,
covering the 2001 JEEP Grand Cherokee and the 2006 Kawasaki
motorcycle. In addition, Count One of the Indictment seeks the
forfeiture of the identified vehicles and rental agreements covering
the two commercial properties in Elizabeth as proceeds from defendant
Eric Criss’ racketeering activity.
Prosecutor Forrest said the Indictment charges the members of
defendant Eric Criss’ criminal enterprise with third degree forgery,
third degree uttering a forged instrument, third degree exhibiting a
false government document (i.e., fictitious drivers licenses),
wrongful impersonation, and third degree theft by deception and
attempted theft by deception, for fictitious checks that the
defendants either attempted or successfully cashed on behalf of the
enterprise.
Prosecutor Forrest said defendant Irving McRae is charged in the
Indictment with third degree identity theft, forgery and other related
charges. Defendant McRae, an associate of defendant Eric Criss,
compromised the identify of Robert J. Casey, Jr., and Mr. Casey’s PNC
Bank accounts. Defendant McRae is charged with entering multiple PNC
bank branches on November 9, 2007, and cashing two fictitious checks
purportedly belonging to the City of Hackensack against Mr. Casey’s
PNC Bank account. Prosecutor Forrest said defendant McRae is also
charged with successfully withdrawing $4,700.00 directly from Mr.
Casey’s PNC Bank account on that same date. Mr. Casey is an attorney
who practices law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Prosecutor
Forrest said the Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit is
still investigating the compromise of Mr. Casey’s personal
identification information.
Prosecutor Forrest said defendant Eric Criss was arrested on February
23, 2008, and is currently lodged at the Somerset County Jail on bail
of $75,000.00 cash only. County Detectives arrested defendant Terrell
Maurice Perrin on February 29, 2008, and he is currently lodged at the
Somerset County Jail on bail of $50,000.00 cash only. County
Detectives arrested defendant Tihee Brisbane on March 17, 2008.
Defendant Brisbane was lodged at the Somerset County Jail but has been
released after posting a bail bond in the amount of $50,000.00.
Prosecutor Forrest said Arrest Warrants have been issued and remain
outstanding for defendants Tonijah Criss and Tia Perrin. Defendants
Trezmynn Criss and Shane Elliott are currently lodged at the
Northhampton County (Pennsylvania) Jail on unrelated charges.
Defendant Kyle Frazier is currently incarcerated in New Jersey State
Prison on charges relating to this investigation. Defendant Irving
McRae is currently lodged at the Westchester County (New York) Jail on
charges related to this investigation. Defendant Misty Kondracki is
lodged at the Northhampton County Jail on a Warrant issued out of
Somerset County. Defendants Danielle Hoagland, Peter Bottorff, Steven
Lawyer and Kimberly Hart have been arrested and are currently free on
bail. Defendant Nicole Halsey had not been previously charged by
Complaint.
Prosecutor Forrest said the following law enforcement agencies
assisted the Prosecutor’s Office during the investigation: Federal
Bureau of Investigation, United States Secret Service, Pennsylvania
State Police, New Jersey Division of Taxation, Hunterdon County
Prosecutor’s Office, Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean
County Prosecutor’s Office, Warren County Prosecutor’s Office,
Bedminster Township Police, Clark Police Department, Elizabeth Police
Department, and the Phillipsburg Police Department.
Defendants, Last Known Address, No. Counts & No. Checks
1. Eric Eugene Criss
a/k/a Tariq Samaad 23 Counts N/A
71 South Orange Avenue
South Orange, N.J.
Age 44
2. Tonijah Emanuel Criss 28 Counts 4 Chks
17 Elizabeth Street
Phillipsburg, N.J.
Age 25
3. Tia-Staucia Estee 32 Counts 5 Chks
a/k/a Tia Perrin
166 Greenwich Street
Reading, PA
Age 19
4. Terrell Maurice Perrin 48 Counts 8 Chks
166 Greenwich Street
Reading, PA
Age 31
5. Trezmynn Emond Criss 22 Counts 3 Chks
599 South Main Stree
Phillipsburg, N.J.
Age 22
6. Danielle Michelle Hoagland 91 Counts 18 Chks
153 North Union Street
Easton, PA
Age 27
7. Peter Michael Bottorff 151 Counts 30 Chks
42E Garrison Street
Garrison, PA
Age 25
8. Steven Jacob Lawyer 26 Counts 5 Chks
1019 Old Course Lane
Easton, PA
Age 21
9. Kimberly Ann Hart 16 Counts 3 Chks
225-C East Kleinhans Street
Easton, PA
Age 36
10. Kyle P. Frazier 16 Counts 3 Chks
205 Lewis Street
Phillipsburg, N.J.
Age 24
11. Misty Ann Kondracki 26 Counts 5 Chks
418 McKeen Street #4
Easton, PA
Age 25
12. Shane Christopher Elliott 21 Counts 4 Chks
418 McKeen Street #4
Easton, PA
Age 33
13. Nicole Marie Halsey 11 Counts 2 Chks
22 Brainard Street
Phillipsburg, N.J.
Age 23
14. Irving McRae 16 Counts 3 Chks
69 North 9th Street
Newark, N.J.
Age 42
15. Tihee Jabbar Brisbane
4 Counts N/A
44 Sunrise Drive
Whippany, N.J.
Age 36
List of Known Victimized Banks
Bank of America Peapack-Gladstone Bank
Brunswick Bank & Trust PNC Bank
Commerce Bank Sovereign Bank
Habib American Bank Summit Bank
Ocean First Bank TD Banknorth, N.A.
Wachovia Bank, N.A.
Known Bank Branch
Locations by Towns & Counties
Bank of America Lodi
Bergen County
Milburn Essex County
Lawrence Mercer County
Pennington
East Brunswick Middlesex County
Denville Morris County
Madison
New Providence Union County
Brunswick Bank & Trust
New Brunswick Middlesex County
North Brunswick
Commerce Bank Howell
Monmouth County
Brick Ocean County
Habib American Bank Edison Middlesex County
Ocean First Bank Wall Monmouth County
Berkeley Ocean County
Point Pleasant
Toms River
Peapack/Gladstone Bank Chatham Morris County
Morristown
Washington
Bedminster Somerset County
Bernardsville
Far Hills
Summit Union County
PNC Bank East Brunswick Middlesex County
Woodbridge
Toms River Ocean County
Sovereign Bank Belleville
Essex County
Bloomfield
Woodbridge Middlesex County
Denville Morris County
Long Hill
Morristown
Somerville Somerset County
Clark Union County
Cranford
Fanwood
Garwood
Kenilworth
Scotch Plains
TD Banknorth Frenchtown Hunterdon County
Milford
Wachovia Milburn Essex
County
Bayonne Hudson County
Readington Hunterdon County
Perth Amboy Middlesex County
Metuchen
Middlesex
Woodbridge
Manalapan Monmouth County
Pompton Lakes Morris County
Bloomingdale Passaic County
Clifton
Bernards Somerset County
Franklin
Hillsborough
Somerville
Clark Union County
Elizabeth
Kenilworth
Summit
Hackettstown Warren County
List of Known Victim-Companies & Amounts (# checks)
CCI Construction Montvale $1,846.00
H&H Transportation Fords $2,359.98
Sant Tec Newark $2,351.98
All-Pro Title Group, L.L.C. Morristown $1,157.54
Prime Source Purchasing, Inc. Clifton $7,275.11 (3)
Accutest Laboratories Dayton $2,348.99
Headquarters Audio Visual Srvc. Morristown $2,327.54
St. Peter’s High School New Brunswick $3,345.89
Eisai, Incorporated Woodcliff Lake $3,539.99
Anytime Bailbonding Augusta, GA $3,366.00
Park Roofing & Sheet Metal South River $7,370.85 (3)
Thor’s Air Conditioning, Inc. Linden $2,345.25
Solomons Warehouse Corporation Linden $3,879.96 (2)
Northeast Sheet Metal Works Newark $4,525.55
City of Linden Municipal Court Linden $3,800.00
Lighting World d/b/a Belfer Farmingdale $12,110.97
Dande Auto Painting Orange $3,354.98
Custom Alloy Corporation High Bridge $12,757.67 (10)
Hammer Bedding d/b/a Shifman Newark $12,500.45 (6)
County of Union Elizabeth $3,176.00 (2)
Conti Enterprises, Incorporated So. Plainfield $8,780.48
S&S Plumbing, Heating Linden $10,825.05 (4)
United Property Mngt., Inc. East Brunswick $3,266.88
Greenwich Twp. Bail Stewartsville $1,976.25
RPCMOC, Incorporated Lakewood $20,293.77 (7)
Rubyy Corp., d/b/a McDonalds Newark $8,742.60 (5)
Delta Community Support, Inc. Lwr. Gwynedd $4,754.32 (2)
Schiavone/Granite Halmar Secaucus $6,962.91 (3)
Rodbusters, Incorproated Westbury, NY $4,499.95 (2)
Jefferson Prosthetic Orthotic North Caldwell $2,121.36
Pomptonian Food Incorporated Fairfield $4,505.70
City of Hackensack Hackensack $8,452.42 (2)
Robert J. Casey, Jr., Esq. Avalon $4,700.00
Vishal Enterprises, Inc. New York, NY $2,348.50
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the foregoing charges are merely an
accusation and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and
until proven guilty in Court.
Back
MAY 27, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
FIRE AT SOUTH BOUND BROOK LAUNDROMAT
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest reports that
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Task Force, the South
Bound Brook Police Department and the South Bound Brook Fire
Department are investigating a fire that occurred at approximately
2:45 a.m., Monday, May 26, 2008 at the Scrub Board Laundromat located
at 70 Main Street, South Bound Brook. Police and fire were dispatched
to the scene after a passing motorist reported seeing smoke coming
from the roof area. Upon arrival, they located a fire burning in a
storage and office area along the south side of the Laundromat, that
had been closed since approximately 9:00 p.m. on May 25, 2008.
By the time the fire was extinguished, it had already spread into the
ceiling area allowing it to extend into the bakery to the south of the
laundromat at roof level, causing minimal damage to the business which
was being renovated.
The fire damage to the laundromat was extensive in the storage and
office area with moderate damage to the balance of the business,
resulting in the business being deemed uninhabitable.
The scene examination conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Arson Task Force determined that the fire originated in the
combustible contents stored along the south side of the storage area.
These ordinary combustible materials were stacked on the floor, on
shelves and hanging from metal poles throughout the area.
Additionally, in close proximity to these items were all the
electrical panels, 2 refrigerators, a microwave oven, water heater and
the rear sides of 10 dryer units. Based on the fire patterns and the
location of the contents, it was determined that the fire originated
along the south side of this room and that the most likely cause was
the storage of the items being to close to the heat generating items.
No indications were found to suggest that the fire was suspicious in
its origin, and any and all potential code issues will be handled by
the South Bound Brook Code Official.
Back
May
22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
JURY TRIAL CONVICTION IN ATTEMPTED ESCAPE FROM THE FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that on May 22, 2008, defendant Troy Chance, age 18, of South
Middlebush Road, Somerset, New Jersey, was found guilty by a Somerset
County jury of Attempted Escape, Second Degree. The jury deliberated
about seven hours before returning the verdict. The four-day trial was
held before the Honorable Julie M. Marino, Judge of the Criminal Part.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that during the late night hours of October
10, 2007, defendant was taken into custody on outstanding warrants by
the Franklin Township Police Department. While at the Franklin
Township Police Department, the officers were preparing to transport
defendant to the Somerset County Jail. Defendant ran out of the
holding area and through a door into a hallway leading to another area
of the police department. Defendant then tried to get through a locked
door without success. He then proceeded to engage in a physical
altercation with the officers that were attempting to prevent any
further escape attempt on defendant’s part. He flailed his arms at the
officers and also kicked two of the officers, before the officers were
able to get defendant secured into custody again.
Defendant had been incarcerated in the Somerset County Jail pending
trial in lieu of $35,000 bail. Following today’s verdict, defendant’s
bail was revoked and he was remanded to the Somerset County Jail
pending sentence.
The case was investigated by the Franklin Township Police Department.
Defendant faces a term of imprisonment of up to 10 years. Assistant
Prosecutor Robert J. Hawkes represented the State. Assistant Deputy
Public Defender Chanel J. Hudson represented defendant.
Back
May 21, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
Rustin
Bright
Covil
DeGrasse
“Operation Blood
Money"
Somerville – Somerset
County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Somerville Borough Chief of
Police Dennis Manning announce that a six month investigation
designated “Operation Blood Money” culminated with sixty-one (61)
defendants being charged with various drug and gun offenses, 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.
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 (dob:
3/16/87) of Second Street, Somerville, New Jersey, and defendant
Christopher DeGrasse (aka “YB”) (dob: 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. Following the
execution of the search warrant, Task Force detectives arrested
defendant Rustin, along with defendant Herman Proctor, Jr., (aka “Bo”)
(dob: 7/23/68). Defendants Rustin and Herman Proctor were charged with
2nd degree Possession With Intent to Distribute Cocaine and 2nd degree
Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine. In addition, detectives arrested
defendant Tyrus Proctor (d/o/b 8/11/85, Second Street, Somerville),
and charged him with 3rd degree Possession With Intent to Distribute
Cocaine. The Hon. Anthony F. Picheca, J.S.C., set bail for defendant
Rustin at $50,000.00, cash or bond (no 10%), and for defendants Herman
Proctor and Tyrus Proctor at $2,500.00 with the 10% option.
With regard to defendant DeGrasse, the investigation revealed that
defendant DeGrasse conspired with three other individuals who sold
cocaine to his customers for him (defendant Jean Zakresky (dob:
4/9/84) of Hall Street, Perth Amboy, defendant Aneisha Hobbs (dob:
2/9/80) of Brookside Avenue, Somerville, and defendant Salik Height (dob:
9/18/80) of French Street, New Brunswick). The investigation also
revealed that DeGrasse’s primary cocaine suppliers were defendant
James Bright (dob: 4/10/80) of Highland Avenue, Somerset, and
defendant Pedro Covil (dob: 11/16/82) of Martin Street, Somerset.
On May 20, 2008, detectives executed Superior Court search warrants on
the residences and vehicles of defendants Covil, Bright, DeGrasse and
Hobbs, as well as on a North Brunswick “stash” location used by Covil
to store CDS.
From defendant DeGrasse’s Somerset Street, Somerville residence and
person, police seized drug paraphernalia and a bag of marijuana.
From defendant Hobb’s Brookside Avenue, Somerville residence, police
seized 1 bag of cocaine, $749.00 in U.S. Currency, drug paraphernalia
and less than 50 grams of marijuana.
From defendant Bright’s Highland Avenue, Somerset, residence, police
seized approximately 1.1 ounces of cocaine, a loaded .32 caliber
Beretta semi-automatic handgun, 33 tablets MDMA (Ecstasy), 10 bags
marijuana, ammunition, a “Bail Enforcement Agent” badge, gang related
materials, and several items of drug paraphernalia (cutting agent, a
scale and baggies)
From defendant Covil’s Martin Street, Somerset, residence, police
seized a safe containing a loaded Charter Arms .38 caliber handgun,
ammunition, 43 decs heroin, $620.00 in cash, a baggy containing
approximately 19 grams cocaine, two baggie knots of cocaine and one
vial of crack. From Covil’s person, police seized $3,082.00 in cash,
along with seven bags of marijuana and a cellular telephone.
From a North Brunswick “stash” location used by defendant Covil,
police seized approximately 4½ ounces of cocaine.
Also on May 20, detectives arrested defendants Covil, DeGrasse, Bright
and Hobbs. All were lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail set
at $100,000.00 cash or bond, no 10%, by the Hon. Harriet Derman, J.S.C.
Defendant Covil was charged with 1st degree distribution / possession
with intent to distribute CDS (cocaine) (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(1), 2nd
degree conspiracy to distribute CDS (N.J.S.A 2C:5-2 and 2C:35-5b(1)),
2nd degree possession of a firearm while distributing CDS (N.J.S.A.
2C:39-4.1); 2nd degree certain persons not to possess firearms (N.J.S.A.
2C:39-7(b)); 4th degree distribution/possession with intent to
distribute CDS (marijuana) (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(12), and disorderly
persons possession of drug paraphernalia (N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2).
Defendant Bright was charged with 1st degree distribution / possession
with intent to distribute CDS (cocaine) (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(1), 2nd
degree conspiracy to distribute CDS (N.J.S.A 2C:5-2 and 2C:35-5b(1)),
2nd degree possession of a firearm while distributing CDS (N.J.S.A.
2C:39-4.1), 2nd degree conspiracy to possess a firearm (N.J.S.A.
2C:5-2 and 2C:39-5(b)), 2nd degree certain persons not to possess
firearms (N.J.S.A. 2C:39-7(b)); 3rd degree possession with intent to
distribute CDS (MDMA) (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5b(3); 4th degree
distribution/possession with intent to distribute CDS (marijuana) (N.J.S.A.
2C:35-5b(12), and disorderly persons possession of drug paraphernalia
(N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2).
Defendant DeGrasse was charged with 1st degree distribution /
possession with intent to distribute CDS (cocaine) (N.J.S.A.
2C:35-5b(1), 2nd degree conspiracy to distribute CDS (N.J.S.A 2C:5-2
and 2C:35-5b(1)) and disorderly persons possession of drug
paraphernalia (N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2).
The following defendants were Charged with 3rd degree Conspiracy to
Distribute CDS (N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 and 2C:35-5b(3)):
Leo Dent, III, Renaissance Lane, New Brunswick, New Jersey dob:
3/2/82. In addition, police seized $1,651.00 in U.S. Currency from
Dent.
Salik Height, French St., Apt. 1-R, New Brunswick, NJ dob: 9/18/80
Aneisha Hobbs, Brookside Ave., Somerville, NJ dob: 2/9/80
Jean Zakresky, Hall Avenue, Perth Amboy, NJ dob: 4/9/84
Defendant Earl Bowers (dob:
2/26/78, Commons Way, Somerset) was charged with 4th degree Conspiracy
to Distribute CDS (N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 and 2C:35-5b(12)).
Defendant Dashawn Dixon,
aka “Shawn Dawn” (dob: 7/20/82), Howard Street, New Brunswick, NJ, was
charged with 2nd degree Conspiracy to Unlawfully Possess a Firearm (N.J.S.A.
2C:5-2 and 2C:39-5(b)).
The following defendants
were Charged with 3rd degree Attempt to Possess CDS (N.J.S.A. 2C:5-1
and 2C:35-10a(1)) and 3rd degree Conspiracy to Possess CDS (N.J.S.A.
2C:5-2 and 2C:35-10a(1)):
Kimberly Bezick, Pennsylvania Ave., Roseto, PA dob: 11/16/82
James Britt, Kennedy Blvd., Manville, NJ dob: 6/28/66
Darnell Carter, West Spring Street, Somerville, dob: 8/28/77
William T. Carter, West Spring Street, Somerville, NJ dob: 9/4/84
Wendy Cromwell, Noah Road, North Brunswick, NJ dob: 1/10/72
Brian Errickson, Kenndey Blvd., Manville, NJ dob: 3/6/82
Nancy Feder, West Somerset St., Raritan, NJ dob:1/8/53
Christine Ferrara, 9 South 3rd Ave., Manville, NJ dob: 7/5/85
Flavius Grayson, Amwell Rd., Franklin Township, NJ (dob 6/3/84)
Andrea Hall, Scott Drive, Hillsborough, NJ dob: 5/22/66
Mark Hobbs, Davenport Street, 2nd Floor, Somerville, NJ dob: 7/20/60
Clayton Horton, Jr., aka “Pit Bull,” Wall Street, Raritan, NJ dob:
1/21/73
Samuel W. Hurling, 3rd Street, Somerville, NJ dob: 9/26/60
Tammy Lewis, aka “Blondie”, Fairview Avenue, Somerville, NJ dob:
2/15/68
Matthew Korkes, Nimitz Road, Bridgewater, NJ dob: 5/29/70
Amy Martin, First Ave., Somerville, NJ dob: 5/29/79
Timothy McDougald, Franklin Blvd., Somerset, NJ dob 9/7/83
Andrew Michta, White Avenue, Manville, NJ dob:4/9/59
John Mobley, Jr., Southridge Woods Blvd., Monmouth Junction, NJ (dob
10/23/82)
Amaury Murillo, Canal Street, Raritan, aka “Mario” Doe dob: 5/7/84
Wendy Parolari, Woodlawn Avenue, Bridgewater, NJ dob: 7/30/65
Jeffrey Petrone, Rosalie Street, Manville, NJ dob:11/2/79
Michelle Quinn, Orlando Drive, Raritan, NJ dob: 3/11/68
Michael Roman, Royce Ct., Hillsborough, NJ (dob: 8/28/74)
Jasmine Small, Somerset Street, Somerville, dob 1/14/86
Christine Sessanta, Royce Ct., Hillsborough, NJ dob: 5/16/69
George Street, aka “Trav”, Mercer St., Somerville, NJ dob: 3/28/79
Monique Traski, Fairview Avenue., Somerville, NJ, dob: 6/15/77
Lewis Upshawn, 54 DeWald Ave., Somerset, NJ dob: 7/1/81
Edward Vadimski, East Main Street, Somerville, NJ dob: 10/11/70
Joseph Vadimski, South 19th Ave., Manville, NJ dob: 5/25/68
Peter Vanjura, South Main Street, Apt. C, Manville, NJ dob: 4/3/59
Robert Walker, Vanderbilt Street, Somerset, NJ dob: 9/5/79
Lisa Wall, Roosevelt Ave., Manville, NJ dob: 2/10/68
Lori Warner, South 3rd Ave., Manville, NJ dob: 1/13/60
Deborah Washington, Capricorn Drive, Hillsborough, NJ dob: 8/1/55
Scott Zavodnick, Lincoln Ave., Manville, NJ dob: 2/15/79
In addition, there are three individuals for whom charges are
authorized and arrests are pending.
Defendant Charles Lester (dob 10/16/79) North Reading Road, Edison, NJ
was charged with 4th degree Hindering.
Defendants Robert J. Williams, III (dob: 4/28/81) of Sawmill Drive,
Somerset, Sabrina L. Prawl (dob: 10/4/82) of People’s Line Road,
Somerset, and Linita Small of (dob: 2/6/66) Somerset Street,
Somerville, were charged with disorderly persons possession of
marijuana.
Defendants Latesha Williams (dob: 10/2/85), Mark Williams (dob:
7/5/65) of Edpas Road, New Brunswick, Steven C. Cartledge (dob:
11/29/63), Phillips Road, Somerset, and Edward Preston, (dob: 7/9/63)
Dorsey Place, Plainfield, and Lynda Carreker, Fairview Ave.,
Somerville (dob: 9/26/58) were arrested on outstanding warrants.
The following police agencies assisted the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office with this Operation: the Somerville Police
Department, the Franklin Township Police Department, the Manville
Police Department, the Hillsborough Police Department K9 Unit, the
Somerset County Sheriff’s Department, the Somerset County Sheriff’s
Department K9 Unit, the Union County Sheriff’s Department K9 Unit,
Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, and the New Brunswick 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 defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven
guilty.
Back
May
16, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
JURY FINDS FRANKLIN
MAN GUILTY
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces that
a Somerset County jury found defendant Mike Martinez guilty of second
degree Aggravated Assault, third degree Possession of a Weapon for an
Unlawful Purpose and fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.
Defendant Martinez, 22, is from Franklin Township. The trial began
with jury selection on April 24, 2008. The trial took two weeks to
complete. The jury began their deliberations on Tuesday, May 13, 2008
and returned their verdicts today. The Court granted the State’s
request to revoke defendant’s $250,000 cash/bond bail and remanded him
to the Somerset County Jail. Sheriff’s Officers handcuffed defendant
Martinez and removed him from the courtroom.
The charges are the result of the defendant Martinez stabbing two
people at a New Year’s Eve party at the Clarion Suites Hotel in
Franklin Township on January 1, 2005. During an altercation between
one victim and the defendant’s friend, defendant Martinez armed
himself with a knife, jumped on that victim’s back and repeatedly
stabbed the victim with the knife. A second victim intervened in an
effort to stop the defendant’s attack after which the defendant
stabbed him twice in the chest and killed him. The indictment charged
the defendant with Aggravated Manslaughter, first degree, Attempted
Murder, first degree, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose,
third degree, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, fourth degree. The
jury also considered lesser included charges of Manslaughter and
Aggravated Assault. During the trial, the defendant raised the issue
of self-defense and defense of another. After considerable
deliberations, the jury reported to the Court that they were
deadlocked as to the issue of Aggravated Manslaughter and Manslaughter
but that they had reached their verdicts as to the remaining three
counts of the indictment. The State is considering a retrial as to the
Aggravated Manslaughter charge. As a result of his convictions,
defendant Martinez is subject to a maximum 10 year state prison term
and will be required to serve 85% of any sentence the Court may
impose.
Back
MAY
15, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
KEVIN BAXTER CONVICTED
OF ROBBERY AND CARJACKING
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Kevin Baxter, 42, of Brokaw Boulevard, Plainfield, New Jersey,
was convicted by a Somerset County jury after a seven (7) day trial of
first degree Robbery and first degree Carjacking.
In this case, defendant Baxter entered into the Unity Bank in North
Plainfield, New Jersey, on the morning of May 23, 2006, and provided a
handwritten note to a teller demanding that the teller turn over “all
your money or I will shoot you dead”. Defendant Baxter then verbally
stated that he had a gun and made gestures through his clothing
indicating he had a weapon. Defendant was unsuccessful in getting
money from the bank. Defendant fled the scene on foot and was followed
by the bank manager and a bank customer. After traveling one block,
defendant forced an individual from his parked car as he was preparing
to take a family member to work. Defendant pushed the victim out of
the vehicle. The victim sustained minor injuries to his leg. After
forcing the victim from the car, defendant realized that the keys were
not in the vehicle, and once again fled on foot. Defendant was later
apprehended hiding in the basement of a private home.
The trial, presided over by the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C.,
concluded on May 15, 2008 after a jury deliberated for approximately 1
½ hours before convicting the defendant. Judge Marino revoked the
defendant’s bail. Based on
defendant’s first degree convictions and his prior criminal record, he
is exposed to an extended term of life imprisonment at the time of his
sentence.
The prosecution of this case was handled by Somerset County Assistant
Prosecutor Joseph V. Rocchietti. Defendant was represented at trial by
Matthew B. Katzenbach, Esq.
Back
May 14, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
Operation “Déjà Vu” Defendant
Sentenced
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on May 14, 2008, defendant Aaron Banks, (d/o/b 9/29/82) age 25,
formerly of Birchwood Court, North Brunswick, was sentenced to ten
(10) years in New Jersey State Prison, with five (5) 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.
Banks was sentenced 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.
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,
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 Aaron Banks, and co-defendant
Tahmez Love (d/o/b 8/25/72), formerly of Fairview Avenue, Somerville.
Collectively, defendant Banks along with co-defendants Gumbs 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.
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 physically struggled with the police as they proceeded
to arrest him at that time.
Co-defendants Gumbs and Love were subsequently arrested and eventually
admitted their roles in the cocaine distribution operation. On January
22, 2008, Tashy Gumbs pleaded 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. 07-12-00832-I.
On January 28, 2008, Tahmez Love pleaded guilty 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. The sentencings of co-defendants Gumbs
and Love are scheduled to occur within the next two months.
THREE ARRESTED IN
CONNECTION WITH
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP HOMICIDE
Said Kendrick
James Miller
Malik Singer
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that detectives have
arrested three individuals that have been charged in connection with
early morning killing of Michael E. Love on May 11, 2008. Since the
body of Love was discovered behind the “Ten’s Enough Social Club” at
approximately 7:45 am on Sunday May 11, 2008, detectives from the
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and Franklin Township Detective
Bureau have been working around the clock interviewing individuals and
following various leads and tips.
Detectives followed a lead to Stamford, Connecticut during the early
morning hours of Monday, May 12, 2008. As a result of this lead, with
the assistance of the Stamford Police Department, detectives arrested
29 year-old Said Kendrick of Jamesburg, New Jersey at a residence in
Stamford.
Defendant Kendrick was found to be in possession of a .38 caliber
Smith & Wesson. This was subsequently, through ballistic comparison,
identified as the murder weapon.
On Tuesday May 13, 2008 at approximately 1:00 p.m. detectives arrested
27 year-old James Miller of Seaman Street, New Brunswick. Defendant
Miller was arrested without incident when detectives observed him in
the area of Handy Street in New Brunswick. Shortly thereafter, 33
year-old Malik Singer of Jamesburg, New Jersey was arrested by
detectives who had been on surveillance at a previously known address
on Blossom Circle, Dayton, New Jersey. Defendant Singer was arrested
without incident as he was entering a residence at that location.
All three defendants have been charged with 1st degree murder and 1st
degree conspiracy to commit murder. Bail for defendants Singer and
Miller has been set at $750,00.00 cash, and bail for defendant
Kendrick to be set later today. Detectives are continuing to follow
leads in their tireless investigation.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick request anyone with information to
contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100, or
the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533, or the
Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-800-577-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
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
MAY 12, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
HOMICIDE
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, NEW JERSEY
Michael Love
SOMERVILLE -Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that detectives from the
Prosecutor’s Office Majors Crimes Squad and Franklin Township Police
Department are investigating a homicide that occurred sometime around
1:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 11, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest states that at approximately 7:45 a.m. on May 11,
2008 Franklin Township Police responded to 37 Pine Street, the “Ten’s
Enough” social club, on a call of a man lying under a garbage can that
appeared to be deceased. Upon arrival police were able to determine
that the man was in fact deceased. Detectives from Franklin Township,
the Prosecutor’s Office and the Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene
Investigations (C.S.I.) Unit responded to the scene to conduct the
investigation. Detectives were able to determine that it appeared that
the unidentified victim was shot once in the head, causing his death.
(An autopsy conducted on this date confirmed that belief).
A canvass of the area was conducted along with several interviews of
individuals who were in the area of the social club on Saturday night
into early Sunday morning. Detectives discovered that there was an
altercation, both outside and inside the social club, involving
several people. The altercation is believed to have occurred at some
point around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday. During this altercation several
people heard what they believed to be a gunshot. Shortly after hearing
the gunshot the occupants of the club had dispersed. This gunshot was
not reported to Franklin Police when it occurred.
On Sunday morning at approximately 7:45 am an individual who was
cleaning the social club discovered the victim and called the Franklin
Township police. The victim has been identified as 39 year-old Michael
E. Love of Birmingham, Alabama. Love, who has been staying in Franklin
Township for approximately the past two months, was sent to New Jersey
by his employer, ENTAC Environment Services, to work as a heavy
machine operator in the central New Jersey area.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick request anyone with information to
contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100, the
Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533, or the Somerset
County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-800-577-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.
Back
MAY 9, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
BOUND BROOK NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION
LEADS TO FOUR ARRESTS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, along with
Bound Brook Acting Police Chief Thomas White stated that on May 9,
2008 in the early morning hours a narcotics investigation conducted by
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics
Task Force and the Bound Brook Police Department resulted in the
execution of two Somerset County Superior Court search warrants and
the arrest of four individuals. The search warrants were executed at
two Talmage Avenue residences in the Borough of Bound Brook.
The individuals arrested were Louise Rodriguez (DOB 02/03/1987),
Richard Gutierrez (DOB 02/16/1988), and Angel Rojas-Gutierrez (DOB
03/26/1986). All three defendants reside at one of the Talmage Avenue
residences. Seized as a result of the search warrant at this residence
was sixty-six (66) ziploc bags of suspected cocaine and eight (8)
ziploc bags of suspected marijuana and narcotics packaging
paraphernalia (i.e., digital scale and numerous empty ziploc bags).
Defendants Rojas-Gutierrez, Rodriguez, and Gutierrez were charged with
Possession with the Intent to Distribute Cocaine, 2nd degree;
Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous
Substance near or on School Property, 3rd degree; Possession of
Marijuana (under 50 grams), a disorderly persons offense; and
possession of drug paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense. All
three defendants were lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to
be set.
Arrested at another Talmage Avenue residence was John T.
Padilla-Rodriguez (DOB 10/23/1986). As a result of the Superior Court
search warrant executed at this residence, a quantity of marijuana
under 50 grams was seized along with various narcotics paraphernalia
(i.e., smoking pipes and numerous ziploc bags). Defendant Padilla was
charged with Possession of Marijuana (under 50 grams) and Possession
of Drug Paraphernalia. Both charges are disorderly persons offenses.
Defendant Padilla was served with a complaint summons and released on
his own recognizance pending a court date in the Borough of Bound
Brook Municipal Court.
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.
SOMERSET COUNTY POLICE
ACADEMY
LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL SERVICE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Chief
William Parenti, President of the Somerset County Police Chiefs
Association, announce that the Somerset County Police Academy, Police
Recruit Class 40-2008 & Parole Officer Recruit Class 01-2008 will hold
a memorial service for the 186 law enforcement officers killed in the
line of duty during 2007. The memorial ceremony will be Tuesday, May
13, 2008. The ceremony will be held at 12:00 p.m. at the Somerset
County Police Academy, which is located in North Branch, New Jersey,
on the campus of the Raritan Valley Community College. The ceremony
will be held in the Conference Center. It is suggested that you park
in Lot #1.
The ceremony will include the reading, by members of the Somerset
County Police Academy Recruit Classes 40-2008 and 01-2008, of names of
all law enforcement officers killed during the year, as well as other
activities honoring those law enforcers that died while in the
performance of their duties.
All are invited to attend.
Back
MAY 8, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
WARREN TOWNSHIP MAN
INDICTED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Warren
Township Police Chief Russell Leffert announce that on May 8, 2008,
Dmitry Vengerovsky, age 20, of Roberts Road, Warren, New Jersey was
indicted by a Somerset County Grand Jury on four counts of Second
Degree Aggravated Assault, four counts of Fourth Degree Aggravated
Assault on a Police Officer, one count of Third Degree Criminal
Mischief and two counts of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an
Unlawful Purpose. This indictment is the result of an investigation by
the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office and the Warren Township Police
Department.
Prosecutor Forrest stated
that at approximately 2:18 p.m. on April 2, 2008, the Warren Township
Police Department received a 911 phone call from Olga Vengerovsky who
advised that her son, Dmitry, was acting in erratic manner and was
armed with a baseball bat.
The Warren Township
Police Department responded to the scene located on Roberts Road. As
the officers arrived, defendant Dmitry Vengerovsky proceeded to swing
an aluminum baseball bat at three officers who were in their cars,
striking the three police vehicles with the bat and causing over
$3,000.00 worth of damage to the cars.
Once outside their vehicles, the officers ordered the defendant to
drop the baseball bat and an approximate 20-inch hacksaw that he was
wielding. He refused to drop the weapons and then suddenly charged
towards a fourth officer who had arrived on the scene. That uniformed
officer discharged his weapon striking the defendant two times.
Defendant Dmitry Vengerovsky continued to come at the officer who had
to discharge his weapon again. This time defendant Dmitry Vengerovsky
was hit in the hand causing him to drop the bat, but he still
continued at the officer with the hacksaw. One of the other officers
was then able to tackle defendant; in that process defendant swung the
saw at that officer, just missing his head.
The suspect and four
Warren Township Police Officers were transported to a local hospital
for treatment. Defendant Vengerovsky has been in custody since his
arrest on April 20, 2008 in lieu of $75,000.00 cash bail.
The case was presented to
the Grand Jury by Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor Robert J.
Hawkes.
Back
MAY 7, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
ARSON TASK FORCE INVESTIGATING
FIRE IN BERNARDS TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bernards
Township Chief of Police Dennis Mott announced that at 2:41 p.m. on
Tuesday, May 6, 2008 a neighbor of an Annin Road resident contacted
Bernards Township Police Department reporting smoke coming from a
residence on Annin Road. The Bernards Township Police Department and
Fire Official, the Basking Ridge, Bernardsville, Far Hills-Bedminster,
Liberty Corner and Lyons Veteran’s Administration Fire Departments
along with the Liberty Corner, Basking Ridge and Bernardsville First
Aid Squads were dispatched and upon arrival found the multi-story
single family home to be full of smoke. After making entry into the
home’s foyer area, flames were observed around the ceiling in the
second level.
The fire was extinguished, however, it had traveled through the walls
from the second level up to and including the underside of the roof.
The fire, which appeared to have been smoldering inside the wall for
an extended period of time, caused significant structural damage to
the floor joist and wall studs in the center portion of the second and
third levels. It also caused significant damage to the electrical
system making the home uninhabitable.
An origin and cause examination conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Arson Task Force determined that the fire
originated in the floor and wall cavity beneath and behind a bedroom
closet that abutted the kitchen on the second level. The exact cause
of the fire could not be identified at this time; however, this area
where the fire is believed to have originated was used as a chase for
the various utilities passing from the various levels. Investigation
in this matter is continuing.
JUVENILES CHARGED WITH
THREE COUNTS OF BIAS INTIMIDATION
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bernards
Township Chief of Police Dennis Mott announced today that the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office has charged C.C., a thirteen year old male
juvenile, and J.H., a thirteen year old male juvenile, with three
counts each of Bias Intimidation, Fourth Degree, and three counts each
of Harassment, Petty Disorderly Persons Offenses.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the juveniles’ charges resulted from an
investigation that disclosed that between on or about April 5, 2008
and April 20, 2008, the two juveniles made a series of anonymous
telephone calls to families the juveniles believed to be Jewish. The
content of these phone calls was derogatory in nature. The
investigation further revealed that the juveniles specifically
targeted these three families because they believed the families to be
Jewish. The juveniles gained access to the victims’ telephone numbers
by utilizing a school directory.
Detective Timothy King of the Bernards Township Police Department
interviewed victims who stated that they felt threatened and
intimidated by each of the calls they received.
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 juveniles are presumed innocent
until and unless proven guilty and adjudicated delinquent.
Back
MAY 6, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
PLAINFIELD MAN
ARRESTED ON CHARGES OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A
CHILD
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Police Chief Richard Borden report that the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit,
in conjunction with the Bridgewater Township Police Department,
arrested 19-year old Donnell Bailey (D.O.B. 9/1/88) of Dorbett Place,
Plainfield, New Jersey for Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare
of a Child. The arrest occurred on May 5, 2008 within the Borough of
Somerville. The victim, who is under the age of 16, disclosed that
defendant Bailey engaged in acts of sexual penetration with her during
the month of April 2008. The acts occurred in the Township of
Bridgewater in Finderne Park.
Defendant Donnell Bailey was charged with one count of 2nd degree
Sexual Assault and one count of 3rd degree Endangering the Welfare of
a Child. Defendant Bailey was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with
a bail of $75,000.00 cash and no contact with the victim. Bail was set
by the Honorable Robert B. Reed, 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.
Back
MAY 5, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
MAN ARRESTED ON
CHARGES OF SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD
Somerville-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Chief Paul
Kaminsky announced that criminal charges have been filed against Vasil
Kovalcik of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey.
On May 4, 2008 the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office was notified by
the Hillsborough Police Department of a sexual assault. During an
interview with detectives, a ten year old child, K.K. disclosed that
defendant Vasil Kovalcik was present at a party in Hillsborough.
During that party K.K. stated that defendant Kovalcik, touched her
breast and vaginal area on the outside of her clothing. K.K. first
disclosed this information to her grandmother immediately after the
incident occurred.
Defendant Kovalcik is being charged pursuant to a complaint on two
separate counts: 2nd degree Sexual Assault and 3rd Endangering the
Welfare of Child. Defendant Kovalcik was transported to the Somerset
County Jail. Bail was set by the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C. at
$75,000.00 cash only and no contact with the victim.
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
MAY 4, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
SHOOTING AT PARTY IN FRANKLIN
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick report today that at approximately
11:47 PM on May 3rd a gun shot was fired in the vicinity of the East
Franklin Volunteer Fire Company on Pinegrove Avenue in Franklin
Township in Somerset County.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the East Franklin Firehouse had
apparently rented its party hall to a local resident for a party that
was held earlier in the evening, however as the evening progressed the
party had drew a large crowd of approximately sixty (60) or more
people. A Franklin Township Police Officer hired by the fire company
claimed the party ended sometime around 11:30 PM.
Prosecutor Forrest stated due to the large number of individuals
leaving the area at approximately 11:30 PM several other Franklin
Township patrol cars responded accordingly. Shortly thereafter, one of
the officers believed he heard a single gunshot from the vicinity of
the corner of Pinegrove Avenue and Highland Avenue.
Prosecutor Forrest stated during this time police noted one adult male
and two juvenile males emerging from a line of nearby bushes who were
acting suspiciously. Police then approached the group who were then
standing near a parked car. Upon further investigation three (3)
firearms were recovered from the bushes which will be submitted to the
Somerset County Forensics Laboratory Firearms and Ballistics Unit for
further examination. Two adult female occupants of the parked vehicle
were also later found to be in possession of CDS and were subsequently
arrested.
Prosecutor Forrest stated soon after police received a call from a
resident reporting that a sixteen (16) year old juvenile male who was
on Franklin Boulevard had sustained a single gun shot wound to his
right knee. Police subsequently responded to that location and the
juvenile gun shot victim was later transported to an area hospital for
treatment.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Franklin Police on the scene
reported that the party had drawn a large group of individuals to the
event suspected of having gang affiliations representing numerous
different “sets” from the Somerset and Middlesex counties.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick state that the shooting remains
under investigation by the Franklin Township Police and the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Gang and Guns
Task Force. Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick request that anyone
having information relating to this shooting incident is encouraged to
contact the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad or Gang and
Guns Task Force at 908-231-7100 or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’
TIP LINE at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or on line at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All
calls will be kept confidential.
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APRIL 28, 2008
PRESS RELEASE
NORTH PLAINFIELD HOME INVASION
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Chief William Parenti announce that five individuals
have been arrested and charged with armed robbery as the result of
home invasion.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on April 25, 2008 at approximately 9:45
a.m. North Plainfield Police responded to a 911 call of suspicious
activity at an Albert Street residence. Upon arrival police detained
two males, identified as Carlos Salazar and Ian Maynard, in a vehicle
outside of the residence in question. Upon further investigation
police had learned the resident of the home in question was the victim
of a home invasion. It was learned that an unknown Hispanic male and
two unknown black males had arrived at the victim’s residence with the
two detained males and entered the residence. Once inside the
residence the actors threatened the lone occupant at knife point
demanding money. The occupant was subsequently struck in the head by
one of the actors with an unknown object. As police arrived the three
unknown actors fled out of the rear of the home. It was later learned
that the two males, in the vehicle outside of the residence, had
driven the three unknown actors to the residence with the intent of
robbing the victim. The victim was treated and released by medical
personnel.
Detectives from the North Plainfield Police Department, the
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.)
Unit continued the investigation and quickly identified the three
males that fled the residence as, defendant Hector Gonzalez, defendant
Andre Tuzo and defendant Lareem Merchant. As a result of further
investigation the remaining three defendants were apprehended later in
the day at approximately 2:30 p.m. Defendants Merchant and Tuzo were
arrested when they arrived for work at the Watchung Square Mall and
defendant Gonzalez surrendered to North Plainfield Police at their
headquarters. All five defendants were charged with 1st degree Armed
Robbery and 3rd degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purpose,
and were lodged at the Somerset County Jail with bail set at
$150,000.00 cash only by Judge Harriet Derman.
Carlos Salazar (age 23) Ian Maynard (age 40)
Richard Way Sycamore Avenue
No. Plainfield, NJ No. Plainfield, NJ
Hector Gonzalez (age 20) Andre Tuzo (age 33)
Belmont Avenue 2nd Street
No. Plainfield, NJ Plainfield, NJ
Lareem Merchant (age 19)
West 6th Street
Plainfield, NJ
Police believe this to be an isolated incident with the victim’s home
being specifically targeted by the actors.
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.
CRIME STOPPERS OFFERS REWARD IN GANGS AND GUNS
TASK FORCE ARREST AND GUNS SEIZURE IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Craig Novick state that the investigation into Rahmel
Francois aka “Chose” (DOB 12/03/1983) whereabouts 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 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 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’s 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 also reported stolen from Denver Colorado on April 25,
2005.
On Sunday, April 27, 2008 defendant Francois’ vehicle, a 2001 white
Toyota Rav 4, bearing NJ registration NNU-45N, was recovered in
Somerset section of Franklin Township, N.J.
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.
Defendant Rahmel Francois is 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
APRIL 25, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
PROSECUTOR’S NEW GANGS
AND GUNS TASK FORCE
ARREST AND GUNS SEIZURE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick, and Middlesex County Prosecutor
Bruce J. Kaplan announce the arrest of Christopher Morris (D.O.B.
2/24/1989) of Hassart Street in New Brunswick along with the seizure
of a cache of weapons and narcotics.
The investigation started in March 2008 when Somerset County
Prosecutor Wayne Forrest formed a unit specifically assigned to combat
any gang and gun violence in Somerset County. The Somerset County
Gangs and Guns Task Force, working closely with the Franklin Township
Crime Suppression Unit (CSU), received information that defendant
Rahmel Francois aka “Chose” (D.O.B. 12/03/1983) of Norris Road in
Franklin Township (Somerset County), was selling drugs from his
residence. 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’s residence. As the investigation progressed, the Task F
