DECEMBER 31, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
BANK ROBBER AND BANK TELLER ARRESTED FOR
INVOLVEMENT IN PNC BANK ROBBERY
Jennifer P. Upadhyay (Click on image to enlarge)
David B. Lee (Click on image to enlarge)
Wanted $500.00 Reward Posted By Crime Stoppers
Travis M. Picou
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J.
Forrest and Franklin Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that
on Monday, December 29, 2008 the PNC Bank located at 675 Franklin
Boulevard, in the Somerset section of Franklin Township, Somerset
County, New Jersey was robbed of an undisclosed amount of money at
approximately 4:54 p.m. At approximately 4:57 p.m., Franklin Township
Police received a call about the robbery and immediately responded to
the PNC Bank. Detectives from the Franklin Township Police Department,
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, and the
F.B.I. also responded to investigate the bank robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated a female teller identified as Jennifer P.
Upadhyay (age 24) of Southwood Drive in Old Bridge, New Jersey was
approached by an unknown black male suspect, who was later identified
as defendant David B. Lee (age 29) of East 4th Avenue in Roselle, New
Jersey, at which time a note was shown demanding money. Defendant
Upadhyay then relinquished an undetermined amount of US currency.
Following the bank robbery defendant Upadhyay provided detectives with
a statement depicting the description of the bank robber but not
stating that she knew the suspect.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives subsequently were able to
obtain and view the surveillance footage depicting the robbery.
Franklin Township Detective Ordel Taylor, upon viewing numerous
surveillance footage, observed discrepancies in defendant Upadhyay’s
actions from the statement that she provided to detectives during the
robbery. Detectives made contact with defendant Upadhyay on December
30, 2008 at approximately 7:00 p.m., re-interviewed her and ultimately
placed her under arrest. At approximately 3:20 a.m., Wednesday,
December 31, 2008, detectives from the Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad, Franklin Township Police Department and Old Bridge
Township Police responded to defendant Upadhyay’s residence, and as a
result of a search detectives recovered a large sum of currency which
was determined to be a portion of the proceeds from the bank robbery.
While detectives were in Old Bridge conducting the search, a separate
team of detectives along with Roselle Police Officers responded to
East 4th Avenue, Roselle, New Jersey where they located defendant
David Lee. A search of defendant Lee’s bedroom resulted in detectives
observing, in plain view, a large sum of currency which was seized as
further proceeds from the bank robbery. Detectives also located and
seized the clothing which defendant Lee wore on the day of the
robbery. Defendant Lee was placed under arrest without incident.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that as the investigation progressed,
detectives identified defendant Upadhyay’s boyfriend, Travis M. Picou
(age 30) of Waite Avenue in Rahway, New Jersey as also being involved
in the bank robbery. Detectives made phone contact with defendant
Picou who refused to turn himself into authorities. Detectives are
continuing their search for defendant Picou.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced that a reward of
$500.00 has been offered for information that leads to the arrest of
defendant Travis M. Picou.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and the F.B.I. request that anyone
with information pertaining to the bank robbery is asked to contact
the Franklin Township Police Department at (732) 873-2300, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at (908)
231-7100, the F.B.I. Somerset Office at (732) 469-7986 or the Somerset
County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
Back
DECEMBER 30, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
MAN CHARGED WITH CAUSING DRUG-INDUCED DEATH
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Chief of Police Dennis Manning announce that as a result of
an investigation by the Somerville Police Department, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office today charged Peter Dunham, age 24, of
Ardmaer Drive, Bridgewater, New Jersey with one count of Strict
Liability for Drug Induced Death, First Degree and one count of
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Third Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest said that on Friday night, December 26, 2008, the
defendant obtained a quantity of heroin. In the early morning hours of
Sunday, December 28, 2008, the defendant provided some of that heroin
to Jeffrey Urynowicz, age 26, of Somerville. At approximately 4:02
a.m., on Sunday morning, December 28, 2008, Mr. Urynowicz’s girlfriend
found him deceased in his apartment and called Somerville Police.
The medical examiner’s preliminary report determined the cause of
death as an overdose.
Bail was set at $150,000.00 cash only by Judge Victor Ashrafi, 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 and unless proven guilty.
BANK ROBBERY
Click on image to enlarge
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announced that on Monday, December
29, 2008 at approximately 4:54 p.m. the PNC Bank located at 675
Franklin Boulevard in the Somerset section of Franklin Township,
Somerset County, New Jersey was robbed of an undisclosed amount of
money. At approximately 4:57 p.m. Franklin Township Police received a
call about the robbery and immediately responded to the PNC Bank.
Detectives from the Franklin Township Police Department, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the F.B.I. also
responded to investigate the bank robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that a female teller was approached by an
unknown black male suspect at which time a note was shown demanding
money. The teller then relinquished an undetermined amount of US
currency to the suspect. When the suspect was stuffing the stolen
money into his coat, the teller observed a bulge in his waistband area
which she believed to be a handgun. At the time of the robbery there
were a total of three (3) bank employees on the first floor of the
bank and no customers. The suspect subsequently fled the bank in an
unknown direction on foot. The suspect is described as a black male,
mid 20’s years of age, approximately 5’8” to 5’ 10”, approximately 180
to 200 pounds, with light colored eyes.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and the F.B.I. request that anyone
with information pertaining to the bank robbery to contact the
Franklin Township Police Department at (732) 873-5533, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at (908) 231-7100, the
F.B.I. Somerset Office at (732) 469-7986 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Back
DECEMBER 22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
REWARD OFFERED BY CRIME STOPPERS IN GREEN BROOK BANK ROBBERY
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Green
Brook Police Chief Martin Rasmussen announced that on December 18,
2008 the TD Bank located at 1000 Washington Avenue, Green Brook, New
Jersey was robbed at gunpoint of an undisclosed amount of money at
approximately 7:40 p.m.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced that a reward of
$500.00 has been offered for information that leads to the arrest and
indictment of the individual responsible for the bank robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated a male teller was approached by an unknown
black male suspect at which time a note was shown demanding money. As
the teller was complying with the suspect’s instructions, the suspect
threatened him by displaying a black semi-automatic handgun. The
teller then relinquished an undetermined amount of U.S. currency.
Prosecutor Forrest stated the suspect subsequently fled the bank last
seen heading east on foot with the money in hand. The suspect is
described as a black male, late twenties to early thirties,
approximately 5’8” to 5’ 10”, approximately 180 to 200 pounds, with
slight facial hair and acne.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Rasmussen and the F.B.I. request that anyone
with information pertaining to the bank robbery is asked to contact
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at
(908)231-7100, the Green Brook Police Department at (732) 968-1188,
the F.B.I. Somerset Office at (732) 469-7986 or the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
Back
DECEMBER 19, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
BANK ROBBERY
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Green
Brook Police Chief Martin Rasmussen announce that the TD Bank located
at 1000 Washington Avenue Green Brook, New Jersey was robbed at
gunpoint of an undisclosed amount of money at approximately 7:40 p.m.
on Thursday, December 18, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest stated a male teller was approached by an unknown
black male suspect at which time a note was shown demanding money. As
the teller was complying with the suspect’s instructions, the suspect
threatened him by displaying a black semi-automatic handgun. The
teller then relinquished an undetermined amount of U.S. currency.
Prosecutor Forrest stated the suspect subsequently fled the bank last
seen heading east on foot with the money in hand.
Anyone with information pertaining to the robbery is asked to contact
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit at
(908)-231-7100, the Green Brook Police Department (732) 968-1188 or
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office TIPS line at
1-(888)-577-TIPS(8477), www.888577TIPS.org or www.scpo.net. And click
on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS hotline”. All calls will be
considered confidential.
ANNUAL ANTI-DRUG CALENDAR CONTEST WINNERS TO BE ANNOUNCED AT PRESS
CONFERENCE ON MONDAY DECEMBER 22, 2008
Somerville – On Monday, December 22, 2008, Somerset County Prosecutor
Wayne J. Forrest will announce the winners of the 2009 Project
S.T.A.N.D./D.A.R.E. Calendar Contest. During the 2007-2008 school
year, fifth and sixth grade students from Somerset County’s public,
private and parochial schools were asked to draw posters reflecting
anti-drug, anti-alcohol, anti-tobacco and anti-violence themes. Those
students who were taught Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.)
last year were asked to draw the posters so as to reinforce the values
previously learned.
A panel of judges selected 12 posters as winners; eight second place
winners; three first place winners and one grand prize winner. The
second place winners will be receiving $100.00 Savings Bonds, the
first place winners will be receiving $200.00 Savings Bonds and the
Grand Prize winner, a $500.00 Savings Bond. The prizes are made
available through the Somerset County Bar Foundation.
The press conference and ceremony will be held at 4:00 p.m., at the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office located at 40 North Bridge Street,
First Floor Conference Room, in Somerville, New Jersey. Those invited
to attend include the contest winners and their families, their
teachers, their D.A.R.E. Officers, County and State Dignitaries.
The calendar will be displayed for news media photographers.
If you have any questions please contact Capt. Jack Bennett (ret.) at
908-575-3397.
Back
December 18, 2008
News Release
LARGE MARIJUANA SEIZURE IN BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP
SOMERSET COUNTY PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE
ORGANIZED CRIME AND NARCOTIC TASK FORCE AND
BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
DRUG ARREST
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Police Chief Richard Borden announce the arrest
of defendant Brian F. Chinchilla, (35 YOA) of Sturbridge Drive East in
Piscataway Township, as a result of a month long narcotics
investigation. Defendant Chinchilla was charged with Possession of
Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on December 17, 2008 at approximately
1:15 PM, members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force were conducting a narcotic
investigation in the area of the Red Bull Inn located on Route 22 East
in Bridgewater Township. Members of the Task Force received
information that defendant Chinchilla would be in possession of a
large quantity of marijuana at that location. As a result of this
information, members of the Task Force established surveillance in the
area of the Red Bull Inn. Task Force members observed defendant
Chinchilla arrive in the parking lot of the Red Bull Inn in a red
Mercury Mountaineer. Members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with the
Bridgewater Township police officers, approached defendant Chinchilla.
Subsequently, defendant Chinchilla turned over approximately three (3)
pounds of marijuana to the members of the Task Force.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Chinchilla was subsequently
charged with Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute,
3rd degree. Defendant Chinchilla was lodged in the Somerset County
Jail with a $5,000.00 10% cash bail set by the Honorable Robert B
Reed, J.S.C.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the estimated street value of the
marijuana seized is approximately twenty four thousand dollars
($24,000.00).
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
DECEMBER 16, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
MAN ARRESTED FOR IMPERSONATING A POLICE OFFICER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Watchung
Police Chief Sean Whelan announce the arrest of Jeffery Schneider
(DOB: 11-09-87) of Douglas Road, Green Brook, New Jersey. Defendant
Schneider has been charged with Impersonating a Police Officer, 4th
Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 2, 2008, at approximately
12:30 a.m., defendant Schneider went to 60 Stirling Road, Watchung,
New Jersey because of a verbal argument between three individuals.
When he arrived, defendant Schneider impersonated a police officer and
intervened in the argument. The individuals involved reported the
matter to the Watchung Police Department. The Watchung Police
Department contacted the Special Investigations Unit of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office for assistance.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that
defendant Schneider arrived in his vehicle at the argument and
separated the parties by identifying himself as a police officer. Two
of the individuals were told to return to their vehicle. The third
individual, a female, was asked to return to her vehicle. Defendant
Schneider identified himself as a police officer to the group. When
defendant Schneider was asked to provide identification that he was a
police office, he presented to the group what appeared to be a gold
family member police labor union card. The individuals then demanded
that he produce a police badge or some further identification. At this
point defendant Schneider fled the area. The three individuals
reported the matter to the Watchung Police Department who initiated an
investigation. The investigation identified a partial license plate
belonging to a vehicle that is operated by the suspect.
Defendant Schneider voluntarily surrendered to detectives this
afternoon and was served with a summons. He was released on his own
recognizance and will appear in court for his first appearance on
January 2, 2009.
Anyone with any further information on defendant Schneider’s
activities or any other instances of impersonation of a police officer
is asked to contact the Watchung Police Department Detective Bureau at
908-756-3663 or the Special Investigations Unit of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100.
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
DECEMBER 15, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
REWARD OFFERED BY CRIME STOPPERS IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP SHOOTING
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig R. Novick state that the investigation
into the shooting of a 15 year old female high school student which
occurred late Friday night, December 12, 2008, on Franklin Boulevard,
in the Somerset Section of Franklin Township, Somerset County, is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced that a reward of
$1,000.00 has been offered for information that leads to the arrest
and indictment of the individual(s) responsible for the shooting.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 11:17 p.m. last Friday
night Franklin Township Police responded to the area of Franklin
Boulevard near Lewis Street and Martin Street for a report of
gunshots. A Franklin Township Patrol Officer that was nearby on
Franklin Boulevard also heard the gunshots and immediately responded
to the area. In the area of the reported gunshots two large groups of
juveniles, in excess of 50, were seen fleeing in all directions by the
responding Franklin Police Officers. A 15 year old, female, Franklin
Township High School 10th Grader was shot multiple times by an unknown
assailant(s) who fled the area on foot in an unknown direction. Police
located the victim who was immediately transported to a local area
hospital where she underwent surgery for her injuries.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that anyone with information to contact the Somerset
County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. Whether you provide information by
telephone or online you will be provided a confidential claim number,
which you will utilize to obtain the cash reward monies. All calls are
confidential.
HUSBAND AND WIFE DUO CHARGED WITH OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT AND OTHER
OFFENSES SURRENDER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest stated that
defendant April Harbstreet and defendant Ronald DeSantis surrendered
to detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office on December
15, 2008 at approximately 9:00 a.m. Defendant Harbstreet and defendant
DeSantis were accompanied by their attorney, Robert Gluck, Esq. After
surrendering to authorities, Somerset County Superior Court Judge
Robert B. Reed set defendant Harbstreet’s bail at $50,000.00 cash or
bond and defendant DeSantis’ bail was set at $75,000.00 cash or bond.
Both defendant Harbstreet and defendant DeSantis were lodged at the
Somerset County Jail.
Prosecutor Forrest and Franklin Township Chief of Police Craig Novick
announced that arrest warrants had been issued for April Harbstreet
(DOB: 11/17/1970) and Ronald DeSantis (DOB: 02/16/1968) both of Austin
Avenue, Old Bridge, New Jersey. A warrant for April Harbstreet had
been issued charging her with Official Misconduct, 2nd Degree,
Conspiracy to Commit Official Misconduct, 2nd degree, Pattern of
Official Misconduct, 2nd degree, Tampering with a Witness, 3rd Degree,
Conspiracy to Tamper with a Witness, 3rd degree, Tampering with Public
Records, 3rd Degree, two counts of Forgery, 4th degree and two counts
of Uttering a Forged Document, 4th degree. A warrant for Ronald
DeSantis had been issued charging him with Official Misconduct, 2nd
Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Official Misconduct, 2nd degree, Pattern
of Official Misconduct, 2nd degree, Tampering with a Witness, 3rd
Degree, Conspiracy to Tamper with a Witness, 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in September of 2007 members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit were
contacted regarding an allegation of official misconduct involving
Franklin Township Housing Coordinator April Harbstreet and her husband
Ronald DeSantis. The investigation revealed that from 2005 through
2007 defendant Harbstreet was employed as the administrator of
Franklin Township’s Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG).
As program administrator, defendant Harbstreet was responsible for
qualifying applicants for federal housing assistance and soliciting
bids from approved contractors for CDBG housing rehabilitation
construction projects. Upon commencement of her employment, defendant
Harbstreet was given a copy of Franklin Township’s Policy and
Procedures manual. The opening paragraph of the manual underscored
that the use of the township’s CDBG housing rehabilitation program
funds are governed by the applicable Federal and State regulations,
which include prohibiting an employee receiving CDBG funding from
obtaining a financial interest, either directly or through a family
member, in CDBG funded contracts.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that in 2005
defendant Harbstreet was contracting CDBG work to her husband, Ronald
DeSantis’ company, Ronald Patrick Plumbing. As a result, defendant
Harbstreet was instructed by her supervisors that she was prohibited
from contracting work to her husband. A review of the CDBG purchase
orders revealed seven rehabilitation jobs totaling $117,442.00 for
which defendant DeSantis, through Ronald Patrick Plumbing, had been
awarded and paid for in 2005. Each job that was awarded to defendant
DeSantis was in excess of $200.00.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in July of 2007, a Franklin Township
Building Department supervisor was informed that defendant Harbstreet
was continuing to contract work to her husband, defendant DeSantis.
Defendant DeSantis was performing work as a subcontractor on CDBG
projects. Defendant DeSantis was subcontracting work through an
electrical contracting company. As the investigation continued,
detectives learned that owner of electrical contracting company had
been contacted by defendant DeSantis. Defendant DeSantis informed the
company that he could no longer perform work on the Franklin Township
CDBG projects. Defendant DeSantis proposed the idea of submitting
contracts on the Franklin Township rehabilitation jobs under the name
of the other company. Thereafter, defendant DeSantis submitted all the
necessary bidding paperwork, and performed all work on the housing
rehabilitation projects, under the name of the electrical contracting
company.
Prosecutor Forrest stated defendant DeSantis would review the
specification sheet on a particular rehabilitation job, complete the
bid application, and forward it to Franklin Township in the name of
the electrical company. At the conclusion of a CDBG job, defendant
DeSantis would receive a check from the company’s owner for work
performed. Upon completion of a CDBG project, a signed purchase order
was required to be submitted by the contractor to the township in
order to receive payment. The company owner stated that he never
signed or reviewed a purchase order, although several were on file
with his signature on them for rehabilitation projects. The owner of
the electrical company also advised that he never gave anyone
permission to sign his name to the purchase orders. The investigation
revealed that defendant Harbstreet signed the name of the company’s
owner to a purchase order and made an invoice in the name of the
company’s on her office computer. The electrical company’s owner
stated that he never gave defendant Harbstreet permission to prepare
an invoice on his behalf.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Harbstreet and defendant
DeSantis repeatedly attempted to induce a witness in this case to
withhold incriminating information from the investigation. Defendant
Harbstreet and defendant DeSantis attempted to induce the owner of the
electrical company to fabricate information and to lie to
investigators concerning material issues in this case.
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
December 13, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP TEENAGER SHOT
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig R. Novick announced today that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.)
Unit, and the Franklin Township Police Department, are investigating a
shooting which occurred late Friday night, December 12, 2008, on
Franklin Boulevard, in the Somerset Section of Franklin Township,
Somerset County.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 11:17 p.m. last night
Franklin Township Police responded to the area of Franklin Boulevard
near Lewis Street and Martin Street for a report of gunshots. A
Franklin Township Patrol Officer that was nereby on Franklin Boulevard
also heard the gunshots and immediately responded to the area. In the
area of the reported gunshots two large groups of juveniles, in excess
of 50, were seen fleeing in all directions by the responding Franklin
Police Officers. A 15 year old, female, Franklin Township High School
10th Grader was shot multiple times by an unknown assailant who fled
the area on foot in an unknown direction. Police located the victim
who was immediately transported to a local area hospital where she
underwent surgery for her injuries.
Detectives from the Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit and the Franklin Township Police
Department responded to investigate and process the crime scene. While
enroute to the scene a Prosecutor’s Office Detective Sergeant assigned
to the Major Crimes Squad observed a motor vehicle traveling on
Franklin Boulevard towards Route 27 away from the crime scene with its
headlights off. This vehicle was occupied by 5 males (3 adults and 2
juveniles) and was subsequently stopped on Route 27 South near School
Avenue. A high risk motor vehicle stop was conducted and all the
occupants were identified by police. Officers observed a knife on the
rear passenger floor and ordered the occupants out of the vehicle at
which time a loaded .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun was observed
near the front passenger seat and recovered. All 5 individuals were
arrested and charged with 2nd degree Unlawful Possession of a handgun.
They are identified as:
Saladine Nunez (10/1987) Oliver Street, New Brunswick,
Charles Leon Reaves (3/1990) Coventry Lane, Franklin,
Delroy George Williams (11/1989) Hempstead Drive, Franklin,
Juvenile M.B. (1/1991) Hillcrest Avenue, Franklin,
Juvenile N. R. (9/1991) Route 27, Princeton.
The above individuals were lodged in the Somerset County Jail and the
Juvenile Detention Center respectively. Bail for defendants Nunez and
Reaves was set at $50,000 cash or bond and bail for defendant Williams
was set at $25,000 cash or bond. Detectives are still in the process
of attempting to determine if any of these individuals arrested had
any involvement in the shooting.
Prosecutor’s Office C.S.I. Detectives processed the crime scene on
Franklin Boulevard and retrieved multiple shell casing’s which will be
further analyzed at the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Forensic
Laboratory’s Firearms and Ballistics Unit.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick request anyone with information to
contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, or the Franklin Township Police Department at
732-873-5533, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will
be kept confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
December 12, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
HUSBAND AND WIFE DUO CHARGED FOR OFFICIAL MISCONDUCT AND OTHER
OFFENSES
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announce that arrest warrants
have been issued for April Harpstreet (DOB: 11/17/1970) and Ronald
DeSantis (DOB: 02/16/1968) both of Austin Avenue, Old Bridge, New
Jersey. A warrant for April Harpstreet has been issued charging her
with Official Misconduct, 2nd Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Official
Misconduct, 2nd degree, Pattern of Official Misconduct, 2nd degree,
Tampering with a Witness, 3rd Degree, Conspiracy to Tamper with a
Witness, 3rd degree, Tampering with Public Records, 3rd Degree, two
counts of Forgery, 4th degree and two counts of Uttering a Forged
Document, 4th degree. A warrant for Ronald DeSantis has been issued
charging him with Official Misconduct, 2nd Degree, Conspiracy to
Commit Official Misconduct, 2nd degree, Pattern of Official
Misconduct, 2nd degree, Tampering with a Witness, 3rd Degree,
Conspiracy to Tamper with a Witness, 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in September of 2007 members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit were
contacted regarding an allegation of official misconduct involving
Franklin Township Housing Coordinator April Harpstreet and her husband
Ronald DeSantis. The investigation revealed that from 2005 through
2007 defendant Harpstreet was employed as the administrator of
Franklin Township’s Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG).
As program administrator, defendant Harpstreet was responsible for
qualifying applicants for federal housing assistance and soliciting
bids from approved contractors for CDBG housing rehabilitation
construction projects. Upon commencement of her employment, defendant
Harpstreet was given a copy of Franklin Township’s Policy and
Procedures manual. The opening paragraph of the manual underscored
that the use of the township’s CDBG housing rehabilitation program
funds are governed by the applicable Federal and State regulations,
which include prohibiting an employee receiving CDBG funding from
obtaining a financial interest, either directly or through a family
member, in CDBG funded contracts.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation revealed that in 2005
defendant Harpstreet was contracting CDBG work to her husband, Ronald
DeSantis’ company, Ronald Patrick Plumbing. As a result, defendant
Harpstreet was instructed by her supervisors that she was prohibited
from contracting work to her husband. A review of the CDBG purchase
orders revealed seven rehabilitation jobs totaling $117,442.00 for
which defendant DeSantis, through Ronald Patrick Plumbing, had been
awarded and paid for in 2005. Each job that was awarded to defendant
DeSantis was in excess of $200.00.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that in July of 2007, a Franklin Township
Building Department supervisor was informed that defendant Harpstreet
was continuing to contract work to her husband, defendant DeSantis.
Defendant DeSantis was performing work as a subcontractor on CDBG
projects. Defendant DeSantis was subcontracting work through an
Electrical Contracting Company. As the investigation continued,
Detectives learned that owner of electrical contracting company had
been contacted by defendant DeSantis. Defendant DeSantis informed the
company that he could no longer perform work on the Franklin Township
CDBG projects. Defendant DeSantis proposed the idea of submitting
contracts on the Franklin Township rehabilitation jobs under the name
of the other company. Thereafter, defendant DeSantis submitted all the
necessary bidding paperwork, and performed all work on the housing
rehabilitation projects, under the name of the electrical contracting
company.
Prosecutor Forrest stated defendant DeSantis would review the
specification sheet on a particular rehabilitation job, complete the
bid application, and forward it to Franklin Township in the name of
the electrical company. At the conclusion of a CDBG job, defendant
DeSantis would receive a check from the company’s owner for work
performed. Upon completion of a CDBG project, a signed purchase order
was required to be submitted by the contractor to the township in
order to receive payment. The company owner stated that he never
signed or reviewed a purchase order, although several were on file
with his signature on them for rehabilitation projects. The owner of
the electrical company also advised that he never gave anyone
permission to sign his name to the purchase orders. The investigation
revealed that defendant Harpstreet signed the name of the company’s
owner to a purchase order and made an invoice in the name of the
company’s on her office computer. The electrical company’s owner
stated that he never gave defendant Harpstreet permission to prepare
an invoice on his behalf.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Harpstreet and defendant
DeSantis repeatedly attempted to induce a witness in this case, to
withhold incriminating information from the investigation. Defendant
Harpstreet and defendant DeSantis attempted to induce the owner of the
electrical company to fabricate information and to lie to
investigators concerning material issues in this case.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Harpstreet and defendant
DeSantis are currently not in custody and that anyone with any
information on their whereabouts should contact the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100 or County Communication at
908-526-2500.
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
December 11, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
SOMERSET COUNTY POLICE ACADEMY
STATE PAROLE OFFICER RECRUIT GRADUATION
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and New
Jersey State Parole Board Chairman Peter J. Barnes, announce that on
Tuesday, December 16, 2008 at 9:30 a.m., the Somerset County Police
Academy will be conducting its commencement ceremony for its second
Basic State Parole Officer Training Recruit Class No. 02-08, Cycle
#24.
The Somerset County Police Academy is in its 20th year of providing
quality law enforcement training. This recruit class is the second
State Parole Officer class to graduate since the Academy was
established. The graduating class of nineteen State Parole Officer
recruits is comprised of officers from the New Jersey Division of
Parole from districts throughout the entire State of New Jersey.
The Basic Course for Parole 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, New Jersey Division of
Parole Director Thomas K. James, and Parole Recruit Class Leader,
Anthony Schettino, New Jersey Division of Parole. The keynote speaker
is James T. Plousis, United States Marshal for the District of New
Jersey.
A number of awards will also be presented at the graduation ceremony
and each recruit will receive their New Jersey Police Training
Commission certification. The ceremony will be held in 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.
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
Friday, December 19, 2008 at 9:30 a.m., the Somerset County Police
Academy will be conducting its commencement ceremony for its Basic
Police Training Recruit Class No. 41-08.
The Somerset County Police Academy is in its 20th year of providing
quality law enforcement training. This recruit class is the forty
first police class to graduate since the Academy was established. The
graduating class of sixteen 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, Krzysztof Kowalczyk, Rutgers University 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 Police Pipes and Drums Band.
The ceremony will be held in 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.
THREE
ARRESTED IN HILLSBOROUGH ON DRUG CHARGES
SOMERVILLE - Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Hillsborough Township
Police Chief Paul Kaminsky announce the arrest of three individuals on
December 11, 2008 after a two-month investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force and Hillsborough Township Police Department. As a result,
Michael Stewart (23 YOA) of Maple Avenue in South Bound Brook, Jacki
Crowley (26 YOA) of Rt. 206 in Hillsborough Township, and Jose Agosto
(25 YOA) of West High Street in Bound Brook were arrested. Defendants
Stewart and Crowley were charged with Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (heroin) with the Intent to Distribute, 3rd
Degree; Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) with
the Intent to Distribute Within 1000 feet of a School Zone, 3rd
Degree; and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine),
3rd Degree. Defendant Agosto was charged with Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a Disorderly Persons Offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on December 11, 2008 at approximately
11:30 a.m., a Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant was
executed by Task Force members and members of the Hillsborough Police
Department at 438 Rt. 206 Apartment 1 in Hillsborough Township. As a
result of the search warrant, members of the Task Force seized 29 decs
of Heroin marked “Money Train” and approximately one gram of cocaine
from the apartment occupied by defendants Stewart and Crowley.
The street value of the heroin seized is valued at approximately
$580.00 and the cocaine seized valued at approximately $100.00.
Defendants Stewart and Crowley were lodged in the Somerset County Jail
pending bail to be set. Defendant Agosto was released on his own
recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include
herein a statement explaining that the charges are merely an
accusation and that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven
guilty.
LEHIGH UNIVERSITY STUDENT ARRESTED FOR BURGLARIES AFTER FLEEING FROM
POLICE IN WATCHUNG
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Watchung
Borough Police Chief Sean Whelan announce the arrest of Ilya D.
Domrachev (age 19) of Ridge Road, Watchung, New Jersey. Defendant Ilya
D. Domrachev has been charged with two Counts of Attempted Burglary,
3rd degree, Resisting Arrest, 4th degree, and Tampering with Physical
Evidence, 4th degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 24, 2008 the Watchung
Police Department responded to the area of High Tor Drive, Watchung,
to investigate the report of a residential burglar alarm activation.
As a Watchung Police Officer arrived in the area, police dispatch
received a call from a concerned citizen who reported observing a
white male attempting to force open a rear window of a residence on
High Tor Drive. The Watchung Police Officer identified defendant
Domrachev as the individual matching the description given by the
citizen-caller. As the police officer approached, the defendant fled
and a foot pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, the defendant removed
his brown jacket, blue hat and gloves. Additional Police units
responded to the area, along with detectives from the the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Burglary Task Force. Shortly thereafter,
the defendant was found and taken into custody.
Subsequent investigation linked the defendant to a second attempted
burglary on High Tor Drive committed earlier that same day.
Bail was set at $20,000.00 with the 10% option to apply. The
defendant, a college student, has been released on bail.
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.
TWO ARRESTED IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Department Chief Craig R. Novick announce the arrest
of defendants Naeem Majied (19 YOA) and Derrick Johnson, Jr. (19 YOA)
on December 10, 2008 after an approximately three-month narcotics
investigation. As a result of this investigation, conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force along with the Franklin Township Police Department’s Crime
Suppression Unit, defendant Naeem Majied of Nelson Street in New
Brunswick was charged with three counts of Distribution of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 4th degree; and the
Disorderly Persons Offense of Resisting Arrest. Defendant Derrick
Johnson, Jr. of Lyon Lane in Franklin Park was charged with two counts
of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 4th
degree.
On November 14, 2008, defendant Johnson (aka “Chicken Man”) met with
an undercover detective in the area of Stewart Avenue and Veros Lane
in Franklin Township where he sold a quantity of marijuana to the
undercover detective. Also present during the sale was defendant
Majied (aka “Sparks”) who had previously negotiated the sale of a
quantity of marijuana with the undercover detective.
On November 25, 2008 the undercover detective met with defendant
Majied in the area of Stewart Avenue and Veros Lane where defendant
sold a quantity of marijuana to the undercover detective.
On December 10, 2008, the undercover detective responded to the CVS
located on Route 27 in Franklin and met with defendant Majied. At this
location defendant Majied sold a quantity of marijuana to the
undercover detective in exchange for U.S. currency. Following the
sale, members of the Task Force and members of the Franklin Township
Crime Suppression Unit approached defendant Majied and placed him
under arrest. While placing defendant Majied under arrest he attempted
to flee and ignored the officers’ verbal commands. Following a brief
struggle, Majied was arrested. Police later located and arrested
defendant Johnson driving a vehicle on Route 27. Defendant Johnson was
also arrested on a previously issued complaint summons for
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), 4th
degree.
Defendants Majied and Johnson were both lodged in the Somerset County
Jail with bail to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
NORTH
PLAINFIELD WOMAN INDICTED ON THEFT CHARGES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on December 11, 2008, Alexandra Chavarriaga, age 33, of Jackson
Avenue, North Plainfield, New Jersey was indicted by a Somerset County
Grand Jury on charges of Theft by Deception, 2nd Degree; Fraudulent
Use of a Credit Card, 3rd Degree; eleven counts of Forgery, 3rd
Degree; and eleven counts of Uttering a Forged Instrument, 3rd Degree.
This indictment is the result of an investigation by the Somerset
County Prosecutor's Office and the Somerville Police Department.
Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor Robert Hawkes presented the
matter to the Grand Jury.
Defendant Chavarriaga had been employed as a part-time bookkeeper for
the Ross Public Affairs Group in Somerville from April, 2006 to
December, 2007. After she was terminated in December, 2007, the
company noticed that thousands of dollars worth of charges had been
made on the company’s American Express credit card. Defendant had been
able to have a card issued in her name on the company’s account.
Further investigation revealed that from between June, 2006 and
December, 2007, defendant had made over 500 unauthorized charges
totaling over $80,000.00.
The investigation also revealed that defendant Chavarriaga had written
eight checks to herself and forged the owner’s name on the checks. In
July, 2008, defendant also wrote two checks to a doll shop in Carmel,
California to purchase expensive antique dolls and accessories; one
was for $9,500.00; the other for $6,555.00. Defendant issued another
forged check in July, 2008 to purchase antique jewelry for $4,385.93.
The total for all eleven forged checks amounted to $38,923.98. The
total theft amounted to over $118,000.00.
On October 17, 2008, defendant Chavarriaga was arrested at her home. A
search warrant was executed. Among the items recovered were one of the
dolls that she had purchased, along with doll accessories, and one of
the antique rings that she had purchased.
Defendant, who faces a maximum sentence of one hundred twenty-five
years in state prison, is presently at liberty on bail of $20,000.00
with a 10% option.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
BANK ROBBER SENTENCED TO 22 YEARS IN PRISON FOR ROBBING SAME BANK
TWICE, THREATENING TO SHOOT TELLERS
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on Thursday, December 11, 2008, the Honorable Robert B. Reed,
J.S.C. sentenced 45 year old Francis Mitchell, formerly of Franklin
Township, Somerset County, to 22 years in New Jersey State Prison with
18.7 years to be served without parole. Judge Reed also imposed an
eight-year parole supervision period upon defendant’s release from
prison.
Defendant’s sentence came three months after a jury trial, where
defendant was found guilty of an indictment charging robbery in the
first degree for robbing a Bank of America on August 3, 2006 and
guilty of robbery in the second degree for robbing that same bank
again on September 1, 2006. The case was prosecuted by Assistant
Prosecutor Merrill M. Mezzacappa. The Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C.
presided over the trial. Robert Miseo, Esq. represented defendant.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on the morning of August 3, 2006,
defendant Mitchell entered the Bank of America located at 1229 Route
27 in Somerset. He handed the teller a check and a note that demanded
the bank’s money and that also threatened to shoot if the teller did
not comply. Defendant gestured at the teller with a gun wrapped in a
black, plastic bag. The teller immediately provided over $3,000.00 in
cash. Defendant fled the bank after taking back from the teller the
check and note. Video surveillance of a next-door gas station showed
the perpetrator escaping in a black vehicle with distinctive damage on
its hood, although the license plate of the car could not be seen.
Still photographs of the vehicle were taken to a nearby car
dealership. A technician from the dealership opined that the vehicle
was a 2001 through 2005 model Hyundai Elantra. The bank teller could
not identify defendant. Interior bank video depicted a male with
similar features to defendant’s, wearing a baseball cap with a sticker
on the brim and carrying a backpack on his shoulder. There were no
fingerprints left at the scene.
On the morning of September 1, 2006, defendant Mitchell entered the
same Bank of America and again gave the teller a check and note that
demanded money and threatened to shoot. Again the defendant fled the
bank with more than $3,000.00 in currency. This time, however, the
defendant accidentally left behind the check and note. Like the check
and note from the August 3, 2006 robbery, this check was also a
business check. This note was also on lined notebook paper and printed
in pencil. The check was traced to a closed business account for
defendant Francis Mitchell. It also bore the defendant’s name, which
was heavily crossed out with ink at the top of the check. Police
presented a photo array to the teller several hours after the robbery.
She identified defendant Mitchell as the perpetrator in that photo
display, and also identified defendant in court at trial. Interior
bank video showed the perpetrator to have features similar to
defendant. Like the August 3, 2006 robbery, the video also showed the
defendant to be wearing a baseball cap with a sticker on the brim and
carrying a backpack on his shoulder. There were no fingerprints on the
check.
Motor vehicle records revealed the defendant to be the registered
owner of a 2005 black Hyundai Elantra that appeared identical to the
vehicle in the August 3, 2006 gas station video. Police located
defendant’s Hyundai Elantra shortly after the September 1, 2006
robbery. They photographed the car, noting that it contained hood
damage matching the hood damage on the car in the August 3, 2006
robbery.
At sentencing, the court noted defendant had numerous prior disorderly
person convictions and three prior indictable convictions where his
sentences included probation, fines, New Jersey State Prison and
rehabilitative treatment. The court also cited as its reasons for
sentence the need to deter defendant and others from violating the law
and the risk that defendant would commit another offense. Finally, the
court recognized that the two bank robberies were distinct and
involved separate acts of violence against separate victims.
Back
December 6, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
BANK ROBBERY
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announced today that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.)
Unit, the Franklin Township Police Department, and the FBI responded
to a Bank Robbery at the Bank of America located at 1848 Easton Avenue
at the intersection of Worlds Fair Drive, in Franklin Township,
Somerset County, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 9:30 a.m. today,
Saturday, December 6, 2008, Franklin Township Police responded to the
Bank of America for a Bank Robbery in progress. At that time the Bank
was actively being robbed by two masked men. Both masked men were each
equipped with a firearm. The two masked men made entry into the bank
and initially came into contact with a 29 year old male bank customer
in the foyer area of the bank. One of the robbers became engaged in a
brief struggle with the customer ordering the customer into the bank.
During the struggle one of the robbers struck the customer on the side
of the head with his firearm. The customer complied with the robber
and entered into the bank. The customer did not sustain serious
injuries and did not require any medical attention. Both masked men
were then able to successfully rob the bank of an undisclosed amount
of money. Prior to the Franklin Township Police arriving at the bank
both robbers fled the bank in an unknown direction. At the time of the
armed robbery there were twelve people in the banks consisting of 10
bank employees and 2 customers.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick request anyone with information to
contact the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
908-231-7100, the Franklin Township Police Department at 732-873-5533,
the Franklin office of the FBI at 732-469-7986 or the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
Back
December 5, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
SOMERSET COUNTY POLICE ACADEMY CORRECTIONS RECRUIT GRADUATION
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on Thursday, December 11, 2008 at 9:30 a.m., the Somerset County
Police Academy will be conducting its commencement ceremony for its
Basic County Corrections Officer Training Recruit Class No. 16-08.
The Somerset County Police Academy is in its 20th year of providing
quality law enforcement training. This recruit class is the sixteenth
corrections class to graduate since the Academy was established. The
graduating class of twenty-two county corrections recruits is
comprised of officers from law enforcement agencies in Hunterdon,
Middlesex, Somerset, Union and Warren Counties.
This year’s commencement ceremony will include remarks by Academy
Director Dr. Richard Celeste, and Corrections Recruit Class Leader
Alexander Valencia of the Union County Division of Corrections.
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 Theatre 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.
MAN SENTENCED FOR AGGRAVATED MANSLAUGHTER
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that John H. Lee (age 40) of Jeremy Court, Edison was sentenced by the
Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C. on charges of Aggravated
Manslaughter, 1st Degree and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful
Purpose, 3rd degree. Defendant Lee was sentenced to an aggregate
fourteen-year period of incarceration in the New Jersey State Prison
with 85 percent of that time to be served before he is eligible for
parole. Upon parole, defendant is also subject to a five-year period
of parole supervision.
The charges arose as a result of the victim, Jeffrey Johnson (age 45),
being struck in the head with a knife by defendant Lee. Mr. Johnson
subsequently died from the injuries he sustained during that attack.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that a joint investigation by the Somerset
County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin
Township Police Department detective bureau disclosed that during the
late evening hours of June 22nd, 2007, defendant Lee and Johnson had a
verbal argument which escalated into a physical confrontation while
standing in the front yard of a residence located on Millstone Road in
Somerset.
Prosecutor Forrest stated defendant Lee struck Johnson in the head
with a knife just prior to fleeing the area in the direction of
Hamilton Street. As a result, Johnson collapsed and became
unresponsive. Mr. Johnson was subsequently transported to Robert Wood
Johnson Hospital located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Johnson was
admitted to the intensive care unit suffering from severe brain
damage. On June 24, 2007, Johnson was removed from life support
machines and pronounced dead by Robert Wood Johnson
Hospital doctors.
On June 24th, 2007, defendant Lee contacted a family member involved
in law enforcement and subsequently turned himself in to members of
the Franklin Township Police Department and Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office.
Assistant Prosecutor Thomas J. Chirichella represented the State in
the prosecution of this case, and Christopher R. Kazlau, A.D.P.D.
represented the defendant.
Lee remains in the Somerset County Jail awaiting transport to the New
Jersey State Prison.
PLAINFIELD MAN RECEIVES GUILTY VERDICT IN ROBBERY
CASE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Luis R. Figueroa (52 years old) of West Front Street in
Plainfield was found guilty of 2nd Degree Robbery and a Disorderly
Persons Offense of Resisting Arrest after a trial before Judge Robert
B. Reed of the New Jersey Superior Court and a jury. The defendant was
remanded to the County Jail pending sentencing scheduled for March 6,
2009. The defendant’s bail in the amount of $75,000.00 cash was
revoked by Judge Reed after the jury rendered its verdict. Judge Reed
independently found defendant Figueroa guilty of resisting arrest. The
defendant has prior indictable convictions for Burglary, (2
convictions) and Resisting Arrest, 3rd Degree. Therefore, the State
will be filing a motion for an extended term of imprisonment. The
defendant ordinarily would face 5-10 years incarceration with 85% to
be served without parole. If the Court imposes an extended term, the
sentencing exposure will be doubled with 85% to be served without
parole if the Court imposes the extended term on the robbery
conviction.
Defendant Figueroa was found guilty of robbery on the basis of
evidence that he struggled with a Watchung Stop & Shop store manager
after shoplifting approximately $120.00 worth of Duracell batteries.
During that struggle the defendant used his knee to strike the store
manager in the groin area three times. After the struggle, the
defendant left the store and was arrested by a Watchung police officer
after resisting arrest.
Assistant Prosecutor Frank P. Kolodzieski, II prosecuted the case for
the State, and Christopher R. Kazlau, A.D.P.D. represented the
defendant.
Back
DECEMBER 3, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Chief of Police Dennis Manning announced today that the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit,
along with the Somerville Police Department, arrested Clinton Miller
of South Bridge Street in Somerville for Sexual Assault, 2nd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the Union County Sexual Assault
Response Team (SART) reported to Somerville Police Department that a
44 year old female from Linden was sexually assaulted on January 5,
2008 by Clinton Miller (Age 47, DOB: 12/28/60). They reported that
this incident occurred in Somerville. When interviewed by detectives,
the victim disclosed that she visited her estranged husband, defendant
Miller, at his apartment. When she tried to leave, defendant Miller
blocked her exit, placed her in a bear hug and forced her into his
bedroom and had intercourse with the victim while she resisted.
Defendant Miller was charged with Sexual Assault, 2nd Degree. Bail was
set at $75,000.00 cash or bond by Superior Court Judge Reed.
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.
TWO BOUND BROOK MEN ARRESTED ON NARCOTICS AND
FIREARM CHARGES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bound
Brook Acting Police Chief Thomas White announce the arrest of two
individuals for narcotics and firearms charges.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation began on December 2,
2008 when members of the Bound Brook Police Department and the
Somerset County Gangs and Guns Task Force were in the area of Talmadge
Avenue and Columbus Street to investigate a separate incident.
While there, police approached a blue Honda driven by defendant
Terrence Atkins (dob: 11/3/88, Cherry Avenue, Bound Brook) and
observed a bag containing twelve smaller bags of cocaine in plain view
inside the vehicle. Police also removed two passengers from
defendant’s vehicle (defendant Albert Waller, dob: 01/09/1990, West
Main Street, Bound Brook, and a 16 year-old male juvenile). Initially,
all three occupants were taken into custody and transported to the
Bound Brook Police Department.
During his transport to the Bound Brook Police Department, defendant
Waller (aka “Al-Wow”) attempted to hide three zip-lock baggies with
cocaine residue under the rear seat of the patrol car.
Once at the Bound Brook Police Department, defendant Atkins’ vehicle
was searched. Inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle,
detectives located a blue pouch containing an additional 17 baggies of
cocaine and a black neoprene facemask. In the trunk, police located a
pellet gun that resembled a Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol, 14 baggies
containing marijuana, and CDS packaging materials.
Defendant Terrence Atkins was charged with the following:
Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, 3rd Degree
Possession of a Firearm while Distributing CDS, 2nd Degree
Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, 4th Degree
Possession of CDS with Intent to Distribute within 1000’ of a School,
3rd Degree
Defendant was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to be set.
Defendant Albert Waller was charged with the following:
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (D.P.)
Hindering Apprehension (D.P.)
Bail was set at $2,500.00 cash
The juvenile was released to his mother, pending further
investigation.
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
November 26, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
SOMERVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Chief of Police Dennis Manning announced today that the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit,
along with the Somerville Police Department, arrested Oscar Macal of
Grove Street, Somerville, New Jersey for Aggravated Sexual Assault,
1st Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that DYFS reported to the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office and the Somerville Police Department that a
15-year old female residing within Somerville was believed to be
pregnant by 19-year old defendant Macal (DOB: 04/20/89). When
interviewed by detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
and the Somerville Police Department, the victim disclosed that she
was in a sexual relationship with defendant Macal when she became
pregnant by him. The incident occurred in the victim’s Somerville
home.
Defendant Macal was charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault, 1st
Degree. Bail was set at $150,000.00 cash only by the 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
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
NARCOTICS ARREST IN BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Police Department Chief Richard Borden announce the arrest
of Carlos Alberto Rodriguez-Solano (28 YOA) on November 25, 2008 after
an eight-month narcotics investigation. As a result of this
investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, defendant Carlos Alberto
Rodriguez-Solano of Coolidge Avenue in Parlin, New Jersey was charged
with Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine), 3rd
degree, Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine)
Within 1,000 Feet of a School Zone, 3rd degree, Possession of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine) with Intent Distribute, 3rd
Degree and Possession of Marijuana (under 50 grams), a Disorderly
Persons Offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on March 7, 2008, defendant
Rodriguez-Solano met with an undercover detective in the area of
Talmage Avenue in the Bound Brook where he sold a quantity of cocaine
to the undercover detective. This narcotics purchase was within 1,000
feet of the Green Brook Academy located on Vosseller Avenue in Bound
Brook. Subsequent to this drug transaction the defendant was believed
to have left the country.
On November 25, 2008, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force set up surveillance in the
parking lot of the Target located in the Bridgewater Promenade in
Bridgewater Township at approximately 6:30 p.m. The Task Force members
had received information that defendant Rodriguez-Solano would be in
the area of the Target. During surveillance defendant Rodriguez-Solano
was observed operating a motor vehicle and parking in the parking lot
of the Target, at which time Task Force members apprehended defendant
Rodriguez-Solano. A search of defendant’s person incident to the
arrest was conducted and he was found to be in possession of fifteen
Ziploc bags containing cocaine (approximately 8 grams) with a street
value of approximately $600.00 and three Ziploc bags containing
marijuana (approximately 3 grams) with a street value of approximately
$100.00. Also seized from defendant Rodriguez-Solano was $195.00 in
U.S. currency.
Defendant Rodriguez-Solano was lodged in the Somerset County Jail on
November 25, 2008 on the narcotic charges 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.
Back
NOVEMBER 24, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
NARCOTICS ARREST LEADS TO SEIZURE OF COCAINE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning announce the arrest of Duane
Bell (33 YOA) of South Main Street in the Borough of Manville as a
result of an approximately two-month long narcotics investigation.
Defendant Bell was charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (Cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute, 2nd degree,
Hindering Apprehension, 4th degree, and Disorderly Persons Offenses of
Obstructing and Possession of a Prescription Legend Drug.
Prosecutor Forrest announced that on November 21, 2008 at
approximately 5:00 p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force were conducting a
narcotics investigation in the area of West End Avenue in Somerville.
Members of the Task Force received information that defendant Bell was
in possession of a quantity of cocaine while driving a black Acura. As
a result of receiving this information, members of the Task Force
established surveillance in the area of West End Avenue. Task Force
members observed defendant Bell driving the black Acura and later
stopped him on Union Street in Somerville. While initially attempting
to stop defendant Bell the defendant did not stop, ignoring the
emergency lights and siren. Defendant Bell was later stopped and
refused to comply with officers’ commands, at which time he was then
removed from the vehicle and taken into custody.
Defendant Bell was later transported to Somerville Police Department
for processing. While at Somerville Police Department, defendant Bell
was found to be in possession of twenty three (23) individually
wrapped bags of cocaine contained in a larger plastic bag concealed in
his buttocks. Also seized from Bell was three hundred thirteen dollars
($313.00) in U.S. currency as well as half a prescription pill from
his pants pocket.
The estimated street value of the cocaine seized is eight hundred
dollars ($800.00).
Defendant Bell was placed in the Somerset County Jail with bail set at
$75,000.00 cash or bond.
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
NOVEMBER 21, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
BIAS ROBBERY DEFENDANT PLEADS GUILTY
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on November 21, 2008, defendant Tyler L. Smith (dob: 3/1/85), of
Somerset Street, Somerville, New Jersey, pled guilty to an Indictment
charging 1st degree Bias Intimidation, 2nd degree Robbery, and two
counts of 3rd degree Terroristic Threats. Defendant Smith pled guilty
pursuant to a plea agreement that calls for him to be sentenced to
sixteen (16) years in New Jersey State Prison, with an eight and a
half (8½) year period of parole ineligibility. Sentencing is scheduled
for January 30, 2009.
The indictment stemmed from a February 9, 2008 incident in which
defendant Smith assaulted and stole a bicycle from a 16 year old
juvenile in Somerville. On that date, defendant Smith approached the
juvenile (who is Caucasian) as he walked with two juvenile friends
(who are African-American ages 16 and 15). Defendant Smith demanded
that the juvenile victim give up his bicycle, and uttered several
racial epithets to the victim. The juvenile refused, and the defendant
repeatedly punched and kicked the juvenile and took his bicycle. When
the juvenile’s two friends attempted to intervene, defendant Smith
threatened to kill them. Defendant then left the area with the
victim’s bicycle. A short while later, defendant was located at his
residence by the Somerville Police Department with abrasions and dried
blood on his knuckles and blood on his shoe. The blood recovered from
the defendant’s shoe by the Somerville Police Department was submitted
to the New Jersey State Police laboratory for DNA analysis and found
to be the victim’s blood. The Somerville Police also recovered the
victim’s bicycle from the defendant’s residence.
The State was represented by Somerset County Assistant Prosecutor W.
Brian Stack. Defendant Smith was represented by Assistant Deputy
Public Defender Chanel Hudson.
Back
NOVEMBER 20, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
S.W.A.T. STANDOFF
SOMERVILLE- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Chief of Police Paul A. Kaminsky announce that a
Hillsborough resident was taken into custody this morning following an
approximate 2 ½ hour standoff with police.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 2:54 a.m. Hillsborough
Police received a 911 phone call advising them that Richard A. Cooper
(age 55) of Robin Road in Hillsborough was in his residence armed with
a hunting knife. Hillsborough Police Officers responded to the scene.
Cooper was standing outside of the residence and upon seeing the
officers retreated back inside the residence. Upon speaking with the
caller at the scene, Hillsborough Police were advised that besides the
hunting knife, Cooper also had a rifle and a handgun inside of the
residence. Hillsborough Police requested the activation of the
Somerset County Emergency Response Team (S.C.E.R.T.) consisting of
S.W.A.T. members and Hostage Crisis Negotiators. While awaiting the
arrival of the S.W.A.T. Team and Negotiators, Hillsborough Police
Officers established an outer perimeter of Cooper’s apartment building
at which time Cooper exited the front door of the apartment.
Hillsborough Officers gave Cooper verbal commands to surrender. Cooper
yelled an expletive comment at the officers and returned into his
residence barricading himself inside.
Upon the arrival of the S.W.A.T. Team members and Hostage Crisis
Negotiators, some of the residents in nearby apartments were evacuated
for their safety. Hostage Crisis Negotiators established
communications with Cooper who subsequently exited his residence and
upon doing so was taken into custody peacefully by S.W.A.T. members at
approximately 5:35 am. Cooper was transported to the Somerset Medical
Center for evaluation. As a result of searching Cooper’s residence,
police seized a .22 cal hunting rifle, a .38 cal Derringer pistol, 4
hunting bows with numerous arrows, 2 hunting knives, and assorted
ammunition.
The Somerset County Office of Emergency Management, the Hillsborough
Township Office of Emergency Management and the Hillsborough Township
Emergency Rescue Squad responded and established a Command Post during
this incident.
Back
NOVEMBER 13, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
LATIN KING MEMBER ARRESTED FOR DISTRIBUTION OF COCAINE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Chief William Parenti announce the arrest of two
individuals on November 12, 2008 after a three-month investigation
conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Gangs and Guns Task Force, the North Plainfield Police Department and
the Manville Police Department K-9 Unit. As a result, Ronald Melendez
(23 YOA) of Lincoln Place in the Borough of North Plainfield and
Wilmer Chavez (21 YOA), also of Lincoln Place in the Borough of North
Plainfield were arrested. Defendant Melendez was charged with
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) With the
Intent to Distribute, 3rd degree, and defendant Chavez was charged
with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd
degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 12, 2008, at approximately
8:15 p.m., a Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant was
executed by Task Force members at 50 Lincoln Place, Apartment #1, in
the Borough of North Plainfield. As a result of the search warrant,
members of the Task Force seized approximately ten grams of cocaine
from defendant Melendez. Also seized as a result of the search warrant
was one bag of cocaine hidden in a jacket of defendant Chavez’s
located in his bedroom.
While conducting the search warrant, Task Force members located
several items indicating defendant Melendez’s membership with the
Latin Kings Gang (clothing) and photographs of defendant Melendez
displaying gang signs known to the Task Force members.
The street value of the cocaine seized is valued at approximately
$1,200.00.
Defendant Melendez was lodged in the Somerset County Jail pending bail
to be set. Defendant Chavez was released on his own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
LARGE COCAINE SEIZURE TWO ARRESTED FOR FIRST DEGREE DRUG CHARGES IN
GREEN BROOK
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Green
Brook Police Chief Martin Rasmussen announce the arrest of two
individuals after a six- month investigation. As a result of the
investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, the Greenbrook Police
Department, the Hillsborough Police Department, and the Manville
Police Department K-9 Unit, Jose Dilone Jr. (33 YOA) of Carlton Avenue
in Piscataway and Matthew Miles (26 YOA) of Yale Drive in Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania were arrested. Defendant Dilone has been charged with
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) With the
Intent to Distribute, 1st degree and Possession of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine), 3rd degree. Defendant Miles has been
charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)
With the Intent to Distribute, 1st degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 12, 2008, members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force received information that defendant Dilone would be in
possession of a quantity of cocaine in the area of the Outback
Steakhouse Restaurant located on Rt. 22 West in the Borough of Green
Brook. After receiving the information, members of the Task Force set
up surveillance in the area and observed defendant Dilone arrive with
an unknown male, who was later identified as defendant Matthew Miles,
in a Silver Mercury Grand Marquis. Defendants Dilone and Matthews both
entered the Outback Steakhouse Restaurant where they were approached
by Task Force members for questioning at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Defendant Dilone was found to be in possession of a quantity of
cocaine on his person wrapped in a twenty dollar bill and placed under
arrest. At this time, the Manville Police K-9 Unit was called to
conduct an exterior “sniff’ of the vehicle in which defendants Dilone
and Miles arrived in at the Outback Steakhouse, (Silver Mercury Grand
Marquis). The K-9 gave a positive indication for the presence of CDS.
Task force members at this time obtained a Somerset County Superior
Court Search Warrant for the Mercury Grand Marquis. As a result of
executing the search warrant, approximately five ounces of cocaine was
located and seized from under the hood of the Grand Marquis. Also
seized from defendant Dilone was $1,100.00 in U.S. currency.
The street value of the cocaine seized from this investigation is
estimated at approximately $9,000.00.
Defendants Dilone and Miles were both lodged in the Somerset County
Jail with bail pending.
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
NOVEMBER 12, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
UNDERCOVER PURCHASE OF COCAINE RESULTS IN ARREST
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bedminster Police Department Chief William Stephens announce the
arrest of Miguel Mirambeaux (35 YOA) of Arlington Avenue in
Plainfield, New Jersey on November 10, 2008 after an approximately
one-month narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along
with the Bedminster Police Department. Defendant Miguel Mirambeaux has
been charged with Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(cocaine), 3rd degree.
On November 10, 2008 at approximately 3:50 p.m., defendant Miguel
Mirambeaux met with an undercover detective from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force in the
parking lot of the Quick Chek located on Route 206 in Bedminster. At
this location Miguel Mirambeaux sold a quantity of cocaine in exchange
for U.S. currency to the undercover detective. Members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
along with members of the Bedminster Police Department subsequently
arrested defendant Miguel Mirambeaux.
The cocaine seized during this narcotics investigation has an
estimated street value of $600.00.
Defendant Miguel Mirambeaux was released on his own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
NOVEMBER 7, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
ARREST MADE AS A RESULT OF AN UNDERCOVER
NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION IN BOUND BROOK
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bound
Brook Acting Police Chief Thomas White announce the arrest of Donald
Ray Kilpatrick on November 6, 2008 after a six-month narcotics
investigation. As a result of this investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force along with the Bound Brook Police Department, defendant Donald
Kilpatrick (23 YOA) of West Fourth Street in Plainfield was charged
with two counts of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(cocaine), 3rd degree and two counts of Distribution of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (cocaine) within 1000 Feet of a School Zone, 3rd
degree .
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on August 5, 2008, defendant Kilpatrick
met with an undercover detective in the area of Cherry Avenue in Bound
Brook where he sold a quantity of cocaine to the undercover detective
in exchange for U.S. currency.
On August 14, 2008, the undercover detective had further contact with
defendant Kilpatrick. Defendant Kilpatrick met with the undercover
detective and again sold a quantity of cocaine to the undercover
detective in exchange for U.S. currency.
Between August 14, 2008 and November 6, 2008 detectives made several
attempts to locate defendant Kilpatrick, but were unsuccessful.
Ultimately, on November 6, 2008, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the Bound Brook
Police Department attempted to locate defendant Kilpatrick at his last
known address on Cherry Street in Bound Brook. This attempt were
unsuccessful, however, defendant Kilpatrick was able to be located on
Grove Street in Somerville at approximately 10:20 p.m. and was taken
into custody.
The cocaine purchased during this investigation had a street value of
approximately $300.00.
Defendant Kilpatrick was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail
to be set.
NOTE: We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
NOVEMBER 6, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
UNDERCOVER PURCHASE OF COCAINE RESULTS IN ARREST
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Police Department Chief Richard Borden announce the arrest
of Jenniffer M. Caamano (27 YOA) of Summer Street in Elizabeth, New
Jersey on November 5, 2008 after a one-month narcotics investigation
conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force along with the Bridgewater Township Police
Department. Defendant Jenniffer Caamano has been charged with
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine), 3rd degree
and Possession of Marijuana (under 50 grams), a Disorderly Persons
Offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on November 5, 2008 at approximately
9:00 p.m., defendant Jenniffer Caamano met with two undercover
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force in the parking lot of the Somerset
Shopping Center by the TGI Fridays Restaurant located in the Township
of Bridgewater where she sold seven grams of cocaine to the undercover
detectives in exchange for U.S. currency.
Subsequent to the arrest of defendant Jenniffer Caamano, a search of
her person revealed a quantity of marijuana less than 50 grams.
The cocaine seized during this investigation has a street value of
approximately $1,000.00.
Caamano was released on her own recognizance.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
NOVEMBER 3, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
NINE ARRESTED IN DRUG INVESTIGATION
SOMERVILLE - Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Somerville Police Chief
Dennis Manning announce the culmination of a three-month narcotics
investigation and arrest of nine defendants. The investigation began
after complaints of narcotic activity were received from residents in
the Fairview Avenue area.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation began with a
surveillance of 151 Fairview Avenue, which is essentially a boarding
house. After some time, the investigation revealed that cocaine was
being sold from a particular room within the 151 Fairview Avenue
location. The investigation led to the issuance of a Superior Court
Search Warrant, which was executed on Friday, October 31, 2008 by
members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force and Somerville Police Department. At the time of
the execution of the search warrant, police located and arrested
defendants Adeyemi Hannibal (age 27, South 11th Street, Newark),
LaTeresa Clyburn (age 25, South 11th Street, Newark), John Holmes, Jr.
(age 59, Fairview Avenue, Somerville), and, Calvin Ennon (age 34, 2nd
Street, Somerville) in the room. A search of the room was conducted
and detectives seized approximately ten (10) grams of crack cocaine,
digital scales, numerous packaging baggies, glass smoking pipes, razor
blades, and $1,309.00 in U.S. currency. The estimated street value of
the crack cocaine seized is approximately eight hundred dollars
($800.00).
Defendants Hannibal, Clyburn and Holmes were charged with Possession
of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (crack cocaine) with Intent to
Distribute, 3rd degree, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (crack cocaine), 3rd degree, and Possession of
Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Defendant Calvin Ennon was charged with Loitering for the Purpose of
Obtaining a Controlled Dangerous Substance, a disorderly persons
offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the following five individuals were
arrested between October 16 and October 29, 2008 as part of this
investigation:
Defendant Wesley Butts III (28 YOA) A.K.A. “Diamond” of Third Street,
Somerville was charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous
Substance (crack cocaine), 3rd degree. Bail was set at $10,000.00 with
a 10% provision.
Defendant Claude Clay Jr. (46 YOA) of Thomas Street, Bridgewater was
charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (crack
cocaine), 3rd degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
disorderly persons offense. Defendant ROR.
Defendant Zianida Hussein (32 YOA) of East Main Street, Somerville was
charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons
offense. Defendant ROR.
Defendant James Servino (59 YOA) of West End Avenue, Somerville was
charged with Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (crack
cocaine), 3rd degree. Defendant ROR.
Defendant Dathan Judson (42 YOA) of North Bridge Street, Somerville
was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a disorderly
persons offense. Defendant ROR.
Defendants Adeyemi Hannibal, LaTeresa Clyburn, and John Holmes, Jr.
and were placed in the Somerset County Jail with the following bail
amounts: Defendant Hannibal’s bail was set at $25,000.00 with 10% to
apply; defendant Clyburn’s bail was set at $5,000.00 with 10% to
apply, and defendant Holmes’ bail was set at $10,000.00 with 10% to
apply . All bail amounts were set by the Honorable Judge Paul W.
Armstrong, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
October 29, 2008
News Release
Two Arrested in North Plainfield for Distribution of Crack Cocaine and
Assault on Police Officers
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Chief William Parenti announce the arrest of two
individuals on October 28, 2008 after a four month investigation. As a
result of this investigation, conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along
with the North Plainfield Police Department, defendant Khasim Green
(27 YOA) of Maple Avenue in the Borough of North Plainfield and
defendant Quadeer Hall (25 YOA) of Trussler Place in Rahway, New
Jersey were arrested. Defendant Khasim Green has been charged with
Distribution of CDS (Cocaine) (3 counts) 3rd degree, Distribution of
CDS (Cocaine) within a 1000 feet of a school (3 counts) 3rd degree,
Aggravated Assault 3rd degree, Resisting arrest 3rd degree, Possession
of CDS (Cocaine) with the intent to Distribute 3rd degree, Possession
of CDS (Heroin) with the intent to Distribute 3rd degree, Possession
of CDS (Cocaine) with the intent to Distribute within 1000 feet of a
school 3rd degree, Possession of CDS (Heroin) with the intent to
Distribute within 1000 feet of a school 3rd degree. Defendant Quadeer
Hall has been charged with Possession of CDS (Cocaine) with the intent
to distribute 3rd degree, Possession of CDS (Cocaine) with the intent
to distribute within 1000 feet of a school 3rd degree.
On August 28, 2008, defendant Green met with an undercover Detective
in the area of Cedar Street in the Borough of North Plainfield where
he sold a quantity of Crack Cocaine to the undercover Detective.
On October 23, 2008, defendant Green met with an undercover Detective
in the area of Cedar Street in the Borough of North Plainfield where
he sold a quantity of Crack Cocaine to the undercover Detective.
On October 28, 2008, the undercover Detective made contact with
defendant Green at which time another narcotics sale was negotiated.
At approximately 7:30 PM, members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force set up surveillance in
the area of Cedar Street in the Borough of North Plainfield. Green
responded to the area in a Kia Optima, with a passenger in the vehicle
later identified as defendant Quadeer Hall. At this time, defendant
Green again met with the undercover Detective and sold a quantity of
Crack Cocaine. Members of the Task Force approached the vehicle and
placed defendant Green under arrest. Subsequent to the arrest,
defendant Green was found to be in possession of nine bags of Crack
Cocaine and twenty wax folds of Heroin marked “recession” on his
person. Also seized from defendant Green was three hundred and forty
seven dollars ($347) in U.S. Currency.
Defendant Quadeer Hall, the passenger of the Kia Optima, was
approached by Task Force members and subsequently found to be in
possession of twenty-six individual bags of crack cocaine.
At the time of the arrest of defendant Green, Task Force members
approached defendant Green at which time defendant Green punched a
Task Force member in the face with a closed fist. Defendant Green then
attempted to flee by slipping out of his jacket and running from Task
Force members. Defendant Green continued to struggle with Task Force
members and ignored verbal commands to stop resisting. After a brief
struggle Task Force members were able to take defendant Green to the
ground and place him under arrest.
The estimated street value of the crack cocaine seized from defendant
Green during this investigation is six hundred dollars ($600.00) and
the estimated street value of the heroin seized from defendant Green
is four hundred dollars ($400.00). The estimated street value of the
crack cocaine seized from defendant Hall is eight hundred dollars
($800.00).
Both defendants were lodged in the Somerset County Jail with bail to
be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of the Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven
Back
October 24, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
TWO ARRESTED FOR PROSTITUTION IN RARITAN BOROUGH
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Raritan
Borough Police Chief Laurence Hess announce the arrests of defendant
Sabrina Ansari (23 YOA) of Collindale, Pennsylvania and defendant
Diana Seigel (53 YOA) of Belle Mead, New Jersey. Defendant Ansari and
defendant Seigel were both charged with engaging in prostitution a
disorderly persons offense out of the Raritan Borough Municipal Court.
Prosecutor Forrest states on October 24, 2008, members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
made calls to listings posted on the popular website “Craigslist” for
erotic services. Both defendant Ansari and defendant Seigel agreed to
meet with undercover detectives at separate times at a local motel.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Ansari and defendant Seigel
propositioned the undercover detectives for sexual acts in exchange
for U.S. currency. After the undercover detectives were propositioned,
members of the Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force entered the
motel room and placed defendant Ansari and defendant Seigel under
arrest.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Ansari and defendant Seigel
were transported to the Raritan Borough Police Department, where they
were processed and released on their own recognizance.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of the Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
SUSPECT INVOLVED IN FRANKLIN ARMED ROBBERY SURRENDERS TO POLICE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announced today that defendant
Todd Smith, 18, of Coventry Lane, Franklin Township surrendered today
to detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad. Defendant Smith was wanted for his involvement in a home
invasion / armed robbery that occurred on September 13, 2008 in
Franklin Township.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Saturday, September 13, 2008, the
victim reported to police that she was accosted at gunpoint by three
masked men while standing outside her Village Drive, Franklin Township
residence at approximately 2:00 a.m. The men forced her inside, kept
her at gunpoint and proceeded to ransack her Franklin Township
residence. The victim reported to police that money, a bank card, a
paycheck and her New Jersey driver’s license were stolen by the men.
During the course of the past month, detectives from both the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin
Township Police Department have interviewed numerous people and
suspects were developed as a result of the investigation.
On October 21, 2008 defendant Gregory was arrested by detectives and
charges were filed relating to the incident. He was charged with first
degree Armed Robbery, second degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, and
third degree Terroristic Threats and lodged in the Somerset County
Jail. Bail was set at $100,000.00 cash only.
As a result of the investigation by Detectives from both the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office and the Franklin Township Police
Department, defendant James Mason, age 20, of Commons Way, Franklin
Township and defendant Todd Smith, age 18, of Coventry Lane, Franklin
Township were also charged with first degree Armed Robbery, second
degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, and third degree Terroristic
Threats. On October 22, 2008 detectives responded to the Middlesex
County Corrections Center and served defendant Mason with his Criminal
Complaint. Defendant Mason was lodged in the Middlesex County Jail for
an unrelated criminal offense. Bail was set at $100,000.00 cash only
for the charges pending in Somerset County.
On October 23, 2008 during the on-going investigation detectives were
able to ascertain that the weapon utilized in this robbery was located
in defendant Mason’s residence, of Common’s Way, Franklin Township.
Detectives were granted consent to retrieve the weapon which was
located in a bedroom inside the residence. Upon inspecting the weapon
detectives concluded that the weapon utilized in the robbery was an
imitation replica handgun. The weapon looked and weighed the same as a
real handgun.
Detectives from the Major Crimes Squad had been in contact with an
attorney representing defendant Smith. Defendant Smith turned himself
in with his attorney present at 11:30 am on October 24, 2008 to
detectives from the Major Crimes Squad at the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office. Defendant Smith’s bail was set at $100,000.00
cash only and he was lodged at the Somerset County Jail in default of
bail.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick state that anyone having
information regarding the home invasion / armed robbery is asked to
call the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad
908-231-7100, the Franklin Township Police Department detective bureau
at 732-873-5533 or anonymously by calling the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers Tips line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “Tips Hotline”. All calls are 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.
MISSING WOMAN FOUND DEAD
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Acting
Bound Brook Chief of Police Thomas White announced that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, in
conjunction with detectives from the Bound Brook Police Department,
the Bridgewater Township Police Department, the New Jersey State
Police Missing Persons Unit, the New Jersey State Police Cadaver K-9
“Kid”, and the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office Tracking K-9 “Boone”
conducted another search today beginning at 7:00 a.m. for Michele
Clifford, 51, of Hardy Avenue, Bound Brook, New Jersey. Detectives
concentrated the search in the wooded area along Route 28 and Route
287 along the Bridgewater Township and Bound Brook border.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 12:22 p.m. the New
Jersey State Police Cadaver K-9 “Kid” located the body of Michele
Clifford in a wooded area off of Route 287 north and Route 28,
Bridgewater Township, New Jersey. Detectives are continuing the
investigation; however initial investigation reveals no apparent signs
of foul play. The Office of the Regional Medical Examiner located in
Newark, New Jersey responded to the scene and the body was released to
them pending an autopsy for cause and manner of death.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on October 7, 2008 Bound Brook Police
was notified by a relative indicating that Michele Clifford could not
be located and all attempts to contact her were unsuccessful. The
relative indicated to police that the last contact with Michele
occurred on October 3, 2008 via a phone conversation.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on October 16, 2008 at approximately 2:30
a.m., Bridgewater Police located Michele Clifford’s vehicle, a 2006
green Hyundai Elantra, 4 door, abandoned in a parking lot in the
vicinity of the McDonald’s located in the Bridgewater Promenade along
Route 28. Police then began searches of the area, while at the same
time continued with other investigative efforts attempting to locate
Ms. Clifford.
Prosecutor Forrest and Acting Chief White request anyone with
information regarding this investigation to contact the Bound Brook
Police Department at 732-356-0800, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at 908-231-7100, or the New Jersey State Police Missing Persons
Unit at 609-882-2000 ext. 2929, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’
Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”.
All calls are confidential.
Back
OCTOBER 22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
THREE MEN CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH FRANKLIN
ARMED ROBBERY
Todd Smith (click on image to enlarge)
SOMERVILLE- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announced today that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad in
conjunction with detectives from the Franklin Township Police
Department have charged Andre Gregory, 18, of Franklin Township and
two others for a home invasion robbery that occurred on September 13,
2008.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Saturday, September 13, 2008, the
victim reported to police that she was accosted at gunpoint by three
masked men while standing outside her Village Drive, Franklin Township
residence at approximately 2:00 a.m. The men forced her inside, kept
her at gunpoint and proceeded to ransack her Franklin Township
residence. The victim reported to police that money, a bank card, a
paycheck and her New Jersey driver’s license were stolen by the men.
During the course of the past month, detectives from both the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin
Township Police Department have interviewed numerous people and
suspects were developed as a result of the investigation.
On October 21, 2008 defendant Gregory was arrested by detectives and
charges were filed relating to the incident. He was charged with first
degree Armed Robbery, second degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, and
third degree Terroristic Threats and lodged in the Somerset County
Jail. Bail was set at $100,000.00 cash only.
As a result of the investigation by Detectives from both the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office and the Franklin Township Police
Department, James Mason, age 20, of Commons Way, Franklin Township and
Todd Smith, age 18, of Coventry Lane, Franklin Township were also
charged with first degree Armed Robbery, second degree Conspiracy to
Commit Robbery, and third degree Terroristic Threats. On October 22,
2008 detectives responded to the Middlesex County Corrections Center
and served defendant Mason with his Criminal Complaint. Defendant
Mason was lodged in the Middlesex County Jail for an unrelated
criminal offense. Bail was set at $100,000.00 cash only for the
charges pending in Somerset County.
Detectives have been unable to locate defendant Todd Smith and are
actively pursuing any leads in locating and apprehending Smith.
Defendant Todd Smith is 18 years old, 5’10”, 160 lbs. Prosecutor
Forrest and Chief Novick state that anyone having information
regarding defendant Smith’s location is asked to call the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad 908-231-7100, the
Franklin Township Police Department detective bureau at 732-873-5533
or anonymously by calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line
at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “Tips Hotline”.
All calls are 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.
MISSING PERSON
Michele Clifford
(Click on image to enlarge)
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Acting Bound Brook Chief of Police Thomas White announced that
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad, in conjunction with detectives from the Bound Brook Police
Department and the New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit are
actively investigating the disappearance of Michele Clifford, 51, of
Hardy Avenue, Bound Brook, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on October 7, 2008 Bound Brook Police
was notified by a relative indicating that Michele Clifford could not
be located and all attempts to contact her were unsuccessful. The
relative indicated to police that the last contact with Michele
occurred on October 3, 2008 via a phone conversation. All attempts to
locate Michele Clifford have been unsuccessful. Michele Clifford is 51
years old, 5’2”, 115 pounds, green eyes, blond hair, with fair
complexion.
Prosecutor Forrest and Acting Chief White request anyone with
information to contact the Bound Brook Police Department at
732-356-0800, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100,
or the New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit at 609-882-2000
ext. 2929, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are
confidential.
Back
OCTOBER 17, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
FORMER BOOKKEEPER ARRESTED FOR STEALING FUNDS
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest along with
Chief Dennis Manning of the Somerville Police Department announce the
arrest of Alexandra Chavarriaga (DOB: 08-18-1975) of Jackson Avenue,
North Plainfield, New Jersey. Defendant Chavarriaga was arrested and
charged with: Use of a Fraudulently Obtained Credit Card, 3rd Degree;
Uttering a Forged Writing, 3rd Degree; and Theft by Deception, 3rd
Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that an investigation conducted by the
Somerville Police Department Detective Bureau and the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Special Investigations Unit revealed that defendant
Chavarriaga had been stealing funds from her employer while she was
employed as a part-time bookkeeper for the Ross Public Affairs Group
located in Somerville, New Jersey. Defendant Chavarriaga had been
hired through an online employment agency, www.Gevity.com and was
employed by the company from June 26, 2006 to December 5, 2007. Her
responsibilities as bookkeeper included managing the business’
American Express credit card and paying bills by issuing checks.
Towards the end of her employment, defendant Chavarriaga was resisting
providing the owner of the company with copies of the credit card
bills. Eventually she was terminated from Ross Public Affairs Group
due to her failure to come to work.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that subsequent to defendant Chavarriaga’s
termination, the company’s owner discovered that defendant Chavarriaga
had obtained her own American Express credit card under the business
account, which was not authorized. Between October 24, 2007 and
December 31, 2007, defendant Chavarriaga made numerous purchases with
the unauthorized American Express credit card totaling $15,555.16.
Further investigation into the matter revealed that three of the
company’s checks were fraudulently issued in amounts totaling
$20,440.93. Two of the checks were purportedly signed by the owner of
the company’s wife. The first check dated 7/11/2008 for $9,500.00 and
the second check dated 7/21/2008 for $6,555.00 were both made out to
the name “Carmel.”
Prosecutor Forrest stated with the assistance of the Carmel California
Police Department it was determined that the Carmel Doll Shop had sold
and shipped a number of antique dolls and accessories to whom they
believed to be the owner of Ross Public Affairs Group’s wife. The doll
shop had shipped the items before they discovered the checks were
fraudulent. The Carmel California Police Department sent information
that revealed that one of the shipments went to P.O. Box 226 in
Somerville, and the other to P.O. Box 154 in South Plainfield.
According to www.Gevity.com defendant Chavarriaga’s address was listed
as P.O. Box 154 in South Plainfield, and Jackson Avenue, North
Plainfield, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the third check was dated 7/11/08,
payable to Alice McGahuey for $4,385.93, with the purported signature
of the owner of Ross Public Affairs Group’s wife. Contact with Ms.
McGahuey revealed that the check was used to purchase antique jewelry
from her business, Monique’s Antiques, and that she shipped the items
to P.O. Box 226 in Somerville.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation discovered that
defendant Chavarriaga had opened the Somerville P.O. Box, 226. The
application included her New Jersey driver’s license number. The P.O.
Box 226 in Somerville is now closed with a forwarding address of P.O.
Box 154 in South Plainfield. The postal records for P.O. Box 154 in
South Plainfield reveal that defendant Alexandra Chavarriaga opened
that P.O. Box. The application lists her address as Jackson Avenue in
North Plainfield.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that further investigation revealed nine
checks from various accounts of the Ross Financial Group from various
financial institutions totaling $18,740.42 were deposited into
defendant Chavarriaga’s Bank account. Ross Public Affairs Group did
not issue any checks to defendant Chavarriaga. In fact, defendant
Chavarriaga was paid by the online agency, www.Gevity.com and not the
Ross Public Affairs Group. The money in defendant Chavarriaga’s
account constitutes proceeds of criminal activity and, as such, is
subject to seizure pursuant to State forfeiture laws. The Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office filed a Freeze Order on all bank accounts
in defendant Chavarriaga’s name in order to conduct a financial
analysis of the accounts.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that a Court authorized Search Warrant was
executed upon defendant Chavarriaga’s residence this morning and she
was ultimately taken into custody by detectives from the Somerville
Police Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office pursuant
to a warrant issued for her arrest. Defendant Chavarriaga is currently
logged at the Somerset County Jail with bail set at $20,000.00 with a
10% option by the Honorable Edward M. Coleman, P.J.Cr.
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.
BLOOD’S STREET GANG MEMBER ARRESTED
Thompson (Click on image to enlarge)
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce the arrest of Amaad
Thompson a/k/a “Fat-Boy” (D.O.B. 02/21/1989) of Millstone Road,
Somerset, New Jersey and Derek Dixon (D.O.B. 09/08/1971) of Gerard
Avenue, Somerset, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on October 16, 2008 members of the
Somerset County Gangs and Guns Task Force and the Franklin Township
Crime Suppression Unit observed Amaad Thompson meet with Derek Dixon
outside of the A&G Deli on Millstone Road in Franklin Township,
Somerset County. Detectives observed Amaad Thompson sell crack cocaine
to Dixon. As the transaction occurred, detectives approached both
Dixon and Thompson and recovered two baggies of crack cocaine that
Dixon attempted to discard. Both Thompson and Dixon were placed under
arrest. A second group of detectives simultaneously executed a
Superior Court Search Warrant at defendant Thompson’s residence. Upon
entry into the residence, two full-grown pit bull dogs were located in
a bedroom used by defendant Thompson. As the detectives made their
entry, one of the pit bulls lunged at a Franklin police detective, at
which time the pit-bull was shot and killed. The Franklin Township
Animal Control Officer took two other pit bulls from the residence
after the scene was secure.
Upon searching the residence, detectives located a Smith and Wesson
.357 magnum revolver and a Llama .45 automatic handgun, ammunition,
and CDS packaging materials.
Defendant Amaad Thompson was identified as a member of the Bounty
Hunter Lot Boys, a subset of the Bloods criminal street gang. The
Bloods are the fastest growing criminal street gangs in New Jersey.
Defendant Amaad Thompson bears a tattoo on his right hand with the
initials B.H.L.B. dripping blood. The pit-bull that was shot was named
C.K., which is a Bloods term for Crip Killer. The Crips are a rival
gang of the Bloods.
Following his arrest, defendant Amaad Thompson was charged with the
following:
Distribution of Cocaine 3rd degree
Distribution within 500 feet of Public Housing 2nd Degree
Possession of a Weapon While Committing a CDS Offense 2nd Degree (two
counts)
Defendant Amaad Thompson’s bail was set at $150,000.00 cash or bond.
Defendant Derek Dixon was charged with the following:
Possession of Cocaine 3rd Degree
Loitering to Obtain CDS D.P.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia D.P.
Dixon was released R.O.R.
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 16, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
GUILTY VERDICT IN ELUDING CASE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that defendant Peter A. Kovi, age 39, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, was
found guilty by a Somerset County jury on October 15, 2008 of Eluding
a Police Officer, 2nd degree following a trial held before Judge
Robert B. Reed that began on October 14, 2008. The defendant faces a
maximum period of incarceration of ten years in a New Jersey State
Prison as a result of the conviction. Defendant was also convicted of
several motor vehicle offenses including Driving While Intoxicated and
proceeding through a red light.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Saturday, May 12, 2007, at
approximately 1:00 a.m. defendant drove passed Officer Joseph M.
Dailey of the Bridgewater Police Department as the officer was
concluding a stop of another vehicle on Route 22 westbound. Defendant
was traveling at an excessive rate of speed with his hazard lights
flashing. The officer obtained a radar reading of 75 miles per hour in
that 55 mile per hour zone. Upon closing the distance to defendant,
the officer activated his overhead lights in an effort to get
defendant to pull over and stop. Defendant continued driving and
proceeded through a red light signal at the Orr Drive intersection.
The officer then activated his siren, however, defendant did not slow
or stop.
The pursuit continued with defendant weaving across the lanes of
travel causing other vehicles on the roadway to take evasive action to
avoid being struck by defendant. Defendant increased his speed as he
proceeded from Bridgewater through Branchburg, and into Readington,
Clinton and Lebanon Borough in Hunterdon County.
During the course of the chase, defendant continued to increase his
speed and a decision was made to terminate the pursuit in Readington
Township. Defendant was clocked on radar as traveling at 98 miles per
hour. Officer Dailey shut off his overhead lights and siren. He then
began to slow his patrol car, but continued to follow defendant from a
greater distance. Upon entering Lebanon Borough, the officer observed
defendant strike a jeep from behind on the right hand portion of the
highway. This caused the jeep to spin across the highway, roll over
and come to rest in the center grass median of the roadway. The driver
of the jeep required surgery to treat his injuries.
Defendant was also injured as a result of his vehicle striking a pole
and curb and also rolling over. Defendant was ejected from the vehicle
due to his failure to wear his seatbelt. Defendant was air lifted to
Morristown Memorial Hospital where he was treated for various
lacerations and dental injuries. Subsequent laboratory testing by the
New Jersey State Police Laboratory revealed that defendant’s blood
alcohol level was .184%, more than twice the legal limit of .08%.
The sentencing of this defendant will occur in approximately six to
eight weeks following the completion of a pre-sentence investigation
report that will be prepared by the Somerset County Probation
Department.
Assistant Prosecutor Thomas J. Chirichella appeared on behalf of the
State and Roy A. Stevens, Esq. appeared for the defendant.
Back
OCTOBER 15, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
WARREN MEDIATOR ARRESTED BY SWAT TEAM AND POLICE
Jonathan Linden
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Warren
Township Police Chief Russell Leffert announced today that Jonathan
Linden (age 52) was arrested last evening. Defendant Linden was
charged with two counts of Terroristic Threats, (3rd degree) and one
count of Possession of a Firearm for Unlawful Purpose (2nd degree)
stemming from domestic disturbances which occurred on Monday, October
13, 2008 and also last evening, October 14, 2008, at 17 Olsen Drive,
Warren Township, Somerset County.
Prosecutor Forrest said on October 14th, 2008 at approximately 6:50
pm, Warren Township police received a call reporting a domestic
disturbance between defendant Linden and a female victim, C.P. (age
53), with whom he cohabitates. The caller also indicated defendant
Linden was possibly armed with a handgun.
Prosecutor Forrest said the Warren Township police, along with
approximately 25 members of the Somerset County SWAT Team and Crisis
Negotiators, responded to the residence which is located in a quiet,
affluent neighborhood.
Prosecutor Forrest said after having already set up a perimeter around
the home, police and SWAT Team members arrested defendant Linden who
emerged a short time later from the rear of the residence with two
dogs.
Prosecutor Forrest said the victim was later interviewed by police at
which time she reported defendant Linden had threatened to kill her,
adding that he had acted in a similar manner on October 13th, 2008, at
their home by wielding a handgun.
Prosecutor Forrest said police subsequently recovered six handguns and
two shotguns from the residence, one of which, a loaded Browning 9mm,
was described by the victim as having been brandished by defendant
Linden during the incident on the night of October 13, 2008. In
addition, police located what is believed to be a gun shot through the
master bedroom floor as reported by the victim from a prior incident.
Prosecutor Forrest stated defendant Linden, a divorce and
civil/commercial mediator, was then arrested and charged with two
counts of Terroristic Threats (3rd degree) and one count of Possession
of a Firearm for Unlawful Purpose (2nd degree) and was subsequently
transported 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.
OCEAN COUNTY MAN ARRESTED FOR BURGLARIES AFTER FLEEING FROM POLICE IN
WATCHUNG
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Watchung
Borough Police Chief Sean Whelan announce the arrest of William T.
Dolan III (age 35) of Primrose Lane, Bricktown, New Jersey. Defendant
William T. Dolan III has been charged with six counts of Burglary, 3rd
degree; three counts of Theft, 3rd degree and Resisting Arrest, 4th
degree (a disorderly persons offense).
On October 14, 2008 the Watchung Police Department responded to the
area of Hillcrest Road, Watchung, New Jersey to investigate the report
of a suspicious male asking for directions. As Watchung Police
Officers approached defendant Dolan, he immediately fled and a foot
pursuit ensued. During the foot pursuit, defendant Dolan was given
numerous commands by police to stop. Defendant Dolan refused officers
commands while running into a wooded area. Officers observed defendant
Dolan drop a backpack while running in this area. The Watchung Police
Department contacted the Somerset County Burglary Task Force, Warren
Police Department, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit
and Berkeley Heights Police Department to assist in locating defendant
Dolan. A short time later, defendant Dolan was observed in a garage on
Ellison Road, Watchung. At this time defendant was observed by a
resident entering a motor vehicle located in the garage. Defendant
Dolan again fled on foot and was subsequently arrested on Wolford
Court, Watchung.
The investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Burglary Task Force and the Watchung Police Department, revealed that
defendant Dolan was involved in numerous burglaries throughout
Somerset County. On October 14, 2008, defendant Dolan burglarized a
residence on Ridge Road in Watchung. At that time, he stole a change
container and jewelry. Subsequently, the change container was found
inside a backpack recovered by police. Jewelry was also recovered in
area of defendant Dolan’s arrest. This investigation further revealed
defendant Dolan committed two burglaries on July 2, 2008 on Old
Somerset Road and Gallowae Drive, Watchung. At the Old Somerset Road
residence, defendant Dolan stole a briefcase containing $4,245.00 from
a vehicle parked inside the garage. On Gallowae Drive, defendant Dolan
stole a purse from a vehicle parked on the street. The purse and
contents were valued at $44.00. On June 19, 2007 defendant Dolan
burglarized another vehicle on Kapplemann Drive in Green Brook. The
vehicle was parked in the garage of a residence in which defendant
Dolan stole a purse containing $400.00. The purse, cash and its
contents were valued at $1,250.00.
Defendant Dolan was placed in the Somerset County Jail with bail set
at $30,000.00 cash only by the Honorable Fred H. Kumpf, 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.
MONTGOMERY
TOWNSHIP STABBING SUSPECT INDICTED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that a Somerset County Grand Jury has returned an indictment stemming
from a stabbing incident which occurred at approximately 7:40 p.m. on
Sunday, September 14, 2008 at 61 Camp Meeting Road in the Skillman
section of Montgomery Township, New Jersey. Nicholas Ortiz Espinoza,
40 years of age, was indicted by the Grand Jury on charges of
Attempted Murder, first degree; Aggravated Assault, third degree and
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, third degree .
In this incident, the Somerset County 911 Communications received a
call from a Montgomery Township resident informing them that a
roommate identified as Artemio Medina, age 43, had been stabbed with a
broken beer bottle in the course of an argument and was bleeding
profusely. Montgomery Township Police responded to the 911 call and
upon their arrival discovered Medina lying down on the patio in the
rear of the residence. Upon their assessment of Medina, officers
observed that as a result of the attack it had effectively
disemboweled Medina. Medina was Medevaced to Robert Wood Johnson
University Hospital, New Brunswick for treatment. Medina was rushed
into surgery in critical condition. After several weeks recovering
from surgery, Medina was released from the hospital. Another
individual, David Cruz, was injured during this incident when he
stepped between the attacker and Artemio Medina. Cruz was cut by the
attacker with the beer bottle and received an injury to his hand.
During the investigation, detectives identified defendant Nicholas
Ortiz Espinoza, who is another roommate, as the suspect that stabbed
Medina. Defendant Espinoza fled the scene in a landscaping work truck
with a trailer. The vehicle was located in Princeton Borough in the
McLean Street parking lot by the Princeton Borough Police Department
shortly after the incident. A canvas of the area resulted in negative
results for the location of defendant Espinoza. Defendant Espinoza
remains a fugitive in this matter.
Prosecutor Forrest and Montgomery Township Police Director, Captain
Robert Palmer, request anyone with information to contact the
Montgomery Township Police Department at 908-359-3222, or 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 or www.scopo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
On September 16, 2008 Crime Stoppers of Somerset County announced a
reward of $500.00 for information leading to the arrest and conviction
of defendant Espinoza.
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
OCTOBER 10, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
HOMICIDE DEFENDANT SENTENCED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that Kevin L. Robinson, age 26, of Hamilton Street, New Brunswick was
sentenced today for the stabbing death of Keenan Sanders, age 20, of
Franklin Township (Somerset), New Jersey. Defendant Robinson was
charged with Murder, First Degree and Possession of a Weapon for an
Unlawful Purpose, Third Degree, in the two-count indictment that was
returned by a Somerset County Grand Jury on October 18, 2007.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that these charges were the result of events
that occurred on July 12, 2007 at approximately 11:22 p.m. Franklin
Township Police responded at that time to the 100 block of Churchill
Avenue on a report of a man being stabbed. Upon arrival police
discovered Mr. Sanders lying motionless in a pool of blood with no
vital signs. Medics from the Franklin-Somerset First Aid Squad and
from Robert Wood Johnson MR1 arrived on scene and confirmed there were
no vital signs. Mr. Sanders was pronounced dead, via telemetry, by
Robert Wood Johnson Hospital at 11:43 p.m. that evening. The defendant
had fled the scene and became a fugitive.
Detectives from Franklin Township Police Department, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Prosecutor’s
Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit handled the
investigation.
On July 22, 2007 defendant surrendered himself to the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office with the assistance of DeForest B. Soaries, Jr.,
Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Lincoln Gardens, Franklin
Township.
Defendant was found guilty on August 12, 2008 of all charges contained
in the indictment following a six day trial. On October 10, 2008 the
court sentenced defendant to
fifty years in the New Jersey State Prison with 85% of that time to be
served before defendant is eligible for parole.
Back
OCTOBER 6, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
“Operation Dirty Laundry”
Marquez
MONRROY
Bueno
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Borough Chief of Police William Parenti announce that a
four- month investigation designated “Operation Dirty Laundry”
culminated with twenty-five (25) defendants being charged with various
drug offenses, and the seizure of more than one kilogram
(approximately 2¼ pounds) of cocaine, approximately $50,000.00 in U.S.
Currency, a 1995 Toyota Avalon, a 2000 Nissan Maxima, and a 1998
Cadillac Catera. This drug seizure is the largest single drug seizure
in more than the past fifteen years in Somerset County by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force.
The Operation designated “Dirty Laundry” targeted the cocaine
distribution activity of three main targets – German Marquez (dob:
6/04/1983), Jose Santos Monrroy Galdamez (dob: 12/12/1958), and
Maximino Bueno (dob: 2/13/1976) – in and around the North Plainfield
area. The Operation was designated “Operation Dirty Laundry” because
defendants Marquez and Galdamez engaged in the cocaine distribution
activity in numerous different laundromats. In addition, at the time
of their arrest, approximately 810 grams (almost two pounds) of
cocaine, set aside for distribution, was discovered inside a lockbox
hidden in a laundry bag filled with soiled clothing. Defendant
Marquez, formerly of West Front Street, Plainfield was the original
target of the operation after the police received intelligence
information that he sold cocaine in North Plainfield. Detectives from
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics
Task Force and the North Plainfield Police Department, with assistance
from the Bound Brook Police Department, were able to introduce an
undercover Bound Brook Police Officer to defendant Marquez. Defendant
Marquez subsequently sold a total of over three and one half ounces of
cocaine to the undercover officer over four separate days. The
investigation revealed that defendant Marquez sold cocaine to a large
number of customers in Somerset County and in Union County. As the
investigation progressed, the Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
discovered that defendant Marquez was supplied with cocaine by
defendant Galdamez, aka Tito, formerly of Saint Mary’s Avenue,
Plainfield, who, the Task Force learned, also sold cocaine to other
customers in Somerset and Union counties. By the conclusion of the
investigation, defendant Galdamez’ cocaine supplier was identified as
defendant Bueno, formerly of Park Avenue, Plainfield.
On October 3, 2008, Task Force detectives, with the assistance of
officers from the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department and several
local municipalities, planned to execute superior court search
warrants on five separate residences, associated with defendants
Marquez’, Galdamez’ and Bueno’s cocaine distribution operation, and
three vehicles. As the detectives prepared to execute the warrants,
the detectives observed defendant Alba Payan (dob: 3/11/1980),
formerly of East 9th Street, Plainfield, an accomplice of defendant
Bueno, remove a laundry bag, appearing to be filled with dirty
laundry, from defendant Bueno’s residence. The Task Force subsequently
discovered a lockbox hidden among a pile of dirty laundry within the
laundry bag. Inside the lockbox, detectives discovered approximately
two (2) pounds (more than 800 grams) of high-grade cocaine and
approximately 500 grams of a cutting agent. The street value of that
cocaine is estimated to be approximately $75,000.00.
The execution of the search warrants yielded additional contraband. At
1219 North Avenue, the residence of accomplice defendant Oscar
Bonilla, (dob: 6/14/1976), the stash-house used by defendant Galdamez,
police discovered approximately two ounces of cocaine and drug
packaging paraphernalia, including cutting agents, and a “kilo”
compressor – a tool used to compress large amounts of cocaine into
kilogram bricks for distribution. At defendant Marquez’ residence,
police discovered additional drug packaging paraphernalia. In the
vehicles used by defendants Marquez and Galdamez, police discovered
additional cocaine. Upon searching a storeroom leased to defendant
Bueno, located in the rear area of a Western Union office, at 114
North Avenue, Plainfield, detectives discovered approximately
$47,000.00 in U.S. currency, in a safe located directly next to
narcotics distribution paraphernalia, including a cocaine “kilo”
compressor. The total amount of cocaine seized in this investigation
exceeds one kilogram (2¼ pounds).
Following the execution of the search warrants, Task Force detectives
arrested defendants Bueno, Galdamez, Payan, Bonilla, and Jacqueline
Cardona (dob: 9/18/1969), formerly of Jackson Avenue, North
Plainfield, and an accomplice of defendant Marquez. Defendant Marquez
was arrested on Friday by detectives after the completion of an
undercover cocaine buy which occurred at approximately 10:45 A.M. on
October 3. Defendant Bueno was charged with 1st degree Possession with
Intent to Distribute Cocaine. Defendants Marquez and Galdamez were
charged with 2nd degree Distribution of Cocaine, 2nd degree Conspiracy
to Distribute CDS, and 3rd degree Possession of Cocaine. Defendant
Galdamez was charged with an additional 2nd degree Possession with
Intent to Distribute Cocaine. Defendant Bonilla was charged with 2nd
degree Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. Defendant Payan
was charged with 3rd degree Attempt to Distribute CDS, and defendant
Cardona was charged with 3rd degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS. The
Honorable Anthony F. Picheca, Jr., J.S.C., set bail for defendant
Bueno at $200,000.00 cash only (no 10%), and for defendants Galdamez,
Marquez, and Bonilla at $100,000.00 cash only (no 10%). Bail was set
at $20,000.00 cash or bond for defendant Cardona. Defendant Payan was
released upon her own recognizance.
The following defendants were charged with 3rd degree attempt to
possess CDS and 3rd degree conspiracy to possess CDS for buying
cocaine from defendants Marquez or Galdamez during this investigation:
Jose Almeida, Wright St., Iselin, NJ, dob: 1/23/1964
Alberto Alvarenga, Leland Avenue, Plainfield, NJ, dob: 5/8/1980
Elvin Arriago, Duer Street, North Plainfield, NJ, dob: 4/14/1982
Ismel Arriaga-Miranda, Watchung Ave., North Plainfield, NJ, dob:
3/26/1978
Walter DiDonato, E. Springbrook Dr., Gillette, NJ, dob: 3/20/1953
Neil Gary, Second Street., Dunellen, NJ, dob: 3/16/1970
Rudy Hidalgo, Summit Ave., North Plainfield, NJ, dob: 5/29/1970
James Hoelzel, Taylors Mill Rd., Lebanon, NJ, dob: 5/21/1961
Gustavo Javier Antunez, Dumont St., Far Hills, NJ, dob: 4/17/1979
Jose Rivera, Bound Brook Road, Dunellen, NJ, dob: 6/8/1966
Juan C. Rodriguez, West 5th St. Plainfield, NJ, dob: 1/23/1987
Marco Serrano-Umana, Broad St., Summit, NJ, dob: 8/01/1964
Joanna Soler, Sycamore St., North Plainfield, NJ, dob: 1/1/1980
Peter Tevis, Byrd Ave., Scotch Plains, NJ, dob: 11/16/1965
Santiago Torres, Sycamore St., North Plainfield, NJ, dob: 11/27/1946
Mario Valencia, Lincoln Blvd, Middlesex, NJ. dob: 11/17/1985
Michael Woerner, Mountainview Ln., Warren, NJ, dob: 5/2/1963
Mexican Doe
In addition, Hugo Lima, lka: Duer St., North Plainfield, NJ, dob:
11/18/1965, was charged with 3rd degree Conspiracy to Distribute CDS.
In addition, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force arrested the following individuals on October
6, 2008:
Joseph Benson, dob: 12/12/1908 – Violation of Probation warrant
Edward Hester, dob: 4/24/1949 – Failure to Appear warrant for 3rd
degree Attempt to Possess Cocaine
Joshua Holt dob: 8/18/1982 – Violation of Probation warrant
Stuart Simpson, dob: 6/11/1961 – Failure to Appear warrant for 3rd
degree Theft charge
The following police agencies assisted the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office with this Operation: the North Plainfield Police
Department, the Bound Brook Police Department, the Bridgewater Police
Department, the Manville Police Department K9 Unit, the Hillsborough
Police Department K9 Unit, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department K9
Unit, the Somerset County Sheriff’s Department ID Unit, and the
Plainfield 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
October 2, 2008
News Release
INDICTMENTS RETURNED IN ROBBERIES AT THE BRIDGEWATER COMMONS MALL
Somerville – Prosecutor Forrest announces that the Somerset County
Grand Jury has returned an indictment charging defendant Kenneth A.
Gordon and defendant Frankey Lewis-Gomez with Robbery and Employing a
Juvenile in the Commission of an Offense. Gordon, 19, who resided on
Warren Street in Somerville at the time of the incident, was indicted
on charges of Robbery, Second Degree (2 counts), and Employing a
Juvenile in the Commission of a Criminal Offense, First Degree.
Defendant Lewis-Gomez, 21, who resided on Hamilton Street in
Somerville at the time of the incident, was indicted on charges of
Robbery, First Degree, Robbery Second Degree, Employing a Juvenile in
the Commission of an Offense, First Degree, and Possession of a Weapon
for an Unlawful Purpose, Third Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest states that the indictment alleges that the
defendants, in concert with two juveniles, surrounded victims at the
Bridgewater Commons Mall on August 29, 2008 demanding money from the
victims. In one incident, the defendants Gomez and Gordon, along with
two juveniles, demanded money from a victim and his friend at which
time defendant Gomez pointed a knife at the victim. The victim turned
over approximately $2.00 in quarters he had in his pocket.
Subsequently, the defendants and the two juveniles approached a second
victim and his friends demanding money from them. No money was turned
over at which point defendant Gordon demanded the earrings worn by one
of the victims. The victim refused to turn over the earrings. Mall
security was summoned. Defendants Gomez, Gordon, and the juveniles
fled the mall. Police were notified. Defendants Gomez and the two
juveniles were apprehended minutes later by the police. Defendant
Gordon was arrested on September 1, 2008. The victims identified
defendant Gomez and the juveniles shortly after their apprehension on
August 29th.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendants Gomez and Gordon are
currently lodged in the Somerset County Jail. The bail for defendant
Gomez is set at $50,000.00 cash or bond by Judge Edward M. Coleman,
P.J.Cr. The bail for Gordon is set at $100,000.00 cash only also set
by Judge Coleman. Defendant Gordon is currently awaiting trial on an
indictment in Somerset County charging him with Eluding, Third Degree,
Resisting Arrest, Fourth Degree, and Receiving Stolen Property, Third
Degree. His bail on that previous indictment was set by the Honorable
Julie M. Marino, J.S.C. in the amount of $10,000.00/10%. Defendant
Gordon had posted that bail and was out on bail when the alleged
offenses were committed at the Bridgewater Commons Mall on August 29,
2008. Defendant Gordon is also charged on complaint with charges of
Burglary, Third Degree, and Theft, Third Degree stemming from an
incident that occurred on August 1, 2008. These charges are currently
pending presentation to the grand jury.
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
SEPTEMBER 30, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
TWO ARRESTED ON ROBBERY CHARGES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bound
Brook Acting Police Chief Thomas White announce the arrest of Ricky
Booker, (D.O.B. 01/05/1989), of Sycamore Avenue, North Plainfield, New
Jersey and Dereke K. Evans Jr., (D.O.B. 04/05/1988), of West Franklin
Street, Bound Brook, New Jersey charging them both with Robbery, 2nd
Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Monday, September 29, 2008 at
approximately 1:31 p.m., the Bound Brook Police Department responded
to a 911 call of a robbery in the area of West Main Street and Drake
Street. Upon patrols arrival, they met with the victim identified as (I.M.),
who stated that two black males had just robbed of a gold chain that
he was wearing around his neck. The victim stated that one of the
males reached for his gold chain and attempted to rip it from his
neck. The victim began to fight back when he was pushed to the ground
by a second suspect. The victim stated that during the altercation he
attempted to call 911 from his cell phone and the second suspect
attempted to take his cell phone. The victim continued to resist the
attack and both suspects fled on foot after successfully removing the
victim’s gold chain. The victim was able to provide the police with a
detailed description of both suspects.
Detectives John Mazuera and Kevin Rivenbark from the Bound Brook
Police Department had been in the area of the robbery just prior to
the 911 call and had observed both defendants hanging out in the area.
Detectives actually stopped and had a conversation with Evans prior to
the robbery. Once detectives responded to the robbery call and upon
speaking with the victim they immediately suspected defendants Booker
and Evans of committing the robbery. Detectives immediately
established surveillance in the area of West Franklin Street and
notified detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad who responded to assist Bound Brook Police Department
with the investigation. Approximately an hour after the robbery at
2:37 p.m., Detective Rivenbark radioed to additional police units that
the defendants were walking on West Franklin Street at which time both
defendants were approached by Detectives Rivenbark and Mazuera and
Bound Brook Patrol Officers. The victim was able to identify both
defendants as the same individuals that robbed him of his gold chain.
Both defendants were placed under arrest and transported to the Bound
Brook Police Department. As a result of a subsequent search incident
to arrest police located the victim’s gold chain inside of defendant
Booker’s jean pocket.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendants Booker and Evans were
charged with Robbery, 2nd Degree, and were lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail to be set.
Prosecutor Forrest and Acting Chief White request anyone with
information to contact the Bound Brook Police Department at
732-356-0800, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line
at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”.
All calls will be kept confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
September 27, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
IRAQ WAR VETERAN SHOT WHILE HOME ON LEAVE
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Police Chief Richard Borden announced today that
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad, and the Bridgewater Township Police Department arrested
defendant Jared J. Armbruster, (D.O.B. 02/22/1982), of Railroad Place,
Bridgewater, New Jersey charging him with Attempted Murder, 1st Degree
and Possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, 2nd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Friday, September 26, 2008 at
approximately 11:28 p.m., Bridgewater Township Police responded to the
area of 3rd Street and Fulton Street, Bridgewater, after receiving
multiple 911 telephone calls advising that gun shots were heard in the
area. When Bridgewater police first arrived they observed spent bullet
casings in the aforementioned area, however the victim had already
been transported to the hospital. Detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Forensic Unit and the Crime Scene Investigations
(CSI) Unit were notified and responded to the crime scene. At
approximately 11:39 p.m. Bridgewater Township Police Department was
notified by Somerset Medical Center that the victim of the shooting as
Lance Corporal Joseph Patishnock, (D.O.B. 09/16/1987), was brought in
to its Emergency Room with a gun shot wound to his abdomen. Police
responded to Somerset Medical Center and as a result of their
investigation located and secured the vehicle in which Patishnock was
driven to hospital in by a family member and friend. Police also
observed what appeared to be a bullet hole on the side of the vehicle.
The vehicle was transported to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Forensics Laboratory for further forensic analysis. As the
investigation continued, detectives were able to identify Jared J.
Armbruster as the shooter from witnesses at the scene at the time of
the shooting.
Following the shooting defendant Armbruster fled from the scene and
was eventually located inside his Railroad Place residence in a
basement bedroom. Defendant Armbruster’s residence is approximately 2
blocks away from where the shooting occurred. A search of the
residence was conducted and a small amount of cocaine, hashish and
drug paraphernalia was located in the basement and seized. Defendant
Armbruster was arrested without incident and transported to the
Bridgewater Police Department.
The victim underwent surgery at Somerset Medical Center and due to the
location of the bullet being close to his spine, the bullet was not
removed. The victim was listed in stable condition following surgery.
At the time of the shooting, police were told that the victim was home
on military leave after serving 2 tours in Iraq with the United States
Marine Corps, and is currently stationed at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Armbruster was charged with
Attempted Murder, 1st Degree, and Possession of a weapon for unlawful
purpose, 2nd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Armruster is currently being
lodge at the Somerset County Jail. Bail was set by the at $100,000.00
cash only by the Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Borden state that the investigation is
continuing and request anyone with information to contact the
Bridgewater Township Police Department at 908-722-4111, 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 or www.scpo.net and click on either
“Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
SEPTEMBER 26, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP MAN FOUND GUILTY OF TWO BANK
ROBBERIES, THREATENING TO SHOOT THE TELLERS
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on Thursday, September 25, 2008, a Somerset County jury found 45
year old Francis Mitchell guilty of robbery in the first degree for
robbing a Bank of America on August 3, 2006 and guilty of robbery in
the second degree for robbing that same bank on September 1, 2006. The
case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Merrill M. Mezzacappa. The
Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C. presided over the trial and Robert
Miseo, Esq. represented defendant.
Prosecutor Forrest states that on the morning of August 3, 2006,
defendant Francis Mitchell entered the Bank of America located at 1229
Route 27 in Somerset. He handed the teller a check and a note that
demanded the bank’s money and that also threatened to shoot if the
teller did not provide it. Upon presentation of the note, the
defendant also gestured at the teller with a gun wrapped in a black,
plastic bag. The teller immediately provided over $3,000.00 in cash.
Defendant fled bank after taking back from the teller the check and
note. Video surveillance of a next-door gas station showed the
perpetrator escaping in a black Hyundai Elantra with distinctive
damage on its hood.
On the morning of September 1, 2006, defendant Mitchell entered the
same Bank of America and again gave the teller a check and note that
demanded money and threatened to shoot. Again the defendant fled the
bank with more than $3,000.00 in currency. This time, however, the
defendant accidentally left behind the check and note. The check was
traced to a closed business account for defendant Francis Mitchell and
it also bore the defendant’s name, which was crossed out with ink at
the top of the check. The teller identified defendant Mitchell as the
perpetrator in a photo display and also identified defendant at trial.
Motor vehicle records revealed the defendant to be the registered
owner of a 2005 black Hyundai Elantra that was identical to the
Hyundai in the August 3, 2006 gas station video. Police located
defendant’s Hyundai and saw that it contained hood damage identical to
the hood damage on the Hyundai in the August 3, 2006 robbery.
The jury deliberated for approximately two days before returning its
guilty verdict on all charges. Defendant, who has a prior history of
criminal activity, faces consecutive prison sentences of 20 years for
the first degree bank robbery and 10 years for the second degree bank
robbery, with the No Early Release Act parole disqualifier to apply to
both offenses.
Back
SEPTEMBER 26, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
STATE CORRECTIONS OFFICER FOUND GUILTY
ON DRUG CHARGES
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that on September 25, 2008, Kevin Scott, age 41, of Plainfield, New
Jersey was found guilty by a Somerset County Jury of possession of a
controlled dangerous substance, third degree after a four-day trial
held before the Honorable Edward M. Coleman, P.J.Cr. The jury
deliberated about nine hours before returning the guilty verdict.
Judge Coleman also found defendant Scott guilty of the related
disorderly persons offense of possession of drug paraphernalia.
Defendant Scott, at the time of his arrest, was a State Corrections
Officer assigned to the Mountainview Youth Correctional Facility.
A co-defendant, Felton Jones, age 39, of Fanwood, New Jersey, pleaded
guilty to possession of a controlled dangerous substance, third
degree, and the related disorderly persons offense of possession of
drug paraphernalia on July 27, 2007, and was sentenced on October 12,
2008 to three years probation.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Bound Brook Police
Department. The New Jersey Department of Corrections Special
Investigations Unit also provided assistance in the trial.
During the late night hours of March 9, 2007, a plain-clothes Bound
Brook patrolman was in the parking lot adjacent to Torpedo’s go-go bar
on Main Street in Bound Brook. He noticed that defendant Jones, who
was seated in the front passenger seat of a car, was snorting cocaine.
When the patrolman approached the passenger side of the car and
identified himself as a police officer, the passenger, defendant
Jones, began to brush the cocaine from his face and shirt. The driver,
defendant Scott, appeared to be holding something in his left hand,
which he then placed between the door and the seat. Eventually
recovered from that location where defendant Scott had placed his hand
was an open wax fold with cocaine. In the center console was a
cigarette box that contained an additional wax fold of cocaine that
matched the other.
Immediately after the verdict, Judge Coleman ordered that defendant
Scott’s position as a State Corrections Officer be forfeited and that
he be forever barred from holding an official position.
Defendant Scott, who faces a maximum sentence of five years in state
prison, was allowed by the court to remain at liberty on his own
recognizance pending sentencing.
Back
SEPTEMBER 25, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
SEVERAL INJURED IN BOUND BROOK FIGHT
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bound
Brook Acting Chief of Police Thomas White announced that a large
street riot took place during the early morning hours of Thursday,
September 25th, 2008 on Talmadge Avenue which required mutual aid from
Somerville Borough, Warren Township, Middlesex Borough, South Bound
Brook and Bridgewater Township police departments to get under
control.
Prosecutor Forrest stated just after 2:00 a.m., two separate groups of
patrons were exiting “Imperial” bar/restaurant located at 200 Talmadge
Avenue at which time they began engaging in an oral argument.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that shortly thereafter, a physical
altercation commenced in the middle of Talmadge Avenue which escalated
into a large scale street fight involving over ten individuals.
Prosecutor Forrest stated several security staff members of the
Imperial bar attempted to intervene, however they were overwhelmed due
to the large crowd involved. Responding patrol units were able to
detain multiple individuals who were later transported to the Bound
Brook Police Department.
Prosecutor Forrest stated one adult male from North Brunswick and
three adult males from New Brunswick had sustained stab wounds in
addition to one male juvenile from Plainfield who suffered a broken
orbit to his eye socket. Victims were transported to Robert Wood
Johnson University Hospital, St. Peters Medical Center and Somerset
Medical Center emergency rooms for treatment.
Prosecutor Forrest stated members of the Bound Brook Police Department
Detective Bureau and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad are actively conducting an investigation attempting to
identify the assailants responsible for the incident.
Anyone having information regarding this incident is asked to call the
Bound Brook Police Department at (732)-356-0800, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at (908) 231-7100 or the
Somerset County Crime Stoppers TIPS Line 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or
online at www.888577TIPS.org or www.scpo.net click on either “Give
Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Tips may be anonymous and all information
is 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(s) is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Back
SEPTEMBER 22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
HILLSBOROUGH MAN SURRENDERS TO POLICE ON CHARGES OF FIRST DEGREE
MARIJUANA GROW
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Township Police Department Chief Paul Kaminsky announce
the arrest of Nicholas A. Tafaro (30 YOA) of Hillsborough Township,
New Jersey on charges of Maintaining a Marijuana Production Facility,
First Degree; Manufacturing Marijuana, First Degree; and Possession of
a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Marijuana) with the Intent to
Distribute, Third Degree.
On September 22, 2008 defendant Nicholas Tafaro surrendered to
authorities at the Hillsborough Police Department. Defendant Tafaro,
who was accompanied by his attorney, surrendered at approximately 2:00
p.m. Defendant Tafaro was processed and placed in the Somerset County
Jail with bail to be set.
The charges against defendant Nicholas Tafaro are a result of an
aerial surveillance conducted by the United States National Guard with
assistance from members of the Hillsborough Police Department. As a
result of this surveillance numerous marijuana plants were observed
growing in the backyard of defendant Tafaro’s at Millstone River Road
residence in Hillsborough.
On August 28, 2008, members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
and Hillsborough Township Police Department obtained consent to search
from the owner of the property. As a result of the consent search,
fifty-one marijuana plants ranging from two feet to five feet tall
were seized in the wooded area behind the residence.
On August 29, 2008, a search warrant was obtained for the on Millstone
River Road residence. Members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and Hillsborough
Police Department executed the search warrant and seized a large
quantity of items utilized for the production of a marijuana indoor
production facility along with approximately two pounds of harvested
marijuana. Indoor grow items seized from the residence consisted of
high- powered lighting systems, cooling and ventilation systems, and
chemical fertilizers. These items were located and seized in the attic
of the residence.
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
September 19, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
HOMICIDE DEFENDANT SENTENCED TO STATE PRISON
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Davis Javier Lopez, age 20, formerly of 303 Tremont Avenue in
North Plainfield, was sentenced today in the Superior Court to serve
twelve (12) years in State Prison under the No Early Release Act (85%
without parole eligibility).
Prosecutor Forrest said defendant Lopez was indicted by the Somerset
County Grand Jury on May 3, 2006, and charged with first degree
Murder, third degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose,
and fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon.
Prosecutor Forrest said that the indictment alleged that defendant
Lopez purposely or knowingly did murder Conrado A. Aguilar, Jr., then
age 17, of South Park Street, Manville, with a knife. The stabbing
occurred around 4:40 p.m. on Tuesday, January 3, 2006 at the corner of
Duer Street and Park Place in North Plainfield.
Prosecutor Forrest said the defendant and victim knew each other but
were not friends. The defendant and victim argued briefly over the
victim’s request for gas money. Shortly thereafter, the victim met
defendant Lopez on the sidewalk along Duer Street. The two began to
playfully wrestle. Defendant Lopez became angry, retrieved a concealed
knife and stabbed the victim multiple times in the face and torso. The
victim died at the scene. The defendant fled on foot.
Prosecutor Forrest said the members of the North Plainfield Police
Department and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office responded to
the scene and conducted an investigation. The police were able to
identify two witnesses who saw the defendant and victim wrestling, but
did not see the stabbing or knife. Defendant Lopez was arrested by
police later that same night. The knife was never recovered.
Prosecutor Forrest said an autopsy conducted by the State Regional
Medical Examiner’s Office revealed that the victim died from a loss of
blood. The autopsy revealed that one stab wound punctured the victim’s
lung, while another stab wound punctured the victim’s heart.
Prosecutor Forrest said on Tuesday, April 3, 2007 the indictment was
tried before the Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C., and a jury in
Somerville. The trial lasted one month during which the defendant
asserted a claim of self-defense. On Thursday, May 3, 2007, Judge Reed
declared a mistrial after the jury indicated that it could not reach a
unanimous verdict.
Prosecutor Forrest said on July 24, 2008, the defendant entered a
guilty plea before Judge Armstrong. The defendant pled guilty to an
amended charge of first degree aggravated manslaughter and the
remaining weapons offenses in exchange for a recommended sentence of
twelve years in State Prison under the No Early Release Act. That law
requires certain felons to serve 85% for their sentence before
becoming eligible for release on parole.
Prosecutor Forrest said Judge Armstrong sentenced the defendant to
serve twelve years in State Prison under the No Early Release Act on
the criminal homicide charge of aggravated manslaughter, along with a
concurrent sentence of five years in State Prison on the weapons
offenses. Judge Armstrong also ordered the defendant to serve five
years of parole supervision after he is released from State Prison.
The State was represented by Assistant Somerset County Prosecutor
Matthew Murphy.
Back
SEPTEMBER 18, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
MAN CHARGED FOR THEFT OF CHARITABLE FUNDS COLLECTED ON SON’S BEHALF
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced the
arrest of Tubal Eduardo (DOB: 02/17/1977) of Fairview Avenue,
Somerville, New Jersey. Defendant Eduardo was arrested for Theft by
Failure to Make a Required Disposition, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that through an investigation conducted by
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit
defendant Eduardo was using charitable funds collected on behalf of
his son for his own benefit.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on March 17, 2007 an accidental fire in
Manville killed Heather Marchie and two of her children. Heather
Marchie’s boyfriend, defendant Eduardo, and a third child of Heather
and defendant Eduardo, Noah, survived. In the succeeding months
donations from the community on behalf of Noah and defendant Eduardo
were collected by the Weston School Parent Teacher Association in
Manville, New Jersey. Those donations were deposited in a bank account
at the Manville Federal Credit Union. On June 27, 2007, the Weston
School Parent Teacher Association closed the account by issuing a
check in the amount of $33,351.24 to Noah and a check in the amount of
$5,000.00 to defendant Tubal Eduardo.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that a court order dated June 12, 2007
entered by Judge Julie Marino, after a hearing at which Tubal Eduardo
and his attorney were present, reads: “Any moneys received for the
benefit of Noah Eduardo shall be placed in a joint guardian account
naming Debra Jean Walters and Tubal Eduardo as co-holders of the
account. No moneys shall be removed from the account without agreement
of the parties and signatures of both of them. The parties agree they
shall act reasonably in the best interest of the minor child.” Debra
Jean Walters is Noah’s grandmother and Heather Marchie’s mother.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the checks issued by the Weston School
Parent Teacher Association were initially held in a safety deposit box
while legal proceedings ensued between Debra Jean Walters and
defendant Eduardo. On September 21, 2007, both checks were turned over
to Abimael Eduardo, defendant Eduardo’s brother, with an apparent
verbal understanding that the account would be managed by Abimael and
Nicole Latch, Noah’s aunt and Heather Marchie’s sister. However, there
was no written account of this understanding.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Abimael Eduardo claims to have been
unaware of the court order establishing how the donated funds were to
be spent and that defendant Tubal Eduardo never mentioned the
existence of the order. Noah’s check was then deposited into a new
money market savings account with defendant Eduardo as the custodian
of the account and defendant Eduardo opening a separate account for
the money he had received. Abimael Eduardo explained to defendant
Eduardo that Noah’s money was not to be used, which was explained to
the bank representative as well, and that Noah’s money needed to be in
an account for Noah’s future. Abimael believed that Noah’s money would
be untouchable until Noah became 18 years old. Defendant Eduardo’s
check was deposited into a new account bearing only his name.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at a Family Court hearing in front of
Judge Robert Reed, in response to questioning by Judge Reed, defendant
Eduardo stated that he used Noah’s money to live off of, pay fines and
buy a car. At this point the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office was
notified with regard to this matter by Judge Reed.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that bank records for Noah’s account
revealed eight transfers to defendant Eduardo’s account, two overdraft
protections to defendant Eduardo’s account, two payments for a credit
card held by defendant Eduardo and eight cash withdrawals by defendant
Eduardo.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the entire amount of charitable
donations collected on Noah’s behalf, who is currently only four years
old, was spent by defendant Eduardo.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Eduardo was arrested by
Somerville Police Department last night for failure to make child
support payments. He was subsequently charged today by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office for Theft by Failure to Make a Required
Disposition, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Eduardo is currently being
lodge at the Somerset County Jail. Bail was set by the at $20,000.00
with a 10% option.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Back
SEPTEMBER 17, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
DISBARRED ATTORNEY ARRESTED FOR
MISAPPLICATION OF ENTRUSTED PROPERTY
SOMERVILLE – Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces the arrest of Azama
Aliya Bilqiys a/k/a Yvette H. Worth (DOB: 10/8/50), charged with
Misapplication of Entrusted Property, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that an investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit
revealed that on October 3, 2003, defendant Bilqiys, acting in her
capacity as a lawyer, created a contract for sale in which she
represented both the buyers and seller of a residence located in
Orange, New Jersey. The property was never listed with a real estate
agent. The closing took place on November 17, 2003 and the purchase
price of the home was $105,000.00. At the time of these incidents
defendant Bilqiys’ office was located at 90 Washington Valley Road,
Bedminster, New Jersey 07921.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation further revealed that
following the closing, defendant Bilqiys retained $5,791.42 in her
Independence Bank attorney trust account on behalf of the buyer.
Defendant Bilqiys’ account records revealed that from May 5, 2004 to
December 6, 2004 she issued $4,724.00 to herself for personal use,
$710.00 to the Essex County Registrar, and $200.00 to the Superior
Court of New Jersey for unrelated legal matters.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on May 9, 2005, the purchaser of the
home filed a grievance letter against defendant Bilqiys with the New
Jersey Office of Attorney Ethics. In a check dated May 12, 2005
defendant Bilqiys distributed a $5,300.00 check from her Independence
Bank Attorney Trust Account to the purchaser’s new attorney. On May
13, 2005, three deposits were made totaling $5,143.93 into defendant
Bilqiys Attorney Trust Account. The account balance was $5,301.35. On
June 14, 2005, a fourth deposit of $490.07 was made into the account.
Defendant Bilqiys then issued a second $491.42 check on June 6, 2005
directly to the purchaser.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that due to defendant Bilqiys’ actions she
was disbarred by the New Jersey Supreme Court on June 19, 2007 for
numerous violations of the New Jersey Rules of Professional Conduct.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that numerous attempts to contact and locate
defendant Bilqiys were made by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Special Investigations Unit but were unsuccessful. A check of
the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicle database has Bilqyis’
address listed as 90 Washington Valley Road, Bedminster, New Jersey.
This address is a HQ Global business address and not defendant
Bilqiys’ permanent residence. On September 3, 2008 a warrant was
issued for defendant Bilquiys’ arrest.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Bilqiys turned herself in
today to detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
without incident. Bail was set by the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong,
J.S.C. at $50,000.00 cash with no 10% option. Defendant Bilqiys is
currently being lodged at the Somerset County Jail.
NOTE:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven
guilty.
Back
SEPTEMBER 16, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
CRIME STOPPERS OFFERS REWARD
IN MONTGOMERY STABBING
Nicolas Ortiz Espinoza
Click to enlarge image
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Montgomery Police Director, Captain Robert Palmer state that the
investigation into a stabbing incident which occurred at approximately
7:40 p.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2008 at 61 Camp Meeting Road in the
Skillman section of Montgomery Township, New Jersey is continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of
$500.00 for information that leads to the arrest of Nicolas Ortiz
Espinoza, age 40, a suspect in the stabbing.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Somerset County 911 Communications
received a call from a Montgomery Township resident informing them
that a roommate identified as Artemio Medina, age 43, had been stabbed
with a broken beer bottle in the course of an argument and was
bleeding profusely. Montgomery Township Police responded to the 911
call and upon their arrival discovered Medina lying down on the patio
in the rear of the residence. Upon their assessment of Medina,
officers observed that as a result of the attack it had effectively
disemboweled Medina. Medina was Medevaced to Robert Wood Johnson
University Hospital, New Brunswick.
Detectives identified Nicolas Ortiz Espinoza, who is another roommate,
as the suspect that stabbed Medina. Defendant Espinoza fled the scene
in a landscaping work truck with a trailer.
Prosecutor Forrest, Police Director, Captain Robert Palmer and Crime
Stoppers President Kimmelman state that any information can be
provided anonymously by calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers
Tips line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether
you provide information by telephone or online you will be provided a
confidential claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the cash
reward monies. All calls are confidential
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SEPTEMBER 15, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
STABBING IN MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP
Nicolas Ortiz Espinoza
Click on image to enlarge
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Montgomery Police Director, Captain Robert Palmer announce that
detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Squad and the Montgomery Township Police Department are investigating
a stabbing incident which occurred at approximately 7:40 p.m. on
Sunday, September 14, 2008 at 61 Camp Meeting Road in the Skillman
section of Montgomery Township, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Somerset County 911 Communications
received a call from a Montgomery Township resident informing them
that a roommate identified as Artemio Medina, age 43, had been stabbed
with a broken beer bottle in the course of an argument and was
bleeding profusely. Montgomery Township Police responded to the 911
call and upon their arrival discovered Medina lying down on the patio
in the rear of the residence. Upon their assessment of Medina,
officers observed that as a result of the attack it had effectively
disemboweled Medina. Medina was Medevaced to Robert Wood Johnson
University Hospital, New Brunswick in critical condition. Medina was
rushed into surgery and his condition remains critical.
Detectives identified Nicolas Ortiz Espinoza, 40 years of age, who is
another roommate, as the suspect that stabbed Medina. Defendant
Espinoza fled the scene in a landscaping work truck with a trailer.
The vehicle was located in Princeton Borough in the McLean Street
parking lot by the Princeton Borough Police Department at
approximately 8:00 p.m. A canvas of the area resulted in negative
results for the location of defendant Espinoza.
Prosecutor Forrest and Police Director, Captain Robert Palmer request
Anyone with information to contact the Montgomery Township Police
Department at 908-359-3222, or 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 or www.scpo.net
and click on either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will
be kept confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
SEPTEMBER 12, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
MAN SENTENCED FOR FIRST DEGREE VEHICULAR HOMICIDE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
today that Edwin Javier Sevilla Perez (DOB: 01-07-80) of North
Plainfield, New Jersey, was sentenced for first degree Vehicular
Homicide to ten (10) years in the New Jersey State Prison with 85% to
be served without parole pursuant to the No Early Release Act.
Defendant was also sentenced for the charges of Driving while
Intoxicated and Leaving the Scene of an Accident. Sentence was imposed
by the Honorable Robert B. Reed, Judge of the Superior Court. The
State was represented by Assistant Prosecutor Kathleen P. Holly. The
defendant was represented by Anthony Alfano, Esq.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that this case resulted from the incident of
February 19, 2008. At approximately 12:24 a.m. on that date Somerset
County Communications received several 911 telephone calls advising of
a motor vehicle collision on Grove Street in North Plainfield, New
Jersey. Upon the arrival of North Plainfield Police Officers a 2000
Chevy bearing NJ SLA30H was found crashed into a tree. The driver of
the vehicle produced a North Carolina driver’s license identifying
himself as Edwin Javier Sevilla Perez. The front seat passenger was
identified as Jorge A. Miranda of Plainfield, New Jersey. Patrol
officers at the scene detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage coming
from defendant Perez’s breath. It was determined through the
investigation that defendant had ethyl alcohol of 0.289% in his blood.
Jorge Miranda was flown to Robert Wood Johnson Hospital, New
Brunswick, New Jersey, for serious head trauma which was a result of
the crash. Defendant Perez was transported by ambulance to Robert Wood
Johnson Hospital for less severe injuries which he had sustained
during the motor vehicle crash. Jorge Miranda died on February 22,
2008 from blunt force injuries to the head.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that an investigation conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Collision Analysis Reconstruction
(C.A.R.) Team and the Special Investigations Unit and the North
Plainfield Police Department revealed that the 2000 Chevy bearing NJ
SLA30H was traveling north in the southbound lane of Grove Street
prior to impact. The vehicle then left the roadway and struck a fire
hydrant, concrete barrier, and a tree. It was also determined that
prior to this collision, this same vehicle was involved in a collision
with another vehicle (no serious injury) where the driver of the other
involved vehicle copied the license plate number of defendant Perez’s
vehicle before it left the scene of the collision. It was determined
that defendant Perez’s vehicle also was involved in another accident
when it struck a parked vehicle (unoccupied) before the aforementioned
collision involving himself and Mr. Miranda. That collision occurred
within 1000 feet of the Somerset School in North Plainfield, New
Jersey.
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SEPTEMBER 9, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
S.W.A.T. TEAM DEPLOYED IN NORTH PLAINFIELD
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J.
Forrest and North Plainfield Chief of Police William Parenti announce
the arrest of James Edward Minor, age 29, of 375 North Drive Apartment
H1, North Plainfield, New Jersey, following an approximate 4 hour
standoff with police.
Prosecutor Forrest stated the at approximately 11:00
am North Plainfield Police requested the assistance of the Somerset
County Emergency Response Teams, the S.W.A.T. Team and the Crisis
Negotiation Team, to serve a domestic violence temporary restraining
order and execute a Superior Court Search Warrant at Minor’s residence
to retrieve firearms from the residence. This request was made due to
the fact that North Plainfield Police believed Minor to be barricaded
inside the residence and in possession of firearms.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 1:00
pm the residence was surrounded by the Somerset County SWAT Team as
the Somerset County Crisis Negotiators attempted to make contact with
Minor. Minor was observed exiting the residence and immediately
returned back into the residence upon seeing the police presence.
Minor refused to make contact with the Negotiators. After
approximately 4 hours of attempting to make contact with Minor
utilizing numerous forms of communications it was determined to deploy
chemical agents into the residence. Soon thereafter Minor exited the
residence and surrendered to the police without further incident.
Police subsequently seized from the residence, as a
result of the search warrant, one bullet proof vest, one .45 caliber
Colt semi-automatic handgun, and one .45 caliber Glock semi-automatic
handgun. North Plainfield Police is continuing their investigation.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Parenti request that
anyone with information to contact the North Plainfield Police
Department at 908-769-2937, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office at
908-231-7100, the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the Give Tips or Crime Stoppers. All calls are
confidential.
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
SEPTEMBER 8, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
HILLSBOROUGH MAN WANTED FOR
MAINTAINING A MARIJUANA PRODUCTION FACILITY
Click on image to enlarge
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Township Police Chief Paul Kaminsky announce the issuance
of an arrest warrant for Nicholas A. Tafaro (30 YOA) of Millstone
River Road, Hillsborough Township on charges of Maintaining a
Marijuana Production Facility, 1st Degree; Manufacturing Marijuana,
1st Degree; and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(Marijuana) with the Intent to Distribute, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the charges against defendant Nicholas
Tafaro are a result of an aerial surveillance conducted by the New
Jersey National Guard with assistance from members of the Hillsborough
Police Department. As a result of this surveillance, numerous
marijuana plants were observed growing in the backyard of defendant
Tafaro’s residence on Millstone River Road in Hillsborough.
On August 28, 2008 members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
and Hillsborough Township Police conducted a search of the property
where the growing marijuana was observed. As a result of the search,
fifty-one (51) marijuana plants ranging from two feet to five feet
tall were seized in the wooded area behind the residence.
On August 29, 2008, a Somerset County Superior Court Search Warrant
was obtained for the Millstone River Road residence. Members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force and Hillsborough Police Department executed the search warrant
and seized a large quantity of items utilized for the production of
marijuana and for an indoor production facility along with
approximately two pounds of harvested marijuana. Indoor grow items
seized from the residence consisted of high powered lighting systems,
cooling and ventilation systems, and chemical fertilizers. These items
were located and seized from the attic of the residence.
During this investigation, defendant Nicholas Tafaro was unable to be
located and has been entered as a wanted person into a National Crime
Data Base. During the investigation it was learned that defendant
Tafaro may be operating a 2008 Ford F-150 pickup truck bearing New
Jersey registration VJZ33K. Defendant Tafaro is thirty years old and
described as a white male, approximately 5’9”, 140 pounds with hazel
eyes.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President of Somerset County Crime Stoppers,
states that a $500.00 reward has been issued by the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers for any information leading to the arrest of defendant
Nicholas Tafaro. Tips may be anonymous and all information will be
confidential. Anyone with information in reference to defendant
Nicholas Tafaro’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Somerset County
Crime Stoppers toll free TIPS Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online
at www.somersetcountycrimestoppers.org or www.scpo.net. and click on
either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS Hotline”. Whether you provide the
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.
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
SEPTEMBER 7, 2008
PRESS RELEASE
BANK ROBBER ARRESTED
Somerville – Somerset County
Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bridgewater Chief of Police Richard
Borden announce the arrest of John R. Bjugstad, age 28, of the
Martinsville section of Bridgewater Township, New Jersey for robbing
the Peapack-Gladstone Bank, East Main Street, Bridgewater, New Jersey
on Friday, September 5, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on Saturday evening, September 6, 2008,
after the bank’s surveillance photo depicting the defendant was aired
on television and online, Detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the Bridgewater Police
Department, the Somerset County Crime Stoppers TIPS Line and the
Weehawkin Police Department all received tips as to the identity of
the suspect responsible for committing the robbery of the Peapack-Gladstone
Bank. Detectives were advised that the suspect who was identified as
John R. Bjugstad was in the Weehawkin area. Detectives were in contact
with the Weehawkin Police Department who assisted in locating and
apprehending the suspect. As Detectives were en-route to Weehawkin,
defendant Bjugstad observed uniformed Weehawkin Police Officers near
the Shearton Hotel where the suspect was staying. Defendant Bjugstad
then fled from the rear entrance of the hotel as uniformed Officer’s
chased him. Defendant Bjugstad then jumped into the Hudson River.
Police pursued the defendant to the river bank ordered him out of the
river where he was subsequently placed under arrest without further
incident.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that Detectives recovered more that
$2,000.00 from defendant Bjugstad’s pockets after he was taken from
the river. Detectives then searched the area for defendant’s vehicle,
a 1998 White Dodge Ram Pick-Up, which they located a few blocks from
the hotel. A search of defendant’s vehicle disclosed checks allegedly
belonging to the “Veterans of Foreign Wars, John Basilone, Pst. 280,
American Legion, Railroad Restoration, P.O. Box 245, Raritan, N.J.
08869.” The defendant wrote the note that he gave to the teller at the
Peapack-Gladstone Bank when he robbed it on one of these identical
checks.
Detectives also searched the hotel
room in which defendant Bjugstad was staying and recovered the
clothing which defendant Bjugstad wore on the day of the bank robbery,
the black shoulder bag depicted in the bank surveillance video that
defendant was carrying when he robbed the bank, numerous receipts and
recently purchased (subsequent to the bank robbery on Friday night and
on Saturday prior to his arrest) clothing, cosmetic items and a
diamond ring.
Prosecutor Forrest states that defendant Bjugstad was charged with
Robbery (2nd degree) and Terroristic Threats (3rd degree). Defendant
Bjugstad was lodged at the Somerset County Jail with Bail to be set.
Prosecutor Forrest requests anyone with information to contact the
Bridgewater Township Police Department at 908-722-4111, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100, the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers Tips Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on the Give Tips or Crime
Stoppers. All calls are confidential.
Back
SEPTEMBER 5, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
BERNARDS TOWNSHIP MAN ARRESTED AND LARGE QUANTITY OF MARIJUANA SEIZED
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Bernards
Township Police Chief Dennis Mott announce the arrest of Christopher
Kearns (67 YOA) of North Finley Avenue in Bernards Township. Defendant
Kearns has been charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to
Distribute, 3rd Degree, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
disorderly persons offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the arrest is the result of a
three-month narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along
with the Bernards Township Police Department. During the course of
this investigation purchases of marijuana made from the residence of
defendant Kearns located on North Finley Avenue in Bernards Township
were surveilled by detectives.
As a result of the ongoing investigation, a Somerset County Superior
Court Search Warrant was obtained for the residence. On September 4,
2008 members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force and Bernards Township Police Department
with the assistance of the Hillsborough Township Police Department
Narcotics K-9 executed the search warrant on defendant Kearns’
residence. As a result of the search warrant being executed, two and a
half pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia (i.e., a digital scale
and plastic baggies), and $790.00 in U.S. currency were seized from
defendant Kearns’ residence. The marijuana seized from the residence
has an estimated street value of approximately $13,000.00.
Bail has been set for defendant Kearns at $10,000.00 with a 10%
provision by the Honorable Harriet Derman, P.J.Ch.
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.
PEAPACK-GLADSTONE BANK ROBBED IN BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP
Somerville- Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Police Chief Richard J. Borden announced today
that that the Peapack - Gladstone Bank located at 619 East Main
Street, Bridgewater, New Jersey, was robbed of an undisclosed amount
of money at approximately 3:33 P.M. The suspect is described as a
white male, approximately 5’7”-5’9” tall, short dark hair, mid 20’s,
clean shaven, athletic build, wearing a white collared shirt with a
yellow /gold colored tie. The suspect was also carrying a black bag
with a shoulder strap.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that no weapon was shown and the suspect
fled out of the bank. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major
Crimes Squad, Bridgewater Township Police Department, and the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit
responded and is investigating the bank robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Borden request that anyone with
information pertaining to the bank robbery is asked to contact the
Bridgewater Township Police Department at (908) 725-4111, 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),
www.888577TIPS.org or www.scpo.net. and click on either Crime Stoppers
or TIPS hotline. All calls are confidential.
Back
September 4, 2008
News Release
CATHOLIC CHARITIES BOOKKEEPER INDICTED
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that defendant Diane Visavati, age 58, of Robin Road, Hillsborough,
New Jersey was indicted by a Somerset County Grand Jury for theft by
failure to make required disposition of property received, a crime of
the second degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the incidents that resulted in this
charge occurred between July 1, 2004 and February 28, 2008 when
defendant Visavati was employed as a bookkeeper for Catholic Charities
in Bridgewater. In January 2008 when she was out of work due to an
injury, other employees noticed discrepancies between the ledger books
of the Catholic Charities and the bank deposit slips. An audit of the
books for the aforementioned time frame revealed that approximately
$184,875.60 was collected from people enrolling their children into
one of the several Catholic Charities programs, but was unaccounted
for in bank deposits. Defendant Visavati was responsible for making
deposits, including the cash payments made by Catholic Charities’
clients. Following defendant Visavati’s termination, a notebook was
discovered in defendant Visavati’s desk containing names, receipt
numbers and cash amounts received from clients. This information was
matched to dates that the cash was collected however; none of these
cash payments were deposited into the Catholic Charities’ bank
account.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Visavati remains out on bail
that was previously set at the time of her arrest ($40,000 ten percent
alternative to apply). Defendant Visavati faces a maximum period of
incarceration of 10 years.
Prosecutor Forrest requests anyone with information to contact the
Bridgewater Township Police Department at 908-722-4111, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100, the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tips Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or
“Crime Stoppers”. All calls are confidential.
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
SEPTEMBER 2008
NEWS RELEASE
SOMERSET COUNTY POLICE ACADEMY
“CAREFUL CROSSINGS” PROGRAM
Date: Ten (10) mornings
Monday, September 15 - Friday, September 26, 2008.
Times: 7:30 am to 8:15 am.
Location:
Two (2) elementary schools located in Manville Borough, Somerset
County, New Jersey.
Roosevelt Elementary School
Brooks Blvd., Manville (908) 231-6809
Weston Elementary School
Newark Ave, Manville (908) 231-8548
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest, Somerset
County Police Academy Director Dr. Richard Celeste, and Manville
Borough Police Chief, Chief Mark Peltack are pleased to announce that
the Academy’s “Careful Crossings” program is scheduled to commence on
Monday, September 15, 2008 in the Borough of Manville, Somerset
County, New Jersey.
The Careful Crossings program is a community policing initiative
unique to the Somerset County Police Academy.
The Careful Crossings program began in the year 2000, in response to a
community member reporting unfavorable traffic conditions observed
around an elementary school, during the times of child drop-off and
pick-up during the school day.
The police recruits of the Somerset County Police Academy address
these problems by performing certain tasks to include; traffic
direction posts, assisting pedestrians at crosswalk posts and
interaction posts (where the trainees are encouraged to engage in
communication with members of the community); all conducted under the
supervision of the on-site Academy Instructors.
The Careful Crossings partnership consists of the Somerset County
Police Academy, a division of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office,
the Manville Borough Police Department, the Manville Board of
Education and its Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Donald Burkhardt. The
partnership indicated above extends to include the Principals of the
two elementary schools listed above, Mr. Don Franks and Mr. Michael
Magliacano, and their teachers and staff. Finally, and potentially the
most important members of the extended partnership are all the
parents, guardians and children residing in Manville who continue to
find the Careful Crossings experience as an example of law enforcement
and community working together to address a concern in a positive
manner.
The Somerset County Police Academy, with its Community Oriented
Policing philosophy, was the first Academy in the United States whose
Police Recruits, upon graduation, become licensed through the United
States Department of Justice and the New Jersey Community Policing
Institute as certified Community Policing Officers.
This community-oriented training, which consists of thirty (30) blocks
of instruction, introduces the Recruit to the Community Policing
philosophy, and has been incorporated into the six-month Police Basic
Training Program at the Somerset County Police Academy. Following the
blocks of classroom instruction, small groups of Recruits are assigned
to a “Community Facilitator” with an identified community problem. The
Recruit groups are charged with facilitating a solution to the
problem, based upon the Community Policing philosophy of Partnership
and Community involvement in problem solving. The Careful Crossings
program is an illustration of that process and develops in each
Recruit the skills of creative problem solving, and partnership
development, techniques that the Recruit will use not only in their
academic community problem, but skills that can be brought back to
their employing community following graduation.
For more information regarding the Careful Crossings Program please
contact one of the partners identified below:
Capt. Mark Sniscak-Manville Police Department (908) 725-1900
Det. William J. Brown -Somerset County (908) 526-1200
Police Academy x 8483
Mr. Donald Frank- Principal, Weston School (908) 231-8548
Mr. Michael Magliacano- Principal, Roosevelt School (908) 231-6809
Back
August 28, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO AGGRAVATED MANSLAUGHTER
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that John H. Lee (age 39) of Cummings Avenue in Trenton plead guilty
to charges of 1st degree Aggravated Manslaughter and 3rd Degree
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose before the Honorable
Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C. These charges arose as a result of the
victim, Jeffrey Johnson (age 45), being struck in the head with a
knife by defendant Lee. Mr. Johnson subsequently died two days later
from the injuries he sustained during that attack.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that a joint investigation by the Somerset
County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin
Township Police Department detective bureau disclosed that during the
late evening hours of June 22, 2007, defendant Lee and Johnson had a
verbal argument which escalated into a physical confrontation while
standing in the front yard of a residence located on Millstone Road in
Somerset.
Prosecutor Forrest stated defendant Lee struck Johnson once in the
head with a knife just prior to fleeing the area in the direction of
Hamilton Street. As a result Johnson collapsed and became
unresponsive. Mr. Johnson was subsequently transported to Robert Wood
Johnson Hospital located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Johnson was
admitted to the intensive care unit suffering from severe brain
damage. On June 24, 2007, Johnson was removed from life support
machines and pronounced dead by Robert Wood Johnson Hospital doctors.
On June 24th, 2007, defendant Lee contacted a family member involved
in law enforcement and subsequently turned himself in to members of
the Franklin Township Police Department and Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office.
As a result of an agreement with the State, the murder charge
defendant initially faced was amended to charge Aggravated
Manslaughter. Pursuant to the agreement, defendant Lee faces a maximum
sentence of fourteen years in the New Jersey State Prison with 85% of
that sentence to be served before he is eligible for parole. Defendant
Lee will therefore have to serve approximately eleven years and almost
eleven months of the fourteen years before being eligible for parole.
Defendant Lee remains in the Somerset County Jail awaiting sentencing.
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
AUGUST
27, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
THREE CHARGED IN MONTGOMERY DURING NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION
“COUGAR CRACKDOWN”
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Montgomery Township Police Director Robert Palmer announce the arrests
of Bryan T. Cummings (19 YOA) of Andover Circle in Montgomery
Township, and a 16-year-old male juvenile from Montgomery Township on
August 26, 2008 after a three-month narcotics investigation. As a
result of this investigation conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force along
with the Montgomery Township Police Department, defendant Bryan
Cummings was charged with 3rd degree Distribution of a Controlled
Dangerous Substance (Cocaine) and 2nd degree Distribution of
Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine) within 500 feet of a public
park. The 16-year-old juvenile was charged with 3rd degree
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine).
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on August 6, 2008, defendant Cummings
met with an undercover detective in the area of Washington Street (Rt.
518) in the Borough of Rocky Hill where he sold a quantity of cocaine
to the undercover detective. This narcotic purchase was within 500
feet of Point Park located on Washington Street in the Borough of
Rocky Hill.
On July 31, 2008, the 16-year-old juvenile met with an undercover
detective in the Princeton Hills Apartments complex in Montgomery
Township where he sold a quantity of cocaine to the undercover
detective.
Prosecutor Forrest states that the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force is currently attempting to
locate Rajesh Kasat (19 YOA), who has an outstanding arrest warrant
for 3rd degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(Cocaine) which occurred on July 16, 2008 on East High Street in
Somerville. Attempts were made to locate defendant Kasat at his last
known address in the Borough of Somerville on East High Street, but
were unsuccessful. Prior to residing in Somerville, defendant Kasat
resided with his parents in Montgomery and, along with defendant
Cummings and the juvenile, had attended Montgomery High School.
Both defendant Cummings and the 16-year-old juvenile were taken into
custody on August 26, 2008 at their residences in Montgomery Township.
The 16-year-old juvenile was placed into the Middlesex County Juvenile
Detention Center in North Brunswick. Defendant Cummings was placed in
the Somerset County Jail with a bail set at $25,000 cash or bond with
no 10% by the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C.
Prosecutor Forrest states anyone with information pertaining to the
whereabouts of defendant Rajesh Kasat are asked to call the Somerset
Prosecutor’s Office at 908-231-7100 or the Montgomery Township Police
Department at 908-359-3222 or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers TIPS
Line at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”.
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.
MAN ARRESTED FOR SECOND
DEGREE THEFT
SOMERVILLE - Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces the arrest of
Gerardo Casteblanco (DOB: 02-03-67) of Birch Avenue in Plainfield for
Theft, 2nd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on August 5, 2008 Thomas Falvey, the
Vice President of Operations for Oticon, Inc. in Somerset, New Jersey,
responded to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office to report thefts
which were occurring at the facility. Oticon, Inc. is a company based
in Denmark that specializes in manufacturing hearing aid equipment.
The equipment is then shipped to a facility located in Somerset to be
assembled and distributed. An investigation conducted by the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit, with the
assistance of an Oticon, Inc. representative stationed in Colombia,
South America, revealed that hearing aids manufactured by Oticon, Inc.
were being stolen from Oticon, smuggled out of the country and sold on
the black market in Colombia, South America.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the investigation further revealed that
hearing aids which were found in Colombia, South America had the same
serial numbers of the hearing aids that had been stolen from the Oticon, Inc. facility located in Somerset. Oticon, Inc. video
surveillance from August 19, 2008 showed defendant Gerardo Casteblanco,
an employee of Oticon Inc., in the storage area where the hearing aids
were kept at the facility and removing boxes containing hearing aids.
Through further inquiry it was discovered that defendant Gerardo
Casteblanco’s job did not require him to be in that area of the
facility. Video surveillance from August 26, 2008 showed defendant
Casteblanco removing unknown items from the storage area and then
placing them into his lunch box at his work station.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that it was learned that defendant
Casteblanco was seeking to relocate to Colombia, South America and
obtain employment there. Presently defendant Casteblanco’s wife
resides in Columbia and he has numerous contacts there.
Prosecutor Forrest states that during a search of defendant’s
residence in Plainfield hearing aids, parts, tools, software and
equipment belonging to Oticon, Inc. valued in excess of $600,000.00
were found. The investigation revealed that defendant Casteblanco has
been taking items from Oticon, Inc. without authorization for
approximately the past year.
Defendant Casteblanco was arrested this morning at his residence in
Plainfield, and is currently being lodged at the Somerset County Jail.
Bail has been set at $75,000.00 cash by the Honorable Julie M. Marino,
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 and unless proven guilty.
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AUGUST
25, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
TWO FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP MEN ARRESTED
ON BURGLARY CHARGES
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig R. Novick announce the arrest of Stephen
McDaniel (age 22) of Hempstead Drive in Somerset and Arnold Locke (age
18) also of Hempstead Drive in Somerset. Defendant Stephen McDaniel
has been charged with 3rd degree Burglary. Defendant Arnold Locke has
been charged with 3rd degree Burglary and 3rd degree Fraudulent Use of
a Credit Card.
On August 21, 2008 members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
Burglary Task Force along with members of the Franklin Township Police
Department were conducting a burglary investigation in the area of the
Hempstead Apartments and the Kingsberry Acres Apartments located on
Route 27, in Somerset. As a result of an approximately one-month long
investigation, a search was conducted at defendant Stephen McDaniel’s
residence on Hempstead Drive, Somerset. As a result of the search,
jewelry and electronic equipment were recovered. This investigation
also revealed that defendant McDaniel sold stolen jewelry from a
burglary at a Kingsberry Drive residence to a pawn shop in New
Brunswick.
Also on August 21, 2008 a search was conducted at defendant Arnold
Locke’s residence on Hempstead Drive. Recovered from defendant Locke’s
residence was marijuana, less than 50 grams, along with a silver toy
gun, which was stolen during one of the burglaries.
On August 22, 2008 this investigation further revealed that defendant
Locke and defendant McDaniel had stolen a credit card during one of
the burglaries, which was used to make several purchases.
On August 21, 2008 defendant McDaniel was placed in the Somerset
County Jail with bail was set at $20,000 cash or bond by the Honorable
Julie Marino, J.S.C.
On August 22, 2008 defendant Locke was placed in the Somerset County
Jail with bail was set at $20,000 cash or bond by the Honorable Julie
Marino, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are
presumed innocent until proven guilty.
HILLSBOROUGH MAN CHARGED WITH
VIOLATING CONTRACTORS’ REGISTRATION ACT
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Police Department Chief Dennis Manning announced the arrest
of Freddie Foster (age 49) of Bloomingdale Drive in Hillsborough.
Defendant Foster was charged with violating the Contractors’
Registration Act, a fourth degree crime, contrary to N.J.S.A.
56:8-138(a) and N.J.S.A. 56:8-146. The law requires that any
individual selling or making home improvements must be registered with
the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs as a Home Improvement
Contractor. Defendant Foster is the operator of F & M and Sons of
Hillsborough.
The arrest was made after a month long 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 a local resident complained to the Somerville
Community Development Office that they had hired the suspect to
renovate their bathroom. The resident became suspicious when they were
told that permits were not needed to complete the work. The resident
called the borough’s Code Enforcement Officer who performed an
inspection of the renovations. The inspection by the borough found
that the renovations were not in compliance with the building code and
were substandard. The Code Enforcement Officer referred the matter to
the Somerville Police Department who contacted the Special
Investigations Unit of the Prosecutor’s Office.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the combined investigation revealed
that defendant Foster signed a contract with the victim on June 29,
2008, that provided for renovations of the victim’s bathroom including
plumbing, tile replacement, vanity installation, and other bathroom
renovations. Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Foster was to be
paid $2,000.00 for the improvements. The investigation showed that
defendant Foster was provided with a $1,500.00 money order as a down
payment for the repairs. An additional $500.00 payment was required
upon completion of the project. Defendant Foster, when asked, told the
resident that permits were not needed for the renovations. The
resident became suspicious prior to making the final payment and
required that defendant Foster sign a document that stated that
permits were not necessary for the renovations. Defendant Foster
refused to sign the document and was not paid the remaining $500.00.
Prosecutor Forrest noted that the law enforcement officers requested
information from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs who
related to them that neither defendant Foster nor F & M and Sons are
licensed Home Improvement Contractors within the State of New Jersey.
Defendant Foster surrendered to detectives this afternoon and was
provided with a summons to appear in court. He was subsequently
released on his own recognizance. He is first scheduled to appear in
court to answer this charge on Friday, September 5, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest stressed that the investigation of defendant Foster
is ongoing. Anyone with information concerning these or other crimes
is asked to immediately contact the Somerville Police Department
Detective Bureau at (908) 725-0331, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at (908) 231-7100, or the Prosecutors Tips Line at
1-888-577-TIPS (8477) all calls will be kept confidential.
Back
AUGUST 20, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
NARCOTICS ARREST IN NORTH PLAINFIELD
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Department Chief William Parenti announce the arrest
of Cristian Carbajal (20 YOA) on August 19, 2008 after a three-month
narcotics investigation. As a result of this investigation conducted
by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force along with the North Plainfield Police
Department, defendant Cristian Carbajal of Sycamore Avenue in
Plainfield, New Jersey was charged with 3rd degree Distribution of a
Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine), 3rd degree Distribution of
Controlled Dangerous Substance (Cocaine) Within 1,000 feet of a School
Zone, and 3rd degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
(Cocaine).
On June 26, 2008, defendant Carbajal, also known as “Flaco”, met with
an undercover detective in the area of Somerset Street and Harmony
Street in the Borough of North Plainfield where he sold a quantity of
cocaine to the undercover detective. This narcotics purchase was
within 1,000 feet from Somerset School located on Somerset Street in
the Borough of North Plainfield.
On August 19, 2008, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force set up surveillance in the area
Somerset Street and Harmony Street in the Borough of North Plainfield
at approximately 8:00 p.m. The Task Force members had received
information that “Flaco” (defendant Carbajal) would be in the area of
the restaurant/night club called La Hacienda located on Somerset
Street in the Borough of North Plainfield; where defendant Carbajal is
employed as a disco jockey on certain nights of the week. During
surveillance defendant Carbajal was observed outside the night club on
his cellular telephone, at which time Task Force members apprehended
him. A search of defendant Carbajal’s person incident to the arrest
was conducted and he was found to be in possession of one bag of
cocaine with a street value of approximately $100.00.
As part of this investigation, it was determined that defendant
Carbajal entered the United States illegally from the country of El
Salvador. Task Force members subsequently contacted Immigration and
Customs Enforcement in reference to defendant Carbajal’s illegal
status in the United States of America and are awaiting from this
agency an Illegal Alien Detainer Warrant.
Defendant Carbajal was lodged in the Somerset County Jail on August
19, 2008 on the narcotics charges with bail set by the Honorable Julie
Marino at $20,000.00 cash or bond.
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.
FORMER PRINCIPAL
PLEADS GUILTY TO THEFTS
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest states that
Michelle Little, age 40, of Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, appeared before
the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C. and entered a guilty plea to
an Accusation charging her with one count of Theft (3rd degree) and
one count of Theft (4th degree).
While employed as the principal of the Corpus Christi Elementary
School in South River, New Jersey, she stole approximately $241.48
between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007 from the principal’s petty cash
account.
While employed as the principal of the Holy Family Academy in Bound
Brook, New Jersey, she stole approximately $7,787.00 between July 1,
2007 and March 13, 2008 from the principal’s petty cash account.
Prosecutor Forrest states that representatives of the Diocese of
Metuchen conducted an internal audit of the petty cash funds and once
the discrepancies were discovered they notified Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office of the thefts. The Special Investigations Unit of
the Prosecutor’s Office conducted an investigation which resulted in
today’s guilty pleas.
Back
August 14, 2008
News ReleaseS
REWARD POSTED FOR WANTED PERSON OF INTEREST IN SOMERVILLE SEXUAL
ASSAULT INVESTIGATION
Click on photo to enlarge
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning state that the investigation
into a sexual assault on a juvenile that occurred on August 4th is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of up to
$500.00 for information that leads to the identity and or location of
an individual only known as “Jorge Luis” (see attached photo) who is a
person of interest in the investigation.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Manning and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can be provided anonymously by
calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the cash reward monies.
All calls are confidential
BANK ROBBERY SUSPECT
Click on photos to enlarge
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Green
Brook Chief of Police Martin Rasmussen announced that on August 13,
2008 at 1:58 P.M. the PNC Bank located at 82 Green Brook Road, Green
Brook, New Jersey was robbed of an undisclosed amount of money.
The suspect was described as a white male approximately 5’ 7” – 5’
11”, 130-140 pounds wearing a dark colored Nike sun visor hat,
multi-colored dark long sleeve shirt, blue jeans and Nike sneakers
with an orange swoosh on the sides. The suspect was last seen fleeing
from the bank on foot in the direction towards Route 22, Green Brook,
New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the suspect is depicted in surveillance
footage at the PNC bank and also running towards Route 22. There is a
$5,000 reward being offered through the F.B.I. for the arrest and
indictment of the suspect.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Rasmussen and the F.B.I. request that anyone
with information pertaining to the bank robbery is asked to contact
the Green Brook Police Department at (732) 968-1188, the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at (908)231-7100, the
F.B.I. Somerset Office at (732) 469-7986 or the Somerset County Crime
Stoppers’ Tip Line at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or online at
www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept confidential.
Back
AUGUST 13, 2008
News Release
BANK ROBBERY
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Green
Brook Chief of Police Martin Rasmussen announced today that the PNC
Bank located at 82 Green Brook Road, Green Brook, New Jersey was
robbed of an undisclosed amount of money at approximately 2:05 PM.
Prosecutor Forrest stated a female teller was approached by an unknown
male suspect at which time a note was shown demanding money. The
teller complied with the suspects instructions and relinquished an
undetermined amount of US currency.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the suspect subsequently fled the bank
on foot with the money in hand. The Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Major Crimes Squad, Green Brook Police Department, F.B.I.
Somerset Office and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit responded and is investigating the
bank robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Rasmussen and the F. B.I. request that
anyone with information pertaining to the bank robbery is asked to
contact the Green Brook Police Department at (732) 968-1188, the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad at
(908)-231-7100, the F.B.I. Somerset Office at (732) 469-7986 or the
Somerset County Crime Stoppers TIPS line at 1-(888)-577-TIPS(8477),
www.888577TIPS.org or www.scpo.net. And click on either “Crime
Stoppers” or “TIPS hotline”. All calls are confidential.
Back
August 12, 2008
News Release
UNDERCOVER OPERATION NETS CRACK COCAINE SEIZURE AND TWO ARRESTS
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Department Chief William Parenti announce the arrest
of two individuals on August 11, 2008 after a three-month narcotics
investigation. As a result of this investigation, conducted by the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force along with the North Plainfield Police Department and the State
Parole Board, defendant Jermaine Pennant (24 YOA) of Maple Avenue in
the Borough of North Plainfield was charged with Distribution of C.D.S.
(Cocaine), 3rd Degree, (three counts); Possession of C.D.S. (Cocaine)
with the Intent to Distribute, 2nd Degree; Conspiracy to Distribute
CDS (Cocaine), 3rd Degree, and Possession of CDS (Marijuana) Under 50
Grams, a disorderly persons offense. Defendant Costadino Bourdouvales
(26 YOA) of East Second Street in Plainfield was charged with
Distribution of C.D.S. (Cocaine), 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 31, 2008, defendant Pennant met
with an undercover detective in the area of Maple Avenue in the
Borough of North Plainfield where he sold a quantity of cocaine to the
undercover detective.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on August 7, 2008, the undercover
detective had further contact with defendant Pennant at which time
they negotiated another narcotics sale. Defendants Bourdouvales and
Pennant responded to the area of Washington Avenue and Route 22 in the
Borough of Green Brook. Defendant Bourdouvales met with the undercover
detective and sold a quantity of cocaine to the undercover detective.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on August 11, 2008, the undercover detective
made contact with defendant Pennant at which time another narcotics
sale was negotiated. At approximately 12:40 PM, members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force set up surveillance in the area of Rock Avenue in Green Brook
Township. Defendant Pennant responded to the area in a Nissan Sentra
being driven by a friend, where defendant Pennant again met with the
undercover detective and sold him a quantity of cocaine. Members of
the Task Force approached the vehicle and placed defendant Pennant
under arrest. Subsequent to his arrest, defendant Pennant was found to
be in possession of seven grams of crack cocaine on his person.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the residence of defendant Pennant was
then searched by Task Force members and a quantity of Marijuana (under
50 grams) and nine additional grams of crack cocaine was seized. The
crack cocaine seized during this investigation has a street value of
approximately $1,600.00.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that as part of this investigation, members
of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force responded to East Second Street in Plainfield and
placed defendant Bourdouvales under arrest. Subsequently, defendant
Bourdouvales was found to have two outstanding warrants for his
arrest; a South Plainfield Municipal Court warrant for $2,500.00 and a
Watchung Borough Municipal Court warrant for $173.00.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendants Pennant and Bourdouvales
were placed in the Somerset County Jail on August 11, 2008. Defendant
Pennant’s bail was set at $100,000.00 cash only and defendant
Bourdouvales’ bail was set at $10,000.00 cash only with 10% option to
apply. A State of New Jersey Violation of Parole Warrant was lodged as
a detainer against defendant Pennant.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
August 11, 2008
News Release
THREE ARRESTED IN BRIDGEWATER FOR PRESCRIPTION PILL SALES
Somerville - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Police Department Chief Richard Borden announce the arrest
of three individuals on August 8, 2008 after a one-month long
narcotics investigation. As a result of this investigation, conducted
by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force along with the Bridgewater Police Department,
defendant Joseph Rojas (20 YOA) from Stella Drive in Bridgewater
Township was charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Xanax (3rd degree).
Defendant Amanda Donner (18 YOA) of Glen Ridge Drive South in
Bridgewater Township was charged with two counts of Distribution of
Prescription Pills (3rd degree) and one count of Distribution of
Marijuana (4th degree). A male juvenile (M.S.) (17 YOA) from
Bridgewater Township was charged with Possession of Marijuana under 50
grams (disorderly persons).
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 22, 2008, defendants Joseph
Rojas and Amanda Donner met with an undercover Detective in the area
of Stella Drive in Bridgewater Township. Defendants Rojas and Donner
arrived in a Toyota Rav-4 and defendant Donner met with the undercover
Detective where she sold a quantity of Marijuana and a quantity of
Percocet.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on August 8, 2008, the undercover
Detective had further contact with defendant Rojas at which time they
negotiated a narcotics sale. At approximately 2:50 PM, members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task
Force set up surveillance in the area of Stella Drive in Bridgewater
Township. Defendants Rojas and Donner responded to this area in the
same Toyota Rav-4, where defendant Donner again met with the
undercover Detective and sold a quantity of Xanax pills to the
undercover Detective in exchange for U.S. Currency. Members of the
Task Force approached the vehicle and placed defendants Rojas and
Donner under arrest. Also found in the vehicle was a 17-year-old
juvenile in possession of a quantity of Marijuana.
Subsequent to the arrest, the vehicle was searched and Task Force
members seized narcotics paraphernalia (i.e. packaging materials, a
digital scale, and smoking pipes) and two hundred and thirty dollars
in currency.
All subjects were released on their own recognizance.
Note:
We re 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
August 8, 2008
News Release
MAN ARRESTED FOR AGGRAVATED ASSAULT
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Raritan
Borough Police Chief Laurence Hess report detectives from the
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad along with detectives from the
Raritan Borough Police Department arrested defendant Ryan Abernathy (d.o.b.
07/15/1989) of Second Avenue, Raritan, New Jersey and charged him with
Aggravated Assault, Third Degree. The arrest is the result of an
incident, which took place on July 30, 2008 on Thompson Street,
Raritan, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 30, 2008, James Young, (age 20)
of Raritan, while attending a birthday party on Thompson Street
engaged in a verbal argument with several male partygoers in the
basement area of the dwelling. Shortly thereafter, the argument
escalated into a physical confrontation.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that during the brawl, Young positively
recognized one of his attackers as an individual named “Ryan” – AKA
“Busy Bitch”. Young advised Detectives that during the fight, Ryan
struck Young in the face with a black in color semi-automatic handgun
causing bruising and a laceration near his left eye. Young then fled
the party and ran to the Raritan Police Department and reported the
incident.
Prosecutor Forrest stated police later interviewed a witness present
at the time of the altercation who reported that during the fight,
defendant Ryan Abernathy was observed assaulting Young. This same
witness further informed police defendant Abernathy was observed in
possession of a semi-automatic handgun several days prior to the
incident.
Prosecutor Forrest stated defendant Abernathy was arrested by
Detectives at his residence and charged with Aggravated Assault, Third
Degree. He was subsequently transported to and lodged at the Somerset
County Jail. 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.
Back
August 4, 2008
News Release
JUVENILE ASSAULTED IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Chief of Police Craig Novick announced that a joint
investigation is currently being conducted by the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin Township
Police Department’s detective bureau into the stabbing of a fourteen
(14) year old juvenile male, which occurred in Franklin Township on
Saturday, August 2nd, 2008.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at sometime just before 11:00 PM, the
Franklin Township police received a 911 call reporting a juvenile, “OQ”,
had been attacked by an unknown assailant and had sustained numerous
lacerations all over his body. Emergency medical personnel
subsequently responded and transported the victim to Robert Wood
Johnson Hospital for emergency treatment.
Prosecutor Forrest stated “OQ’s” injuries were not life threatening,
however, he received in excess of two hundred (200) stitches resulting
from several slash wounds and puncture wounds to his back, shoulders,
sides and arms.
Prosecutor Forrest stated police later had an opportunity to interview
“OQ” at the hospital and at which time he reported while returning
home from work he was riding his bicycle on Route 27 in the vicinity
of Kossuth Street when an unidentified black male approached him and
shoved him to the ground.
Prosecutor Forrest stated the assailant then began to assault “OQ”
with a knife causing his numerous injuries. Moments later the
unidentified black male then ceased the attack and fled the area last
seen running North West on Kossuth Street.
Prosecutor Forrest stated the assailant was described as being a black
male in his early 20’s, approximately 5’10” in height, wearing a white
short sleeved T-Shirt and dark colored shoes.
Anyone having information regarding this investigation is asked to
call the Franklin Township Police Department detective bureau at
732-873-5533, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes
Unit at 908-231-7100, or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line
at 1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or
www.scpo.net and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. All
calls are confidential.
INFANT DEATH
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Chief of Police Craig Novick report that detectives from the
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Franklin Township
Police Department are investigating the death of AJ, age 2 months, of
Hamilton Street, Somerset, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that at approximately 4:23 am on August 3,
2008 Franklin Township Police were notified by Saint Peter’s Hospital
of a suspicious infant death. Franklin Township Officers made contact
with the Emergency Room Doctor who stated that at approximately 4:05
am Rosa Juarez-Castellano entered the Emergency Room with her son AJ
who was unresponsive and not breathing. Emergency Room staff was
unsuccessful in their attempts to revive AJ and he was pronounced dead
at 4:12 am. Detectives responded to Saint Peters Hospital and to the
residence to conduct their investigation. The infant was released to
the Office of the Regional Medical Examiner located in Newark, New
Jersey who subsequently performed an autopsy on August 3, 2008. The
autopsy revealed no traumatic injuries to the infant. The cause and
manner of death are pending.
LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR THE
ALTERNATE ROUTE ORIENTATION ON SEPTEMBER 8, 2008
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced that
the Somerset County Police Academy will be conducting an orientation
for potential candidates in the Basic Police Recruit Alternate Route
Program. The program allows civilians to enter police recruit training
on their own without first being employed by a police agency.
The Somerset County Police Academy was the first academy in the State
to offer such a program in 1993. The Somerset County Police Academy’s
Basic Police Alternate Route Program is certified by the New Jersey
Police Training Commission.
Candidates who are selected are enrolled directly into the 24-week
training cycle at the Police Academy, which is one of the longest and
most comprehensive in the State and can be best described as a blend
of military and college training. The environment is very challenging
and requires a commitment to excellence. During the training process,
recruits are taught in over 120 subjects to include: Police
Professionalism; Criminal Justice Systems; Criminal Law; Arrest,
Search and Seizure; Communications; Emergency Driving; Emergency
Medical Training; Firearms; Self-Defense; Patrol Practices; Motor
Vehicle Law; Accident Investigation; Criminal Investigation; and
Physical Fitness.
Since its inception in 1987, the Somerset County Police Academy
developed a reputation for providing quality training in all topical
areas. Over 1500 police recruits have been trained at the Academy and
over 22,000 individuals have been trained in a variety of law
enforcement continuing education related topics. The Police Academy is
operated by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office in conjunction
with Raritan Valley Community College and law enforcement authorities
in Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset, and Warren Counties.
Scholarships are available for those individuals with economic need.
Those applying will be presented with the particulars concerning the
scholarship opportunity. Do not let finances preclude you from
attending if law enforcement is your goal!
The requirements for all candidates include that you must be a
Somerset, Hunterdon, Middlesex or Warren County resident, possess at
least 60 college credits from an accredited college or university, as
recognized by Raritan Valley Community College, or possess two years
of full time active military duty or a combination of college and
military that equals two years, no criminal record, be at least 18
years of age and a citizen of the United States, possess a valid New
Jersey Driver’s license, have a good driving record, and be in good
physical condition.
Candidates will have the opportunity to pre-register for the written
test from June 1, 2008 to August 29, 2008. Pre-registration is done by
completing the registration form on the Somerset County Police Academy
website. The Registration forms and a $50.00 money order must be
received at the Police Academy by August 29, 2008 by 3:00pm. Money
orders are made payable to Somerset County Police Academy. No personal
checks or cash will be accepted.
Mandatory Orientation will be held on Monday, September 8, 2008 at
6:00 PM at the Somerset County Police Academy located on the campus of
Raritan Valley Community College in North Branch, New Jersey at the
corner of Lamington Road and Route 28. The program will be held in the
Grand Conference Room in the Conference Center (Building # 11). The
written test is tentatively scheduled for Monday, September 22, 2008
in the same room.
Individuals wishing to go to the Orientation for informational
purposes will be allowed to attend but pre-registration is required to
sit for the written test.
Directions to the Academy and further information about the Alternate
Route Program can be obtained through the Raritan Valley Community
College Website, www.raritanval.edu/police , and clicking on recruit
training.
ATTEMPTED
MURDER ARREST
Richard C. Spellman (Click on image to enlarge)
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announced today that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, and
the Franklin Township Police Department arrested defendant Richard C.
Spellman, (D.O.B. 11/14/1983), of Spruce Street, Somerset, New Jersey
charging him with Attempted Murder, 1st Degree and Armed Robbery, 1st
Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that detectives from the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad, the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Forensics Unit and Crime Scene Investigations (C.S.I.)
Unit and the Franklin Township Police Department were called after
detectives from the Franklin Township Police Department responded on
July 28, 2008 at approximately 2:18 a.m., to the Tiger Mart, located
inside of the Exxon Gas Station on Franklin Boulevard after it was
robbed by a black male brandishing a semi-automatic firearm. After
being provided with the money from an Exxon employee the suspect fired
one shot at him, striking him in the chest. After shooting the
employee the suspect fled the scene on foot.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on August 4, 2008, at approximately
11:56 a.m. a delivery driver from the Yummy Yummy Chinese Restaurant
reported that he attempted to make a delivery on Spruce Street,
Somerset, New Jersey, at which point he was confronted at the front
door by defendant Spellman, who instructed him at gunpoint to enter
the residence. After the victim refused, defendant Spellman grabbed
the food order from the victim. The victim then fled the house and ran
to his vehicle at which point defendant Spellman fired a gunshot at
him striking the victim in the leg. As the victim continued to flee
the area in his vehicle, defendant Spellman fired additional gunshots
at the vehicle as he pursued the victim on foot. The victim returned
to the Chinese food restaurant located a short distance away on
Hamilton Street and was again confronted by defendant Spellman who
followed him and again fired multiple gunshots at the victim as he sat
in his vehicle. Defendant Spellman was arrested not far from the scene
by responding Franklin Township Police Officers. Recovered from both
scenes were bullet shell casings and a semi-automatic firearm was
recovered at the crime scene at the restaurant. Detectives from the
Prosecutor’s Office C.S.I. Unit responded to process both crime
scenes. The victim was transported to Robert Wood Johnson with
non-life threatening injuries.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Spellman was charged with
Attempted Murder, 1st Degree, (2 counts), and Robbery, 1st Degree (2
counts). Defendant Spellman was lodged in the Somerset County Jail
with bail to be set.
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 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) or
online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on either
“Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls will be kept
confidential.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Back
August 1, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
NORTH PLAINFIELD MAN ARRESTED TWO OUNCES OF COCAINE SEIZED
Somerville – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Department Chief William Parenti announce the arrest
of Vitalino Mejia (dob 11-15-82) of Grove Street in the Borough of
North Plainfield as a result of a month long narcotics investigation.
Defendant Mejia was charged with 2nd degree Possession of Cocaine with
the intent to distribute and 3rd degree Possession of Cocaine with the
intent to distribute within 1000 feet of a school (Somerset School).
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 31, 2008 at approximately 5:15
PM, members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime
and Narcotics Task Force were conducting a narcotics investigation in
the area of Lincoln Place in the Borough of North Plainfield. Members
of the Task Force received information that defendant Mejia would be
in possession of a quantity of cocaine. As a result of this
information, members of the Task Force established surveillance in the
area of Lincoln Place and Vine Street. Task Force members observed
defendant Mejia walking on Lincoln Place by Vine Street. Members of
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime & Narcotics
Task Force along with the North Plainfield Police Department
approached defendant Mejia for questioning. Subsequently, defendant
Mejia turned over approximately two (2) ounces of cocaine to the
members of the Task Force. The estimated street value of the cocaine
seized is three thousand dollars ($3,000). Defendant Mejia was placed
in the Somerset County Jail pending 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.
Back
JULY 31, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
REWARD INCREASED TO $5,000.00 BY CRIME STOPPERS
IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP ARMED ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTED MURDER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick state that the investigation into
the armed robbery and attempted murder that took place at the Exxon
gas station located at 650 Franklin Boulevard on July 22, 2008 is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced that the original
reward of $2,500.00 posted on July 23rd has been increased to
$5,000.00 for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of
the individual responsible for the robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 22, 2008 at approximately 2:18
a.m. a gas station attendant was robbed at gunpoint and shot by an
unknown individual prior to fleeing the business. The assailant is
described as a black male approximately 18 years old wearing a dark
colored tee shirt, dark colored jeans, tan work boots and wearing what
appeared to be a white tee shirt around his head. The actor walked
into the store area of the gas station, approached the counter and
demanded money from the clerk while pointing what was described as an
automatic weapon at him. The store clerk handed over a sum of money to
the actor who then immediately shot the clerk in the chest. The actor
then fled
on foot from the establishment running east toward Route 27.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can be provided anonymously by
calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the cash reward monies.
All calls are confidential.
HILLSBOROUGH
MAN ARRESTED DURING DRUG SALE
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Police Chief Paul Kaminsky announce the arrest Benjamin
Farah (DOB: 11/21/88) of Columbia Commons Road, Hillsborough.
The two-month investigation concluded on July 30, 2008 when members of
the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics
Task Force and the Hillsborough Police Department arrested defendant
Benjamin Farah after the defendant met with a Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office undercover detective and sold him a quantity of
marijuana for five hundred dollars ($500) in the area of Auten Road
and Cockatiel Drive in Hillsborough. A search incident to the arrest
of the defendant yielded an additional quantity of marijuana in the
defendant’s pockets.
On July 16, 2008, a Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office undercover
detective also arranged a meeting with the defendant and purchased a
quantity of marijuana from him in exchange for fifty dollars ($50).
As a result of the investigation, defendant Farah was charged with
Distribution of Marijuana, 3rd degree, Distribution of Marijuana, 4th
degree and Possession of Marijuana under 50 grams (a disorderly
persons offense). Bail for defendant Farah was set at $10,000.00 with
a 10% option by the Honorable Peter A. Buschbaum, J.S.C. Defendant
Farah was lodged in the Somerset County Jail.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
JUVENILE CHARGED IN CONNECTION WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER
SOMERVILLE-Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Raritan
Chief of Police Laurence Hess announced today that detectives from the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad in conjunction
with detectives from the Raritan Police Department have arrested A.C.
(age 17) of Bridgewater, in connection with an attempted murder and
weapons offense that occurred on Sunday, July 27, 2008 at a residence
in Raritan Borough.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that during the early morning hours on
Monday July 28, 2008, detectives responded to the Somerset Medical
Center and met with Brad Arbel, 23, of Bridgewater, who was being
treated for a knife wound across his throat and chest, which was a
result of being assaulted on Sunday evening during a verbal argument
between the juvenile and the victim.
During the course of the past several days, detectives from both the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Squad and the Raritan
Police Department have interviewed several witnesses and a 17 year old
male suspect was developed as a result of their investigation.
On July 30, 2008 at approximately 7:45 p.m., A.C. was arrested at his
residence in Bridgewater by detectives and charges were filed relating
to the incident. He was charged with one count of Attempted Murder,
1st degree, and one count of a Possession of Weapon for Unlawful
Purposes, 3rd degree, and has been lodged at the Middlesex County
Juvenile Detention Center.
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
juvenile is presumed innocent until adjudicated delinquent.
Back
JULY 30, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
“Operation Net-Vet Harlot”
David C. Baker (Click on image)
Cathy Rosania (Click on image)
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bedminster Chief of Police William Stephens announce that a two month
investigation designated “Operation Net-Vet Harlot” resulted in the
arrest of a prostitute and her business manager (pimp) for engaging in
prostitution in the Pluckemin section of Bedminster Township.
The investigation began when a Bedminster detective monitoring the
Internet for criminal activity found an ad on “www.craigslist.org” for
“erotic services” in the Pluckemin/Bedminster area. The website,
www.craigslist.org, is a classified ad service website founded in 1995
in the San Francisco Bay area that has since grown to be one of the
leading internet classified ad services. Bedminster DSG. Craig F.
Meyer responded to the ad, and ultimately set up an appointment to
meet with defendant Cathy J. Rosania (dob: 2/14/58) of Lebanon
Township, Hunterdon County, at a veterinary facility located on Route
202-206 North in Bedminster where she was employed as a veterinary
assistant. However, the investigation later revealed that in reality
DSG. Meyer was actually communicating online with defendant David C.
Baker (dob: 6/14/73) of Hackettstown, who was posing as a prostitute.
Thereafter, an undercover detective with the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force responded
to defendant Rosania’s place of employment for the appointment and met
with defendant Rosania on July 11, 2008. During the meeting, defendant
Rosania led the detective into a veterinary examining room and
propositioned the undercover detective. Defendant Rosania was then
arrested and charged with prostitution.
Following defendant Rosania’s arrest, the investigation revealed that
she worked as a prostitute with defendant Baker, who served as her
business manager (pimp). In this capacity, defendant Baker screened
potential patron (johns) for defendant Rosania, and established
appointments with potential patrons (johns) for defendant Rosania in
exchange for a portion of the money paid to Rosania by the patrons
(johns). Defendant Baker conducted this prostitution business via a
computer, at times, while at work in East Hanover, New Jersey, at
Novartis at 1 Health Plaza.
To further the investigation, a Bedminster Township undercover female
police officer posing as a prostitute in need of a business manager
then contacted defendant Baker. Defendant Baker offered to recruit and
screen potential patrons (johns) for the undercover officer in
exchange for money. The undercover police officer arranged an
in-person meeting with defendant Baker for approximately 5:30 p.m. on
July 29, 2008 at the Hills Mall, at which time defendant Baker was
arrested and charged with Promoting Prostitution, 3rd degree, and
Conspiracy to Promote Prostitution, 3rd degree.
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.
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE EMPLOYEE ARRESTED FOR STEALING LUXURY WATCHES
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Chief of Police Richard J. Borden announced the
arrest of Ira M. Daniels (DOB: 11/15/1980) of Bennington Parkway,
Franklin Park, New Jersey for Theft, 3rd Degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 13, 2008 United Parcel Service,
located on Chimney Rock Road in Bridgewater, had reported a theft of
81 TAG Heuer watches to the Bridgewater Police Department that had
occurred between October of 2007 and July 10, 2008. An investigation
conducted by the Bridgewater Police Department Detective Bureau
revealed that an individual was selling TAG Heuer luxury watches on
EBay at a rate that was well below the fair market value. The watches
are valued at varying prices between $2,000.00 and $4,000.00 and were
being sold on EBay for only $450.00. Bridgewater Police Department
made contact with this individual and in the process recovered a TAG
Heuer watch valued at $4,300.00. Detectives also were able to
determine that other individuals were in possession of the watches
which were being taken from the UPS Facility by an employee.
Prosecutor Forrest said that further inquiry into the matter led to a
joint investigation between the Bridgewater Police Department and the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations Unit.
Detectives learned that the individual selling the watch on Ebay
purchased the watch from defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp. Through further
investigative means defendants Eric Berg and Dante Dangelo-Kemp were
identified as suspects who were in possession of other TAG Heuer
watches stolen from UPS.
On July 28, 2008 the investigation revealed defendant Dante Dangelo-Kemp
received TAG Heuer watches that were taken from UPS by an employee.
The investigation further revealed that the UPS employee stealing the
watches was defendant Ira M. Daniels. Defendant Dante Dangelo-Kemp
purchased approximately 16 TAG Heuer watches from defendant Daniels
for $300.00 apiece. Defendant Dangelo-Kemp would then sell these
watches for a profit. Detectives also determined that defendant Dante
Dangelo-Kemp’s brother, defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp, and roommate
defendant Berg were also in possession of some of the stolen watches.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on July 28, 2008 a Search Warrant was
executed upon defendant Berg’s mother’s residence which he has access
to, located on Shaffer Road in Bridgewater. Subsequently, Detectives
discovered a TAG Heuer watch valued at $4,100.00 and a Nintendo Wii
system. The investigation revealed that defendant Berg received the
TAG Heuer watch and the Nintendo Wii system from defendant Dante
Dangelo-Kemp and that they were taken from UPS.
Prosecutor Forrest stated later that evening a Search was conducted at
90 First Avenue, Raritan which is the residence of defendant Colin
Dangelo-Kemp. While in the common areas of the residence detectives
observed in defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp’s room an empty TAG Heuer
watch box, previously containing a watch valued at $2,700.00, sitting
on the dresser.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that four additional stolen TAG Heuer
watches were recovered from the residence of a purchaser located on
Washington Valley Road in Martinsville that same evening.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 29, 2008 the investigation
further revealed that an individual had witnessed defendant Daniels
secreting packages at UPS and arranging to have them removed from the
building while he was working. Additional interviews of other
employees revealed that defendant Daniels was surreptiously removing
packages from the facility with the use of company vehicles. Once the
packages were removed the items were then distributed to defendant
Dante Dangelo-Kemp for resale.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Daniels is also captured on
video surveillance gathering packages at the UPS facility that were
similar to TAG Heuer watch boxes and placing them into tote bags on
May 20, 2008. UPS reported a loss of 17 TAG Heuer watches on May 20,
2008 with values ranging between $2,000.00 and $5,000.00 each.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendants Eric J. Berg (DOB:
04/18/1983) of Hawthorne Drive, Somerset, New Jersey, Colin Dangelo-Kemp
(DOB: 01/09/1984) of First Avenue, Raritan, New Jersey and Dante
Dangelo-Kemp (DOB: 06/27/1982) of Hawthorne Drive, Somerset, New
Jersey were previously charged with Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd
degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that defendant Daniels was lodged at the
Somerset County Jail. Bail was set at $5,000.00 with a 10% option by
the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C.
Prosecutor Forrest stresses that the investigation is still ongoing
and asks that if anyone has any information in regards to this
investigation to please notify Bridgewater Township Police Department
at 908-722-4111 or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special
Investigations Unit at (908) 231-7100. 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.
Bounty Hunter
Bloods Gang Member Arrested
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Borough Chief of Police Dennis Manning announce the arrest
of defendant Joseph Samuel Llorens (dob: 3/10/89) of Coddington Place,
Somerville, a self-admitted member of the Bounty Hunter Bloods, for
distribution of marijuana to a juvenile.
On July 29, 2008, detectives with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force were conducting
surveillance in the area of East High Street in Somerville. There,
detectives observed defendant Llorens engage in a hand-to-hand
transaction with an individual later identified as juvenile C.L. (age
16). Detectives approached juvenile C.L., who turned over a quantity
of marijuana to detectives. After taking the juvenile into custody,
detectives arrested defendant Llorens. A search of defendant Llorens,
incident to his arrest, yielded additional marijuana and $518.00 in
cash. Defendant Llorens’ marijuana sale occurred within 500 feet of
the Peters Brook Park in Somerville.
Following his arrest, detectives with the Organized Crime and
Narcotics Task Force, with the assistance of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office Gangs and Guns Task Force, were able to confirm
that defendant Llorens was a member of the Bounty Hunter Bloods street
gang. Defendant Llorens was charged with 4th degree distribution of
marijuana, 3rd degree distribution of marijuana within 500 feet of a
public park, and disorderly persons possession of marijuana. Bail for
defendant Llorens was set at $10,000.00 with the 10% option by the
Honorable Peter A. Buchsbaum, J.S.C. Juvenile C.L. was charged with
disorderly persons possession of marijuana and released to his
parents.
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
July
29, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
LUXURY WATCHES STOLEN FROM UNITED PARCEL SERVICE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Township Chief of Police Richard J. Borden announced the
arrest of Eric J. Berg (DOB: 04/18/1983) of Hawthorne Drive, Somerset,
New Jersey, Colin Dangelo-Kemp (DOB: 01/09/1984) of First Avenue,
Raritan, New Jersey and Dante Dangelo-Kemp (DOB: 06/27/1982) of
Hawthorne Drive, Somerset, New Jersey.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 13, 2008 United Parcel Service,
located on Chimney Rock Road in Bridgewater, had reported a theft of
81 TAG Heuer watches to the Bridgewater Police Department that had
occurred between October of 2007 and July 10, 2008. An investigation
conducted by the Bridgewater Township Police Department Detective
Bureau revealed that an individual was selling TAG Heuer luxury
watches on EBay at a rate that was well below the fair market value.
The watches are valued at varying prices between $2,000.00 and
$4,000.00 and were being sold on EBay for only $450.00. Bridgewater
Police Department made contact with this individual and in the process
recovered a TAG Heuer watch valued at $4,300.00. Detectives also were
able to determine that other individuals were in possession of the
watches which were being taken from the UPS Facility by an employee.
Prosecutor Forrest said that further inquiry into the matter led to a
joint investigation between the Bridgewater Township Police Department
and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special Investigations
Unit. Detectives learned that the individual selling the watch on Ebay
purchased the watch from defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp. Through further
investigative means defendants Eric Berg and Dante Dangelo-Kemp were
identified as suspects who were in possession of other TAG Heuer
watches stolen from UPS.
On July 28, 2008 the investigation revealed defendant Dante Dangelo-Kemp
received TAG Heuer watches that were taken from UPS by an employee.
Defendant Dante Dangelo-Kemp purchased these watches from the UPS
employee for $300.00 each. Defendant Dangelo-Kemp would then sell
these watches for a profit. Detectives also determined that defendant
Dante Dangelo-Kemp’s brother, defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp, and
roommate defendant Berg were also in possession of some of the stolen
watches.
Prosecutor Forrest stated on July 28, 2008 a Search Warrant was
executed upon defendant Berg’s mother’s residence which he has access
to, located on Shaffer Road in Bridgewater. Subsequently, Detectives
discovered a TAG Heuer watch valued at $4,100.00 and a Nintendo Wii
system. The investigation revealed that defendant Berg received the
TAG Heuer watch and the Nintendo Wii system from defendant Dante
Dangelo-Kemp and that they were taken from UPS.
Prosecutor Forrest stated later that evening a Search was conducted at
90 First Avenue, Raritan which is the residence of defendant Colin
Dangelo-Kemp. While in the common areas of the residence detectives
observed in defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp’s room an empty TAG Heuer
watch box, previously containing a watch valued at $2,700.00, sitting
on the dresser.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that four additional stolen TAG Heuer
watches were recovered from the residence of a purchaser located on
Washington Valley Road in Martinsville that same evening.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that all three of the aforementioned
defendants were later charged with Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd
degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that all three suspects were charged with
3rd degree, Receiving Stolen Property, processed and lodged in the
Somerset County Jail pending their release on bail. Defendant Berg’s
bail was set at $10,000.00 with a 10% option and defendant Dante
Dangelo-Kemp’s and defendant Colin Dangelo-Kemp’s bail were both set
at $15,000.00 with a 10% option by the Honorable Paul W. Armstrong,
J.S.C.
Prosecutor Forrest stresses that the investigation is still ongoing
and asks that if anyone has any information in regards to this
investigation to please notify Bridgewater Township Police Department
at 908-722-4111 or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Special
Investigations Unit at (908) 231-7100. 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.
Back
JULY 24, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
$48,000 WORTH OF HIGH-GRADE MARIJUANA SEIZED IN BRIDGEWATER ARREST
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bridgewater Police Chief Richard Borden announce the arrest of Michael
L. Klein (age 33) of Wingedfoot Court in Howell. Defendant Michael L.
Klein has been charged with 2nd degree Possession of CDS (Marijuana)
with the Intent to Distribute and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a
disorderly persons offense.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 24, 2008 at approximately 6:00
p.m. members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force along with members of the Bridgewater
Police Department were conducting a narcotics investigation in the
area of the Red Bull Inn located on Route 22 west Bridgewater.
Information was received that defendant Michael L. Klein would be in
the area of the Red Bull Inn in possession of a substantial quantity
of marijuana. As a result of receiving this information, members of
the Task Force along with members of the Bridgewater Police Department
established a surveillance in the area of the Red Bull Inn.
Subsequent to establishing the surveillance, defendant Klein was
observed arriving at the Red Bull Inn driving a Jeep Liberty. At this
time members of the Task Force approached defendant Klein for
questioning. Task Force members with the assistance of the
Hillsborough K-9 Unit then searched defendant Klein’s Jeep Liberty and
seized approximately seven (7) pounds of high-grade marijuana that was
located in a duffel bag.
Detectives then proceeded to Howell, New Jersey to conduct a search
defendant’s residence located on Wingedfoot Court in Howell, New
Jersey. Task Force members along with members of the Monmouth County
Prosecutor’s Office and the Howell Police Department searched
defendant Klein’s residence which resulted in the seizure of an
additional one (1) pound of high-grade marijuana as well as drug
paraphernalia (scale and sandwich bags) from the residence.
The estimated street value of the marijuana seized from defendant
Klein is approximately forty eight thousand dollars ($48,000.00).
Defendant Klein was placed in the Somerset County Jail pending 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.
EDISON MAN FATALLY INJURED IN MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISION IN BEDMINSTER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bedminster Police Chief William Stephens announce that on July 25,
2008, the Somerset County Collision Analysis Reconstruction (CAR) Team
responded to assist the Bedminster Township Police Department with a
fatal motor vehicle collision. The collision occurred at approximately
9:08 a.m. on Route 206 South near Berkshire Court in Bedminster. The
collision occurred when a Pontiac G-6, operated by Sandra Carr (25
years old) of Peapack, N.J., struck and fatally injured Edward Lazario,
62, of Edison, New Jersey.
Lazario, who is employed by ESS Company Incorporated Traffic Control,
was contracted by Verizon to assist with the traffic control. Lazario
and the Verizon utility worker had just arrived at the site and were
setting up the work zone. At this time, the vehicle operated by Sandra
Karr was traveling southbound on Route 206 and struck Lazario as he
was walking adjacent to the southbound lane of travel.
Lazario sustained head trauma as a result of the collision and was
pronounced dead while being transported to Somerset Medical Center.
The collision remains under investigation and no charges have been
filed at this time.
The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office C.A.R. Team and the
Bedminster Police Department are investigating the collision jointly.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bedminster Police
Department at 908-212-7026, or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office
at 908-575-3300, 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.” All calls are
confidential.
BODY OF SUICIDE VICTIM DISCOVERED IN THE WOODS IN
GREEN BROOK
GREEN BROOK – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Green Brook Police Chief Martin Rasmussen reported that the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office and the Green Brook Police Department
responded to the woods behind the Shogun 22 Restaurant, 166 Route 22
West, Green Brook, New Jersey on July 24, 2008 at approximately 4:00
pm on a report of a male hanging from a tree. Upon arrival, police
discovered a deceased male identified as 37-year old Makoto Taniguchi
(DOB: 01/19/71) of Highland Park, the victim of an apparent suicide.
Mr. Taniguchi was a science teacher at the Oak Knoll School in Summit.
An autopsy was performed on this date at the Regional Medical
Examiner’s Office in Newark, New Jersey. Preliminary cause of death
has been ruled as suicide by hanging.
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JULY 23, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
HILLSBOROUGH MAN ASSAULTS DETECTIVES DURING DRUG ARREST
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Police Chief Paul Kaminsky announce the arrest of Anthony
Grady (age 27) of Route 206 in Hillsborough. Defendant Anthony Grady
has been charged with 2nd degree Possession of CDS (Cocaine) with the
Intent to Distribute, 3rd degree Possession of CDS (Cocaine) with the
Intent to Distribute within 1000 feet of a School, 3rd degree
Aggravated Assault (2 counts), and 3rd degree Resisting Arrest.
On July 23, 2008 at approximately 7:45 p.m. members of the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force
along with members of the Hillsborough Police Department were
conducting a narcotics investigation into the distribution of cocaine
by defendant Anthony Grady. Defendant Grady was located in the area of
the Game Stop located on Route 206 Hillsborough, and at this time
members of the Task Force attempted to approach the defendant inside
the Game Stop. Upon Task Force members approaching, defendant Grady he
immediately began to flee on foot, and attempted to run out the front
door as Task Force members apprehended him. The defendant, in an
attempt to not be arrested, struggled violently with detectives.
Defendant Grady resisted arrest by flailing his arms and legs and
elbowing Task Force members several times.
Defendant Grady was subsequently arrested and additional members of
the Task Force and the Hillsborough Police Department as well as the
Hillsborough K-9 unit executed a Superior Court search warrant at his
residence on Route 206 in Hillsborough. As a result of the search
warrant being executed, twenty-eight (28) bags of cocaine and four
hundred dollars ($400.00) in U.S. currency was seized from the
residence. Also at the time of defendant Grady’s arrest he was found
to be in possession of three (3) bags of cocaine in his back pocket.
It should be noted that defendant’s residence is located within 1000
feet of a Hillsborough School.
The estimated street value of the cocaine seized from defendant Grady
is three thousand one hundred dollars ($3,100.00).
Defendant Grady was placed in the Somerset County Jail. Bail has been
set at $100,000.00 cash.
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.
DAVIS
LOPEZ PLEADS GUILTY TO AGGRAVATED MANSLAUGHTER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announces
that Davis Javier Lopez, now age 20, of Tremont Avenue in North
Plainfield, pled guilty today to first degree Aggravated Manslaughter
in the Superior Court in Somerville pursuant to a plea agreement with
the State.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the defendant was indicted by the
Somerset County Grand Jury on May 3, 2006, and charged with first
degree Murder, third degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful
Purpose and fourth degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. The
indictment alleged that the defendant stabbed Conrado A. Aguilar, Jr.,
then age 17, of South Park Street, Manville, to death with a knife.
Prosecutor Forrest said the murder occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m.
on Tuesday, January 3, 2006, at the corner of Duer Street and Park
Place in North Plainfield. Prosecutor Forrest said the defendant and
victim briefly attended North Plainfield High School together but that
they were not friends.
Prosecutor Forrest said the victim and defendant Lopez met on the
sidewalk along Duer Street. The two began to playfully wrestle.
Defendant Lopez became angry, retrieved a concealed knife and stabbed
the victim multiple times in the face and torso. The victim died at
the scene, and the defendant fled on foot. Later that evening, members
of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and North Plainfield Police
Department found and arrested the defendant at his home. The defendant
was arrested without incident. The knife was never recovered.
Prosecutor Forrest said a jury trial commenced on April 16, 2007,
before the Honorable Robert B. Reed, J.S.C. The jury was unable to
reach a unanimous verdict and a mistrial was declared on May 2, 2007.
Prosecutor Forrest said defendant Lopez entered into a plea agreement
with the State prior to the setting of another trial date. The plea
agreement contemplated that the defendant would plead guilty to an
amended charge of first degree Aggravated Manslaughter and the two
weapons offenses, and that the State would agree to recommend a
sentence of twelve years in State Prison pursuant to the No Early
Release Act. Prosecutor Forrest said, under the terms of the plea
agreement, defendant Lopez would have to serve at least ten years, two
months and thirteen days before becoming eligible for parole. The
defendant has been incarcerated at the Somerset County Jail since
January 3, 2006.
Prosecutor Forrest said the plea hearing was conducted by the
Honorable Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C., in Somerville. The State was
represented by Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Murphy. The victim’s
family was present at the guilty plea hearing.
Prosecutor Forrest said the defendant is expected to be sentenced by
Judge Armstrong on Friday, September 19, 2008.
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JULY 23, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
Click on image to enlarge
REWARD OFFERED BY CRIME STOPPERS IN FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP ARMED ROBBERY
AND ATTEMPTED MURDER
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick state that the investigation into
armed robbery and attempted murder that took place at the Exxon gas
station located at 650 Franklin Boulevard on July 22, 2008 is
continuing.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, has announced a reward of
$2,500.00 for information that leads to the arrest and indictment of
the individual responsible for the robbery.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 22, 2008 at approximately 2:18
a.m. a gas station attendant was robbed at gunpoint and shot by an
unknown individual prior to fleeing the business. The assailant is
described as a black male approximately 18 years old wearing a dark
colored tee shirt, dark colored jeans, tan work boots and wearing what
appeared to be a white tee shirt around his head. The actor walked
into the store area of the gas station, approached the counter and
demanded money from the clerk while pointing what was described as an
automatic weapon at him. The store clerk handed over a sum of money to
the actor who then immediately shot the clerk in the chest. The actor
then fled
on foot from the establishment running east toward Route 27.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Novick and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can be provided anonymously by
calling the Somerset County Crime Stoppers Tips line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All
calls are confidential.
INVESTIGATION BEING CONDUCTED INTO THE IDENTITY OF AN APPARENT SUICIDE
VICTIM
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Hillsborough Police Chief Paul A. Kaminsky report that the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office and the Hillsborough Township Police
Department are attempting to identify a white male who was struck and
killed by a train in an apparent suicide yesterday afternoon at
approximately 5:48 pm. The incident occurred approximately 500 feet
west of Beekman Lane in Hillsborough, New Jersey. The unidentified man
was approximately 17-25 years of age, 5 feet 8 inches tall, 120-140
lbs. with brown hair and grayish-colored eyes. The victim was wearing
a white t-shirt, black Wrangler jeans, brown Mitre sneakers, and had a
multi-colored bracelet on his left wrist.
Anyone with information pertaining to this individual should call
Detective Richard Evans of the Hillsborough Police Department,
908-369-4323, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, 908-575-3300,
or the Somerset County Crime Stoppers anonymous 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.” All calls are
confidential.
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JULY 22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
PLAINFIELD MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and North
Plainfield Police Chief William Parenti announce that a month-long
narcotics investigation resulted in the arrest of defendant Bobby L.
Holloman, Jr., (age 24) of Garfield Avenue in Plainfield. Defendant
Holloman was charged with 3rd degree Possession With Intent to
Distribute CDS (Cocaine), 3rd degree Resisting Arrest, and disorderly
persons Possession of CDS (Marijuana) under 50 Grams.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 21, 2008 at approximately 12:35
p.m., members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized
Crime and Narcotics Task Force along with members of the North
Plainfield Police Department were conducting a narcotics investigation
in the area of the Pathmark parking lot located on Route 22 East,
North Plainfield, New Jersey. There, Task Force members approached
defendant Holloman, who was driving a Gold Infiniti in the Pathmark
parking lot. As they approached defendant Holloman, Task Force members
identified themselves as police officers. Upon seeing the police,
defendant Holloman attempted to flee. Task Force members gave several
verbal commands to “stop” to defendant Holloman, which he ignored.
Ultimately, Task Force officers were able to stop defendant Holloman,
remove him from his vehicle and place him under arrest. A subsequent
search of defendant yielded eight (8) bags of crack cocaine located in
his pants pocket with an estimated street value of approximately
three-hundred twenty dollars ($320.00). Defendant Holloman was also
found to have one-thousand eleven dollars ($1,011.00) in U.S. currency
on his person which was seized. Defendant Holloman’s vehicle was later
searched and found to contain one (1) bag of marijuana.
Following his arrest, defendant Holloman was lodged in the Somerset
County Jail with bail was set at $15,000 cash or bond by the Honorable
Paul W. Armstrong, J.S.C.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a
statement explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and
that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
GAS STATION ATTENDANT SHOT BY ARMED ROBBER
Click on image to enlarge
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Franklin
Township Police Chief Craig Novick announce that on July 22, 2008 at
approximately 2:18 a.m. a gas station attendant was robbed at gunpoint
and shot by an unknown individual prior to fleeing the business.
Detectives from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and the
Franklin Township Police Department are currently investigating the
shooting incident at the Exxon gas station located at 650 Franklin
Boulevard. The assailant is described as a black male approximately 18
years old wearing a dark colored tee shirt, dark colored jeans, tan
work boots and wearing what appeared to be a white tee shirt around
his head. The actor walked into the store area of the gas station,
approached the counter and demanded money from the clerk while
pointing what was described as an automatic weapon at him. The store
clerk handed over a sum of money to the actor who then immediately
shot the clerk in the chest. The actor then fled on foot from the
establishment running east toward Route 27. The shooting incident was
captured on the store video camera and detectives were able to print
out a picture of the shooter. The store clerk was taken to an area
hospital where he is being treated for a single gunshot wound to the
chest. Doctors operated on the victim and he is now listed in serious
condition. Members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Crime
Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) Unit processed the scene of the shooting.
Prosecutor Forrest and Chief Novick ask that if anyone has information
pertaining to this incident please contact the Franklin Township
Police Department at 732-873-5533 or the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office at 908-575-3300. This information can be provided anonymously
by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free TIPS Line at 1-888-577-TIPS
(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net and click on
either “Crime Stoppers” or “TIPS HOTLINE”. All calls are confidential.
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JULY 18, 2008
NEWS RELEASES
REWARD IN BERNARDSVILLE BURGLARY INCREASED
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Chief
Kevin Valentine of the Bernardsville Police Department announced that
the owner of a Mountain Top Road, Bernardsville, New Jersey residence
that was burglarized between March 18th and March 21st, 2008 has
personally posted an additional $1,000.00 reward for the arrest and
indictment of the individual(s) responsible for burglary, theft and
criminal mischief that occurred to his home.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that the individual(s) gained entry by
breaking a first floor window. Once inside numerous items having
sentimental value to the owner, were taken or broken. In a second
floor bathroom water was left
running in a tub.
Douglas W. Kimmelman, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors
of Crime Stoppers of Somerset County, previously announced a reward of
$1,000.00 on June 30, 2008 for information which leads to the arrest
and indictment of the individual(s) who are responsible for the
burglary, theft and criminal mischief.
Prosecutor Forrest, Chief Valentine and Crime Stoppers President
Kimmelman state that any information can either be provided
anonymously by calling the Crime Stoppers toll free tip line at
1-888-577-TIPS(8477) or online at www.888577tips.org or www.scpo.net
and click on the “Give Tips” or “Crime Stoppers”. Whether you provide
information by telephone or online you will be provided a confidential
claim number, which you will utilize to obtain the reward monies. All
calls are confidential.
ONE ARRESTED, HIGH GRADE MARIJUANA SEIZURE
IN WARREN TOWNSHIP
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and Warren
Police Chief Russell Leffert announce that on July 17, 2008 a
narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the Warren
Township Police Department resulted in the arrest of Michael Netta
(DOB 6/26/78) of King George Road in Warren. Defendant Netta was
arrested for Possession of Marijuana with intent to distribute, 3rd
degree, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 1000
feet of a School Zone, 3rd degree, and Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense.
Prosecutor Forrest states that as a result of a three-month
investigation, on July 17, 2008, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, along with members of
the Warren Township Police Department executed a Superior Court Search
Warrant at the residence of Michael Netta.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that yesterday at approximately 4:00 p.m.,
defendant Michael Netta was observed leaving his King George Road
residence driving a blue Saab. Defendant Netta was surveilled to a gas
station located on Mount Bethel Road, in Warren. At the gas station,
defendant Netta was approached by members of the Somerset County
Prosecutor’s Office and members of the Warren Township Police
Department and advised of an investigation that involved defendant
Netta distributing marijuana from his residence. Also at this time
additional members of the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and
Warren Township Police Department, executed a Superior Court Search
Warrant on defendant Netta’s King George Road residence.
As a result of the Superior Court Search Warrant executed on the
residence, a total of approximately two pounds of high grade
marijuana, (street value approximately $4,000.00), numerous plastic
baggies, a marijuana grinder and a digital scale were seized.
Defendant Netta was transported to the Warren Township Police
Department for processing. Defendant Netta was released released on
his own recognizance from Warren Township Police Department.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
SOMERVILLE MAN ARRESTED SELLING TO UNDERCOVER DETECTIVE
SOMERVILLE - Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Somerville Police Chief Dennis Manning stated that on July 17, 2008 a
narcotics investigation conducted by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s
Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force and the Somerville
Police Department resulted in the arrest Luis Herrera Mendez (DOB
7/3/79) of West High Street, Somerville, New Jersey. Defendant Mendez
was arrested for Distribution of Cocaine, 3rd degree (three counts)
and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance within 1000 feet of
a School Zone, 3rd degree.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on July 1, 2008 defendant Luis Herrera
Mendez met with an undercover detective at the Friendly’s Restaurant
located on Route 22 East, Somerville, New Jersey, which is within 1000
feet of the Immaculata High School, also located in Somerville. At the
restaurant, defendant Mendez sold the undercover detective two bags of
cocaine for $80.00. On July 15, 2008 once again defendant Mendez met
with the undercover detective at the restaurant and sold the
undercover detective two bags of cocaine for $80.00.
On July 15, 2008, at approximately 8:45 p.m. the undercover detective
met with defendant Mendez in front of the Social Security Building,
Municipal parking lot 2 in Somerville, New Jersey. This time defendant
Mendez sold the undercover detective two bags of cocaine for $90.00.
Once the undercover narcotics transaction was complete, members of the
Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and Somerville Police Department
approached defendant Mendez and placed him under arrest. The Social
Security Building is located within 1000 feet of the Somerville Middle
School.
Defendant Mendez was transported to the Somerville Police Department
for processing. Defendant Mendez was lodged in the Somerset County
Jail with bail to be set.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
KEVIN BAXTER SENTENCED
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest announced
that on July 18, 2008, defendant Kevin Baxter, age 42, of 17 Brokaw
Boulevard, Apt. #5, Plainfield, New Jersey, was sentenced on his
conviction for first degree Robbery and first degree Carjacking.
Defendant was also sentenced subsequent to a guilty plea on an
unrelated indictment charging him with fourth degree Aggravated
Assault.
Prosecutor Forrest stated that on May 15, 2008, defendant was
convicted of robbery and carjacking after a seven (7) day trial before
the Honorable Julie M. Marino, J.S.C., and a jury. Subsequent to this
guilty verdict, defendant pled guilty to the aggravated assault
indictment. In exchange for his guilty plea on that indictment, the
State agreed to recommend the sentence on this charge run concurrent
to the sentence on the robbery and carjacking. Judge Marino sentenced
the defendant to fifteen (15) years State Prison with 85% of that
sentence to be served without parole pursuant to the No Early Release
Act on the first degree robbery charge. Defendant received a
concurrent fifteen (15) year State Prison sentence with 85% of that
sentence to be served without parole on the carjacking charge. On the
aggravated assault charge, defendant received eighteen (18) months
State Prison to run concurrent to each of the sentences imposed on the
robbery and carjacking charges.
Defendant was convicted of robbing the Unity Bank in North Plainfield
and carjacking a nearby vehicle during his flight from the bank. On
the morning of May 23, 2006, defendant entered the Unity Bank and
handed a note to bank teller Andres Castillo indicating he wanted
money or he would shoot Castillo dead. Defendant also verbally stated
he had a gun and made gestures through his clothing indicating he had
a gun. Several of these gestures were captured on video, which video
was admitted at trial in evidence. Defendant was not successful in
robbing money from the bank teller. Defendant fled the bank. Defendant
was followed from the bank by the branch manager and a bank patron.
During his flight from the scene, defendant confronted a young man and
his mother as they were attempting to leave for work in their vehicle
which was parked outside their home. This confrontation occurred two
blocks from the bank. Defendant attempted to steal the vehicle
operated by victim Diego Ortiz. In furtherance of this attempt,
defendant pulled Ortiz’ mother, Carmen Pazmino, from the passenger
area of the vehicle and entered into the passenger side of the
vehicle. Defendant told Diego Ortiz he had a gun and had to go.
Defendant pushed Ortiz out of the car through the driver side door.
Ortiz suffered minor injury to his knees. Defendant was unable to
complete the carjacking as Diego Ortiz took the keys from the vehicle
before he was pushed from the car. Defendant once again fled the area
on foot and was later apprehended hiding in the basement of a private
home.
As for the indictment charging aggravated assault, while incarcerated
at the Somerset County Jail on March 15, 2007, defendant got into a
verbal altercation over his meal with Corrections Officer Hector
Garcia. The incident occurred in a jail pod area filled with other
inmates. The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation
wherein defendant threw a mop bucket and wringer at Corrections
Officer Garcia. Defendant also kicked Corrections Officer Garcia
during the incident. Defendant was ultimately subdued by Garcia and
other corrections officers.
The prosecution of this case was handled by Somerset County Assistant
Prosecutor Joseph V. Rocchietti. Defendant was represented at trial
and sentencing by Matthew B. Katzenbach, Esq., Assistant Deputy Public
Defender.
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JULY 16, 2008
NEWS RELEASE
KIDNAPPING SUSPECT BROUGHT TO SOMERSET COUNTY JAIL
SOMERVILLE – Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne J. Forrest and
Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine announced that detectives
from the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office transported Petra
Rodriguez from Kings County District Court in Brooklyn, New York to
the Somerset County Jail after defendant Rodriguez waived extradition
and agreed to stand trial in Somerset County New Jersey. Defendant
Rodriguez was arrested on July 8, 2008 by detectives from the Somerset
County Prosecutor’s Office and the Bernardsville Police Department for
the kidnapping of a Guatemalan woman from Bernardsville on July 1,
2008. Defendant Rodriguez was lodged in the Somerset County Jail with
her bail set at $200,000.00 cash. Defendant is expected to be
arraigned in Somerset County on July 17, 2008.
Note:
We are required by the Rules of Court to include herein a statement
explaining that the charges are merely an accusation and that the
defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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