Prosecutor Press Releases

Morris County Total Crime Index Decreases Yet Again Under Bianchi

2011-11-18T13:39:00.009-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi is pleased to announce that Morris County has once again experienced a crime decrease for the calendar year 2010.

Morris County has the highest decrease in the State of New Jersey for the total crime index as of 12/31/10.

Overall, from the beginning of Prosecutor Bianchi's term in 2007 through 2010, Morris County's total crime index has decreased 12.82%.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:

"This is a direct reflection of the tenacious work of the Morris County law enforcement community. We have all worked very hard on our Countywide Crime Plan to gather meaningful crime intelligence, conduct fruitful investigations and prosecutions to eradicate those persons who pose the greatest danger to the community."

See the 2010 highlights from the New Jersey State Police Uniform Crime Report.

Follow the Prosecutor's Office on Twitter

2011-11-03T11:42:00.002-04:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's office is now on Twitter. Posts include trial and event updates @MCNJProsecutor. You can also get information about the Prosecutor's office at www.MorrisProsecutor.org. Press conferences and other videos are on the Prosecutor's YouTube channel.

Butler Resident Arrested in Drug Probe

2011-11-02T17:30:00.009-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi and Chief Edward M. Card of the Butler Borough Police Department jointly announce the arrest of John T. Podstawski age 21 of Butler Borough.

Mr. Podstawski was arrested on November 2, 2011 at approximately 11:00am and charged with the following:

Possession of Marijuana (4 counts)
Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute over one ounce (4 counts)
Distribution of Marijuana over one ounce (3 counts)
Possession of drug paraphernalia

This was a joint investigation between the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force, Special Enforcement Unit and the Butler Borough Police Department. Mr. Podstawski was identified as an individual who was allegedly selling large quantities of
marijuana from his residence located in Butler, New Jersey. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Tactical Team along with the Butler Borough Police Department executed a search warrant at the residence of Mr. Podstawski earlier this morning. Over sixteen ounces of Marijuana valued in excess of $4,500.00 was seized along with two vehicles valued at $20,000.

Mr. Podstawski was processed at the Butler Borough Police Department and remanded to the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $50,000 no 10% bail which was set by Superior Court Judge David H. Ironson.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until
found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Wharton Man Arrested During Narcotic Operation

2011-07-19T06:51:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Wharton Borough Chief of Police Anthony Fernandez announce the arrest of Daniel Q. Martinez, 56 years of age, in connection with an undercover narcotic investigation which took place in Wharton, New Jersey.

On Friday, July 15, 2011 at 2:20 p.m., the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force and Tactical Team along with the Wharton Borough Police Department executed a search warrant and arrest warrants at the residence of Daniel Q. Martinez located at 18 Fern Avenue, Wharton, New Jersey.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"The defendant was taken into custody outside his residence without incident. The investigation was the result of a collaborative effort by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force and the Wharton Borough Police Department after developing information concerning the alleged on-going drug distribution activity which was taking place at the defendant’s residence.

The Wharton Borough Police Department received a number of complaints concerning this location and they have been extremely proactive with regard to their investigative efforts in cooperation with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. This is another example of law enforcement’s coordinated efforts at a local and county level".

Subject:
Name: Daniel Q. Martinez
DOB: 4/09/1955, 56 yoa
18 Fern Avenue
Wharton, New Jersey

Charges:
Four counts each of:
Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)
Possession w/Intent to a Distribute Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)
Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)

The defendant was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $100,000 no 10%, with a bail source hearing.

We are asking anyone with information to call the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Intelligence Crime Task Force at (973) 285-2900 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Fire at Cafe Under Investigation

2011-05-16T15:03:00.001-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. announces the ongoing investigation of a fire which occurred at Café Buono located at 215 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Pequannock at 6:11am this morning.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson, Pequannock Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are currently conducting the investigation.

The Pequannock Township Police Department received a 911 call from an employee of Café Buono who reported smoke coming from the café when they reported for work this morning.

Upon the arrival of the Pequannock Township Police and Fire Departments, they identified an active fire within the café.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200, Pequannock Township Police Department at (973) 835-1700 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

New York Jets Wide Receiver Jerricho Cotchery is recognized during Black History Month Celebration

2011-02-22T19:06:00.007-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., talks about New York Jets Wide Receiver Jericho Cotchery who was recognized at the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Black History Month Celabration. You can see the video on the Morris County Prosecutor's Office YouTube Channel.

Black History Month Celebration

2011-02-22T18:58:00.009-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., talks about the Black History Month Celebration which was held on Tuesday, February 22, 2011. The video is now available on the Morris County Prosecutor's Office YouTube Channel.

Prosecutor Bianchi Announces Black History Month Celebration

2011-02-18T11:59:00.001-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the 2011 Black History Month Celebration will take place on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 6:00 P.M. at the Administration & Records Building 5th Floor, 10 Court Street, Morristown, NJ. Please RSVP to rsvp@co.morris.nj.us or call (973) 285-6268. The announcement is now available on the Morris County Prosecutor's Office YouTube Channel.

Woman dies in Chatham Twp. house fire

2010-04-13T17:02:00.003-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Chatham Township Chief of Police John Paton announce the on-going investigation of a fatal fire in Chatham Twp. which occured on Monday April 12, 2010.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit along with the Chatham Township Police, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are jointly investigating the fatal fire that killed a Chatham Township woman Monday afternoon.

Police and fire fighters responded to the fire at a River Road three-story home where they found Margaret Smizaski, age 43, a resident of the home, dead in the drieway of the residence at approximately 1:3o p.m.

On April 13, 2010 the Morris County Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy. The cause and manner of death is pending further toxicological testing.

The fire originated within a 2008 4 door Honda CRV which was parked within the attached garage located beneath the residence.

The fire extended from the vehicle to the garage and then to the residence above. The residence sustained heavy smoke damage throughout the upper levels of the residence with severe fire damage to the garage as well as the front exterior of the residence.

The preliminary fire investigation has not revealed any indication that the fire was intentionally set, the investigation however is on-going.

Cops ID man in Dover death

2010-04-09T16:36:00.003-04:00

4-9-10

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Dover Chief of Police Harold Valentine announce the death investigation of an individual located in Dover, New Jersey.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit along with the Dover Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office are conducting an investigation into the death of Joseph Nedo, age 58 of Dover, New Jersey.

On Thursday, April 8, 2010 at approximately 8:25 p.m., a citizen reported that they noticed a person lying in the Rockaway River. Members from both the Dover Police and Fire Departments responded to the scene and removed the victim from the river. The victim was located in the river behind a residence on East Blackwell Street. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by the Morris County Medical Examiner.

The Morris County Medical Examiner's Office has determined that the cause of death was drowning with a contributory factor of alcohol intoxication. The manner of death remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (973) 366-0302, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office at (973) COPCALL.

Unidentified man found dead in Dover

2010-04-09T11:37:00.003-04:00

4-9-10

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Dover Chief of Police Harold Valentine announce the death investigation of an individual located in Dover, New Jersey.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit along with the Dover Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office are conducting an investigation into the death of an unidentified white male located in Dover, New Jersey.

On Thursday, April 8, 2010 at approximately 8:25 p.m., a citizen reported that they noticed a person lying in the Rockaway River. Members from both the Dover Police and Fire Departments responded to the scene and removed the victim from the river. The victim was located in the river behind a residence on East Blackwell Street. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by the Morris County Medical Examiner.

The victim is described as a white male, estimated to be in his late 50's and has the following tattoo markings; on his left bicep is a skull with a hat, on his left arm is the name "Joey" written in script and a cloud with rain, his left wrist is marked Little Devil with pitch forks wearing a diaper. On his right bicep is a ribbon, on his forearm is a cross with "Joe" and also on his forearm is a crow smoking a cigar.

This victim still remains unidentified at this time. An autopsy is currently pending by the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Dover Police Department at (973) 366-0302, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office at (973) COPCALL.

25-year-old Harding resident pleads guilty to robbing Morristown bank twice

2010-04-07T13:40:00.004-04:00

April 7, 2010

A 25-year-old Harding reident pleaded guilty today to robbing the TD Bank on South Street in Morristown twice within four days.

Harding resident David Coates plead guilty to two counts of robbery, Morris County Assistant Prosecutor Lisa Scorsolini has recommended Coates be sentenced as a second-degree offender and receive a sentence of up to 10 years in state prison.

Superior Court Judge Thomas V. Manahan will sentence Coates on May 28, 2010.

Coates will have to serve 85 percent of the jail sentence before parole consideration.

Rockaway Twp. man charged with endangering the welfare of a 12-year-old boy

2010-04-07T13:09:00.003-04:00

April 7, 2010

A Rockaway Township man has been charged with endangering the welfare of a 12-year-old boy. Mark Hildebrant Jr., 28, was charged Tuesday with the second-degree offense. The investigation was conducted by Rockaway Township Detective Patricia Abrahamsen and Morris County Prosecutor's Office Detective Janine Ponnwitz. Hildebrant was placed in the Morris County Jail on $100,000 bail, full cash, and a judge ordered he not have any contact with boy as a condition of bail.

2nd Annual Irish Heritage Month Celebration

2010-04-05T14:44:00.008-04:00

MORRIS COUNTY PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE COMMUNITY AFFAIRS UNIT
10 Court Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
PRESENTS:
2ND ANNUAL IRISH HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATION
MONDAY, MARCH 29TH, 2010 AT 7:00 PM

MORRISTOWN:
On Monday, March 29, 2010 The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit honored a variety of people of Irish ancestry for their dedication to the field of public service. Keynote speaker included Morris County Deputy Freeholder Director William J. Chegwidden. 4 (four) others shared in the spotlight, all each having distinct Irish descent - Morris County Undersheriff Jack Dempsey, United States Marshal Chief Inspector John Cuff, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Executive Captain Richard A. Rose, and Morris County Prosecutor's Office Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Maggie D. Calderwood, Esq.

As each honoree accepted their award, the audience was enlightened by stories of hard work and dedication. Their strong Irish roots were the driving force to their success today, and were each thankful for their families' devotions and commitment to their achievements.

Deputy Freeholder Director William Chegwidden, who is also the Mayor of Wharton, pulled out his Grandfather's badge during his speech and explained why he carried it as a symbol of his Grandfather's sacrifice and dedication to his family. "My Grandfather worked many jobs, and as a construction worker, he built my mother's house, a house she lived in for 50 years," he noted.

Entertainment included a musical tribute by Irish band Croi na mBan, which in Gaelic means A Woman's Heart. The band, which was represented by two of its members, sang songs in both the Gaelic language and in English. A dance tribute was also provided by The Peter Smith School of Irish Dance of Morris Plains, and the audience was surprised and delighted to learn that Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Esq. danced as a young girl.

Man charged with attempted sex assault

2010-04-01T10:46:00.002-04:00

Morristown Police Department Officers Richard Lamperti and Michael Molnar arrested Rick Wilkins, aka Ricardo Wilkins, DOB 06/26/62, LKA Market Street Mission, on charges of 1st degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, 3rd degree Possession of Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, 3rd degree Criminal Restraint and 3rd degree Terroristic Threats.

Morristown Police Officer Richard Lamperti responded to a 911 call shortly after 1am on April 1, 2010 from an adult female at the Morristown Train Station wherein the victim requested police assistance.

The victim alleged that she was approached by the defendant who allegedly threatened to assault her if she did not perform a sex act on him.

The victim was able to get away from the defendant and notify the Morristown Police Department.

The victim provided Morristown Police with a description of the alleged actor. Morristown Police Officer Michael Molnar located the alleged actor near the train station with his pants zipper down.

The defendant was arrested on open municipal warrants from Harrison and Newark and also charged with the above listed charges.

Morristown Detective Keith Cregan conducted the follow up investigation and interacted with Morris County Prosecutors Office Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Smith with regard to investigative issues and charges.

Bail was set by Superior Court Judge David H. Ironson in the amount of $250,000 no 10%, cash, bond or property and the condition of bail to have no contact with the victim, and to provide an address as he is no longer allowed to reside in the Market Street Mission.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Morris County man charged in connection with stabbing

2010-03-28T14:08:00.007-04:00

March 28, 2010
Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. along with Rockaway Borough Chief of Police Douglas Scheer announce the arrest of one individual in connection with a stabbing which occured in Rockaway Borough.

On Saturday, March 27th 2010, at approximately 12:44 a.m., the Rockaway Borough Police Department was dispatched to a 911 call for a dispute in progress involving a large group of individuals at West Main and Elycroft Avenue, in Rockaway Borough, New Jersey.

Members of the Rockaway Borough Police Department along with surrounding police departments and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section responded.

The subsequent investigation revealed that two individuals were alldgedly engaged in a physical altercation on the street. The male victim, D.O.B. 11/91 who was at the scene collapsed as a result of injuries which were sustained during the altercation.

One of the individuals, who was later determined to be Marco Gonzalez, allegedly fled the scene in a dark blue Honda Civic.

The victim was transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital where he is currently being treated for multiple puncture wounds to his back and a laceration to his arm.

The injuries were determined to have been consistent with knife inflicted stab and cutting wounds

It is alleged that during the altercation between Marco Gonzalez and the victim, a third male individual, D.O.B. 11/90 attempted to intervene in the struggle. As a result, this victim received a laceration on his wrist which was consistent with a knife-inflicted wound.

A county wide police broadcast alerted all surrounding towns to be on the lookout for a dark blue Honda Civic with tinted windows, traveling westbound and heading towards the Dover area from Rockaway Borough. Within approximately 5 minutes of the police broadcast, Randolph Township Police observed a vehicle matching this description and executed a motor vehicle stop of the suspect vehicle.

An individual identified as Marco Gonzalez, D.O.B. 6/23/91 was located in the vehicle. He allegedly had a large amount of blood on his hands, face, and clothing. As a result of the subsequent investigation the following individual was charged:

Defendant
Marco A. Gonzalez
Date of Birth - June 23rd 1991

Residence
Victory Gardens, New Jersey

Charges
Aggravated Assault, second degree
Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, third degree
Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose - third-degree
Unlawful Possession of a Weapon - forth-degree
Bail was set at $50,000.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:
"This investigation is ongoing, and we are looking into any information regarding the motive for this altercation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Rockaway Borough Police Department at (973) 627-1314, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found
guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her
rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Armed Robbery in Parsippany - Two Arrested

2010-03-28T13:54:00.009-04:00

March 28, 2010
Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. along with Parsippany Police Chief Michael Peckerman announce the arrest of two brothers in connection with the robbery of a Parsippany jewelry store.

On Monday, March 22, 2010, a man weighing approximately 300 pounds, 6'2" in height, with scruffy facial hair, wearing a rust colored hooded sweatshirt with the hood over his head allegedly entered Eggers Jewelers located on Route 46 in Parsippany, New Jersey.

This individual allegedly approached the counter placing a dark colored backpack on top of the glass counter where the jewelry is displayed and asked the store employee to look at diamond engagement rings.

The employee began to walk around the counter to where the diamond engagement rings are located when the suspect allegedly drew a black handgun, pointing it at the employee.

The employee was ordered to remove the jewelry from the display case and place it in the backpack. The employee complied and placed an unspecified number of jewelry items in the backpack, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. The suspect then ordered the employee to lie on the floor and count to 100. The suspect left the store and entered a vehicle that was occupied by a second suspect.

The jewelry store employee later determined that 29 rings, five necklaces, and one pair of earrings totaling approximately $21,000.00 in value were taken during the robbery.

Subsequent to this robbery, the Parsippany Police Department Detective Bureau developed information that focused on two suspects.

A joint investigation with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence Crime Task Force and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section commenced.

As a result of the investigation the below two subjects were arrested:

Defendant #1 - arrested Friday, March 26, 2010

Victor Columbo
Date of birth - March 31, 1978
Residence
Landing, New Jersey

Charges:
Robbery - first degree
Possession of a Weapon (firearm) for Unlawful Purposes - second degree
Unlawful possession of a weapon, to wit a firearm - second degree crime
Theft by Unlawful Taking - third degree
Receiving Stolen Property - third degree
Bail
$150,000

Defendant #2 - arrested Friday, March 26, 2010

Joseph Columbo
Date of birth - September 2, 1972
Residence
Boonton, New Jersey

Charges:
Robbery - first degree
Possession of a Weapon (firearm) for Unlawful Purposes - second degree
Unlawful possession of a weapon, to wit a firearm - second degree crime
Theft by Unlawful Taking - third degree
Receiving Stolen Property - third degree

Bail
$350,000

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:

"I commend the exhaustive efforts of the Parsippany Police Department in partnership with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit, Special Enforcement Unit, Intelligence
Crime Task Force and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section along
with significant legal support from our Assistant Prosecutors.

Their combined efforts led to the swift apprehension of these alleged violent suspects and the recovery of the handgun that was allegedly used during the commission of the robbery as well as the recovery of jewelry proceeds.

This is yet again another example of how success can be achieved to remove violent offenders
from our streets by pooling our investigative and attorney resources to archive a common goal."

The investigation is still ongoing. We ask anyone with information to contact the Parsippany
Police Department at (973) 263-4300, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stoppers Program at (973) COPCALL.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found
guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her
rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Two Morristown High students arrested, charged with creating false public alarm

2010-03-28T13:31:00.006-04:00

March 27, 2010
Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz announce the arrest of two Morristown High School students and charged them with making a false public alarm.

Neither of the two students were behind a threat to kill people that led to a heightened state of security two weeks ago.

Law Enforcement is still investigating a written threat to kill 15 people on March 15 that had been left in a boy's bathroom.

Two students, both 17 years old, were arrested late Friday afternoon March 26, 2010 and lodged in the Morris County youth detention facility. Both were charged with making a false public alarm, a third-degree offense.

Student #1
17 yoa, male
Morris Township resident
Grade 11
Charges - False Public Alarm - 3rd degree

It is alleged that on March 11, 2010 this student created a false public alarm by initiating a warning of an impending emergency knowing that the warning was false or baseless and likely to cause public inconvenience or alarm. This alleged activity took place while the Morristown High School was experiencing a heightened state of alert due to recent threats to kill. It is alleged that this student communicated a threat other than the ones released publically. He also is alleged to have misled detectives.

Student #2
17 yoa, male
Morristown resident
Grade 11
Charges - False Public Alarm - 3rd degree

It is alleged that on March 12, 2010 this student created a false public alarm by initiating a warning of an impending emergency knowing that the warning was false or baseless and likely to cause public inconvenience or alarm. This alleged activity took place while the Morristown High School was experiencing a heightened state of alert due to recent threats to kill. It is alleged that this student repeatedly yelled a predetermined word that is used to alert students and faculty of an emergency at the school.

Both students were arrested late Friday afternoon. Both were lodged in the Morris County Youth Detention Facility. One student (Morris Township) was released Saturday morning under house arrest while the other student remained incarcerated.

Both students will appear in juvenile court on Monday.

It should be noted that both of these juveniles are not alleged to have been the persons who were writing statements that were previously made public. These allegations are for conduct in addition to, but independent from, those matters that have already been made public.

The investigation regarding the actors who wrote those statements is still ongoing.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert Bianchi stated:

"I commend the tenacity of both the Morristown Police and Morris County Prosecutor's Office detectives who have been working this case aggressively from the onset. The detectives working in conjunction with the Morris School District and specifically District Superintendant Dr. Thomas Ficarra and Morristown High School Principal Linda Murphy have proceeded very diligently and professionally.

Lastly, our sincere thanks to the Morristown High School students, parents, and community who have stood by in support of the increased security measures and also those that have provided both the High School Administration and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stoppers with very helpful information. I ask that this practice continue as we continue to investigate this matter.

We are taking this matter very seriously for two reasons. First, it is our primary concern to ensure that each student and staff member is safe from any potential danger. Secondly, however, is to attempt to determine who is responsible for this activity. Even if this turns out to be a hoax, it has nevertheless caused extreme disruption of school services and expended and squandered significant police resources.

It has destabilized many people, caused unnecessary fear and concern, has led in my opinion to increased 'copy cat' activity, and has squandered significant taxpayer money. In all, this kind of activity is not viewed as a prank or hoax, even if it is later determined that there was no true danger posed by those responsible. It will not be condoned by either the school and/or law enforcement community."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found
guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her
rights guaranteed by the United States and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Murder Defendant Returned to Jail

2010-01-12T19:16:00.001-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated the following update;

"Defendant Jose Feliciano who was charged with the homicide death of 61 year old Roman Catholic Pastor, Father Edward Hinds, in Chatham Borough was returned to the Morris County Correctional facility at 7:00 p.m. this evening where he is being held on one million dollars bail which was set by Morris County Assignment Judge B. Theodore Bozonelis."

The homicide investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Police and Residents Rescue Denville Man, Second Victim Succumbs to Injuries

2009-12-29T07:31:00.006-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Denville Township Police Chief Christopher Wagner announce the investigation into a death which occurred on December 27, 2009 in Denville Township.

On Sunday, December 27, 2009 at approximately 2:47 p.m., the Denville Township Police Department received a 9-1-1 call reporting two men who were submerged in the water of Indian Lake. One man, a 37 year old Morris Township resident who was temporarily staying with the second male subject at his Denville Township residence, was rescued from the water fairly quickly by two West Shore Road residents who observed the victim submerged under the ice.

The two residents went onto the ice with a sledge hammer and broke up the ice to aid in the rescue of the victim. As this was in progress, they were joined by four Denville Township police officers; Officer Dennis Subrizi, Officer Scott Tobin, Officer Kris Sandman, and Officer Bruce McCarter. All four officers, with the assistance of the two West Shore Road residents, pulled the victim onto the West Shore Road property at which point the Denville Township police officer's performed lifesaving rescue efforts, known as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and were successful in reviving the victim who was then transported to an area hospital where he remains in stable condition.

The second victim, who was later determined to be Steve Savare, remained submerged in the water for a considerable period of time. At approximately 3:30 p.m. dive team members removed Mr. Savare's lifeless body from the lake. The divers that located Mr. Savare were: Denville Fire Department Dive Team, Member Donroy Gounaud; Boonton Fire Department Savalge and Rescue Dive Team Member Eric Joinson. Chief Christopher Wagner stated "These two dive team members did a commendable job under difficult circumstances." Mr. Savare was transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital where doctors and medical staff worked on him for a considerable period of time and tragically, Mr. Savare was pronounced dead at 6:16 p.m. by Dr. Allegra. Mr. Savare's family members were by his side at the hospital.

The investigation which was conducted by the Denville Township Police Department, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit and the Morris County Sheriff's Unit Criminal Investigation Section, determined that Mr. Savare and his 37 year old friend who was currently staying with Mr. Savare at his West Shore Road residence, had walked across the street to the residence of the family who ultimately participated in the rescue efforts and asked permission to use the lakefront property to enter Indian Lake to swim. After gaining permission, both individuals left and returned approximately 10 minutes later wearing shorts and t-shirts. Both men frequently had personal competitions.

According to the investigation, both men had engaged in a competition and had agreed to swim under the ice and come out into the open water and then return under the ice to shore. As the resident homeowner watched both men, it was determined that both Mr. Savare and his friend veered off in different directions at which point the resident became concerned and yelled to another family member to call 9-1-1 for help.

At that point, it was observed that Mr. Savare became trapped under the ice and was observed banging his head on the ice. Mr. Savare was approximately 30 yards from the shore when the resident lost sight of him. The resident then observed the second victim at approximately 6 feet from the shore under approximately 3 to 5 inches of ice, at which point he yelled for his brother who was inside the residence to get tools from the garage to help him.

The brothers went onto the ice, broke a hole through the ice in an effort to rescue the victim with the assistance of the Denville Township officers who had responded. When the victim was pulled from the frigid waters, he was unresponsive. The police officer’s performed CPR until the victim began to breathe on his own. The victim was then transported to an area hospital for treatment.

The investigation revealed that Mr. Savare was under the water for approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The cause and manner of death for Mr. Savare is pending an autopsy which will be conducted by the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Chief Christopher Wagner jointly stated; "This is a very tragic situation and we extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Steve Savare. The homeowner and his family, and the members of the Denville Township Police Department are to be commended for their heroic efforts. Water and ice rescues are inherently difficult and dangerous and we are proud of the quick thinking of both the residents and police officers who were successful in performing lifesaving measures that ultimately led to the survival of one of the victims."

Maintenance Worker Arrested for Alleged Sex Assault of Juvenile

2009-12-24T10:45:00.005-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Florham Park Borough Police Chief Patrick P. Montuore announce the arrest of an employee of St. Anne's Villa (assisted living facility) in Florham Park, New Jersey on charges of Sexual Assault, (2nd degree); and Endangering the Welfare of a Child (3rd degree).

On December 23, 2009 Detective Sergeant Joseph Orlando of the Florham Park Police Department and Detective Anne-Marie Truppo, Detective Edward Mitreuter, Detective Keyla Dent of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit along with Detective Glen Johnstone of Florham Park Police Department conducted an investigation involving an allegation of a sexual assault which allegedly occurred at the St. Anne's Villa located in Florham Park on December 23, 2009.

The investigation conducted by the Florham Park Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit resulted in the arrest of Jose B. Chavez, date of birth 12/27/78, at his place of employment on December 23, 2009.

It is alleged that Jose B. Chavez, while acting in his capacity as a maintenance worker for the St. Anne's Villa, allegedly committed the sexual assault of the 9 year old female (victim) while she was in the "activity room" watching a DVD.

The victim was off from school and went with a relative for the day to the relative's workplace at St. Anne's Villa. Jose B. Chavez has been employed at St. Anne's Villa for approximately one month in the capacity of a maintenance worker.

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact the Florham Park Borough Police Department at 973-377-2200, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office Crime Stopper Program at 973-COPCALL or 973-267-2255.

Bail was set by Morris County Assignment Judge B. T. Bozonelis in the amount of $200,000, no 10% bail, no contact with the victim or her family and no contact with children under the age of 16 years old. Mr. Chavez was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Cats Die in Chester Township Fire

2009-12-07T19:03:00.014-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Chester Township Police Chief Curtis York announce the investigation into a house fire which occurred on Monday, December 7, 2009.

Earlier today, December 7, 2009 at approximately 2:36 a.m., the Chester Township Police and Fire Departments along with the Chester Borough Fire Department, Fairmount Fire Department, Flanders Fire Department, Mendham Fire Department, Roxbury Fire Department, New Vernon Fire Department, Far Hills Fire Department, Ironia Fire Department, and Pottersville Fire Department along with the Chester Township Volunteer Ambulance Squad responded to a house fire located at 212 Pleasant Hill Road, Chester Township, New Jersey.

The house is described as a single-family residence. The structure suffered significant damage. The resident, a 45 year old female and her eight year old son were transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital where they were treated for minor smoke inhalation and later released.
There were no injuries to firefighters; however, nine pet cats were located deceased in the basement room where the fire originated.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the fire originated in a basement room and the cause of the fire does not appear to be suspicious. The investigation with regards to the cause of what started the fire remains under investigation.

The Morris County Sheriff's Office, Criminal Investigations Section, responded to assist with the processing of the scene and the Chester Township Department of Public Works responded to handle icy road conditions which were the result of fire suppression operations. Public Service, Electric and Gas and Jersey Central Power and Light responded to handle utility concerns which were associated with the residence.

Shots Fired in Morristown

2009-12-06T11:47:00.011-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz announce the investigation into a weapon discharge which took place Saturday evening December 5, 2009 in Morristown.

On the evening of Saturday December 5, 2009 at approximately 8:58 p.m., the Morristown Police Department received a 911 call reporting shots fired on Speedwell Place. The Morristown Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crime Unit and Intelligence Crime Task Force along with the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section responded to the scene.

The investigation revealed that numerous shots were discharged from a semi-automatic handgun striking a Speedwell Place residence. Nobody was injured as a result of the discharge.

The Morristown Fire Department was on the scene to assist law enforcement with the recovery of evidence.

The matter remains under active investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Morristown Police Department at (973) 538-2200, Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stopper Program at (973) COPCALL

Parsippany Man Arrested by Prosecutor's Sex Crimes Unit

2009-11-12T16:27:00.003-05:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Sex Crimes Unit arrested Guy E. Parker, 52, of Parsippany. Parker was charged with two counts of first degree aggravated sexual assault, one count of second degree sexual assault, and two counts of second degree endangering the welfare of a child.

The investigation was conducted by Detective Susan Johnson of the Sex Crimes Unit. The investigation revealed that Parker was allegedly engaged in a relationship with a relative of the victim when she was allegedly sexually abused between the ages of 8 and 16. Parker is being held in lieu of $250,000 cash bail in the Morris County Correctional Facility.

Despite these pending charges, they are merely allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his or her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitution and relevant state law.

Prosecutor's Office joins Operation Medicine Cabinet

2009-11-10T16:09:00.004-05:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit will be joining Operation Medicine Cabinet on November 14, 2009 from 10:00 A.M., to 2:00 P.M., at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, 500 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany, New Jersey.

Operation Medicine Cabinet encourages all Morris County residents to clean out their medicine cabinets and bring unused or expired prescriptions, controlled substances and over-the-counter medications for safe disposal. The medication collection will take place in the Gymnasium where the public can simply walk-in and hand over their unused medications to Law Enforcement Officials, no questions asked. After the event, Law Enforcement Officials will take all of the medications collected and dispose of them in a safe and environmentally-friendly way.

In addition to helping communities rid their counties of unused prescription drugs, Operation Medicine Cabinet promotes awareness of juvenile prescription drug prevention efforts.

Operation Medicine Cabinet is a collaborative effort between the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, New Jersey Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Prevention Network, New Jersey Chief's of Police Association, New Jersey Department of Human Services and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. This statewide initiative also includes other drop off sites, to find out if your local police department is participating visit http://www.operationmedicinecabinetnj.com/.

If you need additional information, contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit at (973)285-6268.

Veteran's Day Program at Morris View

2009-11-05T10:29:00.006-05:00

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit invite the public to attend the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Veteran's Day Program on Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. The program will be held at Morris View Healthcare Center located at 540 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany, NJ.

This program is co-sponsored by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Department of Human Services and Morris View Healthcare Center in partnership with the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders and will honor the Veterans that reside at the Morris View Healthcare facility.

If you need additional information please contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit at (973)285-6200. You may print the flyer for posting. (Warning: large file: 2MB PDF)

Prosecutor's Office offering three-day gang awareness training

2009-06-05T18:58:00.006-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force Unit will be offering a three-day training program to provide both law enforcement and non-law enforcement professionals with valuable training on gang activity and awareness.

The Gang Recognition and Awareness Seminar as well as the Gang Prevention and Intervention class will be held at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Dreyfuss Building, 285 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ.

The seminar will be divided up with the first day, June 15, geared to non-law enforcement professionals and day two and three on June 16 and 17 will strictly be limited to law enforcement.

The training will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on each of the scheduled days at the campus and attendance is by R.S.V.P. only.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said, "I am pleased to partner with the New Jersey Gang Investigators Association and Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Park-Madison campus to offer this free training program. It is important to reach out beyond our law enforcement community and open the doors to those professionals in education, the private sector, public safety, security, and our mental health counselors and medical care providers to provide this important training. The curriculum will include the most up-to-date information about street gangs operating throughout New Jersey with our prime focus on Morris County.

"Our goal is to stop gang involvement and provide a lesson plan to help civilians identify gang activity and show other professionals how to identify gang involvement in order to report and prevent such activity in our area.

"This is both an educational and preventive forum. We are aggressively educating all levels of government and the public -- our eyes and ears in the community -- so that Morris County can proactively stay ahead of the curve to ensure the county remains a safe place to live and so that our children do not fall prey to the underbelly of gang life."

Anyone who may have an interest may contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force for screening at (973) 631-5335. Law Enforcement Identification is required for the 6/16 and 6/17 program and you must be previously registered for the 6/15/09 program. Seating is limited.

Prosecutor's Office staff receive recognition

2009-06-05T16:14:00.014-04:00

NEW BRUNSWICK: On Wednesday, June 3, 2009, two members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office were honored at Rutgers University in New Brunswick for their work with New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement (NJWLE).

Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Detective Keisha Higgs of the Community Affairs Unit received the awards.

Pictured above from left to right: Chief William Schievella, Detective Keisha Higgs, Major Wendy Galloway of the New Jersey State Police and Chief Karen Sullivan of the Interlaken Police Department.

Media Contact: Agent William Swayze, 973-285-6200

Child safety the focus of program Saturday at Rockaway Townsquare mall

2009-06-04T15:05:00.005-04:00

Morristown: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the prosecutor's Community Affairs Unit will be offering an all-day program designed to keep our children safe.

The program will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rockaway Townsquare mall in Rockaway Township.

The prosecutor's office has partnered with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the National Office of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and Amber Ready to sponsor the event.

Parents will be able to have their children fingerprinted and photographed -- a key tool to assist law enforcement officers in the tragic event of an abduction. There will also be a hands-on demonstration of self defense techniques. Educational handouts will be available.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. said, "Nothing is more important than the safety and security of our children. This community affairs project will bring together experts in the field of child and infant abduction as well as experts on sexual predator behavior.

"It is our common goal to provide education and awareness to parents, guardians, care providers and children so that we together as a community can keep our children safe.

"This is one of many programs the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, in conjunction with our partners, has created to protect our youth from persons intent on harming them. By working together we are stronger and better able to protect our community.

"I am in heartened by our continued partnership with Jiles Ship, president of NOBLE's Northern Jersey Chapter. He consistently demonstrates the best that law enforcement has to provide, always attending and supporting our law enforcement endeavors, especially those that focus on the safety of our children."

"Also joining us will be Alan J. Robinson, the Project ALERT representative for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. He is the Director of Protection and Security Services for Atlantic Health.

"He has trained over 2,000 parents and law enforcement officers in child and infant abduction and sexual predator behavior. He is a national speaker for the Federal Bureau of Investigation on child abduction, kidnapping and sexual exploitation prevention. He has taught throughout New Jersey in police academies as well as the United States Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey.

Detective Keisha Higgs, from the prosecutor's community affairs unit, is coordinating the program that goes hand-in-hand with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Take 25 National Child Safety Campaign, which encourages parents and guardians to talk to their children about safety. There are an estimated 2,200 children reported missing every day. One in about six missing children is recovered because someone recognized the child's photograph on a publication produced by the national center."

For more information, please call Detective Keisha Higgs at (973) 285-6200.

Kerry Rhodes

2009-05-25T20:08:00.001-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

This statement is to correct misleading media reports that Jets player Kerry Rhodes is the target of a criminal investigation, specifically rape, by Morris County law enforcement authorities. Mr. Rhodes is not the target of any criminal investigation. Rumors and media reports to the contrary are untrue. Information which is being reported through the media that Mr. Rhodes is the subject of a rape investigation is factually untrue and wholly inaccurate and has the capacity to unfairly damage the reputation of Mr. Rhodes.

Wellness Expo draws prosecutor to Kinnelon

2009-04-24T17:14:00.007-04:00

KINNELON: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office joined nearly three dozen healthcare specialists and civic, educational and other organizations on April 21 for the Kinnelon Wellness Expo at Kinnelon High School. Pictured here: Captain Jeff Paul, Margaret Sokolowski and Nicole Gonzalez of the prosecutor's office and Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi.

Prosecutor readies for Crime Victims' Rights week

2009-04-24T14:42:00.007-04:00

On Wednesday, April 22, the Morris County Freeholders handed off a proclamation for Crime Victims' Rights week to Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi. Freeholder Director Gene Feyl presented the prosecutor with the award. Looking on: Trish Stewart, director of the county's victim-witness services; Detective Keisha Higgs with the prosecutor's office; Donna Pasquariello, victim-witness supervisor; Amanda Frey and Linda Ward, both victim-witness advocates.

Career day at Roberto Clemente School big draw

2009-04-23T18:59:00.005-04:00

NEWARK: Career day at the Roberto Clemente Public School in Newark attracted a team of volunteers with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. Pictured here in the crowd: Detective Keisha Higgs, Assistant Prosecutor Julian Hill, Detective Keyla Dent, Lt. Denise Arseneault and Nicole Gonzalez.

Prosecutor's Office on hand for cultural event

2009-04-23T16:05:00.006-04:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit staff were on hand for an event sponsored by the Morris County Human Relations Commission and the Morris County Historical Society. The event included the arts, food, music and traditions of the different people who live in Morris County.

The four-hour event, "Many Lands, One Country: The celebration of cultural heritage," was held at the County College of Morris in Randolph. Pictured here: First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, Marshall Wang and Nicole Gonzalez.

Governor signs law named after local crash victim

2009-04-23T00:47:00.012-04:00

WASHINGTON TWP.: Governor John Corzine signs Kyleigh's Law, which is named after Kyleigh D'Alessio, a 16-year-old honor student from West Morris Central High School who was killed in a December 2006 crash. The teen behind the wheel also was killed. The new rules require drivers under the age of 21 to display identifying markers on their vehicles. The decals will help police identify new drivers and make sure they follow regulations.
Pictured here: Washington Twp. Police Sgt. Doug Compton, the Morris County Prosecutor's Chief of Investigations William Schievella, Governor John Corzine, Washington Twp. Police Chief Michael Bailey, Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante.

Prosecutor honors outstanding women

2009-03-30T23:23:00.004-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Margaret Nordstrom and her husband just bought their home in the Middle Valley section of Washington Township and wanted to see what plans, if any, were in store for the road in front of their house built in the 1700s.

The couple learned Morris County had plans to expand that road from two to four lanes. That would accommodate heavy traffic and ultimately ruin the neighborhood.

They mobilized the homeowners, researching ways to stop those plans. When all was said and done, the group had their roadblock: They had their neighborhood listed on the state and national registers of historic places. That move was a checkmate against road changes.

That was 1987. A couple of years later, Nordstrom was elected to the local township committee and served as mayor. Voters later gave her a promotion, electing her to the Morris County freeholder board, where she has served for a decade.

Monday night, she was one of six women honored by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement, which teamed up to celebrate Women's History Month. Some 100 people attended the event from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Morris County Records and Administration Building on Court Street in Morristown.

Nordstrom said the celebration is important, providing clear examples of true leaders to young women. She hopes she can help and inspire the next generation of female leaders. "I honored the women whose shoulders I stood on. I certainly didn't get here on my own. Public service needs more women."

Also honored: Patty Sly, the executive director of the Jersey Battered Women's Services; Twannah Ellington, assistant director of Drew University's Educational Opportunity Scholars Program; Chief Carol Ackerman of the Morris County Sheriff's Office; Gloria Sullivan, captain of the Morris County Park Police; and Chief Karen Sullivan of the Interlaken Police Department and president of the New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement.

The keynote address was provided by Minister Carol Paterson of the Calvary Baptist Church.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said the office takes great pride in recognizing the honorees. "As the nation celebrates Woman's History Month, we at the Morris County Prosecutor's Office are proud to honor these phenomenal woman who make Morris County a better place to live. These woman have been of great assistance to this office and are recognized for their contributions to the law enforcement community as a whole."

Chief of Investigations William Schievella agreed, noting the honorees have forged their own paths in their chosen careers. "A lot of glass ceilings have been broken by all of the honorees and that is significant and something that should be celebrated."

(This report was filed by Agent Bill Swayze, who can be reached at (973) 285-6200.)

Prosecutor honors Irish-American leaders

2009-03-18T17:11:00.006-04:00

MORRISTOWN: It doesn't get more Irish than wearing a kilt and playing bagpipes.

Except maybe wearing a kilt, playing bagpipes and chasing down a mugger who robbed a street vender during a Saint Patrick's Day parade in Morristown.

Bob McDermott did that a couple of years ago. He has been putting on the kilt and playing bagpipes in a band for a dozen years. And, in traditional Irish fashion, he chose a career in law enforcement. He's a sergeant in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, overseeing the Major Crimes and Homeland Security units.

This Friday, the 48-year-old investigator known for his work ethic and professionalism will be honored by Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., during a two-hour gathering being organized by the prosecutor's Community Affairs Unit. The event starts at 2:30 p.m. in the Morris County Freeholders Fifth Floor meeting room.

Six others of Irish descent will be sharing the spotlight with him, including from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Deputy First Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Connor, Esq., Director of Administration and Policy Sheila Leary and Senior Trial Counsel John McNamara, Jr., Esq., as well as Mary Jo Buchanan, the director of the county human services department, Hanover Police Chief Stephen Gallagher and Morris Township Police Chief Tim Quinn.

Freeholder and former gubernatorial candidate John Murphy will be the keynote speaker. "I was thrilled and honored to be asked," said Murphy, who grew up in the Little Dublin section of Morristown in the vicinity of The Assumption Church on Maple Avenue.

Prosecutor Bianchi noted, "The Irish-American contributions to their country and the law enforcement community in particular are extraordinary. I am proud to honor and recognize these awardees whose lifetime commitment to public service has vastly improved the lives of so many."

Sgt. McDermott agreed, "There is a sense of pride, being Irish and in law enforcement."

There's also a sense of humor, being Irish, notes Senior Trial Counsel McNamara.

"We fought a war for four hours and we've been singing about it for 400 years," McNamara said. "And we are the people who decided to boil meat."

This report was filed March 18, 2009. Media Agent Bill Swayze may be reached at 973 285 6200.

Prosecutor vows to help domestic violence victims

2009-03-09T23:34:00.016-04:00

DOVER: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. led a forum last night in Dover at Casa Puerto Rico on Blackwell Street attracting 120 people who came to hear a message of hope for victims of domestic violence.

"We are here tonight to reach out and calm fears while reporting crime, especially the crime of domestic violence," Bianchi said.

To help Hispanic victims of domestic violence, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Jersey Battered Women's Service, the Morris County Office of Hispanic Affairs, the Morris County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Department of Human Services have partnered to expand, improve and make accessible programs by offering help in Spanish.

Officials last night noted police have the authority to safeguard a victim from further abuse, arrest the abuser and help a victim seek and obtain a restraining order. Domestic violence victims are not questioned about their immigration status.

"Bottom line: Break the silence," said Detective Keisha Higgs, of the prosecutor's office. "The role of law enforcement is to help, not harm. We realize that there are many factors that prevent women from getting help. But please end the silence. Domestic violence in your community is a growing epidemic."

The speakers Monday night included representatives from Legal Services of New Jersey, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Jersey Center for Non-Violence and the Jersey Battered Women's Service.

Those familiar with domestic violence trends said many cases involving Hispanics go unreported. There are many reasons why: Language barriers and a lack of faith in law enforcement based on experiences in their native country. There also is a lot of fear - of deportation, of losing the family's breadwinner and of threats and reprisals.

This story was filed March 9, 2009. Media agent Bill Swayze may be reached at (973) 285-6200.

Press conference set for domestic violence program

2009-03-04T19:48:00.006-05:00

MORRISTOWN: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Jersey Battered Women's Service in collaboration with three key government and civic agencies and organizations are reaching out to the county's Spanish-speaking population with a program that will focus on domestic violence in the Hispanic community.

Partnering with the Prosecutor's office and Jersey Battered Women's Service are the Morris County Office of Hispanic Affairs, the Morris County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Department of Human Services.

The event is two fold, with the groups involved holding a press conference Saturday to spread the message about the Monday night program, and give the Jersey Battered Women's Service a center stage to unveil its year-long focus on getting the word out in Spanish about its services. It will also provide vital information from the Prosecutor's office to ensure that victims of domestic violence are aware of their rights and remedies under the law.

The Saturday press conference to promote the Monday night event will begin at 9:15 a.m. at Saint Margaret's Church, 6 Sussex Ave. in Morristown. Following the press conference, members of these organizations will walk in Hispanic neighborhoods in Morristown and Dover to hand out flyers to notify people about the free two-hour program, between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at the Casa Puerto Rico, 50 West Blackwell Street in Dover.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. said, "Domestic violence is a very serious social and legal issue and we, as the leaders of the community, have a responsibility to educate our citizens so that we can try to combat this problem with resolve. In this operation we are reaching out to the Spanish speaking populace. We want to make sure that all persons, regardless of the language they speak, are aware of one simple reality. We will not relent in the arrest and prosecution of persons who commit these cowardly and destructive acts. We are educating the public in all languages to get this simple message out."

The speakers Monday night include representatives from Legal Services of New Jersey, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Jersey Center for Non-Violence and the Jersey Battered Women's Service.

Those familiar with domestic violence trends said many cases involving Hispanics go unreported. There are many reasons why.

"Domestic violence transcends all economic, religious and cultural boundaries," said Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Tia Manochio, who oversees the prosecution of domestic violence defendants on behalf of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office.

"The issues Hispanic domestic violence victims deal with include language barriers and a lack of faith in law enforcement based on experiences in their native country. There also is a lot of fear of deportation, of losing the family's breadwinner and of threats and reprisals," Manochio said.

Patty Sly, executive director of the Jersey Battered Women's Service, agrees, noting, "In 2008, the number of Spanish speaking clients approached 20 percent up from the single digits in 2000."

"It is one of the most widely unreported crimes in our community. We have seen a growth in the numbers of Hispanic domestic violence victims. That's due to the growing Latino population as well as the agency's move to offer services in Spanish so we can reach more clients," she said.

The Hispanic community has grown 41.4 percent since 2000 while the county's total population has increased 8.9 percent. There are some 51,792 Hispanics in the county, according to the county planning department.

By the numbers between 1998 and 2007, Morris County reached a high point in 2004 with 2,644 domestic violence incidents, and a low in 1999, when there were 2,424 incidents, according to state statistics. In 2007, there were 2,473 incidents.

Sly said the events will make a difference. "This will allow people to come forward for services knowing that their confidentiality will be respected and they'll receive services in Spanish. This is going to reach many more people."

Bianchi added, "The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is dedicated to protecting victims of domestic violence and will hold defendants accountable for their conduct by prosecuting these cases. We hope this program helps victims know that there are services available to protect them from their abusers."

(This report was filed March 4, 2009 by Agent Bill Swayze, who can be reached at 973-285-6200)

Morristown Neighborhood House honors detective

2009-02-26T16:13:00.004-05:00

MORRISTOWN: The Morristown Neighborhood House honored Keisha Higgs, a detective in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, during the organization's annual Black History Month celebration Thursday night.

The honorees also included Morristown Neighborhood House Executive Director David Walker, former town council members Constance Montgomery and William Barber Jr. and community leader and mentor Lou Bullock.

Higgs has spent nearly a decade quietly earning the respect of her peers and people who cross paths with her, they said.

"She has a good heart and she's a very helpful person," said Perla Moran, community outreach coordinator for the Morristown Neighborhood House.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi and William Schievella, Chief of Investigations at the Prosecutor's Office, agreed. They nominated her for the award.

"Detective Higgs is a real class act. She is highly intelligent, friendly, tireless, has vision, is organized and is extremely capable. She is a tremendous asset to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the citizens of Morris County," Bianchi said.

"She is an excellent tenacious detective with great interpersonal skills," Schievella said. "She is a great ambassador not only for the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, but for law enforcement in general."

Higgs has a couple of firsts to her credit.

-First Morris County law enforcement officer to serve on the executive board of the Northern New Jersey Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. She serves as the treasurer.

-Supervisor of the first Community Affairs Unit in the history of the prosecutor's office.

-First officer to start a recruitment unit for the prosecutor's office, clearing the way for a diverse group of candidates.

Schievella noted, "Detective Higgs has been employed by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for close to nine years, and has proven to be a dedicated, hard-working, sincere investigator who tirelessly promotes diversity in law enforcement as well as the tenants of the office - fairness, dignity and the pursuit of justice for victims of crime."

She served as a victim witness advocate before she was appointed as a detective and assigned to the General Investigation Unit in July 2004. Before moving on to the Community Affairs Unit, she was assigned to the Missing Persons/Juvenile Unit.

Assistant Prosecutor LaJuan Tucker has been friends with her for six years. "She is modest, loyal and giving. She always goes above and beyond and out of her way for people."

Higgs said law enforcement work is her calling. "I do this because I know I can make a difference. It's about reciprocity. People have helped me in the past so I have to give back, lift people up and help people along the way."

This story was filed Feb. 26, 2009. Media Agent Bill Swayze may be reached at 973-285-6200.

Black History Month celebration honors leaders

2009-02-11T09:31:00.008-05:00

MORRISTOWN: Praised for their commitment to improving the lives of their fellow African Americans, several community leaders were honored for their inspiration and achievement during the Morris County prosecutor's second annual Black History Month celebration.

Some 200 people attended the two-hour event sponsored by the prosecutor's office and the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) at the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown.

Keynote speaker, Special Agent in Charge for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Matthew W. Horace, told listeners to be inspired not only by civil rights icons, but by their every day contemporaries who "stand for something."

"As much as we are all different, we are very much the same. To the right and to the left of us there is a person who shares a common denominator. If we look hard enough or talk long enough, there is always something that binds us and connects us all," Horace said.

Senior Deputy New Jersey Attorney General Hester Agudosi and Jiles Ship, president of the northern New Jersey chapter of the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives, William Primus, chief executive officer of the Morris County Urban League, and Della Crews, a news anchor for News 12 NJ thanked the prosecutor and Detective Keisha Higgs with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for organizing the event.

"It is an extreme honor for NOBLE to be recognized by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for achievement in a variety of communities," Ship said.

The effort to recognize leaders in the community makes good sense. "This is about building relationships," Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said. "We reach out to all ethnic groups and give credit where credit is due and recognize the great accomplishments of Americans such as those being honored tonight."

Since taking office in June 2007, one of the prosecutor's top priorities has been to improve relationships with communities and their leaders. The driving force is the prosecutor's First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, Chief William Schievella and the office's community affairs unit , the first such unit in the history of the prosecutor's office.

Initiatives to reach the roots of the various enclaves is paying off. "We have started to build relationships with the people who are the leaders of their communities. We are everywhere, whether it's a briefing on the high holy days for the Jewish community or going to a soup kitchen or going to the African American community during Christmas time and wrapping gifts, or going into the Hispanic community or the Asian community to talk about issues relevant to their neighborhoods.

"Whether it is to talk about guns, gangs and drugs, or internet safety, we have been out there pounding the street so that we could give something to the community and the community could give something to us.

That has led to help from the communities. Tips from the community sparked three successful operations "and the seizure of more guns, drugs and assault firearms from the streets of Morris County than in the last five to 10 years combined," Bianchi said, calling the people who help police tackle crime "the eyes and ears of the communities."

He said Italians have suffered intolerance, negative stereotypes and inaccurate portrayals and "whether it's Italian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, or any other American, it makes no difference. Prejudice in any form is unacceptable."

Black History Month celebration set for Feb. 9

2009-02-01T09:32:00.012-05:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office will honor several distinguished African-American government, law enforcement and community leaders Monday, Feb. 9, when the prosecutor's office holds its second annual Black History Month celebration.

The prosecutor's office has partnered with the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) to put on the event. "This is a significant event. NOBLE is a distinguished organization and it is an honor for us to partner with them and recognize the achievements of these dignitaries," said Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq.

With 47 chapters and about 3,000 members in the United States, NOBLE was founded in 1976 in Washington D.C. during a three-day symposium to address crime in urban low-income areas.

Bianchi is no stranger to promoting the causes of minorities. After he was in private practice in 1996, he later founded and served as president of the Association of Civil Rights Attorneys of New Jersey. That move grew out of an outrage by the violation of a minority client's civil rights. A six-year legal battle followed, gaining him attention as a talented and aggressive civil rights litigator. He went on to represent many African-American and Hispanic citizens and police officers who were subjected to civil rights violations, illegal employment practices and discrimination.

Since taking office in June 2007, one of the prosecutor's top priorities has been to improve relationships with the faith-based leaders and their communities, including the African-American churches. That prompted him to create the first community affairs unit in the history of the prosecutor's office.

The Feb. 9 event will be held at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, on the 5th Floor, 10 Court St., Morristown, from 7 to 9 p.m.

The honorees include Senior Deputy New Jersey Attorney General Hester Agudosi and Jiles Ship, president of the northern New Jersey chapter of the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives.

William Primus, chief executive officer of the Morris County Urban League, and Della Crews, a news anchor for News 12 NJ, also are in line to be honored that night. The keynote speaker will be Matthew W. Horace, special agent in charge for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

Detective Keisha Higgs with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office is the first Morris County law enforcement officer to serve on NOBLE's executive board. The people being recognized deserve the spotlight, she said, noting, "It is important to salute the achievements of African Americans in our community and I am proud to be a part of this important event."

To view the invitation to this event, please click on the link below.
2009 Black History Month Invitation (.pdf)

(This story was filed Feb. 1, 2009. Media agent Bill Swayze can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Hannah B. Gilbert, 84 Years Young

2009-01-15T16:24:00.004-05:00

MORRISTOWN: Hannah B. Gilbert is a fixture in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. A fixture with a simple modus operandi.

Keep it positive.

"I'm not grouchy. I like to make people laugh. Walking around all day with a glum face, that brings people down," she said. "What's that saying? Smile and the world smiles with you."

By the numbers, she has two grown children and two great-grandchildren. She has worked for five different prosecutors, has nearly 20 years under her belt in the prosecutor's office and has officially been smiling 84 years as of today, which happens to be her birthday. For that, the office is recognizing her with a certificate from Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi.

"She typifies the type of character and professionalism we should all strive for," Bianchi said.

Her co-workers said she deserves the spotlight.

"Hannah Gilbert is a special and unique woman with an inspiring, positive attitude and an 'old world' work ethic deserving of gratitude and recognition. Hannah's life is an amazing story of events and experiences which illustrate the human spirit at its finest hour," said Sheila Leary, the office's director of Administration and Policy.

Hannah Gilbert has dealt with tragedy in a unique way. In high school, she was known for her fantastic sense of humor. The only daughter of a Clifton candy store owner has survived the deaths of two of three brothers as well as her husband of 54 years, Sy. "She's faced loss with character and a belief," Leary said. "She believes that whatever comes her way, she can handle it."

Co-worker Peggy Volker agrees. "In the journey that life has given her, she has taken the high road and has faces whatever comes her way with perseverance."

Charlene Pampalone, who sits next to Hannah, said, "She has a great outlook on life. A lot of people are pessimistic. She isn't."

Hannah started working for the prosecutor's office as a temp when Lee Trumbull was prosecutor. Mike Murphy, John Dangler and Michael M. Rubbinaccio followed as her clerk duties changed.

"It's a fantastic place to work and a wonderful career," she said. "What they do here is very noble."

Wharton woman indicted on fraud charges

2008-12-18T17:37:00.005-05:00

Morristown: A 34-year-old Wharton woman who allegedly posed as a doctor to fool pharmacists and get her hands on prescription painkillers in Mount Olive, Dover and the Rockaway area was indicted on multiple fraud charges.

The charges include multiple counts of obtaining narcotics by fraud; possession of prescription painkillers; possession of a controlled dangerous substance; and practicing medicine without a license. The drugs included Amoxicillin, Hydrocodone, Xanax, Diflucan, Vicodin.

Shannon Rolph was caught more than once between October 2007 and this past October after pharmacists called police. Rolph would allegedly pose as a doctor and call in prescriptions, then go to the pharmacy and tell them she was picking up the drugs for that person. She remains free from the Morris County Jail.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

(This story was filed Dec. 18, 2008. Media agent Bill Swayze can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Holiday Open House Postponed

2008-12-18T14:13:00.004-05:00

December 18, 2008: Due to the expected inclement weather, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Holiday Open House will be postponed until Monday, December 22, 2008, from 2-4pm. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may incur, but your safety is our top priority as we know many of you have a long distance of travel. We hope you are able to join us and we look forward to seeing you there. Please RSVP at RSVP@co.morris.nj.us to reconfirm your attendance for Monday.

Media Contact: Agent Bill Swayze

Plans unveiled to bolster school security

2008-12-05T18:27:00.008-05:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office unveiled the second phase of a county-wide project today to bolster security on campuses throughout the county.

Captain Jeffrey Paul; Dr. Kathleen Serrafino; Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq; Alfonse Imperiale; First Assistant Prosecutor Tom Zelante, Esq

The reason: The potential for school violence, the prosecutor and members of his office told a crowd of 200 police officers and school administrative officials at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy.

From aerial photographs and the workings of security systems to the cell phone number of the night custodian, the prosecutor's office is compiling information to better prepare police, educators and all other emergency workers for a number of emergencies such as an armed intruder, active shooter, kidnapper and others.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said his office is doing all it can to equip school officials and law enforcement with the know-how necessary in a crisis.

"We have made the protection of our children the highest priority," Bianchi said. "Morris County should be proud that this planning is unique and is becoming the model for other counties throughout the state."

First Assistant Prosecutor Tom Zelante, Captain Jeff Paul, Alfonse Imperiale, the county's risk mitigation planner, Sgt. Robert McDermott -- all from the county prosecutor's office; Kinnelon police Chief John Finkle, who heads the county police chiefs association, and local police chiefs worked on the project for several months.

School building floor plans, doorways, gas pipes and a multitude of photographs and information fill the 1/4-inch-thick document.

Phase one presented to law enforcement and educators earlier this year, focused on explaining how law enforcement functions during an emergency. The second and third phases focus on the practical nuts-and-bolts gathering of information and instruction on how to actually handle an unfolding crisis.

"Whether it's an active shooter, a chemical spill or a natural disaster, we are making sure we are ready. This is hazard planning for the schools," Finkle said.

"It's not a question of when it will happen, but rather where it will happen," Captain Jeff Paul added.

Morris School District Superintendent Thomas Ficarra said educators are welcoming this initiative. "The prosecutor is upping the level of cooperation and communication and that's important. A crisis is no time to be bumping around for information."

Bianchi, during the seminars, especially thanked Morris County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Serrafino, who was instrumental for bringing the school districts and law enforcement community together.

"The added benefit to this extraordinary worth-while program are the relationships and the communication developing between the law enforcement and education communities," Bianchi said.

"After this project, we have already agreed to continuing this partnership in addressing drugs, gangs, bullying, cybercrime and other areas of concern that affect the well being of our children," Bianchi said.

Assistant prosecutor added to office roster

2008-11-21T18:02:00.003-05:00

November 21, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has added an assistant prosecutor to the ranks to focus on family court matters.

Joy B. Tolliver, 26, was officially sworn in today. Superior Court Judge John Dangler, under whom she served as a law clerk, presided over the swearing-in ceremonies with her mother, Barbara, standing next to her.

"I am honored and very excited," she said. "I count this as a great privilege to serve Morris County as an assistant prosecutor," Tolliver said.

Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said, "She went through an extremely competitive process to work here. Her work and dedication to the office was evident. She represents the best of the future of this prosecutor's office."

Tolliver is the oldest of two children. Her mother is a registered nurse at Hackensack University Medical Center. Her father, Eugene, is a county sheriff's officer. Her brother, Eugene Phillip, is a junior at Kean University.

Tolliver served as law clerk to Judge Dangler from 2007 to 2008. She joined the prosecutor's office in September.

She's a member of the prosecutor's office Community Affairs Unit and when she is not at her desk or in court, she spends time in church and with her family. She's also involved in a teen mentoring program.

Office Contact: Agent Bill Swayze

Jimenez Murder Conviction Makes Four Since March

2008-10-30T16:58:00.006-04:00

Morris County Prosecutors Ready for Zarate Trial

October 30, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has secured four murder convictions since March and is seeking a fifth as the Jonathan Zarate case goes to trial in just two weeks after their last homicide win.

On Monday, prosecutors landed their fourth conviction as a jury of five men and seven women convicted 43-year-old Porfirio Saravia Jimenez for the May 2001 murder of 10-year-old Walter Enrique Contreras Valenzuela in Morristown. The verdict was announced after nine hours and 35 minutes of deliberations following nine days of testimony and one day of closings before Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto.

The counts include first degree murder, felony murder, kidnapping, attempted aggravated sexual assault and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. When he is sentenced on Nov. 21, he is facing life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Following the verdict, Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said, "This guilty verdict was a long time coming - some seven years, five months and five days since the body of 10-year-old Walter was discovered on the banks of the Whippany River.

"Now Porfirio Jimenez faces life in prison for a senseless, unimaginable and violent crime that devastated a hardworking family and the Morris County community.

"I want to add a special thanks to Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz, the Morristown Police Department, the county sheriff's staff, members of the my office's general investigations and major crimes units and my office's victim witness unit for working tirelessly to help the family cope with the death of their little boy."

The case began when Walter failed to return home on May 20, 2001. Two days later, his body was discovered in a wooded area off Cory Road in Morristown. After an intensive investigation, the defendant was linked to the crime through DNA evidence located at the crime scene.

"This verdict was the end result of skillful police work and evidence gathering and a thorough and moving presentation of the case to a jury by Supervising Assistant Prosecutors John McNamara and Maggie Calderwood. McNamara and Calderwood performed phenomenally and with the highest degree of professional excellence," he said.

In March, a jury listened to Executive Assistant Prosecutor Robert Lane try the James Howard Vaughan case before convicting Vaughan, 56, for the murder of Maxine McCaden in Morristown. He was later sentenced by Ahto to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

In April, McNamara and Assistant Prosecutor Tia Manochio secured the conviction of George Melendez in the October 2003 death of his estranged wife, Barbara, who was found shot to death in her minivan at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall. Melendez was sentenced in May to life in prison and must serve 85 percent of his sentence before he is eligible for parole.

Three months later, McNamara and Assistant Prosecutor Peter Foy listened to a jury convict Omar Shaheer Thomas in the double homicide that took place at the FuncoLand video game store in Roxbury in December of 2002. He was later sentenced to life in prison.

Next up is the Zarate case. Jonathan Zarate is accused of killing and dismembering a 16-year-old Randolph girl in July 2005, next door neighbor Jennifer Parks. Zarate's younger brother, James, joined in the attack and assisted in the aftermath. The brothers will be tried separately, with the older brother's trial set for Nov. 10.

Bianchi noted, "This office will not slow down from our commitment to the community and victims' families to treat every case as aggressively as we can within the parameters of the law. We will move on to our next one, as our staff is constantly preparing for these serious cases, so that we can hopefully sustain convictions as quickly as the system will allow. When the bell rings, we are there to answer the call, prepared to do what is legally required to prevail for our victims."

Wharton Resident Indicted on Arson, Burglary Charges

2008-10-28T12:15:00.004-04:00

October 28, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a seven count indictment charging Wharton resident Charles Wallace, age 51, with:

One Count of Second Degree Aggravated Arson
One Count of Second Degree Attempt to Commit Aggravated Arson
One Count of Second Degree Burglary
One Count of Third Degree Criminal Mischief
One Count of Fourth Degree Criminal Mischief
One Count of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes
One Count of Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon

The charges stem from an incident which occurred on June 25, 2008. At approximately 1:08 am, Denville Township Police responded to a residence on Corey Road on a report of a suspicious male that had damaged the property of the homeowner. Upon arrival, Denville Police discovered a vehicle with a front passenger tire punctured and an odor of gasoline. A further investigation revealed numerous items of evidentiary value that were gathered from the scene.

This matter was jointly investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Denville Township Police Department.

If convicted of all charges, Wallace faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately 25 years in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Bradford Seabury, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Assistant Prosecutor Promotion

2008-10-27T18:42:00.003-04:00

October 27, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has added an assistant prosecutor to the roster, hiring a 30-year-old Somerset County native for the job.

Amy Knutsen, who has been working as a law clerk in the office since July, was promoted to her new post Friday, when Superior Court Judge Thomas Manahan presided over the swearing-in ceremony and noted Knutsen's work ethic in his courtroom.

Knutsen, who is married, noted she has long wanted to work for the prosecutor's office, "I was bit by the bug a couple of years ago, when I was a law clerk in Orange County, California and actually had the opportunity to argue cases in court. I knew that this is what I wanted to do."

Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said Knutsen is "intelligent, extremely pleasant and hardworking. She sacrificed a career in private practice to take a chance that she'd get promoted from a law clerk to an assistant prosecutor. That tells me she has a lot of heart."

Media Contact: Agent William Swayze

Riverdale Resident Indicted on Sexual Assault Charges

2008-10-21T11:28:00.005-04:00

October 21, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a forty count indictment charging James Nalbone, age 42, of Riverdale, with:

Eight counts of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault
Eight counts of Second Degree Sexual Assault
Eight counts of Third Degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact
Eight counts of Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Contact
Eight Counts of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

The charges stem from separate incidents that were sexual in nature which allegedly occurred at various locations in Morris County between July 1, 2007 and October 31, 2007.

This matter was jointly investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Riverdale Police Department, and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This office continues to aggressively arrest and prosecute cases where persons abuse and harm our children. This indictment is an expression of that philosophy and we shall continue to prosecute this matter with vigor, until its conclusion."

If convicted of the above charges, the defendant faces a potential custodial sentence of approximately 30 years in New Jersey State Prison with 85% to be served before he is eligible for parole. The defendant would also be subject to Parole Supervision for Life and Megan's Law.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor LaJuan Tucker, Esq. The defendant is represented by Gary Thompson, Esq.

The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Denville Shooting Press Release

2008-10-09T13:52:00.005-04:00

October 9, 2008: Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"I am here today to announce the Grand Jury's findings and provide you with an investigative overview regarding the events that led to the shooting death of Ruben Walter Martinez of Dover, New Jersey, by Denville Township Police Officer Richard Byrne, on Thursday June 26, 2008.

First and foremost, I want to again extend my condolences to the Martinez family for the loss of a loved one who, regardless of whatever legal happenings occur, will forever be impacted by this tragic situation.

I want to thank the Martinez family attorneys Mr. Darryl Saunders Esq. and Scott Leonard, Esq. with whom we have actively consulted during this investigation, Chief Christopher Wagner and members of the Denville Township Police Department, the community, and the media for their patience while this incident has been under investigation.

At the outset, I realize that in a case of this nature there are no winners or persons who can claim victory. The fact is that a tragic loss of life has occurred and for that there is no turning back or replays allowed. I also realize that regardless of the outcome of this proceeding, there will be those who will agree with the results and those who do not. That is to be expected.

I wish to express my sentiments about the manner with which this matter has proceeded. From the outset, I assured all parties with competing interests that this Office would be deaf to the chants and clamor of any party that attempted to place pressure upon this Office to be swayed one way or the other. I promised that we would fairly, dispassionately and deliberately gather, analyze and prepare this matter with one guiding principle, and that is to determine the truth in an impartial manner and to follow the law undauntingly without any partisan interest whatsoever. We have done just that.

A case of this nature is never easy, especially for a prosecutor's office. We very well realize that in the balance is the loss of life of another human being, as well as the possibility that if the shooting were unjustified, that an officer would face charges that could place him in jail for the rest of his life. I had instructed my staff to allow such weighty matters to be resolved by simply doing the best that they could to determine the facts, and to be concerned only with getting to the truth and to not be persuaded by sympathy, prejudice and/or bias for any partisan interest. I thank my clerical, investigative and attorney staff for a job well done in an admittedly difficult situation. They acted admirably, tirelessly, and unflinchingly and I am proud of what they have done. A special thanks go to my detectives in the Major crimes Unit, lead by Lieutenant Steve Wilson and Case Detective Robert McNally, as well as, Major Crimes Supervising attorney Les Wade, Executive Assistant Prosecutor Robert Lane and Deputy First Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Connor all of whom presented this case to the Grand Jury. These career prosecutors, recognized in the legal community for their skill and ethics and who represent the best legal staff that this office has to offer. All worked together in a team effort that was quite impressive, professional and exhaustive. They took their roles in this matter very seriously and allowed the facts to be their only guide on how to proceed. I put our best team together as this case deserved nothing less.

The circumstances of this matter were as extremely tragic as the life of a young man was ended. But, despite this tragedy, the legal principles are fairly straight forward. The only question to resolve is whether given all of the circumstances of this encounter, the deadly force employed by Officer Byrne was justifiable defense of himself or others from imminent risk of serious bodily injury or death. If it is accepted that Officer Byrne or members of the community were in danger of such injury or death, than he was justified in using deadly force to eliminate that risk.

After hearing from witnesses and considering the evidence, the Special Grand Jury, consisting of 23 men and women, empanelled by the Morris County Assignment Judge for the sole purpose of hearing this matter, voted not to indict Officer Byrne for any violation of the New Jersey criminal code. They acted, not as an arm of the prosecutor's office, but as an independent investigative body. Their proceedings are by law secret and may not be disclosed, except their ultimate findings.

Until today, the limited release of information to the media and public has allowed the Morris County Prosecutor's Office to conduct a thorough, independent and objective investigation.

We had an obligation to ensure that the facts and circumstances of the event were secured without the possibility that witnesses were affected by the premature release of information that was unverified, or had the potential to compromise our ability to obtain the sworn statements of the witnesses, or have a Grand Jury that could be tainted by formulating premature conclusions that are based upon incomplete facts.

This would have been a disservice to Mr. Martinez and his family, as well as Officer Byrne and his family; all of whom were entitled to an investigation that was untainted, accurate and fair.

I have stated on numerous occasions throughout this investigation that I would not rush to judgment until all of the facts available were gathered and analyzed. This is the hallmark of handling the matter in a way that ensured that we did not jump to conclusions on partial and possibly inaccurate data.

I have personally handled the oversight of this matter since its inception and have been involved in the legal oversight of this matter to the Grand Jury as well.

I realize that I have a duty to the community to share all the facts and circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Martinez and I am prepared to do that today.

As I stated earlier, after a comprehensive review of this case, the Grand Jury decided not to indict for any violation of the criminal code.

The investigation and legal analysis were broken down into five distinct areas of consideration:

1. The facts of the shooting.

2. Evaluation of the scene and all related facts and evidence.

3. The law on use of force and the Attorney General guidelines.

4. A review of Denville police records.

5. Forensic evaluations of experts.

Here is what our investigation revealed:

On Thursday June 26, 2008 at approximately 2:14 am, Officer Richard Byrne of the Denville Township Police Department was on duty, assigned to District 1, which covers Route 46 in the Township of Denville.

Officer Daniel Fernandez was on duty, assigned to District 2, which covers Route 10 in Denville Township.

Officer Byrne and Officer Daniel Fernandez were both located at Denville Township Police Headquarters, when a third officer, (Officer Tobin) provided information over his police radio reporting a vehicle, which was later determined to be operated by Mr. Martinez, was traveling north at 57 mph on Franklin Road. Franklin Road is a 25 mph zone.

Officer Byrne exited police headquarters onto Savage Road and approached the intersection of Route 46 and Franklin Road.

Most of this incident was captured on the 2 officers' Motor Vehicle Data Recorders(MVR). Those recordings showed that Officer Byrne encountered the Martinez vehicle at the Franklin Road/Route 46 intersection directly across from Officer Byrne's location. The Martinez vehicle was observed making a right hand turn from Franklin Road onto Route 46 East. This turn was made in violation of the posted sign indicating that right turns at the red light were prohibited.

Officer Byrne made a left-hand turn onto Route 46 East and pulled behind the Martinez vehicle, which was a 2001 Ford Mustang GT Bullitt with Texas registration.

Officer Byrne activated his emergency lights and attempted to effectuate a motor vehicle stop in the area of Franklin Road and Route 46 East.

Officer Fernandez activated his emergency lights, following Officer Byrne.

Instead of stopping as required by New Jersey Law, Mr. Martinez immediately accelerated, increased speed and turned right onto Legion Place.

Officer Byrne notified headquarters that the vehicle was fleeing.

Officer Byrne continued to follow the vehicle providing his headquarters with the vehicle's location during its flight. At this point in time Officer Byrne's MVR recorded that his police vehicle was traveling between 38-47 mph, in a 25 mph zone.

Mr. Martinez's vehicle turned right onto Augusta Street, where he disregarded the stop sign. The vehicle then turned right onto Franklin Road again disregarding a stop sign, whereupon Mr. Martinez lost control of the vehicle.

Mr. Martinez's vehicle spun out and was facing in a south-easterly direction, partially on the road and partially on the sidewalk. The vehicle's excessive speed combined with its not stopping at the intersection and attempting to make a right angled turn caused the vehicle to spin out.

The distance traveled from the point when Officer Byrne observed the Martinez vehicle to the initial stop was 3/10th of a mile.

Officer Byrne pulled up in front of Martinez's vehicle and approached the vehicle on the passenger's side with his weapon drawn.

It should be noted that the video clearly depicts Officer Byrne with his right index finger outside the trigger guard of the weapon. It should also be noted that the pulling of his weapon, as well as his finger on the outside of the trigger guard, complies with his police training whereupon he attempted to get a suspect to submit by the show of force, but not having reason to use deadly force at that time, kept his finger outside of the trigger guard to protect from accidental discharge.

Officer Byrne opened the passenger side door and gave verbal commands to Mr. Martinez to get out of the car.

Mr. Martinez did not respond or acknowledge Officer Byrne or his commands. Instead, Mr. Martinez can clearly be shown on the video attempting to restart and shift his car in an attempt to flee from the scene.

Officer Byrne saw that Mr. Martinez was not in possession of a weapon since he could see his hands, and attempted to stop Mr. Martinez's vehicle from fleeing.

During this encounter, Officer Byrne re-holstered his weapon while he continued to give verbal commands to Mr. Martinez to exit his vehicle, which were not complied with. The reholstering of his weapon was also in compliance with his training as again he did not have the right to use deadly force at that time, and his attempts to use his gun to get Mr. Martinez to submit to arrest had failed.

While the vehicle door was open, Officer Byrne had his shoulder in the area of the door frame, and was bent over ordering Mr. Martinez out of the vehicle. While Officer Byrne was still partially outside the Martinez vehicle, the engine revved and the car lunged forward. Simultaneously, Officer Byrne made the split second decision as to what to do and he decided to reach into the Martinez vehicle attempting to disable it and shut the vehicle off. Mr. Martinez attempted to drive the vehicle and the vehicle lunged forward again.

Officer Byrne knelt into the vehicle in an attempt to stop Mr. Martinez for the safety of the public and he struggled with him. Officer Byrne also noted that he smelled the odor of an alcohol beverage, which was later confirmed by toxicology reports that will be discussed later.

Officer Fernandez approached the driver's side of the Martinez vehicle and attempted to physically restrain Mr. Martinez, grabbing his head and hitting it repeatedly on the door frame of the vehicle. Please note that the autopsy report described the head of Mr. Martinez as being "atraumatic" which means without any trauma or injury.

As a result of Officer Fernandez's actions, Mr. Martinez loosened his grip on the steering wheel and took his hands off the wheel. At that point, Officer Byrne directed Officer Fernandez to release his grip and/or hold on to Mr. Martinez because he believed that Mr. Martinez was going to be compliant. When Officer Fernandez let go, Mr. Martinez immediately placed the vehicle in gear and the vehicle again abruptly lunged forward.

Despite the physical efforts of both Officers Byrne and Fernandez, Mr. Martinez was successful in placing the vehicle in gear.

Officer Byrne attempted to get the vehicle out of gear and get the keys out of the ignition, but he was unsuccessful in his attempts.

The vehicle then lunged forward and backward. Eventually, the vehicle lunged forward and accelerated at a great speed, causing the passenger door to hit Officer Byrne's vehicle, slamming Mr. Martinez's passenger door shut. As you will see, Officer Byrne fortuitously was able to move his legs into Mr. Martinez's car. This prevented Officer Byrne from being trapped between the Mustang and the patrol vehicle. This flight from police had now turned into resisting arrest, aggravated assault upon an officer, and easily could have killed Officer Byrne, but for a split second reaction of pulling his legs into the car prior to the door shutting.

Officer Byrne was now, however, trapped within the vehicle as Mr. Martinez departed at a high rate of speed, first driving on the sidewalk and then on the wrong side of the road while greatly increasing his speed which will be discussed later. Mr. Martinez's actions now escalated into kidnapping of a police officer.

Officer Fernandez ran back to his patrol vehicle, and radioed for backup while following the route of Mr. Martinez.

Officer Byrne continued to yell verbal commands to Mr. Martinez, ordering him to stop the vehicle as he accelerated and increased speed rapidly.

It should be noted that due to Officer Byrne being trapped in the Martinez vehicle, the MVR lost audio reception since Officer Byrne was separated from his patrol vehicle.

Mr. Martinez failed to comply with commands to stop the vehicle and shifted through the vehicle gears while accelerating. It should be noted that Mr. Martinez was driving a high performance Mustang and was a mechanic by trade. The mustang came to final rest in 4th gear. It was later determined that Mr. Martinez was driving while on the suspended list in New Jersey.

Mr. Martinez failed to look at Officer Byrne in response to all of his communication and attempts to have him stop the vehicle. Officer Byrne described Mr. Martinez's response as "a blank stare."

The vehicle was accelerating at such a high rate of speed that within seconds Officer Byrne believed that he was not going to survive this incident. He feared that the driver would hit another vehicle, killing other people and himself. The Martinez vehicle reached speeds in excess of 80 mph.

Officer Byrne thought to himself, "I'm going to die, I'm going to die tonight."

At that point, Officer Byrne pulled out his service weapon and gave a final order to Mr. Martinez to stop the vehicle. Mr. Martinez failed to comply.

Fearing for his life, Officer Byrne discharged five rounds, all of which struck Mr. Martinez. Forensic evidence indicates that these rounds were in all probability fired within 2 seconds.

One of the five shots struck his heart and was determined by two forensic pathologists to be the fatal shot.

At that point, the Martinez vehicle veered left and left the roadway, traveling at an estimated speed of 89 mph. The vehicle hit the curb and went airborne for approximately 24 feet before landing. The vehicle then travelled approximately 25 feet and struck a concrete block retaining wall. The vehicle pushed through the wall and struck an above ground pool.

The investigation revealed that shots were likely discharged between Forest Trail, when the Martinez vehicle was traveling at an approximate speed of 75 mph, which was 7.5 seconds into the incident, and Fernwood Trail, where the vehicle was traveling at approximately 89 mph which was 9.5 seconds into the incident. Hence, the vehicle was increasing speed at a rate of 14 mph in 2 seconds.

After all 5 shots, Officer Byrne holstered his weapon and braced himself for impact.

Although injured, Officer Byrne was able to exit the vehicle, called police headquarters on his radio, and requested medical aid for Mr. Martinez.

Mr. Martinez was treated at the scene by rescue and paramedic personnel.

Mr. Martinez was transported to St. Clare's Hospital in Denville, where he was pronounced dead at 2:55 am.

Officer Byrne was also transported to St. Clare's Hospital where he was treated for a shoulder injury sustained in this incident. He was treated and released.

Various pieces of evidence were recovered at the scene which included the location of the initial encounter with Officers Byrne and Fernandez, as well as the route that was traveled by Mr. Martinez until the point where the vehicle went off the roadway, crashed and came to its final resting point.

More than 100 statements have been taken from Denville residents, EMS, Fire and members of the Denville Township Police Department.

Interviews were conducted of individuals who were associated with Mr. Martinez, as well as those who were with him on the evening and early morning hours prior to this incident.

The scene exam was handled by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Accident Reconstruction Unit and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section.

The New Jersey State Police Laboratory assisted with the forensic review and evaluation of evidence. The laboratory analysis consisted of the following:

Stippling tests
Ballistic tests
Gun powder residue tests
DNA analysis

An expert from the New Jersey State Police also provided expert testimony in the area of Blood Spatter analysis.

On June 26, 2008, Dr. Carlos A. Fonseca, Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner, conducted an autopsy of Mr. Martinez. Dr. Fonseca noted the following:

1. Gunshot wound of right upper back
2. Gunshot wound of back of right arm
3. Gunshot wound of interior chest
4. Gunshot wound of right flank
5. Gunshot wound right lower quadrant of abdomen

Dr. Fonseca determined:

Cause of death- multiple gun shot wounds

The results of the toxicology analysis was positive for alcohol (0.16%), twice the legal limit in New Jersey.

Positive for Cannabinoids (THC) - marijuana

In addition to the services of Deputy Morris County Medical Examiner Dr. Carlos Fonseca, I hired Dr. John E. Pless from Indiana. Dr. Pless was hired by me due to his extensive expertise and background in forensic pathology as well as his specific expertise in the area of police shooting cases and cases where persons have died in police custody.

Dr. Pless determined that the physical evidence, injuries and wound pattern sustained by Mr. Martinez in this case were entirely consistent with the account reported by Officer Byrne.

As I stated previously, the issue to be determined by the Grand Jury was whether Officer Byrne shot Mr. Martinez in self defense from actions that constituted an imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death to himself or others. Common sense dictates that a vehicle reaching speeds with unrestrained persons of upwards of 80-90 mph and 55-65 mph over the speed limit in a residential area poses a risk of serious injury and likely death.

While we all wish this matter had never occurred, my sworn oath is to fairly assess the actions of this nature and be guided by the facts and law only. That is what has been done, nothing more and nothing less. The Grand Jury has spoken and this matter now turns to the process of healing from an otherwise unalterable tragedy. Again, my condolences are offered to the Martinez family."

Hispanic Heritage Celebration

2008-10-08T10:21:00.000-04:00

October 8, 2008: Today, Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq, and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella will be celebrating the First Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration at 2:00 pm in the Freeholder's Public Meeting Room on the 5th Floor.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office would like to ask you to join us in honoring our local Hispanic-American leaders that have honored our government with extraordinary service. Those who are being recognized are:

Lieutenant Denise Arsenault for her achievements as lieutenant in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office

Detective Arama Perez-Ortiz who was the first Hispanic police officer at Montclair State University prior to working for the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and for her role in the inception of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit

Corporal Edwin Santana who is a member of the Executive Board for the New Jersey Gang Investigators Association and speaks nationwide to police regarding gang issues

Executive Director Xiomara Guereva of Hispanic Affairs in Morris County for her achievements in social service and for serving the Hispanic community in Morris County

Director Jose Cordero who is the Director of the Guns, Gangs, Drugs and Safe Streets Strategy for the Attorney General's Office.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I am proud to honor such impressive law enforcement officers of Hispanic ancestry. They are shining examples of the greatness of the Hispanic culture and their contribution to the greatness of this nation."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

William O'Brien Sentencing

2008-10-03T19:27:00.003-04:00

October 3, 2008: Washington Township (Warren County) resident William O'Brien, 65 years old, was sentenced by the Honorable Thomas V. Manahan, P.J.Cr. to an aggregate sentence of 30 years in New Jersey State prison with 15 years to be served before he is eligible for parole. Additionally, O'Brien will be a Megan's Law registrant.

The defendant was convicted on April 21, 2008 by a Morris County Jury of Six Counts of Second Degree Sexual Assault and One Count of Fourth Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child. He has been incarcerated without bail since the jury's guilty verdict.

During the trial, testimony revealed that from October 5, 1983 through October 4, 1989, the defendant, on almost a daily basis, engaged in a deviant sexual lifestyle with his girlfriend while his girlfriend's three daughters were present. During that time, the defendant's girlfriend's youngest daughter was under the age of thirteen. This deviant sexual lifestyle included the defendant wearing chains and openly masturbating in front of the girls.

At trial, the State presented evidence recovered at the defendant's home which included a green trunk that contained a wide array of sadomasochistic equipment and videotapes which the jury watched depicting the defendant engaged in this lifestyle. The jury also heard testimony from the oldest of the girls.

A comprehensive and thorough investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Washington Township Police Department, and the Morris County Sheriff's Office contributed to the strength of this case.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "The defendant will now have to answer for his vile acts for the remainder of his life. His incarceration and loss of freedom will now justly account for his actions against a child victim who has endured a lifetime of emotional scars from his perversion. This was a difficult case with many complex legal issues which Assistant Prosecutors Maggie Calderwood and Kelley Lavery professionally presented to the jury.

The defendant's perverse desire to be chained and enslaved will now be accommodated at a New Jersey State Prison, a place that he now can call his home for the remainder of his natural life."

This case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutors Maggie Calderwood, Esq, and Kelley Lavery, Esq. The defendant is represented by Skippy Weinstein, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Morris Township Residents Charged with Attempting to Operate a Narcotics Production Facility

2008-10-02T11:36:00.002-04:00

October 1, 2008: On September 30, 2008 at approximately 9:30 p.m., members of the Morris Township Police Department Special Operations Unit and Detective Bureau executed a search warrant at 23 Delmar Avenue in Morris Township. The search warrant execution was the result of a short term undercover operation which was jointly conducted by the Morris Township Police Department in partnership with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit. The joint operation targeted the Delmar avenue residence which was being rented and occupied by three individuals. The residents were in the developmental stages of setting up a manufacturing facility for the cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms. The property owners were not aware or involved in the alleged activity.

The production facility included a specialty room which was secured in the basement. This room had been modified to accommodate the elaborate grow operation. The investigation revealed that once the illegal mushrooms were cultivated they were going to be transported to areas including Pennsylvania for ultimate distribution. Seized from within the residence were all of the necessary items to carry out the cultivation scheme. In addition to the items related to the production facility, marijuana and related paraphernalia along with approximately $900 in U.S. currency was seized.

The Morris County Sheriff's Office K9 and Criminal Investigations Section assisted the Morris Township Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at the scene.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated:

"I applaud the efforts of Chief Timothy Quinn and members of the Morris Township Police Department who worked in cooperation and partnership with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Special Enforcement Unit. We moved on this operation quickly before the manufacturing process became completely operational. I am extremely proud that the operation was infiltrated and neutralized before any drugs were able to be produced and distributed.

This case underscores the vulnerability we face as drug distributors move into our suburban neighborhoods with the purpose of setting up shop where our children play. This case was the result of increased vigilance of ordinary citizens who saw something out of the ordinary.

I commend both the community involvement and the partnership with law enforcement. It is the team approach by both private citizens and law enforcement that ultimately makes a difference and allows us to maintain the quality of life that we all so rightly deserve."

Chief Timothy Quinn stated:

"This is a text book example of how the joint cooperation of law enforcement agencies can react quickly to dismantle, and prevent, what was going to be a major distribution of narcotics. All the officers involved in the investigation are commended for their teamwork in successfully protecting our community from drug distributors and manufacturers who prey on our teenagers and young adults."

Suspects/Defendants:

Name: Christopher Donahue
Age: 24
Town: Morris Township
Race/Sex: White Male
Charges: (1) criminal attempt to operate a controlled dangerous substance production facility;(2) conspiracy to operate a controlled dangerous substance production facility; (3)poss. of < 50 grams of marijuana; (4)poss. of drug paraphernalia
Bond: $100,000

Name: Phillip Polynone
Age: 23
Town: Morris Township
Race/Sex: White Male
Charges: (1)criminal attempt to operate a controlled dangerous substance production facility; (2)conspiracy to operate a controlled dangerous substance production facility; (3)poss. of < 50 grams of marijuana; (4)poss. of drug paraphernalia
Bond: $75,000

Name: Stephanie Avitable
Age: 23
Town: Morris Township
Race/Sex: White Female
Charges: (1) criminal attempt to operate a controlled dangerous substance production facility;(2) conspiracy to operate a controlled dangerous substance production facility; (3)poss. of < 50 grams of marijuana; (4) poss. of drug paraphernalia
Bond: $75,000

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Pennsylvania Resident Convicted of First Degree Narcotics Possession

2008-10-01T17:23:00.004-04:00

October 1, 2008: A Morris County Jury convicted Scranton, Pennsylvania resident Raymonte Love, 31, of:

One Count of First Degree Possession of CDS (Cocaine) with the Intent to Distribute

One Count of Third Degree Possession of CDS (Cocaine)

The verdict followed a 3 day trial before the Honorable Thomas V. Manahan, J.S.C. in Morristown, New Jersey. Love faces a maximum possible custodial sentence of 20 years in New Jersey State Prison when he is sentenced on November 14, 2008.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "Today the jury has spoken and justice has been served. The message is loud and clear that the police and Morris County Prosecutor's Office will vigorously arrest and prosecute those who sell and deliver the poison of drugs into our community. This first degree conviction again serves notice to the criminals in our county that they will be dealt with harshly for their transgressions and that they will serve many years behind bars to think about their actions."

Testimony at trial revealed that on June 7, 2006, a vehicle that the defendant was a passenger in was stopped for a speeding violation by Patrolman Joseph Abrusci of the Mount Olive Police Department. A subsequent search of the vehicle found over 10 ounces of cocaine in the trunk of the vehicle. Testimony also revealed that the defendant traveled from Pennsylvania to New York to pick up the cocaine when the vehicle was stopped.

Assistant Prosecutor Peter Foy, Esq.. prosecuted the case for the State. Love was represented by Severiano Lisboa, Esq., of Hackensack. Love's bail of $75,000.00 was revoked.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Operation ReDirect Plea

2008-09-25T14:17:00.002-04:00

September 25, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella announce the disposition of the criminal case involving a main target of Operation ReDirect, Montville resident George DelVecchio.

On September 25, 2008 before the Honorable Thomas V. Manahan, Delvecchio, age 71, pled guilty to one count of second degree Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Dangerous Substance. The recommended sentence is 10 years in New Jersey State Prison with 5 years of parole ineligibility. The defendant also forfeited all items seized at the time of the arrest. Sentencing is scheduled for October 31, 2008.

On October 20, 2007, approximately 87 individuals were arrested following a massive collaborative investigation dubbed "Operation ReDirect". Numerous police agencies were involved in the investigation including Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Department, Morris County Park Police, New Jersey State Police, United States Marshal Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Postal Inspector, New Jersey Parole, New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice, Human Services, Essex County Prosecutor's Office, United States Drug Enforcement Administration, New York City Police Department, Town of Boonton Police Department, Boonton Township Police Department, Chatham Township Police Department, Chester Township Police Department, Chester Borough Police Department, Denville Township Police Department, Florham Park Borough Police Department , Hanover Township Police Department, Mountain Lakes Borough Police Department, Long Hill Township Police Department, Montville Township Police Department, Morris Plains Borough Police Department, Town of Morristown Bureau of Police, Morris Township Police Department, Mount Olive Township Police Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Police Department, Pequannock Township Police Department, Randolph Township Police Department, Raritan Township Police Department, Riverdale Borough Police Department, Rockaway Borough Police Department, Rockaway Township Police Department, Roxbury Township Police Department, Wharton Borough Police Department, Morris County Office of Emergency Management, and Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers.

This multi state operation included arrests of residents of Morris, Sussex and Essex Counties and some arrests extended as far as New York, Florida, North Carolina, and Texas. The charges against these defendants range from First Degree Leader of a Drug Trafficking Network to Fourth Degree Conspiracy to Possess Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I am pleased to announce that one of the major narcotic distributers in this operation, George DelVecchio, pled guilty to the maximum amount of time allowable under the law for a second degree offense, that being, 10 years in prison without the possibility of parole for at least 5 years. While it is unfortunate that a person of the defendant's age will be incarcerated for this length of time, it is also equally unfortunate that he made a decision at his age to engage in this illegal activity to distribute narcotics. His actions threatened the health and safety of the community and this plea reflects the Morris County Prosecutor's Office's commitment to aggressively prosecute high level drug dealers who poison our community with illegal narcotics to the fullest extent allowable under the law."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Montville Homicide Sentencing

2008-09-19T14:42:00.002-04:00

September 19, 2008: Today, Parsippany resident Marcos Riveria, 24 years old, and Montville resident Mario Nieto-Rivera, age 34, were sentenced by the Honorable Thomas V. Manahan, P.J.Cr. Nieto-Rivera was sentenced to 15 years in New Jersey State Prison. Riveria was sentenced to five years in New Jersey State Prison.

On May 7, 2008, a Morris County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging the defendants, who are citizens of Mexico.

Mario Nieto-Rivera was charged with:

One count of First Degree Murder
One count of Third Degree Hindering Apprehension
One count of Second Degree Tampering with Human Remains

Marcos Jose Riveria was charged with:

Third Degree Hindering Apprehension
Second Degree Tampering with Human Remains

The charges stem from the discovery of human skeletal remains on October 12, 2006 in the area of 11 Chapin Road in Montville. The remains were removed from the scene. All bones were examined and a skeletal structure was reconstructed piece by piece as part of the forensic examination. An autopsy was conducted and Dr. Carlos Fonseca of the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office determined that the decedent had suffered a skull fracture, multiple rib fractures as well as other injuries. The cause of death was multiple blunt force trauma and the manner of death was determined to be homicide. The victim had distinctive cosmetic dentition, namely, two upside down hearts on his front teeth. The remains were positively identified as those of Alfredo De Los Santos-Francisco.

Further investigation revealed that the defendants were known acquaintances of the victim. It was ultimately determined that an argument had taken place between the victim and Nieto-Rivera at which time Nieto Rivera began punching and kicking the victim. Nieto-Rivera then slammed the victim's head against the wall until the victim was unresponsive, at which time he dragged the victim down the stairs. The two defendants then retrieved a large piece of plastic and wrapped the body in it and carried it to the area of 11 Chapin Road where it was placed into a wooded area.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I applaud the forensic police and investigative work that led to the identity of the victim and the eventual arrest and prosecution of the defendant. The sentence imposed reflects the Morris County Prosecutor's Office's commitment to punish those who commit violent crimes in our county."

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Leslie Wade, Esq. Nieto-Rivera is represented by Jessica Moses, Esq., of Morristown and Riveria is represented by William Johnson Esq. of Dover.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

FuncoLand Murders - Omar Thomas Sentencing

2008-09-19T13:54:00.005-04:00

September 19, 2008: Irvington resident Omar Shaheer Thomas, 31 years old, was sentenced by the Honorable Salem Vincent Ahto to consecutive life sentences on each murder. He imposed life without parole and a consecutive sentence of 18 years (on the robbery charge) in New Jersey State Prison, of which defendant must serve 85%before being released. Morris County Assistant Prosecutor John McNamara argued on behalf of the State that the defendant should be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole and consecutive sentences. The judge ruled in the State's favor on those issues.

The defendant was convicted on July 24, 2008 by a Morris County Jury of Two Counts of First Degree Felony Murder, Two Counts of First Degree Murder, One Count of First Degree Robbery, One Count of Second Degree Possession of a Firearm to use Unlawfully Against the Person of Another, One Count of Third Degree possession of a handgun without a permit to carry and One Count of First Degree employing a juvenile to commit a robbery.

During the trial, testimony revealed that on the morning of December 1, 2002, police responded to the FuncoLand game store in Roxbury, New Jersey to find two store employees had been shot and killed: Jefferson Township resident Jeffrey Eresman, age 21, and Netcong resident Eric Rewoldt, age 26. Numerous video games and video game systems were stolen from the store. A comprehensive and thorough investigation commenced and a task force was formed that included law enforcement personnel from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Roxbury Township Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff's Office, the Essex County Prosecutor's Office, and the New Jersey State Police. The nearly year long investigation led to the November 17, 2003arrests of Omar Thomas and his two cousins, Rahman Allen Vaughn and Craig Allen Thomas Jr., a juvenile.

At the trial, the jury watched the defendant's multiple videotaped statements, in which he described travelling from Newark to Roxbury with his cousins for the purpose of robbing the game store. Jeffrey Eresman, the sole employee in the store at the time of the robbery, was brought at gunpoint to the rear of the store where he was shot in the head by Craig Allen Thomas. Omar Thomas then took the gun from the juvenile and fired a second, fatal shot into the head of Eresman. The defendants were in the process of bagging up merchandise from the store when Erik Rewoldt reported to work. Upon his entering the store, Omar Thomas shot Rewoldt in the head as he walked by, killing him instantly.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "On December 1, 2002 a tragic and senseless murder of Jeffrey Eresman and Eric Rewoldt occurred. Today's sentencing brings a long awaited vindication to these crimes to the extent allowable under the law. Now, today, the life of this defendant has taken its turn for the worse, as he will pay for the remainder of his life for his heinous and cowardly actions. The fact that this defendant weighed the theft of some video games over the lives of these two victims is simply despicable.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is committed to ensuring justice for the families of senseless crime. While any sentence for crimes such as this is never enough to right the wrong, it brings me great pleasure to have been able to provide the resources and commitment to ensure that this defendant is made to pay the greatest price allowable under the law. My sympathies are extended to the families and it is my hope that this will bring some measure of closure to them. My special thanks go to Assistant Prosecutors John McNamara, Jr. and Peter Foy for an exceptional presentation of the evidence that led to these convictions."

This case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutors John K. McNamara, Jr., Esq, and Peter J. Foy, Esq. The defendant is represented by David Glazer, Esq., and Michelle Abudato, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Swearing In Ceremony

2008-09-19T13:54:00.002-04:00

September 19, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella proudly announce the following appointments:

Joseph Napurano, Esq. as an Assistant Prosecutor.

Prior to coming to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Assistant Prosecutor Napurano worked as a law clerk to the Honorable Peter V. Ryan, J.S.C. in Essex County. He graduated from Seton Hall University School of Law in May of 2007. He received a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Maryland in 2001. He is currently assigned to Judge Ahto's trial team.

Julie Serfess, Esq., as an Assistant Prosecutor.

Assistant Prosecutor Serfess graduated from Widener University School of Law in May of 2007. Following graduation, she clerked for the Honorable William J. McGovern, III in Sussex County. She graduated from Rutgers College in 2003 with a bachelor's degree in Administration of Justice and she received a minor in Psychology. She is currently assigned to Judge Manahan's Trial Team.

Thomas Laird as a Detective.

Detective Laird graduated from Saint Anselm College in December of 2006 with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a certificate in Forensic Chemistry. He has been employed by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office since February 2007. Detective Laird will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit.

Carolina Moreno as a Detective.

Detective Moreno graduated from Seton Hall University with a Master's Degree in International Relations and a bachelor's degree in International Relations. She is currently an analyst with the Intelligence Crimes Task Force. Detective Moreno will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit.

Bruce LaFera as a Detective.

Detective LaFera graduated from County College of Morris with a degree in Criminal Justice. He then completed the Essex County College Police Academy. He began his professional career with the UMDMJ Police Department as a patrolman. He will be assigned to the General Investigations Unit.

Additionally, Detective Christopher Lombardi is being promoted to Detective Supervisor. Detective Supervisor Lombardi received his bachelor's degree from Kean College and received a Master's degree from Farleigh Dickenson University. Prior to coming to the Prosecutor's Office, Detective Supervisor Lombardi worked for the Long Hill Township Police Department and the Clinton Township Police Department. Detective Lombardi is currently assigned to the General Investigations Unit and is a certified Polygraph Examiner.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "Joseph and Julie are exceptionally bright legal talents with a great amount of potential. I am confident in their abilities to advocate on behalf of the citizens of Morris County and to seek justice in every case they handle.

Detectives Laird and Moreno have already established themselves as hard working and qualified individuals which is the reason they are so deserving of the promotion to detective. Detective LaFera has prior law enforcement experience that is invaluable in this office. Detective Supervisor Lombardi is regarded as an extremely bright mind and is deserving of this promotion.

The attorneys that work with all of the promotees have great regard for their work product and dedication. These individuals all fit into the Morris County Prosecutor's Office family because of their ability to work hard. I look forward to working together towards the same goal which is serving the citizens of Morris County."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

High Holy Days Security Briefing

2008-09-19T10:58:00.000-04:00

September 19, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Deputy Chief William Schievella invite you to attend the High Holy Days Security Briefing this Monday, September 22, 2008 at 7 pm at the Public Safety Training Academy located at 500 West Hanover Avenue, Parsippany, New Jersey. Leaders of the Jewish community as well as members of the law enforcement community will be in attendance.

Please email Captain Jeffrey S. Paul at jpaul@co.morris.nj.us if you plan on attending.

We look forward to seeing you Monday evening.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Rockaway Township Police Sergeant Pleads Guilty to One Count of Theft

2008-09-15T12:42:00.004-04:00

September 15, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq, Deputy Chief William Schievella and Rockaway Township Chief of Police Walt Ardin, announce the conclusion of an investigation in connection with a report of a Rockaway Township Police Sergeant who stole eight breakfast sandwiches from a Quick Chek convenience store.

On December 15, 2007, Rockaway Township Police Sergeant Christopher Stahl, age 39, purposely walked out of a Quick Chek convenience store located at 25 West Main Street in Rockaway Borough without paying for eight breakfast sandwiches, totaling $29.45. Following an investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Rockaway Township Police Department, the defendant was eventually charged with one count of Theft.

Today, the defendant pled guilty to one count of a disorderly persons charge of Theft. He was also sentenced to a $100 fine, restitution of $30 and he had to forfeit his current public office position and any future public service position.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This plea represents the fact that no one is above the law. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is committed to purging, from all levels of public service, those who abuse the public trust or the taxpayers' hard earned money.

This plea has dramatic but inevitable consequences to the defendant. Among other conditions, he has lost his lifelong job as a police officer and may never again serve as a public servant in any capacity for the rest of his life. All of this for the theft of $29.45 worth of goods. The loss of their public office as a condition of this plea represents a greater consequence than that given to the average citizen for a conviction of this nature. Nevertheless, it must be made clear that no public official is above the law, and if they violate the law, even for otherwise minor offenses, there are dramatic, life altering consequences.

I strongly applaud the Rockaway Township Police Department's assistance provided during this investigation and for bringing this matter to our attention. Chief Ardin and his officers should be proud of working for a department that is willing to address problematic officers in a manner that reflects their commitment to the public to ferret out wrongdoers just as they would any other citizen, and not to merely look the other way. I give assurances to the citizens of Rockaway Township that their police chief and officers are of the highest caliber and that they should be proud of the manner with which their department handled this matter."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Jersey City Residents Indicted in $464,000 Fraud of Parsippany Company

2008-09-10T15:39:00.004-04:00

September 10, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a seven count indictment charging Jersey City residents, Nicole Lere, age 27, and Arcadio Santiago, age 25 with:

Two Counts of Second Degree Theft by Deception
Two Counts of Second Degree Issuing a Bad Check
Two Counts of Third Degree Uttering a Forged Instrument
One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Commit Theft by Deception

Both defendants were arrested on July 12, 2006. The thefts allegedly occurred during a two week period between March and April of 2005. The approximate value of the fraudulent checks and the thefts is in excess of $464,000.00 which was taken from Automatic Data Processing. The defendants allegedly created a fraudulent construction company to which ADP made payments for payroll and accounts payable.

The arrest was the result of a continuing investigation conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, United States Secret Service and the Parsippany Troy Hills Police Department.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I am proud and impressed with the detective work that unraveled this complex scheme. As the Morris County Prosecutor's Office has previously stated, these crimes levy a tremendous impact upon our citizens with increased costs for goods and services, as well as, the impact upon the businesses that are wrongly affected. We will pursue these white collar cases as any other case so as to send a message that if you engage in this activity and are caught you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

If convicted of the charges, Lere and Santiago face a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately twenty years imprisonment in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Tony Cannon, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Morristown Resident Indicted on Second Degree Theft from Ingersoll Rand

2008-09-10T15:26:00.004-04:00

September 10, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a one count indictment charging Morristown resident, Salvatore Gaeta, Jr., age 46, with:

One Count of Second Degree Theft

On March 18, 2008, representatives from Ingersoll Rand, located on Newfield Avenue in Edison, New Jersey contacted the Morris County Prosecutor's Office reporting that company equipment was missing.

An investigation revealed that Salvatore Gaeta, Jr., an employee of Ingersoll Rand, was allegedly responsible for shipping company merchandise to his personal home address located at 8-C Dorado Drive, in Morristown, as well as family residences located in Summit, New Jersey and Three Bridges, New Jersey. The approximate value of the diverted products is approximately $168,000.00.

The arrest was the result of a continuing investigation conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Readington Township Police Department, Hunterdon County Prosecutor's Office, Morristown Police Department, Summit Police Department, Edison Township Police Department, Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office, Union County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office and Ingersoll Rand.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "Corporate crime needs to be aggressively prosecuted. In the end analysis, this kind of crime has a measurable impact upon society, the businesses that serve our communities, and costs associated with these thefts that are ultimately passed onto the consumer and taxpayer. We have vowed to combat white collar crime with the same vigor as any other offense, and this indictment is evidence of that commitment."

If convicted of the charges, Gaeta faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of ten years imprisonment in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Tony Cannon, Esq. Gaeta is represented by Jeffrey Advokat, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Indictment of Demetrius Diaz-Bridges in Jefferson Township Beating Death

2008-09-03T17:01:00.002-04:00

September 3, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a five count indictment charging Demetrius Diaz-Bridges, age 19 of Jefferson with:

One Count of First Degree Murder (purposeful and/or knowing murder)
One Count of First Degree Murder (murder in the commission of a robbery)
One count of First Degree Robbery
One Count of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
One Count of Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon

On January 30, 2008 at approximately 5:27 pm, a 911 call was received by the Jefferson Township Police Department requesting assistance at a Nolan's Point Road residence in Jefferson. Upon the arrival of the Jefferson Township Police Department, they found Elizabeth O'Brien, age 49, deceased within her residence.

On January 31, 2008 Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Carlos Fonseca conducted an autopsy and determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head.

The investigation revealed that at the time of the murder, the defendant, Demetrius M. Diaz-Bridges, lived at 150 Nolan's Point Road. He was a neighbor of Elizabeth O'Brien and a friend of one of her two sons. It was also determined that Mr. Bridges stayed at Mrs. O'Brien's residence at 120 Nolan's Point Road on the night of January 29-30, 2008.

On May 2, 2008 Detectives from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office and Jefferson Township Police Department located Mr. Bridges in Raleigh, North Carolina.

On May 2, 2008 Judge John Triarsi J.S.C. (Union County) authorized the warrant charging Mr. Bridges with Murder a crime of the 1st degree and Possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose a crime of the 3rd degree.

Diaz-Bridges was previously held in the Wake County Jail where he refused to waive extradition. Prosecutor Bianchi initiated the Governor's Warrant Process and the defendant was brought back to New Jersey and was ultimately lodged in the Union County Correctional Facility.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I am extremely happy that we have been able to move this case through the system as quickly as we have. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is committed to doing everything we can to bring this matter to a successful conclusion and bringing this matter to trial as soon as possible."

Diaz-Bridges is currently lodged in the Union County Correctional Facility in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail.

A motion to retain venue in Morris County was also filed today with Judge B. Theodore Bozonelis, A.J.S.C.

If convicted of all charges, Diaz-Bridges faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of life without the possibility of parole in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Leslie Wade, Esq. Diaz-Bridges is represented by Joseph Krakora, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Timothy Iberer Status Conference

2008-08-22T14:27:00.003-04:00

August 22, 2008: Today, during a status conference held before the Honorable Salem Vincent Ahto, John Velez, Esq., attorney for the defendant, Bloomingdale resident Timothy Iberer, age 27, advised that he is in the process of possibly obtaining an expert for their case.

A pre trial conference is scheduled for September 12, 2008. The prosecution wishes to move this case to a speedy resolution so that the victim and family can begin the healing process.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "The family is dealing with a very difficult situation through no fault of their own. They are a decent family and good parents and we would hope that the community will continue to support them during this difficult time."

Iberer was previously indicted on:

one count of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault
one count of Second Degree Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault
one count of Second Degree Sexual Assault
one count of Second Degree Attempted Sexual Assault
two counts of Second Degree Burglary
one count of Third Degree Burglary
two counts of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

The charges stem from three separate incidents which allegedly occurred at a residence in Pequannock between August 1, 2007 and September 10, 2007. At approximately 3:00 am on September 10, 2007, a resident of the home found an individual, believed to be the defendant, in the victim's bedroom. The individual then allegedly jumped out of the window and fled. The victim, a child under the age of 13, later disclosed that the individual had been in the room on three occasions, including the morning of September 10, 2007. On one occasion he is alleged to have sexually assaulted the victim. The defendant allegedly gained access to the bedroom by cutting both corners of a screen leading to the first floor bedroom window. The defendant was arrested on September 21, 2007 in Bloomingdale, New Jersey.

The matter was jointly investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Pequannock Township Police Department, and the New Jersey State Police.

The defendant is currently lodged in the Morris County Correctional facility in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail.

If convicted of the above charges, the defendant faces a potential custodial sentence of approximately 40 years, subject to the No Early Release Act, Parole Supervision for Life and Megan's Law.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Charges Against Madison Court Administrator

2008-08-22T13:49:00.004-04:00

August 22, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Morris County Prosecutor's Office Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Madison Borough Acting Chief of Police John Trevena announce the charging of Madison resident Denis P. Murray., age 65. Murray was charged on a summons complaint with:

One count of Second Degree Official Misconduct
One count of Third Degree Theft by Deception
One count of Fourth Degree Tampering with Records

The charges were the result of an investigation conducted by Detective James Haspel of the Madison Police Department and Detective Daniel Henderson of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit.

On February 19, 2008, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and the Madison Borough Police Department became aware of alleged irregularities and the alleged misappropriation of funds by Denis Murray, the Court Administrator for Madison Borough Municipal Court.

The initial phase of the investigation revealed that Murray misappropriated borough funds for his personal benefit from September 2006 until April of 2008 in an amount exceeding $2,580.00.

The charges are the result of a continuing investigation conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and the Madison Borough Police Department.

Mr. Murray was served with a complaint summons and was released.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated that "The arrest of Mr. Murray was the result of the quick action of the Madison Police Department the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Professional Standards Unit and other officials within the Borough of Madison. This arrest is a reflection of the commitment of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and Madison Police Department's zero tolerance for officials who abuse the hard earned taxpayers' dollars and abuse the public trust."

The investigation is ongoing and Prosecutor Bianchi is asking anyone that may have information pertaining to this allegation to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200 or the Madison Borough Police Department at (973) 593-3000.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

DWI Checkpoints in Hanover Township

2008-08-21T14:36:00.003-04:00

August 21, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Hanover Township Chief of Police Stephen Gallagher announce the implementation of additional safety and sobriety checkpoints in Hanover Township over the weekend. The checkpoints will be staffed by members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Hanover Township Police Department.

This initiative is being funded through a grant from the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. It is anticipated that these checkpoints will continue throughout 2008.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Additional Details - Fatal Fire in Florham Park

2008-08-20T15:34:00.002-04:00

August 20, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Florham Park Chief of Police Patrick Montuore announce additional details regarding the investigation into a fatal fire which occurred at 45 Mann Avenue in Florham Park.

At 4:21 am today, a 911 call was placed to the Florham Park Police Department by a neighbor who reported seeing fire in the rear of the residence located at 45 Mann Avenue. This prompted a response by the Florham Park Police Department, Florham Park Fire Department, Florham Park First Aid Squad, Madison Fire Department, East Hanover Fire Department, Chatham Borough Fire Department, Red Cross, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section.

The investigation revealed that at the time of the fire, the residence was occupied by a father, mother, daughter and daughter's friend.

The victim has been identified as 52 year old Robert Juliano. The mother, age 47, a daughter, age 19, and daughter's friend, age 18, were able to escape via a second floor window in the front of the residence and are currently being treated at area hospitals.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit determined that the fire originated at the rear deck, ultimately spreading to the vinyl siding and the entire structure. At this point in the investigation, there is no indication that this was an intentionally set fire.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Florham Park Police Department have been working together throughout the day in their investigation.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Fatal Fire Investigation in Florham Park

2008-08-20T10:48:00.003-04:00

August 20, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Florham Park Chief of Police Patrick Montuore announce the investigation into a fatal fire which occurred at 45 Mann Avenue in Florham Park.

At 4:21 am today, a 911 call was placed to the Florham Park Police Department by a neighbor who reported seeing fire in the rear of the residence located at 45 Mann Avenue. This prompted a response by the Florham Park Police Department, Florham Park Fire Department, Florham Park First Aid Squad, Madison Fire Department, East Hanover Fire Department, Red Cross, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section.

The investigation revealed that at the time of the fire, the residence was occupied by a father, mother, daughter and daughter's friend. The mother, daughter and daughter's friend were able to escape via a second floor window in the front of the residence and are currently being treated at area hospitals.

The residence was severely damaged. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Florham Park Police Department will be working together throughout the day to determine the cause and origin of the fire. The age and identity of the male victim is not being released at this point pending identification by the Morris County Medical Examiner and next of kin notification.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Investigation into Reports of Shots Fired in Dover

2008-08-14T17:36:00.001-04:00

August 14, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Dover Chief of Police Harold Valentine announce the investigation into reports of shots fired.

Today, at approximately 11:57 am, Dover Police began receiving 911 calls reporting shots fired in the area of Prospect Street in the Town of Dover.

The investigation is ongoing in cooperation with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, New Jersey State Police, Morris County Sheriff's Office, and the Dover Police Department.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Dover Police Department at 973-366-0302 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Morristown Resident Charged with First Degree Murder

2008-08-12T12:04:00.005-04:00

August 12, 2008: Today, a Morris County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging Kleber Cordova, age 29, of Morristown, with

One Count of First Degree Murder

The charges stem from an incident that occurred on May 9, 2008. At approximately 7:19 am, a 911 call was placed by the defendant requesting medical assistance for his wife who was located at their residence located at 85 Western Avenue in Morristown. Responding officers found the victim submerged in a bathtub, face up, with her head positioned under the faucet. The victim was pulled from the tub by the first responding Morristown Police Officers. CPR was performed by Morristown Police, Morristown Ambulance Squad and the victim was treated by paramedics as well. She was ultimately transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Subsequent investigation revealed that the defendant had an argument with the victim and a struggle ensued where the defendant held the victim's head under water for several minutes until she stopped struggling.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This indictment is indicative of this administration's desire to move cases quickly to Grand Jury and to trial."

The defendant continues to be lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail.

A detainer from Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has also been lodged.

If convicted of all charges, Cordova faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of life imprisonment in New Jersey State Prison.

This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Morristown Police Department at 973-538-2200 or the Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973) 267-2255.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Leslie Wade, Esq. Cordova is represented by James Orlando, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Motion Filed to Request Special Grand Jury in Denville Shooting Case

2008-08-11T14:08:00.004-04:00

August 11, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas A. Zelante, Esq., and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella announce the update into the events that led to the shooting death of Ruben Walter Martinez, age 21, who was shot by Denville Township Police Officer Richard Byrne on June 26, 2008.

The comprehensive and exhaustive investigation is moving to the next stage. Prosecutor Bianchi has decided to present the facts of this case to the Grand Jury.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, "I want to make it perfectly clear that our decision to move this case to the Grand Jury phase in no way is to be taken as an indication that the Morris County Prosecutor's Office believes that a crime has been committed by the police officers. This action is simply taken pursuant to the Attorney General guidelines for police related shootings where a death has occurred. The video in this case captured much of the situation, but not every detail. We are obligated under those rules to either prepare a report to the Attorney General or present the matter to a Grand Jury. In this case, for complete integrity of this investigation, I am doing both. This ensures the maximum amount of checks and balances possible under the law.

I feel that for purposes of being complete and thorough that it is important to the Martinez family, Officer Byrne and his family, members of the Denville Township Police Department, and the public, that citizens of the county constituted in the form of a Grand Jury have the opportunity to pass upon all of the evidence, be able to call and question any witness that they see fit, subpoena any document or person to testify, and to pass upon the exhaustive evidence gathered.

In this way, regardless of the outcome, there can be complete confidence in the manner in which this investigation was handled.

Earlier today, I filed a motion requesting the empanelment of a special Grand Jury who can sit on consecutive days until this matter is concluded. A Grand Jury that sits only one day a week is a tremendous strain to all involved in this matter, and that will delay greatly the release of the full investigation to the public. It is my desire to conclude this matter and release the details of the investigation as soon as is practically possible. This motion is filed to achieve that result.

I am very sensitive to the public's right to know what happened here. Everyone must understand, however, that it is a violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct for attorneys and prosecutors to publically comment upon facts of a matter during an investigation or pendency of a court related matter, other than those matters that are contained in court documents, and on the record comments made during court proceedings.

Proceeding before the Grand Jury is a true and tried way to ensure that the matter is fully and fairly presented to the court and to ensure that the unbiased truth is the guiding principal.

In any event, I will publicly divulge the full set of facts at a time permitted by law. To release the video or any investigative facts sooner is an egregious violation of the ethics rules.

Investigations of this type take time if they are to be done correctly. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office legal and investigative team has been working very hard on this matter and have kept all interested parties fully apprised of the progress of the investigation. The public respectfully must understand that we will proceed in a calm and deliberate fashion and not be influenced to prematurely act or speak of the facts when it is legally inappropriate to do so.

My guiding principal is a full and fair investigation and presentation of the evidence, so that the truth is ascertained, and not to be rushed to judgment where sloppiness and other negative influences have the capacity to affect our attempts to ascertain the truth."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Morristown Resident Charged with Attempted Murder, Eluding

2008-08-08T02:17:00.008-04:00

August 7, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Morristown Chief of Police Peter Demnitz announce the arrest of Fedele (Fred) J. Goduto, Jr., age 63, of Morristown. Goduto was charged with:

One Count of First Degree Attempted Murder
One Count of Second Degree Eluding
Three Counts of Third Degree Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer
Three Counts of Second Degree Aggravated Assault During an Eluding
One Count of Third Degree Possession of CDS
One Count of Third Degree Possession of CDS with the Intent to Distribute

Bail was set by the Honorable Thomas Manahan, P.J.Cr. at $250,000.00.

On August 6, 2008, at approximately 12:08 pm, Morristown Police Detectives Thomas Loia and Robert Gibbons were on Speedwell Avenue in the area of Henry Street when they observed the defendant, Fedele (Fred) J. Goduto, Jr., engaged in an alleged drug sale to another individual. At the time of the observation, Goduto was operating a 1991 BMW. Immediately following the alleged drug sale, Cheryl Ogden was taken into custody by Detective Tyrone Jackson after she exited Goduto's vehicle. Ogden, age 41, of Morristown, was charged with Third Degree Possession of CDS Heroin.

The suspect vehicle turned north on to Speedwell Avenue after it turned from Walker Avenue. As Ptl. Weaver activated his overhead lights and siren in an attempt to make a motor vehicle stop, the vehicle slowed down in the curb lane of Speedwell Avenue, near Pocahontas Park, and it appeared as though the defendant would stop.

However, the defendant suddenly accelerated the vehicle and sped north on Speedwell Avenue. MPD Ptl. Bruce Summers, in a marked MPD vehicle, provided backup to Ptl. Weaver as they pursued the BMW into Morris Township and into Morris Plains.

The defendant was operating his vehicle at a high rate of speed and led officers on a pursuit from Speedwell Avenue to Morris Township's Mill Road, Burnham Road and then across West Hanover Avenue into Morris Plains. The defendant then made a right turn on to Grannis Avenue back toward the center of Morris Plains. He then turned right on to Franklin Avenue, across from the Morris Plains Train Station, and made another right on to Mountain Way heading north.

The pursuit then continued across Grannis Avenue, through a construction zone, up Mountain Way to Tower Hill Road where the suspect vehicle turned right. The street is marked with a "No Outlet" sign and, in fact, Tower Hill Road is a cul-de-sac. The defendant continued into the cul-de-sac and he appeared to be surrounded by the pursuing MPD vehicles without any room to maneuver or escape.

The BMW appeared to have no where to go but the vehicle suddenly went up and over a curb to evade patrols. Morristown Detective Thomas Loia had gotten out of Det. Sgt. Buckley's vehicle to assist in the arrest of the defendant when suddenly and without warning, he accelerated the BMW and headed for Det. Loia.

Det. Loia had to jump over an embankment to avoid being struck by the accelerating vehicle. Unknown to Det. Loia at the time, was that the embankment was actually a large boulder with a drop of about fifteen feet onto a lawn on Tower Hill Road. As a result of the fall, Det. Loia sustained a fractured right fibula.

The BMW, still being operated by the defendant, was struck on the passenger side by the front of Morristown Police Sgt. Holtz' marked unit as it sped toward Det. Loia. This action prevented the BMW from striking MPD Det. Loia. In total, the suspect's vehicle, four Morristown Police vehicles, and a pickup truck that had been operated by Det. Gibbons all sustained damage.

Det. Sgt, Buckley was treated and released at Morristown Memorial Hospital for a leg injury. MPD Det. Gibbons was treated and released at MMH for a sprained shoulder and MPD Det. Loia was treated and released at MMH for a fractured leg.

Several glassine packets, containing suspected heroin, were found in the vehicle.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, "This underscores the dangers confronted by our brave police officers on a daily basis, especially when confronted by drivers who refuse to obey lawful orders of the police when ordered to stop their motor vehicles. I am happy that the injuries sustained by these officers were not life threatening."

The investigation is ongoing in cooperation with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Morristown Police Department and Morris Plains Police Department.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Morristown Police Department at 973-538-2200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Randolph Resident Sentenced for Computer and Identity Theft

2008-08-01T15:19:00.001-04:00

August 1, 2008: Randolph resident Jessica Nieves, 33 years old, was sentenced by the Honorable John B. Danger, J.S.C. to 7 years in New Jersey State Prison for Computer and Identity Theft.

The defendant, a branch manager at Wachovia Bank in Morristown, previously pled guilty and admitted that between January of 2007 and October of 2007 she transferred funds from customer accounts to her own personal accounts. The transfers totaled $97,481.39. At the time of sentencing, the defendant had paid back restitution in the amount of $53,500.00 leaving $43,981.39 that she remains responsible for repaying.

These charges came to light on July 3, 2007 when Morristown Police received a complaint from a customer of Wachovia Bank indicating that someone tried to access their $75,000.00 line of credit. A subsequent investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morristown Police Department and Wachovia Bank's security analysts revealed that the defendant was responsible for these transfers.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Joseph J. D'Onofrio, Jr., Esq. The defendant is represented by James Porfido, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Hackensack Resident Charged with Sexual Assault

2008-08-01T15:08:00.003-04:00

August 1, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq, Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Lincoln Park Chief of Police Sean P. Canning announce additional charges against Carlos A. Merchant, age 58, of Hackensack. This afternoon, he was charged with:

One count of Second Degree Sexual Assault
One count of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

The matter is currently being investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Lincoln Park Police Department. An arrest affidavit detailing the allegations has been filed with the Court.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Lincoln Park Police Department at 973-694-5533 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Sexual Assault Arrests in Pequannock Township

2008-07-31T12:38:00.004-04:00

July 31, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq, Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Pequannock Township Chief of Police Brian Spring announce the investigation and arrests of Daniel Smith age 26, of Worcester, Massachusetts, and Curtis Smith, age 20, of Pequannock.

Daniel Smith was charged with:

Two counts of Second Degree Sexual Assault
One count of Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Contact
One count of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

Curtis Smith was charged with:

One count of Second Degree Sexual Assault
One count of Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Contact
One count of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

The matter is currently being investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Pequannock Township Police Department. Two arrest affidavits detailing the allegations have been filed with the Court.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Pequannock Police Department at 973-835-1700 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Aggravated Sexual Assault Arrest

2008-07-30T15:42:00.004-04:00

July 30, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq, Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Lincoln Park Chief of Police Sean P. Canning announce the investigation and arrest of Carlos A. Merchant, age 58, of Hackensack. He was charged with:

One count of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault
One count of Second Degree Sexual Assault
One count of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

The matter is currently being investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Lincoln Park Police Department. An arrest affidavit detailing the allegations has been filed with the Court.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Lincoln Park Police Department at 973-694-5533 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Three Long Valley Residents Indicted on Drug Charges

2008-07-30T15:03:00.002-04:00

July 30, 3008: Today, a Morris County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging three defendants, James C. Coates III, age 24, of Long Valley; Zachary Toomey, age 26 of Long Valley; and John A. O'Connell, age 24 of Long Valley.

Toomey is charged with:

One Count of First Degree Maintaining or Operating a Controlled Dangerous Substance Facility,

One Count of Second Degree Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute,

One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Possess Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute,

One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Maintain a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility,

One Count of Fourth Degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance,

One Count of Fourth Degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance

Toomey is being held at the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $250,000.00 bail.

Coates is charged with:

One Count of First Degree Maintaining or Operating a Controlled Dangerous Substance Facility,

One Count of Second Degree Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute,

One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Possess Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute,

One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Maintain a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility,

One Count of Fourth Degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance,

One Count of Fourth Degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance

Coates previously posted $150,000.00 bail.

O'Connell is charged with:

One Count of First Degree Maintaining or Operating a Controlled Dangerous Substance Facility,

One Count of Second Degree Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute,

One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Possess Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute,

One Count of Second Degree Conspiracy to Maintain a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility,

One Count of Fourth Degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance,

One Count of Fourth Degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance

O'Connell previously posted $250,000.00 bail.

On February 8, 2008, members of the Washington Township Police Department were contacted by Hackettstown Regional Medical Center regarding an individual who required medical attention for stab wounds. While officers were interviewing the victim, a second individual was admitted to the hospital due to a stab wound. A subsequent investigation into the incident resulted in members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Washington Township Police Department, and Morris County Sheriff's Office applying for a search warrant for the residence of Zachary Toomey, John Coates, III , and John A. O'Connell located at 16A Fairmount Road in Long Valley.

On February 9, 2008, at approximately 8:45 am, members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Washington Township Police Department, and Morris County Sheriff's Office executed the court authorized search warrant. Upon entry into the residence it was determined that a marijuana production facility was located within the attic of the residence.

A sentence for a second degree aggravated assault carries a New Jersey State Prison sentence of between five (5) and ten (10) years of which 85% of that time must be served per the No Early Release Act. Additionally, the sentence for maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance facility, a crime of the first degree, carries a New Jersey State Prison sentence of between ten (10) and twenty (20) years. Further, the sentence for the crime of maintaining or operating a controlled dangerous substance facility requires a period of parole ineligibility per State v. Brimage.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

The case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Kelley Lavery, Esq. Toomey is represented by Steven Roth of Roth & Associates. Coates is represented by James L. Pfeiffer of Pfeiffer, Bruno, Minott & DeEsch. O'Connell is represented by Alexander R. Pagano of Green & Pagano, LLP.

The investigation is on-going and we are asking anyone with information to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200, the Washington Township Police Department at (908) 876-3232 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStopper Program at (973) COP-CALL or 973- 267-2255.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

New Detective Hires

2008-07-25T14:26:00.001-04:00

July 25, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella proudly announce the hiring of two new Morris County Prosecutor's Office detectives, Janine Schilp and Keyla Dent.

Detective Schilp, age 26, and Detective Dent, age 27, will be attending the Division of Criminal Justice Basic Course for Investigators in Sea Girt, New Jersey, beginning in August. Detective Schilp has a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from St. Bonaventure University with two minors in Criminology and Social Work. Detective Dent has a Bachelor's Degree in Justice Studies from Montclair State University and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, "These new detective hires exemplify the professionalism and leadership qualities that employees in this office exhibit. It truly is a pleasure for me to be able to recognize them with this well earned professional opportunity. They are already proven commodities that have exemplified the excellence which we seek in employment candidates in this office."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

FuncoLand Guilty Verdict

2008-07-24T18:16:00.002-04:00

July 24, 2008: Today, a Morris County jury found Newark resident Omar Shaheer Thomas, age 31, guilty of:

Two Counts of First Degree Felony Murder

Two Counts of First Degree Murder

One Count of First Degree Robbery

One Count of Second Degree Possession of a Firearm to use Unlawfully Against the Person of Another

One Count of Third Degree possession of a handgun without a permit to carry

One Count of First Degree employing a juvenile to commit a robbery

Thomas faces a maximum sentence of life in prison on each count of murder when sentenced on September 12, 2008.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., stated, "I am proud of the passion and dedication with which Assistant Prosecutors McNamara and Foy conducted themselves during this trial which has lasted nearly three months in duration. I also applaud the work of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office detectives, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Essex County Prosecutor's Office, Essex County Sheriff's Office, members of the Roxbury Police Department and the New Jersey State Police who handled this matter with great skill and care. They all brought justice to the victim's family and the community at large. I am proud of the work and dedication of the legal and investigative staff of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office that has to date brought to conclusion numerous murder trials in this past year. We now look forward to continuing with this aggressive trial approach and bringing about the resolution of other murder trials that are pending inclusive of the Jiminez and Zarate matters. In this administration we have spared no expense or resource to bring these serious matters to a successful trial conclusion, and we will continue to do so in the future as well."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Indictment of Former Lincoln Park CFO

2008-07-03T23:55:00.004-04:00

July 3, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a twelve count indictment charging Dennis Gerber, age 57, of Saddle Brook, with:

six counts of Second Degree Official Misconduct
five counts of Third Degree Theft
one count of Fourth Degree Theft

Gerber, the former Chief Financial Officer of Lincoln Park, was arrested on two separate occasions as a result of a continuing investigation conducted by Detective Sergeant Michael Hackett of the Lincoln Park Police Department and Detective Barry Bittenmaster of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Specialized Crimes Unit.

Gerber was arrested on February 14, 2008 after an investigation revealed that on February 11, 2008 the Mayor's Office of the Borough of Lincoln Park discovered evidence revealing the misappropriation of funds by the defendant. The Mayor's Office immediately notified the Lincoln Park Police Department, which resulted in a joint investigation with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office.

The initial phase of the investigation revealed that Mr. Gerber misappropriated Borough funds for his personal benefit during January of 2008, in an amount exceeding $10,000.00. Mr. Gerber resigned his position as Chief Financial Officer of the Borough of Lincoln Park on February 8, 2008 prior to the information about the alleged theft being uncovered. Further investigation revealed that on or about January 17, 2007, Gerber deposited a check payable to the Borough of Lincoln Park into a bank account and subsequently wrote four checks to himself totaling $10,000.00

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This indictment evidences the Morris County Prosecutor's Office's commitment to ferret out public corruption and bringing to justice people in public caretaking positions who dare to abuse the public trust by misappropriating public funds, and to bring to justice those who convert hard-earned taxpayer dollars, for their own personal use. I commend the Mayor's office, as well as the Lincoln Park Police Department for their reporting this matter to us, and cooperating fully with our investigation."

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Robert Weber, Esq. Gerber is represented by Deborah Gross, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Denville Shooting Incident - Update

2008-06-30T11:45:00.011-04:00

June 30, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella announce the on-going investigation into the events that led to the shooting death of Ruben Walter Martinez, age 21, of Dover, New Jersey ("decedent"), who was shot by Denville Township Police Officer Richard Byrne.

On Thursday June 26, 2008 at approximately 2:14 am, Officer Richard Byrne attempted to effectuate a motor vehicle stop in the area of Franklin Road and Route 46 East. Preliminary investigation reveals a pursuit ensued. Ultimately, a crash occurred in the area of 1 Geraldine Court and Franklin Road.

Various pieces of evidence were recovered at the scene which will be reviewed for forensic analysis.

Numerous witness statements and other investigative leads are being pursued by members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Professional Standards Unit and Accident Reconstruction Unit. Numerous members of the Legal and Investigative Staff of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office have been investigating this incident since its inception to the present.

The decedent was transported to St. Clare's Hospital in Denville where he was pronounced dead at 2:55 am. Autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending. Officer Byrne was also transported to St. Clare's Hospital where he was treated and released.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated, "The Morris County Prosecutor's Office along with the Morris County Sheriff's Office are conducting a thorough, independent and objective investigation pursuant to the Attorney General Guidelines. Ultimately, our findings and conclusions will be reported to and reviewed by the Attorney General's Office. We continue to proceed in a thorough and deliberate manner. We will not rush to judgment until all of the facts available are gathered and analyzed, and we will issue findings based upon an unbiased set of facts, and not upon supposition, rumors, or with sympathy, bias or prejudice to any interested party.

We will only issue conclusions once all the facts are secured, and only after all relevant witnesses have been interviewed. This ensures the integrity of the investigation, by ensuring that witnesses are not tainted by reports released to the public, and allows the Martinez family the opportunity to ask questions of concern before the matter becomes public. We have extensively discussed this matter with the Martinez family attorney as well.

The following details the status of this comprehensive investigation as of today's date. Further details will be available when the interviews are completed and other investigative and forensic matters have been satisfied.

The accident reconstruction is complete and we are awaiting a final report.

Toxicology reports of the decedent's blood are pending.

We have successfully downloaded the video from the Denville Police vehicle. The video has been reviewed by the MCPO team handling the case and it has assisted us in the investigatory process. The video will be publicly released when it is determined that the release of the information will not taint or affect the integrity of the investigation.

Numerous witness interviews have been conducted and this process is on-going.

Necessary records from the Denville Police Department have been secured and they are in the process of being reviewed.

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office legal staff are reviewing all relevant AG use of force guidelines, legal issues, and training standards for police officers on the use of force.

All photos and video recordings taken by investigators are in the process of being reviewed by the investigative team.

There are approximately 6 attorneys, the Prosecutor himself, and approximately 20 detectives from the MCPO that have been working steadily on the case.

There are 5 areas of analysis that the attorneys and detectives are broken down into:

1. The facts of the shooting.
2. Evaluation of the scene and all related facts and evidence
3. The law on use of force and AG guidelines, including officer training given to police officers in NJ.
4. A review of Denville Police records.
5. Forensic evaluations of experts.

At the conclusion of the investigation, a final report will be prepared by me, and be delivered to the New Jersey State Attorney General for her review. This investigation has moved rapidly due to the professionalism of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office staff, the Morris County Sheriff's Office as well as, the cooperation of the Denville Police Department.

This investigation is being done in a thorough, independent and objective manner. We have a duty to the community to share all of the facts and circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Martinez and we will do so only when it is determined that it will not have the capacity to taint the investigatory process.

I recognize the public and media's desire to have information immediately. But, I have an obligation to ensure that the truth of what happened here is secured, without the possibility that witnesses are affected by the premature release of information that is unverified, or when it has the capacity to compromise our ability to get the unadulterated and uninfluenced sworn statements of the witnesses. This would be a disservice to the Martinez family, as well as, Officer Byrne who are entitled to an investigation that is untainted, accurate and fair."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Denville Shooting Incident

2008-06-26T14:06:00.002-04:00

June 26, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella announce the investigation into the events that led to the shooting death of Ruben Walter Martinez, age 21, of Dover, New Jersey ("decedent"), who was shot by Denville Township Police Officer Richard Byrne.

On Thursday June 26, 2008 at approximately 2:14 am, Officer Richard Byrne attempted to effectuate a motor vehicle stop in connection with a motor vehicle violation in the area of Franklin Road and Route 46 East. Preliminary investigation reveals a pursuit ensued. Ultimately, a crash occurred in the area of 1 Geraldine Court and Franklin Road.

Various pieces of evidence were recovered at the scene which will be submitted for further forensic analysis.

Numerous witness statements and other investigative leads are being pursued by members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit, Professional Standards Unit and Accident Reconstruction Unit. Approximately 30 members of the Legal and Investigative staff of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office have been investigating at the scene from the early morning hours to the present.

The decedent was transported to St. Clare's Hospital in Denville where he was pronounced dead at 2:55 am. Autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending. Officer Byrne was also transported to St. Clare's Hospital where he was treated and released.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. stated, "The Morris County Prosecutor's Office along with the Morris County Sheriff's Office is conducting a thorough, independent and objective investigation pursuant to the Attorney General Guidelines. I have already contacted the appropriate personnel of the New Jersey State Attorney General's Office to discuss facts pertaining to the shooting that are known at this time, and will continue to do so throughout the entirety of the investigation. Ultimately, our findings and conclusions will be reported to and reviewed by the Attorney General's Office. We will proceed in a thorough and deliberate manner and not rush to judgment until all of the facts available are gathered and analyzed."

Due to the on-going investigation, additional questions will not be answered by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office or the Denville Township Police Department in order for the investigation to proceed in an unbiased and independent manner.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

First Degree Murder Charge in Dover Shooting

2008-06-25T12:37:00.003-04:00

June 25, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a four count indictment charging Jade Michele Ransom, age 20, of Allentown, Pennsylvania with:

One Count of First Degree Murder
One Count of Second Degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes
One Count of Third Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
One Count of Third Degree Hindering Apprehension

The charges stem from a shooting incident which occurred in Dover on January 27, 2008.At approximately 10:28 pm, a 911 call was received by the Dover Police Department reporting a male subject who was laying on the ground in front of 59 East Blackwell Street in Dover. Upon the arrival of the Dover Police Department and Town of Dover Fire Department, they determined that the male subject had been shot and was deceased.

A lengthy investigation conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office and the Dover Police Department determined that around 10:30pm on January 27, 2008, the victim, Jesus Dimas Rodriguez Marques was found dead on a sidewalk at 59 East Blackwell Street. After a search of the general area, Ransom was found hiding under a pickup truck in the parking lot of 75 East Blackwell Street. A five shot .38 caliber Smith and Wesson revolver was also located at the scene.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I have previously applauded the efforts of all of the law enforcement agencies that collected the evidence that led to the defendant's swift arrest. I now applaud the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Detectives and Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, who have continued to prepare this matter and with great speed have brought this case before the Grand Jury. We look forward to bringing the defendant to justice in a court of law in as quick a fashion as is possible."

Ransom is currently lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $750,000.00 bail.

If convicted of all charges, Ransom faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately life with 85% parole ineligibility in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Esq. Ransom is represented by, Alan Bowman, Esq., of Newark.

This matter is still under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit at 973-285-6200 or CrimeStoppers at 973-COP-CALL.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Randolph Township Missing Person Investigation

2008-06-18T08:23:00.004-04:00

June 17,2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Missing Persons Unit, in partnership with the Randolph Township Police Department, has been jointly investigating the disappearance of a 27 year old Randolph woman who was reported missing on June 10, 2008.

Earlier today, members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Missing Persons Unit, Randolph Township Police Department, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Fugitive Unit along with the Passaic County Sheriff's Office went to a Paterson residence to pursue an investigative lead. Detectives were met by a male subject who has a known association to the missing Randolph woman. At the time detectives were at the Paterson residence, the deceased body of a female subject was found within the residence.

The investigation into the death of this subject is being conducted by the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office and the Paterson Police Department. Further information is pending on the identification of the deceased and notification to the victim's family.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This is a tragic set of circumstances and our heartfelt condolences go out to the victim's family. Our investigative and legal resources will work closely with Passaic County authorities to ensure that the investigation moves forward in an expeditious manner."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Stand-off in Washington Township

2008-06-12T10:49:00.002-04:00

June 11, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Washington Township Chief of Police Michael Bailey announce the investigation into an incident involving a male subject who was allegedly in his residence with a weapon.

At approximately 10:44 am, Washington Township police received a call indicating a male subject was located inside his residence with a weapon. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit along with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Hostage Negotiation Team, the Morris County Sheriff's Office Sheriff's Emergency Response Team (SERT), Washington Township Fire Department and Long Valley Emergency Medical Services responded. The Hostage Negotiation Team was able to make contact with the subject and maintained communication with him for a long period of time. Ultimately, the Morris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team made entry to the residence and the subject was safely removed and transported to an area hospital. Weapons which were contained within the residence were seized.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "The successful outcome of this case is the result of the professionalism which was displayed by the Morris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team, Morris County Prosecutor's Office Hostage Negotiation Team and the Washington Township Police Department. This situation could have had a very different outcome. The tactical application which was demonstrated by the Morris County Sheriff's Office Emergency Response Team was extremely professional and very successful. Nobody was injured and we were able to get the individual the appropriate medical assistance required."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Jefferson Township Murder Suspect Extradited to Morris County

2008-06-10T17:07:00.007-04:00

June 10, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Jefferson Township Chief of Police John Palko, Jr. announce that Demetrius Diaz-Bridges, who has been charged with Murder and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in connection with the murder of Elizabeth O'Brien, has been extradited from the Wake County Jail in Raleigh, North Carolina to the Morris County Correctional Facility.

On January 30, 2008 at approximately 5:27 pm, a call was received by the Jefferson Township Police Department requesting assistance at a Nolan's Point Road residence in Jefferson. Upon the arrival of the Jefferson Township Police Department, they found Elizabeth O'Brien, age 49, deceased within her residence.

On January 31, 2008 Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Carlos Fonseca conducted an autopsy and determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head.

The investigation revealed that at the time of the murder, Demetrius M. Diaz-Bridges, age 19, lived at 150 Nolan's Point Road. He was a neighbor of Elizabeth O'Brien and a friend of one of her two sons. It was also determined that Mr. Bridges stayed at Mrs. O'Brien's residence at 120 Nolan's Point Road on the night of January 29-30, 2008.

On May 2, 2008 Detectives from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office and Jefferson Township Police Department located Mr. Bridges in Raleigh. On May 2, 2008 Judge John Triarsi J.S.C. (Union County) authorized the warrant charging Mr. Bridges with First Degree Murder and Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. He set the defendant's bail at $1,000,000.00.

The defendant is scheduled to make a first appearance before Judge Ahto tomorrow morning, June 11, 2008.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "We moved with the greatest possible speed under the system which included securing a Governor's Warrant for extradition in New Jersey; having same delivered to the governor of North Carolina; and interfacing with the District Attorney's office in North Carolina to arrange for and process the extradition. The paperwork was filed with an opportunity for the defendant to object and to our knowledge no objection was submitted by the defendant, causing the North Carolina courts to grant permission for New Jersey authorities to remove the defendant from their venue to New Jersey.

Immediately upon notification of the signing of the order, I dispatched Morris County Prosecutor's Office detectives, along with officers from the Jefferson Township Police Department and the Morris County Sheriff's Office to effectuate the immediate return of the defendant to answer these very serious charges. As of 4:40pm, the defendant and detectives arrived safely in Morris County and the defendant has been incarcerated in the Morris County Correctional Facility."

Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Jefferson Township Police Department at 973-697-1300 or the Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers Program at 973-267-2255.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Simulated Car Crash at Morris Hills High School

2008-06-06T16:31:00.002-04:00

June 6, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office, in conjunction with Morris Hills High School, Rockaway Borough Police Department, Rockaway Township Police Department, Wharton Borough Police Department, Rockaway Borough Fire Department, St. Clare's Emergency Medical Services simulated a mock car crash at the Morris Hills High School. The cooperative program was designed to educate students about the perils of drinking and driving and to promote safety on the roads.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated "The timing of this program was designed around the prom, graduation and summer vacation. The all day event included programs in which students wrote their own obituaries, participated in the mock crash scene as well as other presentations informing new drivers of the risks involved with speeding and aggressive driving.

It is important for us to continue promoting these types of events in order to educate our youth and to proactively interdict before they get into trouble. I want to get to these students now, before they get to my office or the Medical Examiner later.

This program is part of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office proactive community outreach with our other community partners. Nothing is worse than being responsible for making a death notification. I am hopeful that our cooperative message was heard loud and clear. If it was heard by one it is worth the effort."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Investigation & Arrest in Connection with Shooting in Morristown

2008-06-06T13:05:00.005-04:00

June 6, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq, Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, Morris County Sheriff Edward V. Rochford, and Morristown Chief of Police Peter Demnitz announce the investigation and arrest in connection with a shooting which took place in the early morning hours of May 29, 2008 in the area of Maple Avenue in Morristown. Danielle "Dee" Jones, age 20, of Newark, was arrested and charged with:

One count of First Degree Attempted Murder
One count of Second Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon
One count of Second Degree Possession of a Weapon Without a Permit

An investigation revealed that in the early morning hours of May 29, 2008, the defendant allegedly fired several shots at the victim while he was entering a Maple Avenue residence. The defendant then allegedly pulled the weapon from the waistband of her pants and pointed the weapon directly into the victim's stomach and fired the weapon. The victim pushed her away and the defendant then allegedly fired several more shots as he entered the premises.

The defendant was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility. Bail was set by the Honorable Salem Vincent Ahto at $500,000.00 no 10% option.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "I am extremely impressed and grateful to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office detectives and Morristown Police Department detectives who worked cooperatively since the day of this incident to follow all investigative leads, interviews of numerous witnesses, and collect evidence that led to the successful arrest of this defendant. It is expressive of our commitment to ensure that crimes of violence are aggressively pursued and prosecuted."

The matter is currently being investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Morris County Sheriff's Department and the Morristown Police Department.

If anyone has any further information they are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Morristown Police Department at 973-538-2200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Two Individuals Charged in Fuel Oil Spill

2008-06-05T10:33:00.004-04:00

June 5, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Morris County Prosecutor's Office Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella announce the charging of Chester resident Seymour Rosenfarb, age 70; Andover resident Stephen Rivera, age 60; and the corporation Royal Terminals, Inc. located in Netcong. Each were charged with:

One count of Third Degree discharging a pollutant without a valid New Jersey Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NJPDES) Permit

On November 26, 2007, at approximately 1:00 pm, members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson and Environmental Crimes Unit responded to Royal Terminals, Inc. located at 14 Flanders Road in Netcong, New Jersey to investigate the cause of a large fuel oil spill which had occurred at that address at approximately 9:30 am. The registered owner of 14 Flanders Road, Netcong is Seymour Rosenfarb, who is president of Royal Terminals, Inc. Stephen Rivera is the site manager at that location.

The investigation revealed that on November 26, 2007, between the hours of 9:00-10:00am, a delivery of fuel oil was made to the Royal Terminal facility. During the delivery of fuel, the above ground storage tank being filled with fuel oil overflowed allowing approximately 3,000 gallons of fuel oil to spill. The fuel oil went initially onto the ground and subsequently, due to an ineffective containment system, migrated to a nearby storm drain and ultimately entered into a tributary of the Musconetcong River.

The arrest was the result of a continuing investigation conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson and Environmental Crimes Unit, the Borough of Netcong Police Department, the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Division of Criminal Justice Environmental Crimes Bureau.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "We are committed to preserving our precious natural resources from contamination by persons who so carelessly violate the sanctity of same. This investigation and charges represent our commitment to aggressively prosecute those who dare to irreparably harm our environment for our future generations, and our commitment to protect the wildlife whose survival depends upon keeping our environment free from being poisoned."

The investigation is ongoing and Prosecutor Bianchi is asking anyone that may have information to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at (973) 285-6200.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Car Crash Simulation at Morris Knolls High School

2008-05-30T16:34:00.005-04:00

May 30, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office, in conjunction with Morris Knolls High School, Denville Township Police Department, and the Denville Township Fire Department, simulated a mock car crash at the Morris Knolls High School. The cooperative program was designed to educate students about the perils of drinking and driving and to promote safety on the roads.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated "The timing of this program was designed around the prom, graduation and summer vacation. The all day event included programs in which students wrote their own obituaries, participated in the mock crash scene as well as other presentations informing new drivers of the risks involved with speeding and aggressive driving.

Our focus is to educate our youth and to proactively interdict before they get into trouble. I want to get to these students now, before they get to my office or the Medical Examiner later.

This program is part of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office proactive community outreach with our other community partners. Nothing is worse than being responsible for making a death notification. I am hopeful that our cooperative message was heard loud and clear. If it was heard by one it is worth the effort."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Morristown Resident Charged with Attempted Murder

2008-05-20T10:33:00.003-04:00

May 20, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a six count indictment charging Morristown resident, Robert A. Woebse, age 27, with:

one count of First Degree Attempted Murder
two counts of Second Degree Aggravated Assault
one count of Third Degree Aggravated Assault
one count of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose
one count of Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon

The charges stem from an alleged incident which occurred on August 25, 2007. At approximately 2:51 a.m., Morristown police officers responded to a reported assault at 35 1/2 James Street. While approaching the residence, police officers observed the defendant running from the backyard. The defendant collided with the police officers sending them to the ground. Subsequently, the officers walked to the back of the residence and found the 28 year old victim bleeding profusely as a result of numerous stab wounds.

If convicted of all charges, the defendant faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately 55 1/2 years in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor David J. Bruno, Esq. Mr. Woebse is represented by John Dell'Italia, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Bomb Threat Investigation at Morris Hills High School

2008-05-19T18:14:00.004-04:00

May 19, 2008: Prosecutor Robert Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief William Schievella, and Chief of Police Douglas Scheer announce the investigation into a bomb threat at the Morris Hills High School in Rockaway Borough.

On May 19, 2008 at approximately 11:18, school resource officers notified school officials that a written bomb threat was found on the wall in a second floor boys bathroom. The investigation, conducted by the Rockaway Borough Police Department, Morris County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad, Morris County Sheriff's Office CIS and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Weapons of Mass Destruction Assessment Team revealed that a handwritten message was found on a stall wall in the second level boy's room.

The note stated today's date "5/19" and the word "Bomb".

The building was searched by school officials with the assistance of the Morris County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad and the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Weapons of Mass Destruction Assessment Team and nothing was located. School was not evacuated due to the low level threat. The school was in a modified lock down.

Individuals with information are encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, Rockaway Borough Police Department at 973-627-1314 or Morris County CrimeStoppers at 973-COP-CALL.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Office Promotions

2008-05-16T16:16:00.001-04:00

May 16, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. and Deputy Chief William Schievella proudly announce the promotion of Sergeant Stephen Wilson to Lieutenant and Detective Supervisor Debbie Van Fleet to Sergeant.

Lieutenant Wilson, who was previously with the Bergen County Sheriff's Department and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office, came to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office in 2000. Over the past eight years, Wilson has worked in almost every unit in the office including General Investigations Unit, Domestic Violence Unit, Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit and his current assignment with the Major Crimes Unit.

Sergeant Van Fleet, a 24 year veteran of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, has dedicated countless hours to different units in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. She began as a paralegal assigned to Case Preparation and Trail Unit. In 1986, Van Fleet was promoted to County Investigator and transferred to the Special Enforcement Unit conducting undercover and surface investigations in Narcotics, Gambling and Prostitution. She was transferred to the Juvenile / Missing Persons Unit in 1995 and then in 2004 she was promoted to Detective Supervisor and began overseeing the Juvenile, Missing Persons, CARE and Bias Units.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "These promotions acknowledge the hard work, professionalism and leadership qualities that each of these individuals has exhibited. It truly is a pleasure for me to be able to recognize them with these well earned promotional opportunities."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Arrest of Morristown Resident Kleber Cordova

2008-05-13T12:31:00.007-04:00

May 11, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Morristown Chief of Police Peter Demnitz announce the arrest of Morristown resident Kleber Cordova, age 29, who has been charged with:

First Degree Attempted Murder

Second Degree Aggravated Assault

On May 9, 2008 at approximately 7:19 am, a 911 call was placed by the defendant requesting medical assistance for his wife who was located at their residence located at 85 Western Avenue in Morristown. Responding officers found the victim submerged in a bathtub, face up, with her head positioned under the faucet. The victim was pulled from the tub by the first responding Morristown Police Officers. CPR was performed by Morristown Police, Morristown Ambulance Squad and the victim was treated by paramedics as well. She was ultimately transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Subsequent investigation revealed that the defendant had an argument with the victim and a struggle ensued where the defendant held the victim's head under water for several minutes until she stopped struggling.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated:

"This is a tragic case, especially in that the children have been deprived of the love and care of their mother. On this Mother's Day, our prayers and sympathies are extended to the victim and her children along with our commitment to ensure that this defendant is made to pay for his actions.

I would also like to commend the excellent legal and investigative work which was performed by members of Morris County Prosecutor's Office, as well as the prompt response and investigative follow up by members of the Morristown Bureau of Police and the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section. The teamwork that was shown allowed us to secure the necessary evidence to solve this crime. The legal and investigative staff members of all agencies worked around the clock from Friday morning until this morning when the defendant was ultimately lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility.

The investigation with regard to the defendant's legal status in the United States is on-going. We have been in contact with authorities from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and in the event that he is determined to be illegal a detainer will be placed on him."

The defendant was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility in lieu of $1,000,000.00 bail set by the Honorable Salem Vincent Ahto, P.J.Cr.

This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Morristown Police Department at 973-538-2200 or the Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973)-267-2255.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

School Safety Training Session Scheduled for 5/12/08 at Morris County Public Safety Training Academy

2008-05-10T17:51:00.005-04:00

May 8, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. would like to extend an invitation for all media outlets to attend a training session being held on Monday, May 12, 2008 at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy Auditorium.

This training session will also be attended by all Morris County School Principals, Fire Chiefs, Directors of Emergency Management, School Resource Officers, Counter Terrorism Liaison Officers and Private / Catholic School Principals.

The media is invited to attend either of two sessions- either from 9am until 11am or from 1pm to 3pm.

The training will focus on school safety and training objectives related to critical incident response. There will also be directives and policies distributed on how to address critical incidents that take place within the school environment.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This training session is an example of the significant efforts being made by all of our community partners. It is incumbent upon all of us to do everything we can to protect our most precious commodity, our children. Awareness and preparedness will be the focal points of the training. Keeping our children safe is our top priority, and by working together, in a collaborative effort, will go a long way towards ensuring their safety."

All agencies that plan on attending are asked to RSVP to Robyn D'Onofrio at 973-285-6222 in advance.

Two Mexican Citizens Charged with Murder, Hindering Apprehension

2008-05-07T11:45:00.003-04:00

May 7, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned an indictment charging two defendants who are citizens of Mexico, Mario Nieto-Rivera, age 34, and Marcos Jose Riveria, age 22.

Mario Nieto-Rivera is charged with:

-one count of first degree Murder
-one count of Third Degree Hindering Apprehension
-one count of Second Degree Tampering with Human Remains

Marcos Jose Riveria was charged with:

-Third Degree Hindering Apprehension
-Second Degree Tampering with Human Remains

The charges stem from the discovery of human skeletal remains on October 12, 2006 in the area of 11 Chapin Road in Montville. The remains were removed from the scene. All bones were examined and a skeletal structure was reconstructed piece by piece as part of the forensic examination. An autopsy was conducted and Dr. Carlos Fonseca of the Morris County Medical Examiner's Office determined that the decedent had suffered a skull fracture, multiple rib fractures as well as other injuries. The cause of death was multiple blunt force trauma and the manner of death was determined to be homicide. The victim had distinctive cosmetic dentition, namely, two upside down hearts on his front teeth. The remains were positively identified as those of Alfredo De Los Santos-Francisco.

Further investigation revealed that the defendants were known acquaintances of the victim. It was ultimately determined that an argument had taken place between the victim and Nieto-Rivera at which time Nieto-Rivera began punching and kicking the victim. Nieto-Rivera than slammed the victim's head against the wall until the victim was unresponsive, at which time he dragged the victim down the stairs. The two defendants then retrieved a large piece of plastic and wrapped the body in it and carried it to the area of 11 Chapin Road where it was placed into a wooded area.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This is a great demonstration of fine police work on a homicide that was not discovered until many months after the crime had occurred. Once again, the dedication and talents of our attorney and legal staff, and that of the Montville Police Department and Morris County Sheriff's Office helped solve this case."

Both defendants are currently lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility and immigration detainers have been lodged against both defendants. Nieto-Rivera is being held on $50,000.00 cash, bond or property bail set by the Honorable N. Peter Conforti. Riveria is being held on $75,000.00 cash, bond or property bail set by the Honorable N. Peter Conforti.

If convicted of all charges, defendant Nieto-Rivera faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of 30 years to life in New Jersey State Prison. If convicted of all charges, defendant Riveria faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately 10 years in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Ralph Amirata, Esq. Nieto-Rivera is represented by Jessica Moses, Esq., of Morristown and Riveria is represented by William Johnson Esq. of Dover.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Jefferson Township Murder Suspect Refuses to Waive Extradition

2008-05-06T16:03:00.004-04:00

May 6, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Jefferson Township Chief of Police John Palko, Jr. announce that Demetrius Diaz-Bridges who has been charged with Murder and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in connection with the murder of Elizabeth O'Brien appeared before the Honorable J. Fullwood at the Wake County Courthouse in Raleigh, North Carolina on May 5, 2008 and at that time, refused to waive extradition.

Prosecutor Bianchi Stated:

"I have initiated the Governor's Warrant Process which I expect to have before the Governor's Office this week. The Governor's Warrant Process takes up to 90 days to complete and begins when the Governor of New Jersey sends the Governor's Warrant to North Carolina's Governor. The defendant will then return to court when the warrant gets to North Carolina at which time he will be arraigned."

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Jefferson Township Homicide Arrest

2008-05-05T15:44:00.003-04:00

May 5, 2008: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Deputy Chief of Investigations William Schievella, and Jefferson Township Chief of Police John Palko, Jr. announce the arrest of Demetrius M. Diaz-Bridges who has been charged with Murder and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose in connection with the murder of Elizabeth O'Brien.

On January 30, 2008 at approximately 5:27 pm, a call was received by the Jefferson Township Police Department requesting assistance at a Nolan's Point Road residence in Jefferson. Upon the arrival of the Jefferson Township Police Department, they found Elizabeth O'Brien, age 49, deceased within her residence.

On January 31, 2008 Morris County Deputy Medical Examiner Dr. Carlos Fonseca conducted an autopsy and determined that the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head.

The investigation revealed that at the time of the murder, Demetrius M. Diaz-Bridges, DOB 12/31/88, lived at 150 Nolan's Point Road. He was a neighbor of Elizabeth O'Brien and a friend of one of her two sons.

It was also determined that Mr. Bridges stayed at Mrs. O'Brien's residence at 120 Nolan's Point Road on the night of January 29-30, 2008.

On May 2, 2008 Detectives from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office and Jefferson Township Police Department located Mr. Bridges in Raleigh, N.C.

On May 2, 2008 Judge John Triarsi J.S.C. (Union County) authorized the warrant charging Mr. Bridges with Murder, a crime of the 1st degree and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, a crime of the 3rd degree.

Mr. Bridges is being held in the Wake County Jail where he will be held pending extradition proceedings.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated:

"This case has been our number one investigative priority each and every day since January 30, 2008. Not one day has passed without this case being pursued very aggressively by both the legal and investigative staff of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office and the Jefferson Township Police Department. The task force which was formed specifically for this investigation worked 7 days a week. Members of this task force worked throughout Morris County and eventually into the state of North Carolina, where we apprehended and arrested the defendant for Murder.

The manner in which this investigation was pursued was deliberate, far-reaching and thorough.

We established a room used solely for this case. We were committed to finding the killer of Elizabeth O'Brien and that meant leaving no stone unturned. That meant not rushing to judgment and pursuing every angle methodically.

This methodical process involved numerous interviews, re-interviews, collection and submission of numerous pieces of evidence and a regular review of every investigative issue on a daily basis.

I personally oversaw this investigation with my top staff. The 1st Assistant Prosecutor , Deputy First Assistant Prosecutor, Executive Assistant Prosecutor, Supervising Assistant Prosecutor for Major Crimes, Deputy Chief of Investigations, Captain, Lieutenant, Sergeant, and a solid team of Prosecutor Detectives, Support Staff, Municipal Command and Investigative Staff from the Jefferson Township Police Department as well as members of the Morris County Sheriff's Office investigated and conferred on a daily basis.

From the moment we arrived at the scene on the night of this tragic incident to this day, we did not, we would not, jump to conclusions. This team moved in a slow and deliberate manner. No expense was spared. We not only looked for the person responsible for this heinous crime, but also worked tirelessly eliminating suspects, so that the case was not only solved, but was healthy and sustainable in a court of law, where we have to prove it beyond a reasonable doubt.

This arrest reflects the culmination of so many man hours, resources, and represents an unwavering commitment to the family and friends of Elizabeth O'Brien. This case is now ready to stand well the rigors of the courtroom.

I applaud the exceptional and exemplary legal and police work which was conducted. So many members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Jefferson Township Police Department and the New Jersey State Police were involved in this case that I cannot list all of their names. I do, however, take great pride in applauding everyone for their outstanding efforts which led to the apprehension of Mr. Bridges.

To the family and friends of Elizabeth O'Brien our heartfelt condolences are once again extended. I realize that at times it became frustrating wondering what was happening with this investigation. Your patience and support throughout the investigation were greatly appreciated and helped us to come to a successful resolution in the pursuit of justice. This investigation is by no means over and our pursuit of justice will now move to the court room.

We are still seeking any information regarding this incident. Anyone who may have observed the defendant or anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200, the Jefferson Township Police Department at 973-697-1300 or the Morris County Sheriff's CrimeStoppers Program at 973-267-2255."

Media Contact: Captain Jeffrey S. Paul