On Tuesday, May 12, 2015, Lacey Township Police Det. Bob Surtees and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Special Victims Unit Det. Melissa Matthews arrested and charged Michael A. Taynor, 27, of Lanoka Harbor, with Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

The arrest was the result of an investigation initiated on Monday, May 11, 2015, when a 16 year old female victim reported to the investigating detectives that approximately two years ago, when she was age 14, Taynor sexually assaulted her.

Based on the detectives investigation, Senior Assistant Prosecutor Terry Linardakis approved Taynor be charged with Sexual Assault (2 counts) and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Bail was set by the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, J.S.C. at $150,000 with no 10% option. A no victim contact order and Nicole’s Law were implemented. The defendant was remanded to the Ocean County Jail in lieu of bail.

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

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OCPO Sgt. Renee Nauyoks and Det. Taryn Schwartz today graduated another G.R.E.A.T. program class.  This time Washington Street Elementary School 5th graders made the grade and are pictured proudly displaying their certificates for successfully completing all phases of the program.

G.R.E.A.T. is a school-based, law enforcement officer-instructed classroom curriculum designed to prevent delinquency, violence and gang membership.  Today’s graduation added approximately 55 students to the continuing tally of elementary aged youth who have been mentored through the intensive six (6) week course.

“Law enforcement must take proactive measures to prevent the spread of crime and violence,” stated Prosecutor Coronato.  “The G.R.E.A.T. Program does that for those we hold most precious – our children.  I commend the members of my Office and participating departments for working tirelessly to bring the program to so many of our area schools.”

OCPO brought the program to Ocean County Schools in 2011 and have been continuously working cooperatively with other Ocean County law enforcement agencies to expand the program locally in an effort to reach as many children as possible.  Those wishing more information about the G.R.E.A.T. program can go to: www.great-online.org.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook.  The social media links provided are for reference only.  The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

Pictures with 5th Grade Washington Street Elementary School students
proudly displaying their certificates of completion

Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Det. Taryn Schwartz

Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Sgt. Renee Nauyoks

The post GREAT NEWS FROM THE G.R.E.A.T . PROGRAM (GANG RESISTANCE EDUCATION AND TRAINING) appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato announced the arrest today of Eric Prosniewski, 45, of Bluebell Drive in Jackson. Prosniewski is charged with two counts of Hindering Apprehension, second degree crimes, for giving detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office false, deceptive and misleading information in connection with the investigation into the murder of Peyman Sanandaji in Jackson Township on April 9, 2015. Prosniewski is alleged to have had a friendship with Daniele Romeodisantillo, one of two men charged with killing Sanandaji, at the time of the murder.

Prosniewski is employed as a police officer by the Jackson Township Police Department. At this time, the charges against Prosniewski appear to stem from his off-duty activities and are not believed to be related to his position as a police officer.

The arrest warrant was approved by the Honorable Patricia B. Roe, J.S.C. Judge Roe set bail at $100,000 with no ten percent option.

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are allegations and that every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.

The post JACKSON POLICE OFFICER ARRESTED FOR HINDERING APPREHENSION IN JACKSON MURDER INVEST appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

Mark Allan, 56, of Tuckerton, NJ, entered a guilty plea yesterday (5/19) before Judge Wendel E. Daniels to second degree Luring. His sentencing is tentatively scheduled for August 14, 2015. The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Prosecutor Terry Ann Linardakis.

The plea stems from a case investigated by OCPO Det. Jason Steele and Stafford Police Det. Drew Smith. The victim was a 12 year old female who was approached by Allan at the Stafford Public Library on February 7, 2014. Allan, 55 at the time, handed the juvenile victim a note requesting she go to the movies with him.

Detective Drew Smith, along with Det. Jay Steele, conducted an undercover operation posing as the 12-year-old victim. During the operation, Allan communicated with the undercover officers via text messaging at the telephone number he had written on the note to the victim. Allan came back to the library the next day believing he was meeting the 12 year old alone; he was instead greeted by the undercover officer, who apprehended Allan without incident. Stafford Township Patrol Division and Stafford Township Drug Enforcement Unit also assisted in the investigation.

Allan was lodged in the Ocean County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail set by Superior Court Judge Gizinski at the time of his arrest. He has remained incarcerated since that time.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

The post GUILTY PLEA IN LURING CASE appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato today announced that Ocean County Prosecutor Office Executive Assistant Prosecutor Deborah Hanlon-Schron has been selected by New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement, Inc. to receive their most prestigious Leadership Award at their eleventh annual conference.

New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement, Inc. is a professional organization founded in 2004 by a group of dynamic female law enforcement executives representing federal, state, county and municipal agencies. New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement, Inc. (NJWLE) is a professional organization of both men and women who work together to strengthen public recognition of the unique contributions of women to the profession of law enforcement. The group’s mission is to strengthen the law enforcement profession through the celebration of diversity and collaborative leadership.

The group hosted their Annual Leadership Training Conference for over 200 Law Enforcement executives on Wednesday (5/20) at the Rutgers University Visitor Center, Busch Campus in Piscataway, New Jersey. The theme for this year’s conference was “Police Community Relations – Moving Forward Together”. Beyond the conference presentations, each year the NJWLE presents awards to recognize those women who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

Prosecutor Coronato stated, “To receive this award from such a prestigious nationally recognized group is an amazing accomplishment. This is a proud moment for the office. The citizens of New Jersey and I are truly blessed to have such gifted dedicated professional working within law enforcement. Deborah Hanlon-Schron is a role model to all attorneys in Ocean County. Debbie has over the years gained the admiration and respect of the entire Bar through her lifelong career in law enforcement. Her leadership abilities and exceptional professionalism displayed consistently for over twenty-five years reflect great credit upon herself and the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor.”

Ocean County Executive Assistant Prosecutor Deborah Hanlon-Schon was selected for the NJWLE Leadership Award based on the following submission:

Debbie began her career in law enforcement in 1988 in the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office as an Assistant Prosecutor after graduating from Fairleigh Dickinson University and Brooklyn Law School. She remained there for five years. During that time, she handled appeals, juvenile matters, and eventually worked her way into the trial section, gaining valuable experience negotiating pleas and trying jury cases.

In 1993, she was recruited to transfer her talents to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. In short order, Debbie was promoted to head up the newly created Sex Crimes and Child Abuse Unit. This was due to her exemplary work ethic, trial skills, and her down to earth and practical approach to problem solving. While there, Debbie ran the entire unit and was responsible for administrative oversight, directing investigations, charging decisions, plea negotiations and trial of all unresolved cases. During that period, she exhibited an exemplary role model for not only her fellow assistant prosecutors, but for the investigative and clerical staff as well.

Over time, Debbie would eventually be promoted to Trial Team Leader (I might add while still running her unit), then Chief Trial Attorney, and eventually Executive Assistant Prosecutor. As Trial Team Leader, she had oversight of all cases handled with a particular judge and discretion to negotiate plea bargains, decide which cases would have to be tried, and directing trial prep investigations. She has always provided direction and support to her fellow colleagues and staff, spending the time before, during, and after hours to ensure that all bases are covered and the Office and our victims have the best representation possible.

Debbie has tried many cases, including murder and homicide trials. That experience, coupled with her long demonstrated leadership skills and ability to direct a team effort of investigators, staff and legal team, resulted in her promotion to Chief Trial Attorney in charge of all trial teams and all prosecuted cases in the office. In this capacity, she has been responsible for hiring and promoting several women to positions of responsibility in the office, both investigators and attorneys.

Debbie was elevated to Executive Assistant Prosecutor in 2013. As such, she is responsible for several administrative duties, and is still the go-to Assistant Prosecutor consulted on the touch plea and charging decisions. Notwithstanding these heavy responsibilities, Debbie is still the one everyone goes to for advice on trial strategy and direction. She is always available and mentors the lawyers with patience and support. She has taught the value of teamwork by her example.

As a woman, Debbie is the Senior Assistant Prosecutor in the office. She is a role model not only to the younger female Assistant Prosecutors, the female clerical staff and investigators, but to all attorneys in the office. In the office and the courtroom, Debbie is the epitome of class and grace. I believe Debbie’s finest achievement, however, is her ability to engrain in her fellow workers the value of integrity in our everyday dealings and the courtroom, and as long as we are honest and forthright, justice will be served. Debbie has always instilled in her fellow colleagues the honest belief that good hard work and being fair will result in justice for all. In that, I am most proud of Debbie.

I must also add that Debbie brings a skill and practical aspect to law enforcement which is in my opinion; invaluable to anyone Debbie comes in contact with. Deborah Hanlon-Schron is a role model to all attorneys in Ocean County. Debbie has over the years gained the admiration and respect of the entire Bar through her lifelong career in law enforcement. It is with great respect for her leadership abilities and exceptional professionalism displayed consistently for over twenty-five years that I would respectfully and without hesitation nominate her for the Leadership Award with your prestigious society – Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Justin Schron (Son), Capt (Ret.) Lori Mambelli (NJWLE President), EAP Deborah Hanlon-Schron, Amanda Schron (daughter), Prosecutor Joseph Coronato, Scott Schron (Husband)

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook.  The social media links provided are for reference only.  The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

The post OFFICE OF THE OCEAN COUNTY PROSECUTOR CLAIMS PROMINENT NEW JERSEY WOMEN IN LAW ENFORCEMENT AWARD appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

On 5/21/15, Ocean County Prosecutor Det. Anthony Paciulli and Toms River Police Det. Jennifer Grob arrested GAVIN ALEXANDER, 40, of Wall, NJ, charging him with Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The two victims allege that Alexander, who is known to them, sexually assaulted them on numerous occasions. Both victims were under the age of 10 when the incidents took place and the assaults took place within the Municipality of Toms River.

Alexander is lodged in Ocean County Jail in default of $500,000 cash bail.

ARREST FOR HINDERING

On 5/20/15, Ocean County Prosecutor Det. Thomas Tiernan and Jackson Township Police Det. John Rodriguez arrested PATRICIA KUKA, 44, of Howell, NJ, charging her with HINDERING the apprehension of her spouse. The investigating detective’s allege that on numerous occasions Mrs. Kuka offered to hide her husband from law enforcement. Additionally, it is alleged she offered to switch vehicles with him and provided him information about investigative tools that were being utilized to locate him. During her hindering efforts, Mrs. Kuka had full knowledge that an arrest warrant had been issued on 5/5/15 for her husband’s arrest on charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault.

On 5/21/15, Det. Tiernan and Det. Rodriguez arrested PATRICIA KUKA at her home without incident. She was processed and released to appear in court on a future date.

The post RECENT AREA ARREST ACTIVITY NOTE – BOTH ARRESTS ARE UNRELATED appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

On April 28, 2015, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato announced the culmination of two cooperative multi-jurisdictional narcotics investigations conducted by the Prosecutor’s Special Operations Group, along with federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies. The investigations focused on high level heroin distributors found to be operating in Union, Ocean, Monmouth and Atlantic counties, as well as, Philadelphia, PA. During the course of the both investigations, approximately forty additional law enforcement personnel were assigned to the OCPO Special Operations Group. Multiple agencies within and outside Ocean County assisted in every aspect of both investigations. The investigations, identified as Operations “Broken Rule” and “Sin City” which began in December of 2014 alleged that the two heroin networks were responsible for the import of over a kilogram of heroin a week into Ocean County. A kilogram of heroin equates to approximately 50,000 individual dosage units of heroin.

Both Operations had accounted for the arrest of 36 individuals on various drug and weapons charges, seized nearly 31,000 individual dosage units of heroin, approximately 25 grams of raw heroin, approximately $140,000 in cash, 14 motor vehicles (one of which was equipped with an electronic “TRAP” utilized to conceal CDS), six firearms to include a TEC- 9 assault weapon (All weapons seized in Operation Broken Rule) and materials consistent with a CDS manufacturing and production facility.

Over this past month the investigation continued in identifying additional network players. Below is a list of those not included in the original release and recently charged or having outstanding arrest warrants issued for their involvement in the Broken Rule/Sin City operation:

Damian Arena, aka “D-Block”

ARRESTED (Bail: $150,000.00 – no 10%)

119 Poe Avenue – Toms River, NJ

DOB 11/30/78 (36 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

Wilfredo Acevado, aka “King June”

ARRESTED (Bail: $150,000.00 – no 10%)

39 Blaine Avenue – Seaside Heights, NJ

DOB 5/11/80 (35 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

Natefa Andrews

ARRESTED (Released on Summons)

45 Dupont Avenue – Seaside Heights, NJ

DOB 11/01/83 (31 Years of age)

Possession of heroin

Judith Robinson

ARRESTED (Released on Summons)

26 West Chelsey Ave – Ocean Gate, NJ

DOB 5/23/66 (49 Years of age)

Possession of heroin

Robert Brower

ARRESTED (Bail: $150,000.00 no 10%)

3E Central Avenue – Seaside Heights, NJ

DOB 6/25/73 (41 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

Angel Mosley

ARRESTED (Bail: $150,000.00 no 10%)

41 Frederick Drive, Apartment A19 – Bayville, NJ

DOB 11/25/84 (30 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

Matthew Moore

ARRESTED (Bail: $75,000.00 no 10%)

94 Club House Road – Brick, NJ

DOB 9/01/82 (32 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

Alicia Noble

ARRESTED (Bail: $150,000.00 no 10%)

225 West Leeds Road, Apartment 10 – Pleasantville, NJ

DOB 5/10/89 (26 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

Harold Galloway, aka “Just”

ARRESTED (Bail: $150,000.00 no 10%)

DOB 3/21/71 (44 Years of age)

Conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 5 ounces of heroin

FUGITIVES FROM JUSTICE

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.

For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.     

The post MOP UP ARRESTS IN OPERATIONS “BROKEN RULE” AND “SIN CITY” appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

The attached video captured by a motorist’s dashcam on County Line Road early today, and published by the Lakewood Scoop, has led to a Lakewood man being charged with four motor vehicle violations.

We at OCPO saw the video and were amazed at the driver’s blatant disregard for the safety of others and the NJ Motor Vehicle Statutes. The case was assigned to OCPO Sgt. Michael Cecchini, who partnered with Lakewood PD Traffic Division Ptl. David Silberstein. Together they investigated the motor vehicle incident which took place today on E. County Line Road and Apple Street at approximately 7:23 am, involvING a green Ford F-150 pick-up truck that pass a stopped school bus over a double yellow line while the school bus had it’s (Red) lights on and taking on passengers (children). Sgt. Cecchini and Ptl Silberstein quickly identified, tracked and located the offender.

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Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato announced today the culmination of an investigation into drug activity in the Southern Ocean County area.

Detectives from the Prosecutor’s Special Operations Group, Southern Enforcement Unit conducted a cooperative multi agency drug investigation with the Ocean Township Police Department that resulted in the arrest of 2 Ocean County residents on various drug charges. During the course of the investigation, Detectives obtained a search warrant for a residence located at 93 Clearwater Drive, 1^st Floor East Apartment, Ocean Township (Waretown) NJ.

On Sunday May 31, 2015 Detectives from the Prosecutor’s Southern Enforcement Unit, along with members of the Ocean Township Police Department, and the Ocean County Regional SWAT Team executed the no knock search warrant at the subject residence. As a result, police seized approximately 600 individual dosage units of heroin along with a quantity of Suboxone.

Michael S. Gilyard, age 36 of 93 Clearwater Drive, 1^st Floor East Apartment, Ocean Township (Waretown) NJ was arrested and charged with Possession of Suboxone, Possession of Heroin and Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute. The Honorable Superior Court Judge James Blaney. JSC set bail at $100,000 no ten percent for Mr. Gilyard who was subsequently housed in the Ocean County Jail.

Nicole M. Sandella, age 34 of 93 Clearwater Drive, 1^st Floor East Apartment, Ocean Township (Waretown) NJ was arrested and charged with Possession of Suboxone, Possession of Heroin and Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute. The Honorable Superior Court Judge James Blaney. JSC set bail at $50,000 no ten percent for Ms. Sanders who was subsequently housed in the Ocean County Jail.

The media and public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that these defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Photographs of the arrested individuals are available on the Ocean County Jail’s web site.

The post PROSECUTOR’S SPECIAL OPERATIONS GROUP AND OCEAN TOWNSHIP POLICE TEAM UP IN LATEST DRUG INVESTIGATION appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

Joseph Marsh, 28, of Toms River entered a guilty plea on 6-1-15 before Judge Wendel E. Daniels in the December 2013 South Toms River fatal pedestrian Hit & Run. Marsh entered a guilty plea to Vehicular Homicide, as well as Possession of Heroin with the Intent to Distribute. Marsh entered a guilty plea to Vehicular Homicide, as well as one Count of Possession of Heroin with the Intent to Distribute and one Count of Possession of Oxycodone with the Intent to Distribute. Under the plea Marsh is facing a possible maximum term of ten (10) years in New Jersey State Prison of which he must serve 85% before becoming eligible for parole for the Vehicular Homicide charge and ten (10) years in New Jersey State Prison with a five (5) year period of parole disqualification for the narcotics offenses. The prosecution has negotiated the imposition of the Anti-Drug Profiteering Penalty for which defendant has consented to forfeit $24,820 seized. Sentencing is scheduled for 9/11/15.

The plea stems from the December 16, 2013 pedestrian fatal, when at approximately 5:54pm South Toms River Police Department responded to a hit and run involving an 84 year old pedestrian. The victim was struck in the eastbound lane on Dover Road at the intersection of Chamberlain Street near the 7-Eleven. The suspect vehicle immediately fled the area, as bystanders called 911 for assistance.

The victim, William Gaughan, 84, of South Toms River was airlifted to Jersey Shore University Medical Center with severe head and body trauma. Mr. Gaughan sadly succumbed to his injuries at the hospital and was pronounced dead at 7:30pm on the same night he was struck.

After an intense investigation, Detectives from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and the South Toms River Police Department arrested Marsh on January 17, 2014 at the law office of James R. Lisa, 618 Newark Ave., Suite 220, Jersey City, NJ. The arrest warrant alleged that Joseph E. Marsh caused the death of William P. Gaughan by driving his 2012 Kia Optima recklessly, specifically by talking on his cell phone, and striking the victim as he was walking across Dover Road in South Toms River. The complaint summons filed in the case also alleged Marsh left the scene of the accident and replaced the vehicles damaged windshield, vacuumed debris, and removed identifying articles (License Plates, registration, insurance documents) from his vehicle.

Marsh, at the time of his arrest, was charged with Vehicular Homicide, Knowingly Leaving a Motor Vehicle Accident with Serious Bodily Injury, Tampering with Physical Evidence, and Hindering Apprehension. He remains free on bail until sentencing.

OCPO Chief Trial Attorney Laura Pierro prosecuted the case. The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Major Crimes Unit and Vehicular Homicide Investigations Unit, the South Toms River Police Department, and the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department Criminalistics Investigation Unit all contributed to the investigation.

The post GUILTY PLEA IN SOUTH TOMS RIVER FATAL HIT & RUN appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

Jason Wolek, 39, of Jackson Township, NJ, entered a guilty plea yesterday (6/1) to Second Degree Vehicular Homicide involving the death of off duty Watchung Police Officer Christopher L. Hoffman. The plea stems from the June 7, 2014 motor vehicle accident in which Wolek, while driving a Ford pick-up truck, made a left turn in front of Christopher Hoffman’s motorcycle causing his death. The accident occurred at approximately 5:55 pm on East Veterans Highway in Jackson Township in clear, dry daylight conditions. Wolek was found to be under the influence of heroin and operating with a suspended license at the time of the accident.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Prosecutor Patrick Sheehan. Sentencing is scheduled for July 27, 2015 before Judge Linda Baxter. Wolek has been continuously incarcerated since his arrest on June 7, 2014.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

The post DEFENDANT PLEADS GUILTY TO VEHICULAR HOMICIDE appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

On June 2, 2015, Aaron Wittevrongel, 20, of Bayville, NJ, entered a guilty plea before Judge Wendel E. Daniels to a charge of Second Degree Sexual Assault. The case stems from a March 29, 2014 incident, where the female victim reported to Berkeley Township Police that Wittevrongel, 19, years of age at the time and known to the victim, committed an act of sexual contact upon the victim. The victim was less than thirteen years old at the time.

After an investigation by Ocean County Prosecutor’s Det. Anthony Paciulli and Berkeley Twp. Police Det. Scott Stoker, with assistance from OCPO Det. Lindsay Woodfield, Wittevrongel was arrested on March 30, 2014 at his Bayville home. Bail was set at $150,000 (no 10%), with a no contact with the victim provision. He is currently out on bail.

Wittevrongel’s sentencing is pending an Avenel review. The Second Degree Sexual Assault charge carries a possible five to ten year term in New Jersey State Prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Prosecutor Christine Lento. Victim witness advocate Deborah Giordano also assisted in providing victim support throughout the case process.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

The post GUILTY PLEA IN BERKELEY TOWNSHIP SEXUAL ASSAULT appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

On May 30, 2015 at 7:42 pm the Toms River Police Department received a call from the Ocean County Mall that they had received a bomb threat. The caller stated “There’s a bomb” and hung up the phone. Multiple units responded to the location and established a perimeter. A full exterior and interior search was conducted and ultimately no explosive threats were found.

Detective Dave Brubaker of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Technology Crimes Unit responded to the scene to assist with the identification of the caller. The call was traced to a specific cellular phone. The investigators determined that the phone was used by Showander Descarte, 24, of the 2600 block of Ridgeway Road in Manchester, New Jersey. A court authorized search warrant was issued for the residence.

On June 2, 2015 at approximately 10:30 pm members of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Technology Crimes Unit, Manchester Police Department, and the Toms River Police Department Criminal Investigation Bureau executed the search warrant on the residence. Inside the home was a cellular phone that matched the serial number of the phone used to make the bomb threat.

Descarte was placed under arrest and was charged with Creating a False Public Alarm and Terroristic Threats by Detective Jonathan Turner of the Toms River Police Department Criminal Investigation Bureau. She remains held in the Ocean County Jail on $10,000 bail.

This was an additional bomb threat made to the mall and not related to the May 27, 2015 call that shut the establishment down for several hours. The investigation continues in relation to the May 27, 2015 incident.

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are accusations only. Every criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.  Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

The post OCPO HIgh-Tech Crime Unit & Friends Tracked Down Bomb Threat Suspect appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

On May 30, 2015 at 7:42 pm the Toms River Police Department received a call from the Ocean County Mall that they had received a bomb threat. The caller stated “There’s a bomb” and hung up the phone. Multiple units responded to the location and established a perimeter. A full exterior and interior search was conducted and ultimately no explosive threats were found.

Detective Dave Brubaker of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Technology Crimes Unit responded to the scene to assist with the identification of the caller. The call was traced to a specific cellular phone. The investigators determined that the phone was used by Showander Descarte, 24, of the 2600 block of Ridgeway Road in Manchester, New Jersey. A court authorized search warrant was issued for the residence.

On June 2, 2015 at approximately 10:30 pm members of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office High Technology Crimes Unit, Manchester Police Department, and the Toms River Police Department Criminal Investigation Bureau executed the search warrant on the residence. Inside the home was a cellular phone that matched the serial number of the phone used to make the bomb threat.

Descarte was placed under arrest and was charged with Creating a False Public Alarm and Terroristic Threats by Detective Jonathan Turner of the Toms River Police Department Criminal Investigation Bureau. She remains held in the Ocean County Jail on $10,000 bail.

This was an additional bomb threat made to the mall and not related to the May 27, 2015 call that shut the establishment down for several hours. The investigation continues in relation to the May 27, 2015 incident.

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are accusations only. Every criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.  Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

The post OCPO HIgh-Tech Crime Unit & Friends Tracked Down Bomb Threat Suspect appeared first on Ocean County Prosecutor Office.

Mark Allan, 56, of Tuckerton, NJ, entered a guilty plea yesterday (5/19) before Judge Wendel E. Daniels to second degree Luring. His sentencing is tentatively scheduled for August 14, 2015. The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant Prosecutor Terry Ann Linardakis.

The plea stems from a case investigated by OCPO Det. Jason Steele and Stafford Police Det. Drew Smith. The victim was a 12 year old female who was approached by Allan at the Stafford Public Library on February 7, 2014. Allan, 55 at the time, handed the juvenile victim a note requesting she go to the movies with him.

Detective Drew Smith, along with Det. Jay Steele, conducted an undercover operation posing as the 12-year-old victim. During the operation, Allan communicated with the undercover officers via text messaging at the telephone number he had written on the note to the victim. Allan came back to the library the next day believing he was meeting the 12 year old alone; he was instead greeted by the undercover officer, who apprehended Allan without incident. Stafford Township Patrol Division and Stafford Township Drug Enforcement Unit also assisted in the investigation.

Allan was lodged in the Ocean County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail set by Superior Court Judge Gizinski at the time of his arrest. He has remained incarcerated since that time.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

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On Friday, June 5, 2015 at approximately 0940 hours, a 911 call was placed to the Ocean County Sheriff’s Department for a chemical explosion inside Shore Imaging located at 1100 W Route 70 in Manchester. Manchester Police and Fire Departments were dispatched and secured the scene. Preliminary interviews were conducted on scene and a total of ten patients (8 adults, 2 of which were pregnant) were transported to Community Medical Center for evaluation due to chemical exposure.

It was initially reported that an MRI machine exploded causing injury to the employees inside. The Berkeley Hazardous Materials Response Unit, Station 85, was requested to respond to the scene to secure the chemical. Stafford Township Fire Department DeCon Unit, Station 47 responded to the scene and Point Pleasant Fire Department, Station 75, responded to Community Medical Center to assist in decontaminating the responders and patients exposed to the chemical.

Detective Mitchell Remig of OCPO Major Crime Unit- Arson responded and determined that the chemical is Nickel Chloride Hexahydrate and is toxic if absorbed into the skin. He learned on scene that there was no explosion, just a container which cracked containing this chemical; about one gallon. When complete at the scene he then responded to Community Medical Center to conduct interviews of the employees who were transported.

Through interviews it was gathered that the container, also known as a “phantom” contained this chemical and is used to test the MRI machine monthly. It is generally stored at room temperature where the MRI is located. For some reason, the phantom was placed inside a freezer in the facility, thinking it may produce a better image on the scan. All patients at the hospital will be either released soon with some being held for further observation.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

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Christopher Miller, 41, was sentenced today before Judge James M. Blaney, J.S.C. for the charge of Second Degree Robbery to 16 years in New Jersey State Prison under the No Early Release Act, stipulating Miller serve 85% of the sentence. The sentencing is the result of Miller’s March 9, 2015 guilty plea to the charge. At the time of his plea the Prosecution recommended that Miller receive the maximum twenty (20) years (the No Early Release Act would apply), requiring the defendant to serve 85% of the sentence imposed by the Court.

His guilty plea and subsequent sentencing stem from his March, 22, 2014 arrest by Toms River Police Department for an armed robbery at a Toms River Stride Rite store. The defendant was paroled on March 21, 2014, from New Jersey State Prison after serving a 15 year sentence for a November 1999 Armed Robbery of the same clerk at the Toms River Stride Rite store, as well as, two other Armed Robberies which occurred over a three (3) consecutive day period. When he committed the most recent robbery on March 22, 2014 at the Stride Rite store, the clerk, now familiar with Miller, was able to identify him for police upon their arrival. The victim had been notified prior that the defendant would be released on parole supervision from the 1999 armed robbery.

Miller is currently incarcerated, serving a parole violation for committing this crime the day after he was released on parole supervision.      Chief Trial Attorney Laura N. Pierro is responsible for the prosecution of Miller.

See link to past Asbury Park Press Story: http://www.coloradoan.com/story/news/2014/03/24/christopher-miller-charged-with-robbery-of-toms-river-shoe-store/6830289/

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On June 8, 2015 at 2255 hours, Toms River Police Department responded to Community Medical Center for a report of a male victim with a gunshot wound. The victim, Wille Z. Love 3rd, 27, of Bayville, was subsequently pronounced dead at 11:27 pm hours by Dr. Bernard from Community Medical Center.

The responding Officers notified OCPO Major Crimes Unit Det. John Carroll and OC Sheriff’s Department CSI who responded as part of the continuing investigation. Preliminary information indicates the incident had taken place in South Toms River, NJ. There is nothing further to report at this time. The above mentioned agencies, along with the South Toms River Police department are cooperating in the continuing investigation and OCPO will provide additional details when available.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

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On June 11, 2015, Lakewood Police Det. Pete Aakjer and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Special Victims Unit Det. Melissa Matthews arrested and charged Belsay Guzman Hernandez, 53, of Lakewood with two (2) counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault and two (2) counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

The arrest was the result of an investigation initiated on June 9, 2015, based on a referral received from the Division of Child Protection and Permanency. The investigation alleges Hernandez sexually assaulted a 4 year old female, known to him, on two occasions. Senior Assistant Prosecutor Terry Linardakis reviewed Det. Aakjer’s and Det. Matthews’ investigation and approved the above stated charges. The partnering detectives arrested Hernandez yesterday (6/11) at Lakewood Police Headquarters.

Bail was set by the Honorable Wendel E. Daniels, J.S.C. at $150,000 with no 10% option. A no victim contact order and Nicole’s Law were implemented. Additionally, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement was notified. The defendant was lodged in the Ocean County Jail in lieu of bail.

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.  For additional information visit our website at www.oceancountyprosecutor.org.

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Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and South Toms River Borough Police Chief Andrew Izatt today announced the arrest of Marcus Samuels, 26, of Bayville, NJ. Samuels is charged with murder, one count of Possession of a Firearm, one count of Possession of a Firearm for Unlawful Purpose, one count of Certain Persons (Convicted Felon) Prohibited from Possessing a Firearm in the death of Wille Z. Love 3rd, 27, of Bayville.

The murder charge stems from a call on June 8, 2015 at 10:55 pm, when Toms River Police Department responded to Community Medical Center for a report of a male victim with a gunshot wound. The victim, Wille Z. Love 3rd, was subsequently pronounced dead at 11:27 pm hours by Dr. Bernard from Community Medical Center.

The responding Officers notified OCPO Major Crimes Unit Det. John Carroll and OC Sheriff’s Department CSI who responded as part of the continuing investigation. Preliminary information at the time indicated the incident had taken place in South Toms River, NJ. The above mentioned agencies, along with the South Toms River Police Department, were tasked with the investigation.

On June 12, 2015, while loved ones gathered for the victims memorial services, South Toms River Police Det. Tim Meier and Ocean County Prosecutor’s Major Crimes Unit Det. John Carroll presented the results of the partnering agencies investigation to the Honorable Judge James Blaney in order to secure two arrest warrants. The first for Marcus Samuels, and an additional arrest warrant for Jennifer Rauscher, 21, of Bayville. Rausher is charged with 2nd Degree Hindering the Apprehension of Samuels.

It is alleged Mr. Love died as the result of a single shot fired by Marcus Samuels into the vehicle the victim was driving in the area of Dover Road and the Garden State Parkway in South Toms River. An autopsy conducted by Ocean County Medical Examiner Ian Hood found Mr. Love died as the result of a gunshot which entered his shoulder and chest. The manner of death is declared a homicide. It is alleged further that Jennifer Rauscher hindered the investigation by providing false information to the investigating detectives.

Samuels was taken into custody yesterday (6/12) at 7:54 pm at the Ocean County Prosecutors Office. Samuels knowing the Detectives had a warrant for his arrest, chose to turn himself in accompanied by his attorney, Mr. Terrance Turnbach.   His bail was set at one (1) million dollars cash only. He was lodged in Ocean County Jail in Lieu of bail.

Detectives Meier and Carroll took Jennifer Rauscher into custody at 12:30 pm yesterday (6/12) at her parents residence in Bayville. Her bail was set at $100,000 with no 10% option. She was processed at South Toms River Police Headquarters and released on bail.

The media and the public are reminded that criminal charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. See Marcus Samuels photo next page.

Follow the Office of the Ocean County Prosecutor online at Twitter and Facebook. The social media links provided are for reference only. The OCPO does not endorse any non-governmental websites, companies or applications.

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