Quantcast
Channel: Somerset County
Viewing all 6094 articles
Browse latest View live

Immigration officer sought cash, sex to halt deportations, feds say

$
0
0

Arnaldo Echevarria also helped his girlfriend -- also an unauthorized immigrant -- set up a business in West Orange, indictment says. Watch video

NEWARK -- A federal grand jury Monday indicted an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer for allegedly demanding bribes from unauthorized immigrants in exchange for legal protection from deportation. 

According to the indictment, Arnaldo Echevarria, 38, of Somerset was paid $78,000 in bribes from seven unauthorized immigrants. He also allegedly coerced sex from two immigrants, including an eighth woman from North Plainfield who became pregnant in 2011 with their child, it says. 

When unauthorized immigrants are in the process of deportation hearings, those from certain countries that are experiencing environmental disaster, armed conflict and other extraordinary conditions may secure employment authorizations that allow them to work legally in the United States for a year, said the office of U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman. The authorizations can be renewed.

After receiving the bribes and sexual favors, Echevarria had the individuals' cases listed on the temporary protected status list, the indictment says, even though none applied for protection. 

Controversial college fair for unauthorized immigrants returns to Rutgers

After the woman became pregnant by Echevarria, the court papers say, he encouraged her to have an abortion, but she refused. He continued to renew the woman's employment authorizations in exchange for sex, the indictment says. 

In addition, Echevarria helped his girlfriend -- an unauthorized immigrant living in Newark and using false identification -- open a West Orange hair salon, it says. 

Echevarria owned the business, made her the manager, and paid her and other employees in cash, it says. 

Echevarria's attorney, Michael Koribanics of Clifton, was not immediately available for comment. 

Each of the seven bribery counts against Echevarria carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Charges of harboring an alien and making false statements to ICE authorities both carry maximum penalties of five years in prison and $250,000 fines. 

Tim Darragh may be reached at tdarragh@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @timdarragh. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

 


Bronx man charged in baseball bat attack over parking space

$
0
0

The victim allegedly blocked another man in his parking spot in a crowded lot.

Police Lights File Photo-4.jpgVictim suffered severe head injuries and was treated for a subdural hemorrhage. (File photo) 

NORTH PLAINFIELD -- A New York man was arrested and charged with second-degree aggravated assault after he allegedly hit another man in the head with an aluminum baseball bat during a fight in the parking lot of a township sports bar.

Denis Jose Cabrera-Ramirez, 24, of the Bronx was also charged with third-degree aggravated assault and third degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose in the incident in which the victim suffered severe head injuries and was treated for a subdural hemorrhage.

A security guard at the International Club and Sports Bar on Somerset Street called police on Sunday at 12:34 a.m. to report that a 23-year-old victim had been assaulted with a baseball bat and was bleeding profusely from the head, according to an affidavit filed in Somerset County Superior Court. His injuries are not considered to be life-threatening, according to the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office.

1 arrested during weekend robbery spree

The security guard and bar owner, who witnessed the assault, detained Cabrera-Ramirez until police arrived. The victim was taken to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick to be treated, according to the affidavit.

Carbrera-Ramirez reportedly admitted to police that he took a gray baseball bat out of his car and struck the victim once during an argument, which started when the victim allegedly used his vehicle to block Carbrera's vehicle from taking a parking spot in a crowded lot, according to the affidavit.

Carbrear-Ramirez is being held in the Somerset County Jail on $100,000 cash-only bail.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Waypointe cancels meeting on proposed Readington halfway house

$
0
0

A public meeting on a plan to use a former bed and breakfast as a halfway house has been cancelled.

READINGTON - A community meeting on a proposal to convert a former bed and breakfast into a halfway house for up to five young men with mental illnesses has been cancelled, according to the township. 

A public information meeting was going to be held Tuesday evening at Calvary Bible Church, but was cancelled by the directors of Waypointe on advice from their attorney, the township announced Monday afternoon.

The proposed site is the former Holly Thorn Bed and Breakfast located on Readington Road. Branchburg Township officials stated Monday that some residents thought the halfway house was going to be located in their township.

An online petition has been started opposing Waypointe's plans. One the site, it claims, "Waypoint never reached out to the community and the former owners never alerted the neighbors."

According to Waypointe's website, the organization, founded in 2015, "focuses on serving emerging young men who may be struggling with the independence of adult life due to mental illness or co-occurring disorders."

Waypointe is part of High Focus Centers, which provides "outpatient behavioral health and addiction treatment programs in New Jersey," according to the website. High Focus Centers is part of Pyramid Healthcare, which has 33 facilities in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and North Carolina.

New Democratic assemblyman opens district office

$
0
0

Assemblyman Andrew Zwicker narrowly beat incumbent Donna Simon in the 16th District

MONTGOMERY -- Assemblyman Andrew Zwicker (D-Somerset) will be in Montgomery on Wednesday for the grand opening of his district office.

Zwicker, who narrowly defeated Republican incumbent Donna Simon in the November election, became the first Democrat to hold a legislative seat in the 16th district, which was redrawn in 2011 to include South Brunswick and Princeton.

N.J. Dems pick up new Assembly seat as Republican concedes

His office is located at 23 Orchard Road, Suite 170 in Montgomery.

"I am honored and humbled that the people of the 16th Legislative District have placed their trust in me," Zwicker said. "I've quickly gotten up to speed, hired staff and opened my district office in Montgomery Township."

On election night, Zwicker initially conceded defeat after the Associated Press declared that Simon and her running mate, Assemblyman Jack Ciatarelli, had won re-election.

But the AP announced just after midnight that Zwicker led by 29 votes. His lead increased to 78 after provisional ballots were counted in the days after.

The final count showed Zwicker with 16,308 votes and Simon with 16,230.

Zwicker, who lives in South Brunswick, is a physicist and head of science education at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. He previously ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2014 to replace former U.S. Rep. Rush Holt (D-12th Dist.).

The 16th District covers Delaware Township, Flemington, Readington, Raritan Township and Stockton in Hunterdon County; Princeton in Mercer County; South Brunswick in Middlesex County; and Branchburg, Hillsborough, Manville, Millstone, Montgomery, Rocky Hill and Somerville in Somerset County.

Wednesday's grand opening will be from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Light food and refreshments will be served.

Those interested in going should RSVP by noon on Tuesday to AsmZwicker@njleg.org or call 609-454-3147.

Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find The Times of Trenton on Facebook.

Dollar Tree employee charged in prepaid credit card thefts

$
0
0

The Dollar Tree employee allegedly burglarized store on three different occasions.

large-somerset-county-courthousejpg-d8a112eaa5c64d4c.jpgThe Somerset County courthouse (File photo)

NORTH PLAINFIELD -- A township man employed at a store was arrested after he allegedly used his employee login to the store's cash register on three separate occasions to steal $2,280 in prepaid credit cards and gift cards.

Anthony Strond, 22, was employed at a Dollar Tree store on Route 22 when the store's asset protection office reported to police on Feb. 16 that he had allegedly burglarized the store three times, on Feb. 7, 8 and 13.

Strond allegedly entered the store through an unlocked rear receiving door at 8:50 p.m. on Feb. 7 and, after attempting to disable the CCTV video surveillance system, logged into the store's register and activated two Green Dot Visa prepaid credit cards totaling $1,000 before exiting through the front door, according to an affidavit filed in Somerset County Superior Court.

Man pleads guilty in plot to kill witness

Strond allegedly entered the store again a few hours later, at 12:06 a.m. on Feb. 8, through the unlocked door, logged into the register and activated three more Green Dot Visa prepaid credit cards totaling $1,100 before leaving, according to the affidavit.

Several still shots of Strond inside the store at the time of the burglaries were given to police, it was stated in the affidavit.

On Feb. 13 at approximately 9:36 p.m. after locking up the store with three other employee, Strond allegedly was seen on video returning through an unlocked rear receiving door. After failing to open the office safe, Strond allegedly went to the register and activated two Dollar Tree gift cards for $180, according to the affidavit. A printout showed Strond logged into the register.

Strond was found at a Howard Johnson's Motel on Feb. 19, according to the affidavit.

He has been charged with three counts of third-degree burglary, two counts of second-degree theft by deception and one count of disorderly persons theft by deception. He's being held in the Somerset County Jail on $50,000 bail with a 10 percent option.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

N.J. limo drivers: Without any regulation, Uber scoffs at public safety | Opinion

$
0
0

The Limousine Association of New Jersey asks Uber to enforce the same types of safety requirements their drivers must undergo in order to operate in New Jersey. Watch video

By Jeffrey M. Shanker

Two of our main transportation hubs, Newark Airport and Newark Penn Station, have been in the news recently, but not because of the air or train travel of its passengers.

The issue: Uber -- and other transportation network companies (TNC) -- continue to reject city ordinances and are not regulated like other for-hire transportation companies.

Unfortunately, so-called ride-sharing companies like Uber have resisted the common sense regulations that taxi and limousine companies have abided by for decades. Even after a directive for Uber to cease operations at Newark Airport and Newark Penn Station, the company has encouraged drivers to continue illegally picking up passengers and has even promised to reimburse drivers for any towing fees or penalties they incur while in violation of the directive from city officials.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has urged the state to step in and pass legislation to regulate TNCs and I could not agree any more.

RELATED: Agencies won't uphold ban on Uber, Lyft at Newark airport

A new way of requesting a ride cannot undermine the importance of public safety. The laws our legislators established have affirmed the importance of public safety. Why would New Jersey want to lower the standards that protect its citizens?

TNCs are actually more like a limousine service than a taxi company. A taxi has municipal operating authority only, meaning a taxi can pick up in Town A and drop off in Town B, but must return to Town A before they can pick up another fare.  But a limousine has statewide operating authority, and can pick up passengers anywhere in New Jersey.

These TNC's collect fares, solicit rides from corporate clients and market themselves on the ease of use and quick service. Their own comments reflect that they are not in "ride-share" business, but in the for profit business of for-hire passenger ground transportation -- an industry professionally run and regulated for public safety by The State of New Jersey.  

In New York City, these TNCs already operate under the jurisdictional control of the Taxi and Limousine Commission, one of the most stringent and well enforced programs in the country, and there is no reason that companies like Uber should not be regulated in New Jersey with the same common sense rules of all other for-hire transportation companies.   

The requirements of the New Jersey Limousine Law remain very simple:

  • Have a fingerprinted background check, conducted by the New Jersey State Police. This ensures the person chauffeuring you doesn't have a criminal record and your information is safe. 
  • Have a medical fitness test (physical) every 2 years to ensure the person operating the vehicle is healthy and fit to drive for a profit. 
  • Test for controlled dangerous substances.
  • Operate a commercial vehicle, which is clearly marked as such.
  • Obtain and maintain commercial vehicle insurance in the amount prescribed by statute to provide fiscal responsibly.
  • Obtain municipal authority to operate.
  • Pay taxes to the State of New Jersey for payroll purposes and sales tax on service.
  • Provide Workers Compensation Insurance for the protection of the employees working for a TNC.

RELATED: For safety alone, Uber must be regulated just like N.J. taxis are | Opinion

An important step forward in this process has been the introduction of Assembly Bill A-609. We applaud its sponsors for introducing legislation that would help implement much-needed passenger safety protections; it would also create a more level playing field for all for-hire passenger ground transportation companies.

For decades, New Jersey's limousine companies have played by the rules and transported residents safely.  All we ask is that the same set of safety rules and business requirements apply to everyone - whether a ride is hailed, called, or contacted via an app.

Jeffrey M. Shanker is President of the Limousine Association of New Jersey.

Former N.J. mayor returns library book 72 years overdue

$
0
0

The book was discovered in the attic of the former mayor's Bound Brook home by his daughter.

BOUND BROOK -- Former Mayor Frank Ryan won't have to go to jail as he has jokingly feared. The library fees he incurred for a book 72 years overdue have been waived.

On Monday morning, Ryan came to the Bound Brook Memorial Library to return "Football Through The Years" after it was discovered in his attic last December. The due date was June 8, 1944.

Ryan, 84, returned the book, which was in "excellent" condition, during a celebratory ceremony at the library. His daughter, Karen Ryan, grandson Ross Ryan, Bound Brook Mayor Robert Fazen and former borough Police Chief Anthony Cimino, who served from 1982 to 1997, were among the more than 25 people in attendance, some of whom were at the library reading and just joined in.

"The former police chief cracked jokes about putting Mr. Ryan in jail," said Carolann DeMatos, director of marketing for the Somerset County Library System. "Mr. Ryan is adorable. He was very sweet. It was such a fabulous event. It was a community celebration. A lot of Mr. Ryan's old friends came by. It was a great atmosphere."

Ex-mayor: 'I hope I don't go to jail'

Ryan, a former two-term borough mayor who served from 1999 to 2007 and while growing up had been quarterback for the Bound Brook High School football team, shared memories of growing up in the borough with the crowd, DeMatos said. He admitted he didn't actually read the book, which was about college football, she said. He confessed that he just looked at the pictures. He later lost track of it.

In December 2015, Ryan's wife of 63 years, Rachel, died. She was the head cheerleader at Bound Brook High School when Ryan played quarterback.

Several days after the funeral, Karen Ryan, his daughter, and his son, Frank Ryan, Jr., came to their dad's Bound Brook home to help him clean out barrels in the attic, DeMatos said. His daughter discovered the book in one of those barrels, DeMatos said.

The book, published in 1940, and the articles documenting its discovery will be placed in an "Archives Collection," that focuses on Bound Brook's community history, DeMatos said. Ryan was given a new gold library card, she said.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Transportation is critical to Hunterdon's future, freeholder says

$
0
0

The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority oversees transportation planning in 13 northern and central New Jersey counties.

Hunterdon County Freeholder Matt Holt has been re-elected to the executive committee of the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority.

Holt, who previously served as chairman, will now be the authority's second vice chair. The board reorganized at its January meeting in Newark.

The authority oversees transportation planning and controls all federal surface transportation investments through 13 counties in northern and central New Jersey, including Hunterdon, Warren and Somerset. The board is made up of elected officials from each county, Jersey City and Newark, and representatives of state agencies and the governor's office.

1-seat ride to NYC debuts in Raritan

"I am eager to keep working on behalf of the people of Hunterdon County and the entire NJTPA region," said Holt, who is also on the board of directors of the National Association of Regional Councils.

"Transportation is critical to the future quality of life and economic development of our region."

A strong supporter of investment in transportation, Holt has long advocated for a return of rail service to Hampton and Flemington. He is also a member of the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition, an organization of Raritan Valley Line riders, elected officials, and representatives from Hunterdon, Somerset, Middlesex and Union counties. 

Freeholders explain economic strategy

Holt joined the authority's board in 2008 and first became a member of its executive committee in 2009. He served as NJTPA chair for the 2012-13 term. In 2013, Holt received NARC's Tom Bradley Leadership Award for elected officials.

He played a leading role in development of Hunterdon's first Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, which was funded in part by the NJTPA. Holt was the Town of Clinton's mayor in 2004-05, after serving for eight years on the Town Council and one year on the town school board. He's the director of sales and marketing at New York Tent Co.

Sallie Graziano may be reached at sgraziano@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @SallieGraziano. Find The Hunterdon County Democrat on Facebook.


Check out the final totals in massive Hillsborough warehouse blaze

$
0
0

The ATF was not able to determine the cause of a massive fire at the Veterans Industrial Park in Hillsborough. Watch video

HILLSBOROUGH -- Agents from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives National Response Team announced Tuesday it has concluded its investigation of the massive fire at the Veterans Industrial Park warehouse complex off Route 206, determining the fire started in the high rack storage area of building 14 in the west side of Unit C.

The ignition source of the fire couldn't be determined and the blaze has been classified as undetermined, but there was no indication that the fire was caused by an intentional act, according to the release.

The building space is leased to Central Moving and Storage, according to Hillsborough Township Clerk Pamela Borek.

More than 500 firefighters battled blaze

Here are some facts about the fire:

  • 24 - It took almost 24 hours to bring the blaze under control. The five-alarm fire was first reported in the afternoon of Feb. 11 and continued into the evening of Feb. 12. Firefighters were still putting hot spots out on Feb. 13.
  • 50 - Smoke from the fire could be seen for 50 miles, and by Friday night a plume showed up on weather radar stretching eastward from Somerset County to Long Branch.
  • 2 - The number of firefighters injured in the blaze. Both had minor injuries - one a leg injury and another an eye injury.
  • 200 - The number of emergency vehicles from more than 90 fire companies from five counties that responded to the blaze.
  • $50 million - The minimum dollar amount of property damage and contents lost in the fire.
  • 500,000 - The number of square feet destroyed in the blaze, which spread across two, 240,000-square-foot buildings.
  • 70 - the number of leads investigators tracked down while investigating the fire. Investigators also interviewed 50 people.
  • 12,500 - The number of barrels of mercury once stored at the site when it was a Defense Logistics Agency Depot. The depot, dating back to the 1940s, was decommissioned and turned into a warehouse complex. The current warehouses were not built on land where the mercury was stored.
  • 500 - the number of firefighters who battled the blaze. Firefighters worked 10- to 12-hour shifts with anywhere from 50 to 100 firefighters working at any one time to battle the blaze. Six to 10 ladders were operating at the peak of the fire.
  • 5 - Agencies involved in investigating the fire ranged from the ATF's National Response Team and ATF agents from the Newark, New York and Philadelphia Field Divisions, together with investigators from the Hillsborough Township Fire Marshal's Office, the Hillsborough Township Police Department, the New Jersey State Fire Marshal's Office, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Office of Inspector General. "Investigating a fire of this size is truly a team effort," ATF Newark Field Division Special Agent in Charge George P. Belsky said. "We appreciate the dedication of our federal, state and local partners working with us to thoroughly investigate this fire to determine its origin and cause."

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Man pleads guilty to stealing $135K from dead co-worker, report says

$
0
0

The Old Bridge man plead guilty to accessing his dead co-worker's retirement account and transferred money to his own account.

gavel.jpgDefendant formerly worked in Somerset County Superior Court. (File photo)

SOMERSET -- A former Somerset County Superior Court employee plead guilty Tuesday to stealing $135,517 from the retirement account of a deceased co-worker moments after learning of her death, according to a report on dailyrecord.com.

Dennis Lordi, 60, of Old Bridge, admitted in Morris County Superior Court that shortly after being informed that Donna Dilullo died in an accident in 2013, he accessed her deferred compensation/retirement account held by Prudential, pretended to be her and transferred $135,517 into his own Prudential account. He was an administrative supervisor in the fee unit of the court, according to the report.

2 charged with drug dealing at N.J. prison

Authorities said the money is being returned to Dilullo's estate. Lordi plead guilty to one count of theft by deception in connection with the retirement theft, the Daily Record reported.

The prosecution has recommended that Lordi be sentenced on April 1 to probation and a suspended, 364-day sentence in the Morris County Jail that he would serve if he violates probation, according to the report.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Bedminster cop's suit continues despite chief's death

$
0
0

The attorney representing Bedminster Police Officer Kyle Pirog said her client's suit will continue despite the death of Bedminster Police Chief Craig Meyer.

Pirog1.jpgBedminster Township police officer Kyle Pirog

BEDMINSTER -- The attorney representing a township police officer who has filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the department said the case is continuing despite the Feb. 1 death of Bedminster Police Chief Craig Meyer from pancreatic cancer.

Morristown-based Claudia A. Reis, representing Officer Kyle Pirog, said there were repeated delays to have Meyer, a key witness, be made available for a deposition.

The claims were made in a brief filed Dec. 23 in Morris County Superior Court. Reis stated in the brief that her office was told several times that Meyer was in good health and there was no sense of urgency.

In the suit, filed in July 2014, Pirog, a 16-year veteran of the department, says he has been the target of a series of retaliatory actions by the department over the past four years after coming forward with allegations of inappropriate conduct by a fellow officer. Prior to making the claims, he had repeatedly received satisfactory performance reviews, according to the suit.

Cop files suit against police department

Peter F. Berk, a Newark-based attorney representing Meyer, would not comment on the brief. In a letter sent Dec. 30, 2015, to Morris County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Brennan, where the lawsuit is being heard, Berk stated Meyer could be made available for a deposition on Feb. 12. Berk stated that Meyer had experienced complications unrelated to his cancer that did arise from his treatment and needed January to set up a treatment schedule.

"Mr. Meyer is 'not trying to avoid having my deposition taken and very much wish(es) to respond to the allegations of Plaintiff in this matter,'" Berk stated in the letter. "Similarly, Defendant has an interest in Mr. Meyer's deposition being taken and does not benefit if he is unavailable to testify."

Reis said court documents speak for themselves, adding that it has been a "rather frustrating few months." Reis said she's going to "proceed with discovery, depose other witnesses and continue to proof her case," adding this is the first time she has been involved in a lawsuit where a key witness has died while discovery is still taking place.

It is claimed in the brief that Meyer "is at the center" of the actions taken against Pirog.

"It is clear that Chief Meyer is a critical fact witness both to the plaintiff's claims and the defense of those claims," according to the brief. "Denying plaintiff the opportunity to depose Chief Meyer with some curative instruction will severely prejudice plaintiff and undermine the truth-seeking purpose of the discovery process.

"In the interest of justice and to ensure that this case is resolved on its merits rather than a game of hide-the-ball, plaintiff's motion to compel should be granted."

Hundreds attend chief's funeral

It is claimed in the brief that Reis and Pirog learned that Meyer was seriously ill at least a year ago. When Meyer died, it was reported by NJ Advance Media that he had been battling pancreatic cancer for 14 months.

On Oct. 23, Reis, after hearing that Meyer had taken a turn for the worse, served him with a notice for a Nov. 4 videotaped deposition. Berk responded on Oct. 27 that Meyer was fine and "he didn't know where plaintiff was getting his information from but it was wrong," according to the brief.

Berk continued on, according to the brief, to say that the "chief was doing well, was not expected to die soon, and as such there was no urgency to depose him immediately." Based on that information, the Nov. 4 deposition was cancelled.

During this time, Pirog was the subject of a disciplinary action, resulting in him being given a notice of a suspension on Aug. 18 for allegedly committing five violations of department's rules and regulations, including remaining stationary in various township parks and businesses for long periods of time without performing any police functions, falsifying his daily log book and running radar for long periods of time without making any motor-vehicle stops.

Township attorney Arthur Phibault did not return a call seeking comment. Township Administrator Judith Sullivan said she couldn't comment on the lawsuit because of the ongoing litigation.

It was stated in the brief that Meyer appeared for two disciplinary hearings regarding Pirog's reported five violations, on Nov. 2 and Dec. 14, and it appeared he was "not doing well" at second hearing. He didn't testify at the hearings.

Reis filed a motion to compel Meyer to appear for a deposition on Jan. 8, it was stated in the brief, but no action was taken for two weeks and, when a hearing was finally held, Morris County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Brennan gave Berk three weeks to schedule a deposition. Reis countered at that hearing that Meyer was likely going to die within that time, according to the brief. A motion for a deposition scheduled for Feb. 12 was filed, but that date was opposed.

Pirog's civil suit alleges the township police department violated the Conscientious Employee Protection Act in its retaliatory actions against him. He's seeking unspecified damages and being reinstated to sergeant. The suit was filed in Morris County because the judge his former co-worker allegedly lied to then Somerset County Superior Court Julie M. Mariono during a hearing.

According to the suit, between June and July 2011 Pirog, who was a sergeant at the time, told his superiors that Officer John Dapkins had allegedly lied under oath to a judge to obtain a search warrant.

Pirog also alleged that Dapkins lied in a police report on a motor-vehicle stop. The township's then police Chief W. Patrick Ussery approved Dapkins' initial report, but after reviewing a video of Dapkins' motor-vehicle stop provided by Meyer, at the time a lieutenant, the chief allegedly told Dapkins to change the report because the video did not support Dapkins' version of the facts, according to the complaint.

Ussery approved the second report, but didn't note that the report had been altered, according to the complaint.

Several days later, Dapkins allegedly strip-searched a juvenile who had been stopped by another officer. During the search, Dapkins is alleged to have sniffed the juvenile's underwear and falsely claim that it smelled like marijuana, it was stated in the complaint.

Bedminster Police force names new chief

Pirog stated in the complaint that he believed Dapkins' actions constituted official misconduct and reported him to his superiors. He also claimed Ussery's approval of the altered report without noting it had been changed constituted official misconduct.

When no action was taken on his claims, Pirog said he took his concerns to the Somerset County Prosecutor's Office. Pirog also accused Dapkins of targeting minorities during motor-vehicle stops, an allegation echoed by other officers, according to the complaint.

In August 2011, after learning that Pirog had gone to the prosecutor's office, the township suspended Pirog and advised him that he would be the subject of an internal affairs investigation. He was charged with 12 violations and threatened with termination, according to the complaint.

The prosecutor's office decided not to pursue the allegations, Reis told NJ Advance Media in a November 2015 interview.

On Aug. 31, 2011, to avoid termination, Pirog agreed to a three-month suspension without pay, a demotion and apologizing to Dapkins, the complaint said. Furthermore, the township agreed Pirog wouldn't be subject to any further discipline, according to the complaint.

But, upon Pirog's return to work, Ussery denied Pirog any authority over less experienced officers, assigned him undesirable shifts and placed a GPS in his vehicle, according to the complaint. In addition, department officials required him to report to Dapkins, the officer he had originally accused of misconduct.

In March 2014, on the final day Ussery worked before retiring, he told Pirog that as long as he or his successor, Meyer, were in command he would "never be promoted again," the complaint said. Meyer was named chief in May 2014, according to the complaint.

Pirog stated in his complaint that he was subsequently denied a promotion in favor of a less qualified candidate. When a sergeant who was a member of the interview panel voiced his disapproval, Meyers allegedly opened an internal affairs investigation against the sergeant and he was eventually forced to resign, according to the complaint.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com.Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

15 stunning moments from N.J. warehouse fire

$
0
0

A massive fire burned for almost 24 hours at a warehouse in Hillsborough in February. The fire destroyed 500,000-square-feet of warehouse space and resulted in more than $50 million in damages.

How new act would help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

$
0
0

U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-7th Dist.) came to Somerset County to announce the introduction of the federal Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act.

BERNARDS - U.S. Rep. Leonard Lance (R-7th Dist.) visited the Liberty Corner Fire House Tuesday to announce the introduction of the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act. 

Lance told the fire company and other local officials that he is introducing the bill in Congress after a string carbon monoxide incidents - including a successful rescue by the Liberty Fire Company after a Basking Ridge family was awoken by a carbon monoxide detector.  

"Carbon monoxide is a silent killer - you cannot see it, smell it or taste it," Lance said. "And too many of these incidents are hitting close to home here in New Jersey.

"Thanks to detection and the work of this Fire Company we did not have a tragedy in Basking Ridge, but many are not so lucky. My legislation will help prevent CO poisoning through the installation of CO detectors and other efforts. Lives depend on our action here today."

The legislation will authorize a grant program to help states prevent carbon monoxide poisonings through the installation of carbon monoxide detectors and other efforts.

Carbon monoxide poisoning kills 3

"The Liberty Corner Fire Company responds to a good number of carbon monoxide alarms each year including the incident referenced by our Congressman," said Ken White, chief of the Liberty Corner Fire Company. "The proactive and pragmatic approach he has outlined will ensure working detectors in public places and for those who may not be able to afford them otherwise. 

"I support his efforts in introducing this bill, and thank him for his support of the people of our state, county and Bernards Township."

Under this program, grant funding would be prioritized for states like New Jersey.
It will also:

  • Promote the purchase and installation of carbon monoxide detectors in residential homes and dwellings nationwide, as well as the need for many other public facilities to have carbon alarm systems.
  • Encourage states to require residential carbon monoxide detection devices and establishes a federal grant program to provide assistance for installing alarms in schools and the homes of low-income and senior citizens.
  • Outlines and defines approved and effective devices that meet rigorous safety standards.

Carbon monoxide is the leading cause of accidental poisoning death in the United States.  A carbon monoxide alarm or detector is a cost effective way to detect this gas. Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen whenever a fuel-burning appliance such as a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, stove, oven or generator is used improperly or malfunctions. Other common household sources of carbon monoxide include fireplaces and vehicles left running in attached garages.

The bill has been endorsed by the National Association of State Fire Marshals, the Congressional Fire Services Institute and several business groups including the National Manufacturers Association and the Security Industry Association.

Trial of man accused of slashing woman to death to begin

$
0
0

Felix Nehemias Graves-Dardon, 35, of North Plainfield is on trial having been charged with first-degree murder.

Graves-Dardon1.jpgFelix Nehemias Graves-Dardon (Somerset County Prosecutor's Office)

SOMERVILLE -- Opening arguments are expected to be heard Thursday in the trial of a North Plainfield man accused in the 2012 murder of a Brooklyn, N.Y., woman inside his apartment.

Felix Nehemias Graves-Dardon, 35, faces charges of first-degree murder and third-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose in the death of 30-year-old Yadira Balimayer-Ortiz, who was found having been slashed with a kitchen knife in the early morning hours of Aug. 12, 2012. An autopsy showed evidence that she was also strangled.

Police responded to the first-floor apartment on Prospect Place at 12:27 a.m. after receiving a 9-1-1 call reporting a suspicious incident. Witnesses told police they saw a naked Graves-Dardon allegedly mopping up blood on the kitchen floor, authorities stated.

Man accused of killing woman in his apartment

Graves-Dardon, a citizen of Guatemala, was allegedly found by police in the basement of the apartment house wrapped in blood-soaked bedding. The body of Balimayer-Ortiz was found outside Graves-Dardon's apartment house, authorities stated.

Assistant prosecutor Roberts Hawkes will represent the state in the trial being held in Somerset County Superior Court. Matthew Katzenbach is the defense attorney. Pre-trial motions will be heard Thursday before opening arguments. Graves-Dardon is being held in Somerset County Jail on $500,000 cash-only bail.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Anti-bullying app boosted by N.J.'s angel tax credits

$
0
0

Bedminster-based STOPit has received national recognition for its anti-bullying app.

BEDMINSTER - The company STOPit is receiving national attention for its technology platform that lets people report bullying, both traditional and cyber, and other forms of inappropriate behavior in schools, universities and on the job.

STOPit's software enables users to instantly and anonymously report incidents via their smartphones or computers. The company received more than $4.3 million in funding from investors who took advantage of the state's Angel Investor Tax Credit Program in 2015, according to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.

"STOPit is a simple, fast and powerful solution to report inappropriate behaviors, and to deter unethical or illegal activity," STOPit Chief Financial Officer Parkhill Mays said. "Young people are apprehensive about being labeled as 'snitches.'

"Our technology allows them to anonymously report incidents of bullying or other inappropriate behavior they witness without the threat of retaliation."

App targets social media sites

STOPit puts power in the hands of anyone who witnesses an incident, enabling users to take screenshots or videos of the situation in question and pass information along to the school or business, according to the firm.

It also allows for two-way communication between the user and the entity to which the incident is being reported, while maintaining the anonymity of the user.

The company has been recognized nationally for its platform, which is currently available for Android and Apple phones. The New Jersey Technology Council gave STOPit the Trailblazer Award at its annual awards celebration in November.

Run by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority in consultation with the New Jersey Division of Taxation, the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program offers a 10-percent refundable tax credit against New Jersey corporation business or gross income tax for qualified investments in an emerging technology business with a physical presence in New Jersey and that conducts research, manufacturing or technology commercialization in the state.

Can money prevent bullying?

The Authority recently announced that more than $125 million has been invested in New Jersey-based emerging technology and biotechnology businesses through the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program since its inception in 2013.

@NJEDATech recently spoke with Mays about STOPit's experience in New Jersey and its plan for the future and shared some of the interview:

What does STOPit find most beneficial about locating itself in New Jersey?
  • Our location in New Jersey was initially convenient to several of our founders. However, we soon realized that our location is ideally positioned and in close proximity to the best professional resources suitable to our mission. Furthermore, we are right smack in the middle of a very dense supply of talented people who share our values and who desire to work with STOPit.
How has the Angel Investor Tax Credit Program helped the company?
  • The Angel Investor Tax Credit has provided a meaningful boost in value to our shareholders.  When first introduced to the program, we were astonished that such a gift existed, and our shareholders were pleasantly surprised. Additionally, since we are still raising capital, the program has been one of the catalysts to fuel continued investment in STOPit by existing shareholders.
What is STOPit's biggest success to date?
  • Our biggest success to date has been the overwhelming response to our product. We have been able to offer software that protects kids and other users, and provides institutions with an immediate alert and window into a problem so that they can get out in front of issues and address them before they spiral out of control.
What's on the horizon for the company?
  • We are rapidly infiltrating the K-12 education market now, which enables us to protect even more students. We have just released our workplace product, and expect our solution to be adopted rapidly by government agencies and risk-management and compliance personnel from the nation's largest companies.

How a Somerville H.S. graduate used fame to fight injustice

$
0
0

Paul Robeson, a Somerville High School graduate, used his status as a celebrity to fight injustice.

By Roya Rafei

Rutgers Today

It would have been easier for Paul Robeson to denounce the Communist party.

Throughout the late 1940s and well into the 1950s, the internationally renowned singer was branded a Communist sympathizer, a "Red" during the height of the Cold War.

His concerts in the U.S. were canceled, record companies dropped him and the government revoked his passport, denying him the ability to perform abroad.

By the time Robeson, a Somerville High School alumnus and 1919 Rutgers graduate and distinguished student, was summoned to appear before the House Un-American Activities Committee in June 1956, he had already lost his reputation, his livelihood and much of his income.

Black History Month: 11 things you may not know

Yet, he refused to back down and say if he was a member of the Communist party.

"It was the principle," said Junius Williams, founding director of the Abbott Leadership Institute at Rutgers University-Newark. "He felt his rights were being violated; he had the Constitutional right of free association."

Not only did Robeson refuse to say whether he was a member of the Communist party, but he also admonished the committee for running a witch hunt.

"I am not being tried for whether I am a Communist," he told the House Un-American Activities Committee on June 12, 1956. "I am being tried for fighting for the rights of my people, who are still second-class citizens in this United States of America."

Robeson went on to boldly declare to the committee members: "You are the non-patriots, and you are the un-Americans, and you ought to be ashamed of yourselves."

A decade earlier, Robeson was one of most revered figures of the time, selling out concert halls and theaters. If you're trying to compare a famous contemporary to Robeson, you won't be able to find one, said Edward Ramsamy, chair of the Department of Africana Studies in the School of Arts and Sciences at Rutgers University-New Brunswick.

"There are people who have elements of him, in terms of his activism and in terms of his internationalism," Ramsamy said, "but in terms of the breadth and scope of his work and his courageous activism, I think he's unparalleled."

Robeson not only stood up for the injustices that African-Americans faced, but also was able to empathize and connect with other people's struggles, Ramsamy said.

He funded Jews escaping Nazi Germany, spoke out against the fascists in Spanish Civil War, campaigned against colonialism in African countries and stood with laborers in the United States.

"He identified with the most important issues of freedom and social justice of his time, and he practiced what he preached," said Norman Markowitz, an associate professor of history in the School of Arts and Sciences. "His commitment to the major revolutionary movements of modern history - the movements against racism, colonialism, militarism and the worst abuses of capitalism - made him revolutionary."

Robeson yearbook 1920 Paul Robeson, a 1919 Rutgers graduate, in his yearbook photo. (Courtesy Rutgers University) 

Robeson, son of a former slave, was born in Princeton in 1898, just two years after the Supreme Court upheld racial segregation. He relocated to Somerville in 1910 and graduated from Somerville High School in 1915. Although he grew up during a period of overt racism, he went on to achieve much success at every level of his life.

He attended Rutgers on a full scholarship, becoming the university's third black student and its first black football player. He endured discrimination not only from opposing teams (some refused to take the field with Robeson) but also from his own teammates.

He was one of the first African-Americans to be named a college football All-American. He also earned more than a dozen varsity letters from four sports. Robeson was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Rutgers honor society, Cap & Skull.

After Rutgers he went to Columbia Law School, where he earned his law degree. He left the profession after a white secretary at a New York law firm refused to take dictation from him.

On the advice of his wife, Eslanda, he pursued acting, initially performing at local theaters before landing the lead in 1924 in Eugene O'Neill's All God's Chillun Got Wings. His career took off from there. He played Othello on stage and sang Ol' Man River on screen in Showboat.

N.J. kids share 'dreams' (VIDEO)

"We frequently throw out the phrase 'Renaissance man' and it's overused but I think Paul Robeson was the quintessential Renaissance man," Ramsamy said. "Here is someone who has made marked contributions in the scholarly world, the athletic world, the political world - both domestic and international. His achievements are truly remarkable."

He and his family eventually moved to England, which became a transformative time for him, Ramsamy said. There he met African nationalist leaders and began to link the black experience in America with the emerging African struggles for nationalism.

He also connected with the English working class and spoke out against fascism.

Robeson criticized how blacks were portrayed by Hollywood. His fame allowed him to travel the world, including the Soviet Union, where he didn't experience the bigotry he did at home.

"In Russia, I felt for the first time like a full human being," Robeson told the House Un-American Activities Committee. "No color prejudice like in Mississippi, no color prejudice in Washington. It was the first time I felt like a human being, where I did not feel the pressure of color as I feel in this committee today."

"Why do you not stay in Russia?" Gordon Scherer, HUAC member, asked Robeson.

"Because my father was a slave, and my people died to build this country, and I'm going to stay here and have a part of it just like you," Robeson replied to Scherer. "And no fascist-minded people will drive me from it."

Although Robeson is arguably Rutgers' most famous alumnus, he is less well known beyond the university. Forty years after his death, Robeson is being remembered in various ways. Steve McQueen, who directed best-picture Oscar winner 12 Years a Slave, announced last year that he's planning a movie on Robeson's life.

Locally, Ramsamy has launched the Paul Robeson Distinguished Lecture series, which will feature Barbara Ransby, Eslanda Robeson's biographer, on April 5.

Additionally, the Class of 1971 has proposed a design and is raising funds to build the Paul Robeson Plaza, expected to be located near Voorhees Mall on the College Avenue Campus.

The goal is to unveil the tribute on June 10, 2019, on the 100th anniversary of Robeson's oration at graduation, according to organizer Jim Savage, who chairs the Class of 1971, 45th Milestone Campaign Committee. And this summer, Rutgers University-New Brunswick will launch the Paul Robeson Leadership Institute, a four-year program designed to recruit and support first-generation and low-income, college-bound students.

"He was a powerful black man," said Williams of the Abbott Leadership Institute, which teaches parents, students and the community to advocate for a quality education at Newark schools.  "He had pride in himself and was a student of history and politics. He knew he had to speak out against injustices in the U.S. and other places. He believed in change which would affect the status quo and how people of color were treated in the U.S. ... He was a role model not just for black people but for white people."  

This story is part of "Rutgers Revolutionaries," an ongoing series celebrating Rutgers people and innovations that have changed lives around the world.

Run away from winter at annual 10K held in Bridgewater

$
0
0

This annual 10K race held at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater benefits Middle Earth.

BRIDGEWATER - If you're tired of winter, you can join over 500 runners, ranging in ages from 14 to 85, to stretch your legs and greet spring by racing over 6 miles along the scenic Raritan River.

Middle Earth, a nonprofit that has served youth for over 40 years, is hosting its seventh annual 10K Run on Sunday, April 3, at 10 a.m. at Duke Island Park. The event, which takes place rain or shine, is open to the public and supports local youth programs that help teens develop into responsible adults.

"Duke Island Park is a fantastic place to run," said Race Director Maggie Navatto. "The course is flat and paved, and the park is beautiful, especially along the river. We had the course certified and sanctioned by USATF."

Participants can register through Middle Earth's website and there is a discount for early registration. Race day registration and packet pick-up begin at 8:30 a.m.

Middle Earth program helps with college

Short-sleeve race T-shirts are given to entrants, while supplies last. Prizes are awarded to the top male and female runners in seven different age groups.

Middle Earth is also seeking sponsors for the event; call Maggie Navatto at Middle Earth at 908-725-7223 for more information.

The race benefits Middle Earth's programs, which offer local youth a safe environment where they can engage with caring adults, obtain help with homework or employment searches, participate in fun group activities, and volunteer for community service opportunities.

Programs also teach positive decision making skills, acceptance of consequences for their actions, leadership skills, respect, and basic life skills such as budgeting, cooking, finding employment, and obtaining a driver's license. All of the programs guide youth in learning respect for themselves and others and choosing positive alternatives to gangs, drugs and crime.

Vintage photos of classic cars in N.J.

$
0
0

A car doesn't have to be a muscle car or even American-made to be beloved.

I have always had a love for classic cars.

chevelle.jpg... Got a feel for my automobile .... 

My first car -- purchased with money saved from paper routes, clearing tables and other jobs -- was a 1972 Chevelle with Cragar mag wheels. I loved that car, and still stop and stare whenever I see a similar one.

My brother had a 1968 GTO convertible in college. The GTO changed hands a couple of times, but it's back in my brother's garage, where it is being lovingly restored part by part.

MORE: Vintage photos around New Jersey

About 10 years ago, I bought a 1966 Ford Galaxie convertible at auction for $2,900. I did this without mentioning the matter to my wife, which may have been a mistake.

galaxie.jpgKnown as "the converticle" in our family. 

Constantly, I would be asked if the car was for sale. I found that the best answer wasn't "no, it's not." Instead, I would tell those interested in buying the car about its the engine size; my Galaxie had the 'family sized' 289 cubic inch engine and potential buyers were always looking for the muscular big block 428.

Funny thing about my wife and that car: she was sad to see it go when I sold it.

A car doesn't have to be a muscle car or even American-made to be beloved. I've personally always been fascinated by the 1962 Citroen, the one with the taillights up near the roofline, and still want a vintage Volkswagen Beetle convertible because taking them apart and putting them back together is half the fun of owning one.

Here's a gallery of vintage autos from around the Garden State; perhaps you can help with some of the ones I wasn't able to identify.

And to see more, here's a link to last year's "planes, trains and automobiles" gallery that had many more classics.

Auto racing in New Jersey? Here's a gallery on that topic.

Greg Hatala may be reached at ghatala@starledger.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregHatala. Find The Star-Ledger on Facebook.

Flooding, downed wires close roads in Somerset County

$
0
0

Hillsborough has several road closings because of flooding. Watch video

Street, stream flooding risk, Feb. 16, 2016Flooding have closed several roads in Somerset County. (File photo)

SOMERSET -- Flooding and downed wires have closed several roadways in the county, including some in Branchburg, Bridgewater, Franklin and Hillsborough as of Thursday morning.

Strong storms overnight have left thousands without power across New Jersey, downed trees and caused flooding.

Local police and Somerset County officials have announced the following roads closed due to flooding and downed wires:

  • Blackpoint Road at Amwell Road in Hillsborough
  • Blackwells Mills at Millstone River Road in Hillsborough
  • Millstone River Road is closed between Amsterdam Drive and Yorktown Road in Millstone Borough because of high water
  • River Road at Riverside Drive in Hillsborough
  • Chimney Rock Road between Thompson Avenue and Gilbridge Road in Bridgewater is closed because of downed wire
  • Bonnie Burn Road near Route 22 in Watchung
  • Dead River Road in Warren Township at the Bernards border is closed because of flooding
  • Old York Road bridge between Branchburg and Bridgewater
  • River Road in Montgomery closed between Dead Tree Run and Bridgepoint Road
  • South Middlebush Road in Franklin Closed between Bennetts Lane and Blackwells Mills
  • The Griggstown Causeway is closed in Franklin
  • Canal Road in Franklin is closed between Suydam Road and Butler Road for wires down. It is also closed between Coppermine and Old Georgetown Road for flooding.
  • The Basilone Bridge (Lyman Street) between Raritan and Hillsborough

N.J. residents share storm stories

Somerset County is under a flood watch until 10:15 a.m. Friday as waterways continue to crest or surpass flood stage, according to the National Weather Service.

The warning includes the Millstone River at Blackwells Mills until Friday morning.

Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

The 15 N.J. towns that had the most rain Wednesday

$
0
0

See which towns were hit with nearly three inches of rain during the big storm that triggered tornado watches and flood warnings.

The powerful winter storm that triggered tornado warnings and flash-flood warnings across New Jersey Wednesday night into Thursday morning saturated some parts of the Garden State with nearly three inches of rain over a short period of time.

The heaviest rain fell over Passaic, Salem, Essex and Sussex counties, according to rainfall measurements collected by the National Weather Service and the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow Network, operated by the state climatologist's office at Rutgers University.

Heavy rainfall amounts were also reported in Bergen and Morris counties, and some sections of Middlesex and Somerset counties had pockets of substantial rain, along with powerful winds that toppled trees and power lines.

Here's a look at more than 60 towns that ended up with one to three inches of rain. To see the exact amount, either hover over the dots in the map, or click on them. 

 

Len Melisurgo may be reached at LMelisurgo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @LensReality. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Viewing all 6094 articles
Browse latest View live


<script src="https://jsc.adskeeper.com/r/s/rssing.com.1596347.js" async> </script>