Galloway Township News

First In A Series Of Events Between Department of Transportation Commissioner, Route 35 Project Team and Local Communities

(Seaside Heights) – As the $265 million project rebuilding Route 35 gets underway, New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner James Simpson today kicked off the Christie Administration’s “Listening Tour” to get direct feedback from residents, business owners and local officials.

Commissioner Simpson and DOT project team members gathered today at Seaside Heights Borough Hall and then walked along streets with Mayor Bill Akers, listening to concerns and ideas from business owners and residents along the way.

“Route 35 is the gateway to many Jersey Shore destinations along the Barnegat Peninsula, and the Christie Administration is committed to rebuilding this road as quickly as possible,” said Commissioner Simpson. “We are accelerating this project to accomplish a massive amount of work in a short timeframe, and during this process, we want to ensure that the lines of communication between the local communities and our administration remain open. This listening tour will help residents and local officials make sure their concerns are heard.”

The Listening Tour supplements a robust community outreach effort that includes a hotline telephone number, 732-230-7356, and email address, restore.nj35@dot.state.nj.us for residents to pose questions or provide suggestions as work progresses.

NJDOT has created a project-specific websitethat provides information on the proposed construction activity. The site will be updated as work advances.

A pre-constructionpublic information center on July 9 in Lavallettewas very well attended by hundreds of residents and business owners from the eight Barnegat Peninsula municipalities where Route 35 will be reconstructed (Bay Head, Mantoloking, Brick, Toms River, Lavallette, Seaside Heights, Seaside Borough and Berkeley.

At a groundbreaking event in neighboring Seaside Park on July 2, Governor Chris Christie announced the startof the project to rebuild the roadway that sustained heavy damage during Superstorm Sandy. At the event, Christie said the Route 35 reconstruction project sends a message that the Jersey Shore is coming back stronger than ever.

The Department has divided the project into three geographical sections and has awarded contracts to three contractors. Work in all three sections will begin in August. Construction in the northernmost section will be completed by the summer of 2014, with work in the other two sections completed by the summer of 2015.

UPDATED: The Price for the wrist bands are: $20 for Thursday, Family Night and $30 for Friday and Saturday Night.

The annual Carnival is headed back to Galloway Township. The Carnival will be held at the Municipal Complex, located at 300 E. Jimmie Leeds Road. The Carnival starts with Family Night on Thursday, August 1, 2013 at 6:00pm to 10pm. The Carnival will run until Saturday, August 3, 2013.

Carnival proceeds benefit Galloway Township Community Care Programs, Galloway Community Events and the Galloway Township Police Explorers.

Unlimited ride bracelets and discounted tickets will be offered. For more information, contact Galloway Community Services at (609) 652-8657.

Carnival 2013 by GallowayTwpNews

The Absecon Police Department along with the Absecon Municipal Alliance announces their "National Night Out" event for Tuesday, August 6th from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m, at the Pitney Road Soccer Field located at the cross of Crestview Avenue. Absecon residents are welcome to come and enjoy a night of community fun and friendship.

This is the 30th Anniversary of National Night Out and events are held in communities nationwide. The idea is to bring members of the community together in an effort to fight crime through community awareness, crime/drug prevention, and foster a positive relationship with law enforcement. The Police Department will be joined by various other local organizations and businesses, such as the Absecon Fire Department, Emergency Services Providers, N.J. Forest Fire Service, and many more.

The 2013 Absecon N.N.O. Event will include an Atlantic City Aquarium "Touch Tank", Police Displays, a helicopter demonstration, K-9 demonstrations, fire trucks, face painting, bouncies, a dunk tank, and a D.J. for entertainment. Food and refreshments will be provided until supplies are gone.

Crime is rising in Galloway Township because there are not enough police officers on the streets to do the job effectively. Galloway has asked for and received concessions from the police to help save money. Officers willingly gave up monetary benefits to avoid layoffs that would cut services to the Township.

Nonetheless, the Republican-controlled administration did lay off police officers and didn’t fill retired officers’ positions in order to keep taxes down. Furthermore, even with the increased crime the police are still being asked, and are willing, to make concessions to step up patrols and other operations to protect and serve the citizens of Galloway.

A recent Press article discussing crime in Galloway states “from 2010 to 2012 the township has seen calls for police service increase 32 percent from 29,950 to 39,602.” Coupling these numbers with the fact that the police force has been reduced from 60 officers to 49 officers, it’s plain to see that the men and women of the Galloway Police Department are understaffed and overworked.

Meanwhile, other Press articles reveal surrounding towns are hiring officers. Galloway has not been able to do the same because of the financial mismanagement of the current and past Republican- controlled administrations. The money that was, and is, being wasted on lawsuits could have been used to protect the community.

Galloway needs to stop sacrificing the safety of its citizens in order to save money and look for other means such as bringing in more businesses and ratables to offset taxes.

Cliff Sudler

Democratic Candidate for Galloway Township Council

Letter provided by Cliff Sudler

BURGLARIES:

July 21 at White Horse Pike

July 25 at Leeds Point Road

July 25 at Jimmie Leeds Road

July 25 at Ravenswood Drive

DV 16 DWI’s 2

CFS 877 ARRESTS 40

FIRE 20 TICKETS 100

EMS 87 MVA’s 22

ARRESTS:

William Edwards Sr., 51, of Camden was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Jorgensen for simple assault on July 21.

James Q. Terron, 22, of Pleasantville was arrested by Sgt. Mark D’Esposito for receiving stolen property, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 21.

Utika L. Canfield, 23, of Pleasantville was arrested by Sgt. Mark D’Esposito for receiving stolen property, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana, obstructing law, and resisting arrest on July 21.

Hannibal Ahmad A. Little,18, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Przemyslaw Ryba for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 21.

Dashad D. Walden, 22, of Northfield was arrested by by Ofc. Przemyslaw Ryba for hindering apprehension on July 22.

Keith Goodman, 30, of Estell Manor and Keith Kinsey, 24, of New York City were arrested by Ofc. Daniel Choe for receiving stolen property, possession of handgun, fugitives from New York State, and hindering apprehension on July 22.

Asia S. Williams, 31, of Bushkill PA. was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for hindering apprehension on July 22.

Michael T. Carney, 21, of Chesilhurst and Jessica N. Taylor of Pleasantville were both arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for theft on July 23.

Kenneth L. Brown Jr., 33, of Pleasantville was arrested by Ofc. Przemyslaw Ryba for possession of CDS, possession of a handgun, distributing CDS and possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 23.

Jessica N. Taylor, 21, of Pleasantville was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for theft on July 23.

Gregory E. Kinash, 42, of Galloway was arrested by Det. Ryan Goehringer for theft, criminal trespassing, and receiving stolen property on July 24.

Laura C. Dwornik, 25, of Medford was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Costa for DWI on July 24.

Marlon A. Lloyd, 28, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Rita Abatemarco for criminal trespassing on July 24.

Loren E. Green, 47, of Atlantic City was arrested by Ofc. Ray Casanova for aggravated assault and disorderly conduct on July 26.

Sean C. Devinney, 20, of Galloway was arrested by by Ofc. Przemyslaw Ryba for possession of a hypodermic needle and drug paraphernalia on July 26.

Joseph P. Milliken Jr., 18, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Welsh for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 27.

Ashley E. Salvadore, 19, of Egg Harbor Township was arrested by Det. Ryan Goehringer for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 27.

David Schwerha, 24 of Gallowaywas arrested by Ofc. Christian Magazzu for assault and possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 27.

Guy J. Wesley, 53 of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for DWI on July 27.

Dawn L. Wallace, 44 of Blackwood was arrested by Ofc. Carolyn Buckley for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia on July 27.

Kyle Broody, 26, of Brigantine was arrested for possession of CDS and possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 27.

JUVENILES

A 16 year old Galloway boy was charged on July 23 by Ofc. Kevin Costa with hindering apprehension, taking a vehicle without permission and violation of curfew.

Per Galloway Township Police Department, persons listed here as arrestees are considered innocent until or unless otherwise adjudicated otherwise in court.

MAYS LANDING – A Somers Point man was sentenced to 29 years in prison for his involvement in a 2011 fatal crash that left his passenger dead and a bystander seriously injured, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On June 18, a jury found Antonio Vargas, 24, guilty of all counts against him, including the vehicular homicide and aggravated manslaughter of Kevin Botta, 33, of Somers Point.

On Jan. 6, 2011, Vargas was intoxicated and traveling at a high rate of speed on Shore Road in Somers Point, when he crashed his vehicle into a telephone pole and then fire hydrant, resulting in the death of Botta – his passenger. Another victim, Joseph Higbee, 26, of Northfield, a bystander at the crash scene, was seriously injured by the fire hydrant, which struck him after becoming dislodged from impact with Vargas’ vehicle. The vehicle finally came to a stop after crashing into the entranceway of Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar. Vargas and Higbee were both taken to the hospital. Botta was pronounced dead at the scene.

An investigation later revealed that prior to the crash that Vargas – who by the age of 21 had received six suspensions of driver’s license – had been drinking at the bar before departing in his new “10-second” Honda Civic for Wawa with Botta as his passenger. On the return ride to the bar, it was estimated that Vargas was traveling at a rate of between 65 – over 100 miles per hour when the accident occurred.

On June 3, 2013, the State, represented by Acting First Assistant Prosecutor Diane Ruberton, began a two-week-long trial against Vargas. Defense attorney Lou Barbone maintained that Vargas had not been the driver of the vehicle at the time of the crash. However, the State presented physical evidence, video surveillance and 28 witnesses – including crash experts– testifying that Vargas was in fact driving at the time of the crash.

After less than four hours of deliberation, the jury convicted Vargas of all eight counts: aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide, aggravated assault, three counts of assault by auto, causing death while driving suspended and causing serious bodily injury while driving suspended.

Today during sentencing, Superior Court Judge Max A. Baker, stated that in the four years the defendant had been driving prior to the crash, he had been directly or indirectly ordered not to drive on 24 occasions.

“The defendant’s driving record convinces the court that there is a high likelihood the defendant will reoffend,” stated Judge Baker. “Innocent drivers and pedestrians should be saved from people who have the attitude of the defendant.”

Judge Baker sentenced Vargas to a total of 29 years in New Jersey State Prison, of which he must serve 22 years and one month before becoming eligible for parole.

Additionally, Vargas was sentenced to thousands of dollars in fines and a lifetime suspension of his driver’s license for numerous Title 39 (motor vehicle violations) including: DWI, driving while suspended, reckless driving, operating a vehicle under the influence, failure to wear a seatbelt, failure to maintain lane and unlicensed driver.

Anyone with information involving serious crimes is asked to call the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at 609-909-7800 or go to the Prosecutor’s Office Web site at http://www.acpo.org/tips.html and provide information by filling out the form anonymously on the Submit a Tip page. People can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 (TIPS) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website at http://www.crimestoppersatlantic.com/. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County.

Bethlehem Township, N.J.– If you’re going to drive around with $114,000 worth of marijuana in a vehicle, you probably don’t want to crash the car and a have a box of the stuff fly out of the window ending up in the grass with troopers and other first responders walking around. But that’s what happened yesterday when State Troopers arrested a New York woman for marijuana possession after responding to a serious crash on Interstate 78 in Hunterdon County.

At 12:56 p.m., Perryville Station troopers responded to milepost 8.2 westbound, and located a 2002 white Mercury Mountaineer in the center grass median. The preliminary accident investigation determined that the driver, Paulette Murray, 48, of Brooklyn, N.Y., failed to control the SUV, ran off the roadway into the center grass median, and struck the guiderail.

Murray suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to St. Luke’s hospital in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The front seat passenger, Pauline Douglas-Dawkins, 50, of Cambria Heights, N.Y., was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

During the accident investigation, troopers observed Douglas-Dawkins attempting to cover a damaged cardboard box with a blanket. In the cardboard box, troopers discovered a large package of marijuana with fabric softener used to mask the smell of the drugs.

Douglas-Dawkins was arrested and the vehicle was towed to Perryville Station for further investigation. Troopers executed a search warrant on the vehicle and found additional packages of marijuana. In total, 57 pounds of marijuana was seized with an approximate street value of $114,000.

Douglas-Dawkins was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She was lodged in the Hunterdon County Jail in default of $100,000 full cash bail.

Murray, who remains hospitalized, will be served with criminal complaints on a later date.

Charges are mere accusations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Galloway Township Police reported a two vehicle accident on New York Road (US Route 9) and Somers Landing Road that resulted in six people being transported to local hospitals for injuries.

On August 1, 2013 at 5:53pm, a 2008 Silver Dodge Caliber driven by Madeline Perez of Bronx, NY, attempted to make a left hand turn onto Route 9 from Somers Landing Road when a vehicle driven Ryan Tarby of Galloway, who was unable to avoid a collision, struck Perez in the side of her vehicle.

Tarby, who was driving a 2006 Blue Dodge Dakota according to Galloway Township Police was not injured in the collision. Perez, including her passengers all received injuries, of which included two minor children.

Madeline Perez, received a minor hip/shoulder injury and was transported to ARMC-Mainland Division. Jocelyn Perez had chest pain and a knee/hip injury as was transported to ARMC-City Division. Aljandra Perez (34) received head and leg injury and was transported to ARMC-City Division. The two juveniles, 3 and 6 years of age, seat belted in the rear seat were transported to ARMC City Division for head, neck and abdominal injuries.

The road was closed for approximately 45 minutes while Bayview and Oceanville Fire Companies, Galloway EMS, Absecon EMS and Atlanticare Paramedics responded to the call to clear the scene and treat the injuried.

The accident is being investigated by Officer K. Baerman and according to Galloway Police, no summonses have been issued as the accident is under investigation.

Absecon police have identified the suspect in the July 8th residential burglary that was interrupted by the homeowner. The suspect currently being sought is Michael L. LoBue.

He is a 33 year old white male approximately 5-09 and 180 to 200 lbs. and has a last known address in Barnegat, N.J.

He is known to operate a Red 2009 Nissan Altima with body damage down the length of the passenger side.

A warrant has been issued and police are requesting that anyone with information on his wherabouts contact Det. Leigh Gadd, Jr. at 609-641-0667 Ext. 216 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-658-TIPS

MAYS LANDING – An Atlantic City man was sentenced to 26 years in prison in connection with the possession and distribution of narcotics, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On July 9, a jury found Todd Dorn, 45, guilty of all counts against him in connection with the possession and distribution of heroin and marijuana in Atlantic City in 2011.

On March 22, 2011, an Atlantic City police officer was patrolling the area near Dorn’s residence on the 600 block of Green Street when he observed suspicious behavior outside of the residence, which he suspected to be a drug transaction.

After conducting surveillance outside the residence, the officer pulled over a woman who departed from the home after being there a short time. The woman was found to be in possession of under 1⁄2 ounce of heroin.

Upon further investigation, police discovered heroin, marijuana and drug paraphernalia – including drug packaging and digital scales inside Dorn’s bedroom.

Dorn was also found to be in possession of thousands of dollars of cash. He was taken into custody and released on a summons to appear in court.

During a four-day-long trial, the State, represented by Assistant Prosecutor Edmund Mallqui-Burgos, presented evidence – including witness testimony and the bags of heroin that were seized from the woman outside of Dorn’s home, which were identical to the bags of heroin found inside Dorn’s bedroom.

After nearly five hours of deliberation, the jury returned a guilty verdict on all six counts.

Dorn was convicted of second-degree possession of heroin with intent to distribute within 500-feet of public property, second-degree possession of marijuana with intent todistribute within 500-feet of public property, third-degree distribution of heroin, third- degree possession of heroin with intent to distribute, third-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and fourth-degree possession of CDS.

On July 31, Superior Court Judge Max Baker sentenced Dorn to a total of 26 years, of which he must serve 13 years before becoming eligible for parole.

Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato today announced the arrest of Eric Underwald, 27, of Barnegat, NJ, for the Possession and Distribution of Child Pornography. The arrest is the result of a cooperative investigation by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, Department of Homeland Security / Immigrations & Customs Enforcement (DHS/ICE), and Barnegat Police Department into Mr. Underwald sharing and possessing child pornography files.

The investigation was the result of a cooperative, proactive online investigation conducted by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s High Tech Crime Unit and the Bergen County Prosecutors Office over the last 4 months. The High Tech Crime Unit and the above partnering agencies in the investigation, executed search warrants at Underwald’s present residence at 31 Windward Drive and a prior residence at 78 Deer Run Drive in Barnegat. Patrol officers from Barnegat Police Department assisted with the service of the search warrant to assure the safety of the entry team.

The search for evidence pertaining to Distribution of Child Pornography on the internet resulted in the recovery of child pornography still pictures and movie files, Underwald’s computer, and multiple electronic storage devices. A forensic preview of the computer evidence at the above addresses by the Ocean County High Tech Crime Unit found Underwald to be possessing and sharing Child Pornography photos and movies with other persons on the internet. The investigation showed that both searched locations were the source of several hundred images of child pornography on the internet.

As the investigation team members advised Underwald of his arrest he attempted to flee and exit the building through a second floor window. The quick actions of Barnegat officers prevented Underwald from injuring himself and accessing a number of knives and swords he had hidden in his bedroom. After a brief resisting effort, Underwald was taken into custody and transported to Barnegat Police Department. Summons for 4th Degree Resisting Arrest and 4th Degree Hindering were signed by the Barnegat Police Department.

Underwald was charged with 2 counts of 2nd Degree Distribution of Child Pornography and 1 count of 4th Degree Possession of Child Pornography. Charges were signed by Detective Dan Roske and approved by Assistant Prosecutor Kristin Pressman. Bail was set at $75,000 no 10% by Judge Miller.

After making several suicidal statements during arrest and processing, Underwald was transported by Barnegat PD to Southern Ocean Medical Center for evaluation.

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

GallowayTwpNews.com previously reported the Political Contributions received by Democratic Candidates for Council on June 9, 2013. At that time the Republican Council Candidates had not submitted their reports to the NJ Election Law Enforcement Commission in order to be reported on.

GallowayTwpNews.com has since reviewed the NJ ELEC reports online filed on June 24, 2013 by the Republican Council Candidates. Mayor Don Purdy tops the list of Republican candidates by receiving $16,749.00 in Political Contributions.

Frank Gargione was a far second with receiving $4,099 in contributions. Timothy Meadows Sr. brought in $1,313 and Robert Maldonado garnered $1,174 in contributions.

All candidates must report the individual contributions, if the contribution exceeds $300 in aggregate. The list of Political Contributions is listed below:

Mayor Don Purdy:

According to NJ ELEC report, Purdy received seven (7) contributions in excess of $300 which totaled $13,900. Purdy also received a total of $2,849.00 in contributions that were less than $300.

May 14, 2013 - $1,000 from Nick Menas

May 14, 2013 - $2,600 from Sahara Sand of Falls

May 14, 2013 - $2,400 from Lawrence Silvi

May 14, 2013 - $1,400 from Adams, Rehmann & Heggan Assoc.

June 3, 2013 - $2,500 from Marco Gomez Diaz

June 20, 2013 - $2,500 from Allgeyer Builders

June 20, 2013 - $1,500 from Rita Purdy

According to the NJ ELEC report filed, Purdy has since removed his money from his account. The description listed on the report is "Transfer Funds to General Election."

Frank Gargione:

According to NJ ELEC report, Gargione received seven (3) contributions in excess of $300. Gargione also received a total of $849.00 in contributions that were less than $300.

May 24, 2013 - $1,000 from Kenneth Calemmo

May 24, 2013 - $1,000 from Charles Pessagno

June 7, 2013 - $1,250 from Llyod Wimberg

Timothy Meadows Sr.:

According to NJ ELEC report, Meadows did not receive any contributions in excess of $300. Meadows received a total of $1,313 in contributions that were less than $300.

Robert Maldonado Sr.:

According to NJ ELEC report, Maldonado did not receive any contributions in excess of $300. Maldonado received a total of $1,174 in contributions that were less than $300.

Galloway Township Republican Candidates are running under the OneGalloway Slogan. Click here for their Facebook Page.

Galloway Township will hold their annual National Night out on Tuesday, August 6, 2013 at the Galloway Municipal Complex. The event runs from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

There will be Pony Rides, Fire Truck Demonstrations, Emergency Response Team Demos and Galloway's own K-9 Unit Demonstration.

Come out and join in on all the festivities. For more information contact Community Services at (609) 652-8657.

National Night Out 2013 by GallowayTwpNews

Galloway Township Police responded to an accident at Cologne Avenue and White Horse Pike at 11:40pm Friday night.

The accident occurred after Michelle Kolb was traveling west bound on The White Horse Pike in her 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix approaching the intersection with Cologne Avenue when Katie Seaver (driving a 1994 Chrysler New Yorker) made a left turn onto Cologne Avenue from The White Horse Pike causing both vehicles to collide.

Due to the accident, west bound traffic on The White Horse Pike was detoured for approximately one half hour. All three individuals involved in the accident complained of minor pain and were treated on scene by Galloway Township EMS.

As a result of the accident investigation Katie Seaver was issued a summons for Failure to Yield to Oncoming Traffic. Michelle Kolb was placed under arrest and charged with Driving While Intoxicated.

During the accident investigation passenger, Daron Kolb, was placed under arrest by police for several charges including obstruction of justice, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and harassment. He was released on a summons pending a future court date.

Summonses were issued to Katie Seaver for Failure to Yield to Oncoming Traffic. Michelle Kolb was issued a summons for Driving While Intoxicated. Daron Kolb was charged with disorderly conduct, obstruction of justice, resisting arrest, and harassment.

MAYS LANDING – A New Hampshire woman has been charged with vehicular homicide in connection with a single-vehicle crash that claimed the life of her husband last summer, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced today.

On the afternoon of Aug. 28, 2012, Allison Hawks Nasta, 28, of Manchester, New Hampshire, was traveling westbound on the Black Horse Pike, when she lost control of her minivan, resulting in the vehicle crossing lanes of traffic and colliding with a utility pole on the passenger’s side. The impact killed Nasta’s husband, William Nasta, 34, who was in the front passenger seat.

The couple’s two daughters, a 5-year-old and a 3-month-old—who was in a car seat— were seated in the rear of the vehicle. The children and driver sustained non-life threatening injuries and were transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center City Campus for treatment.

Upon investigation, detectives discovered drug paraphernalia within the confines of the vehicle. The driver was also discovered to have been operating the vehicle with a suspended New Hampshire Driver’s License.

In addition to the vehicular homicide charge, Nasta was previously charged with hindering apprehension and obstruction of the administration of law for providing false information to detectives. Additionally, she was charged with being involved in a fatal accident while driving with a suspended driver’s license and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Nasta was also issued numerous Title 39 (New Jersey Motor Vehicle Statutes) violations.

Nasta was arrested by members of the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office at the hospital.Presently, Nasta is in custody in New Hampshire on unrelated charges. Bail for the vehicular homicide charge has been set at $50,000.

Vehicular homicide, a crime of the second-degree, carries a sentence of between five to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison and up to $150,000 fines.

***These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt. In all criminal cases, a charged defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The Absecon Police Department investigated an early morning report of gunfire from inside a resident’s home. On July 21, 2013 at 4:37 AM patrol officers responded to a 911 call from a homeowner on Lisbon Avenue reporting what he believed to be several intruders breaking into his home and opening fire on him.

The Absecon Police Department has now charged 53 year old Nino Calabrese of 106 Lisbon Avenue, Absecon with multiple offenses in connection with an early morning shooting inside his home.

A complete investigation revealed Mr. Calabrese to be the sole shooter in the July 21, 2013 incident. Charges against Mr. Calabrese include unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of a handgun for an unlawful purpose, criminal trespassing, and two counts of criminal mischief for damage done to neighboring houses. Mr. Calabrese was arrested today (8/2/13) after turning himself in with his lawyer.

Bail was set at $50,000.00. Questions may be directed to Detective Mitch Levin at 609-641-0667 ext. 217.

Husband and Wife are arrested on Burglary and Drug charges after allegedly robbing a gas station in Galloway.

According to Galloway Police, at approximately 7:59 PM on August 3, 2013, Galloway Township Police responded to The Atlantic Fuel Gas Station in reference to the report of a male who attacked the gas attendant and stole approximately $900 cash.

Through an initial investigation by Officer Jacqueline Crocker and Officer Matthew Worth, Galloway Police were able to identify the male suspect as Jesse Lacey, 30 years old of Little Egg Harbor, NJ. Police were also able to identify Lacey’s wife, Brittany Benedetto-Lacey, as the getaway driver and identify the vehicle they used in the robbery.

Approximately 2 hours later Detective Ryan Goehringer and Officer Ronald Gorneau located the suspects in their vehicle at The Taffy Motel in Absecon. With assistance from The Absecon Police Department Jesse Lacey and Brittany Benedetto-Lacey were taken into custody without incident.

Jesse Lacey was charged with burglary, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a hypodermic needle, and possession of heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine. He was lodged in The Atlantic County Justice Facility on $75,000 bail.

Brittany Benedetto-Lacey was charged with conspiracy to commit burglary, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a hypodermic needle, and possession of heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine. She was lodged in The Atlantic County Justice Facility on $50,000 bail.

GallowayTwpNews.com previously reported the employment of Egg Harbor City Detective Steven Hadley was the subject of an Investigation by the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office. Now, on July 25, 2013, Acting First Assistant Prosecutor Diane M. Ruberton confirmed in a letter we obtained by stating, "please be advised that an investigation was initiated as a result of information received on May 23, 2013. No complaints or incident reports existed prior to that date."

According to the Prosecutors Office, records pertaining to this investigation were denied from being disclosed to the public. Ruberton stated in her denial response that the "disclosure could impede the ongoing investigation(s) by discouraging private citizens from coming forward with information which may further the investigation(s). Persons with information may fail to come forward or cooperate with law enforcement for fear of reprisal or embarrassment. Furthermore, disclosure could have a chilling effect on persons who have already come forward or cooperated with law enforcement, in that they may now cease their cooperative efforts in fear of reprisal or embarrassment when such cooperative may be crucial to a desired result of an ongoing investigation."

Ruberton further confirms in the letter, "no writings have been submitted by any complainant. A verbal complaint was made which has been documented through investigative reports which are exempt from disclosure." Ruberton also stated, "no crime has been charged and the ongoing investigation will determine if the information reported is a crime."

According to time sheets released by the City of Egg Harbor, Hadley has been on paid Administrative Leave since the week of May 26, 2013. According to time sheets currently released by the City of Egg Harbor, Hadley appears to still be on paid leave.

GallowayTwpNews.com will continue to follow the status of this ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation are encouraged to contact the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office at (609) 909-7800.

Hadley Timesheet 2 by GallowayTwpNews

Hadley 2 1 by GallowayTwpNews

BURGLARIES:

July 29 at W. White Horse Pike

July 30 at 4th Ave.

July 31 at Cos Cob Drive

August 3 at Pine Valley Court

BURGLARIES 4 ARRESTS 36

CFS 851 TICKETS 64

FIRE 19 MVA 17

DV 13 DWI’s 5

EMS 86

ARRESTS:

Robert C. Thompson, 44, of Atlantic City was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Welsh for hindering apprehension on July 28.

Eric M. Orgovan, 36, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Ronald Gorneau for DWI on July 28.

Gregory M. Kovack, 24, of Absecon was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for DWI on July 28.

Eric Scott, 48, of Camden was arrested by Ofc. Christian Magazzu for hindering his own apprehension on July 28.

Jonathan D. Bryant, 22, of Atlantic City was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana on July 28.

Mark R. Denney, 46, of Mays Landing was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Costa for receiving stolen property and DWI on July28.

Andrea Buscaglia, 26, of Mays Landing was arrested by Ofc. Christian Magazzu for hindering apprehension on July 29.

Robert G. Hevalow, 44, of Sicklerville was arrested by Ofc. Jacqueline Crocker for DWI on July29.

Kevin McKiernan, 46, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Rita Abatemarco for terroristic threats, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest on July 30.

Dennis Gentile, 49, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Ronald Gorneau for obstruction, possession of a hypodermic needle and possession of drug paraphernalia on July 31.

Jessie J. Patten, 33, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Ronald Gorneau for possession of CDS on July 31.

Kathy R. Lea, 22, of Corbin City was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia on July 31.

Quincy W. Slaughter, 31, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for physical threats and obstructing law on August 1.

James R. Maker, 61, of Cape May Courthouse was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Costa for DWI on August 1.

Keith S. Kirby, 29, of Pleasantville was arrested by Ofc. Christian Magazzu for criminal mischief and harassment on August 1.

April Isidro, 25, of Atlantic City and Anthony Colon, 20, of Ventnor were arrested by Ofc. Scott Winneberger for hindering apprehension on August 2.

Valerie A. Bailey, 48, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Kevin Welsh for DWI on August 2.

Michael V. Thomas, 31, of Galloway was arrested by Ofc. Jacqueline Crocker for assault on August 3.

JUVENILES:

A 17 year old boy was charged on July 30 by Ofc. Kevin Welsh with hindering apprehension and improper behavior.

Per Galloway Township Police Department, persons listed here as arrestees are considered innocent until or unless otherwise adjudicated otherwise in court.

Galloway Township Police Chief Patrick Moran announced today the results thus far on the designated "hot spot" detail initiated by the Department on Friday July 19, 2013. Chief Moran initiated the detail by assigning officers who would be utilizing plain clothes tactics and uniformed patrols to detect, investigate, and deter illegal activity and address some traffic related issues in areas that have been identified through calls for service, complaints, statistics, etc.

From July 19 to August 3, the Galloway Police initiated five (5) (2 Officer) 4-hour proactive details in areas that were determined to be in need of extra police presence using forfeited money from criminals. Officers have been patrolling these areas of concern in both uniform and plain clothes.

As a result eight (8) people were arrested.

1^st detail
1 Person arrested for 3 outstanding warrants and hindering

2^nd detail
1 Person arrested for warrants and hindering
1 Person arrested for controlled dangerous substance

3^rd detail-
2 People arrested for possession of a controlled dangerous substance

4^th detail-
1 Arrested for DWI and possession of controlled dangerous Substance

5^th detail
2 People arrested for robbery and possession of controlled dangerous substance

The Police Department is also mixing in traffic enforcement and so far in three (3) 3-hour details, the officers have stopped 23 vehicles and issued 8 summonses.

The details will continue to be scheduled throughout the Township and the department will continue to mix both uniform and plain clothes details, which will vary throughout the week.

“To date, the details have been successful. They allow the officers to be more proactive because they are not handling calls on the street; the warrant arrests, several CDS (Controlled Dangerous Substance) arrests, and the robbery arrests are directly related to having the detailed officers out there” Chief Moran said in a statement issued.

“Without the detail, the robbery suspects from Saturday night may not have been caught. The detailed officers were able to take a proactive approach at locating the suspects and it worked. Otherwise, locating the suspects would have been left up to a very busy patrol shift, which would only be able to look for the suspects between answering calls" Moran said.

Moran further stated, "The officers of this department are and always have been proactive while on regular patrol. When they have the opportunity to be detailed to something like this, they take it up a notch or two.The arrests speak for themselves. As always, the officers of this department are out there doing a great job, “doing what they do best “, and they are among the best at doing it."

Christie Administration Kicks Off Route 35 Reconstruction “Listening Tour” In Seaside Heights

UPDATED: Carnival is coming to Galloway Township starting with Family Night on Thursday

Absecon Police Department and Municipal Alliance Announce "National Night Out"

Democratic Council Candidate Cliff Sudler says Galloway Police Department is Understaffed and Overworked

Galloway Township Police Blotter July 21 – July 27

Antonio Vargas Sentenced to 29 Years in Prison for 2011 Fatal Crash in Somers Point

Troopers Seize 57 Pounds of Marijuana During I-78 Accident Investigation

Motor Vehicle Accident on Route 9 results in Multiple Injuries including Two Minor Children sent to Local Hospitals

Absecon Police Identify Male Suspect in Daytime Robbery

Todd Dorn Sentenced to 26 years in Prison in Connection with Possession and Distribution of Narcotics

Barnegat Man Arrested for the Possession and Distribution of Child Pornography

Mayor Don Purdy Tops the List of Republican Council Candidates in Receiving over $16,000 in Political Contributions

National Night Out for Galloway Township is Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Three Charged in Motor Vehicle Accident Including a Charge of Driving While Intoxicated

New Hampshire Woman Charged with Vehicular Homicide in Single-Vehicle Crash that Killed Husband

Absecon Resident Nino Calabrese Charged with Multiple Offenses Including Unlawful Possession of a Handgun

Galloway Police Charge Little Egg Harbor Couple with Burglary and Drug Charges

EHC Detective Steven Hadley Subject of Ongoing Investigation with Atlantic County Prosecutors Office; Complaint Confirmed

Galloway Township Police Blotter July 28 – August 3, 2013

Chief of Police Announced Results of Departments "Hot Spot" Details on High Incident Areas