Suspended Neptune Township Police Officer Philip Seidle pleaded guilty Thursday afternoon to one count each of first degree Aggravated Manslaughter and second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, announced acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Seidle, 51, of Neptune Township, admitted he chased his ex-wife Tamara Wilson-Seidle on June 16, 2015,though the streets of Asbury Park and collided with her vehicle during that chase causing her vehicle to collide with a second vehicle on Sewell Avenue in Asbury Park.  Seidle also admitted he exited his vehicle following the crash and shot his ex-wife 12 times as she sat inside her vehicle on Sewell Avenue. He further admitted before Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Joseph Oxley, the shooting caused Tamara’s death, and that he committed the crime while his then-7-year-old daughter sat nearby inside his vehicle.

As part of his plea agreement with this Office, prosecutors will recommend he be given a 30-year prison term, subject to the provisions of the “No Early Release Act” (NERA) requiring him to serve 85 percent of the sentence imposed, or 25 years and six months, before he is eligible for parole. He would also be subject to 5 years of parole supervision upon his release. Seidle is scheduled to return for sentencing before Judge Oxley on August 18, 2016.

Philip Seidle, a 22-year veteran of the Neptune Township Police Department, was first hired as a patrolman on July 1, 1993, and has held the rank of sergeant in the Patrol Division since his promotion on Jan. 1, 2009. Seidle is currently suspended from his post without pay.

Asbury Park police responded to a report of an unrelated motor vehicle accident near the intersection of Ridge and Sewall Avenues in the city at approximately 11:26 a.m. on June 16, 2015. During that service call, the black 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, driven by Tamara Seidle, turned the corner onto Sewall Avenue before crashing into a parked 2002 Ford Focus. The Jetta was being followed closely by the 2005 Honda Pilot driven by Philip Seidle, who exited the vehicle, pulled out a handgun and approached the driver’s side of the Jetta. Philip Seidle fired multiple shots into the vehicle, striking Tamara Seidle. Philip Seidle then turned the weapon on himself, pointing the weapon at his head, before moving to the front of the Jetta and firing several more shots into the windshield of the vehicle.

After firing the second round of shot-bursts, Philip Seidle returned the weapon to his head prompting a stand-off with on-scene police officers from the Asbury Park and Neptune Township police departments. The stand-off with Seidle ended around 12:17 p.m. when he surrendered and was taken into custody. In addition to officers from the Asbury Park and Neptune Township police departments, investigators from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshal’s Service responded to the scene.

During that service call, the black 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, driven by Tamara Seidle, turned the corner onto Sewall Avenue before crashing into a parked 2002 Ford Focus. The Jetta was being followed closely by the 2005 Honda Pilot driven by Philip Seidle, who exited the vehicle, pulled out a handgun and approached the driver’s side of the Jetta. Philip Seidle fired multiple shots into the vehicle, striking Tamara Seidle. Philip Seidle then turned the weapon on himself, pointing the weapon at his head, before moving to the front of the Jetta and firing several more shots into the windshield of the vehicle.

After firing the second round of shot-bursts, Philip Seidle returned the weapon to his head prompting a stand-off with on-scene police officers from the Asbury Park and Neptune Township police departments. The stand-off with Seidle ended around 12:17 p.m. when he surrendered and was taken into custody. In addition to officers from the Asbury Park and Neptune Township police departments, investigators from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshal’s Service responded to the scene.

Seidle is currently being held in the Mercer County Correctional Center, Hopewell Township, on $2 million bail with no ten percent option, as set by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Francis J. Vernoia, P.J.Cr.

The case is assigned toA the Director of the Office’s Major Crimes Bureau. Seidle is represented by Edward C. Bertucio, Esq., of Eatontown.

Top Fugitives From Justice 

DO NOT attempt to contact, apprehend, or detain any of these suspects!

Name: Oscar Escobar

 

Date of Birth: 10/30/1982

 

Height: 5′ 7″

 

Weight: 150 lbs.

 

Last Known Address:  382 Shrewsbury Avenue, Red Bank, NJ

 

INFORMATION

 

Wanted for: FTA – Arraignment. Original Charge was Sexual Assault.

 

 

 

Name: George Kavouris

 

Date of Birth: 01/15/1975

 

Height: 5′ 8″

 

Weight: 175 lbs.

 

Last Known Address:  Piscataway, NJ

 

INFORMATION

 

Wanted for: Theft by deception 2nd degree.

Name: Jerry Lin

 

Date of Birth: 12/25/1980

 

Height: 5′ 11″

 

Weight: 190 lbs.

 

Last Known Address:  Holmdel, NJ

 

INFORMATION

 

Wanted for: Criminal Extortion.

Name: Martin Luis

 

Date of Birth: 11/14/1976

 

Height: 5′ 5″

 

Weight: Unknown

 

Last Known Address:  Neptune Twp., NJ

 

INFORMATION

 

Wanted for: An aggravated sexual assault involving a minor.

  

Name: Edward Santana

 

Date of Birth: 02/28/1977

 

Height: 6′ 0″

 

Weight: 200 lbs.

 

Last Known Address:  743 Parker Street, Perth Amboy, NJ

 

INFORMATION

 

Wanted for: 1st Degree Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substance – $2,000,000 bail.

 

 

Name: Victor Hugo Delgado Vasquez

 

Date of Birth: 12/16/1977

 

Height: 5′ 5″

 

Weight: 170 lbs.

 

Last Known Address: Long Branch, NJ

 

INFORMATION

 

Wanted for: Robbery 2nd degree.

SwerveCast Owner/Operator Prostituted Young Teen Girls Online

Robert J. Ianuale, 32, of Ned Drive in Hazlet, the owner/operator of the online live broadcasting service known as SwerveCast, was arrested Monday at his Hazlet home. An investigation revealed he was engaged in the prostitution of juvenile females and on at least one occasion, tried to lure online viewers to sexually assault a woman and broadcast the assault live over the Internet, announced Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

“Profiting off of the sexual abuse of juveniles is intolerable. We cannot allow innocent children to fall prey to online abusers and predators seeking to line their pockets through the sexual exploitation of their victims.  We will prosecute all such defendants to the fullest extent of the law,” Gramiccioni said.

Ianuale was arrested following the culmination of an investigation by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and the Homeland Security Investigations Division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (HSI). The investigation revealed Ianuale, using his online moniker “Fist Pump,” engaged in an online broadcast in May 2015, when he attempted to lure or entice individuals watching his broadcast to sexually assault a 25-year-old New York City woman outside her place of employment.  Ianuale offered $100 to anyone who would sexually assault the woman and broadcast the event live.

The investigation also found Ianuale, as the owner/operator of SwerveCast, would allow juvenile females to engage in sexual acts during broadcasts available only to users who paid to view the online broadcasts. In turn, viewers could “tip” the girls using virtual currency that was under the control of Ianuale, and he would pay a percentage of the tipped amount to the juvenile girls in exchange for performing sex acts online.

The victims in this case are a 14-year-old Maryland girl and a 14-year-old Middlesex County, New Jersey, girl.  Investigators believe there may be other victims and are asking anyone who witnessed similar behavior or knows of a juvenile who may have participated in similar broadcasts on SwerveCast to call Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Detective John Sosdian at 732-431-7160 ext. 6592.

Anyone who feels the need to remain anonymous, but has information about SwerveCast or Ianuale may contact Monmouth County Crime Stoppers’ confidential telephone tip-line by calling 1-800-671-4400; or texting “MONMOUTH” plus their tip to 274637; or, they can email a tip via the website at www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com.  Monmouth County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of criminals and fugitives.

Ianuale is charged with  two counts of first degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child by causing or permitting a child to engage in child pornography; one count of first degree Promoting Prostitution of a Minor; one count of first degree Use of a Juvenile to Commit a Crime; two counts of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Distribution of Child Pornography); one count of third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of Child Pornography); one count of third degree Financial Facilitation of Criminal Activity; and one count of third degree Luring or Enticing an Adult.

Ianuale was arrested by investigators from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Monday morning with assistance from the HSI, the New Jersey State Police Digital Technology Investigations Unit and Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Hazlet Police Department, Freehold Township Police Department, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Hazlet Township Animal Control.

If convicted of the first degree counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Ianuale faces up to 20 years in a New Jersey state prison, subject to the provisions of the “No Early Release Act” (NERA), requiring him to serve 85 percent of the sentence imposed before becoming eligible for release on parole. He would also be subject to the provisions of “Megan’s Law” and Parole Supervision for Life following his release from state prison.

If convicted of the other first degree crimes, Ianuale faces a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison.  If convicted of the second degree offense, Ianuale faces five to ten years in state prison and the third degree charges expose him to additional sentences of three to five years in prison on each count.

Ianuale is being held in the Monmouth County Correctional Institution, Freehold Township, on $450,000 cash only bail, as set by Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Joseph W. Oxley. Ianuale was ordered to have no contact with his victims and a Bail Source Hearing is required before he can post bail or be released.

Additionally, Philip Ianuale, 30, of the same Ned Drive address in Hazlet as his brother Robert Ianuale, was arrested Monday by the Hazlet Police Department and charged with one count each of fourth degree Obstructing the Administration of Law, third degree Resisting Arrest and disorderly persons charges for Possession of Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Margaret Koping.

SHERIFF’S OFFICE CONDUCTS PROGRAM TO KICK OFF DISTRACTED DRIVING MONTH IN AN EFFORT TO KEEP YOUNG DRIVERS SAFE

DOGS NEED HELP  —  PLEASE SHARE!!!

Animal rescue operations are currently underway at a single family bi-level residence in Northern Howell. Under the command of Monmouth County SPCA Police Chief Ross Licitra, over 200 dogs have already been removed. All appear to be in good health and are going to need good homes. This is not an abuse or neglect case. The homeowners are fully cooperating with law enforcement. The Howell Police are providing traffic assistance and scene security. The Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Prosecutors Office, Associated Humane Society, St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center, Monmouth County EMS Task Force and Haz Mat, Adelphia Fire Company and several other agencies and volunteer groups are assisting. The dogs are very fortunate to be in such amazing hands!!!

Chief Licistra advises this is most likely the largest dog hoarding case ever in NJ.‪#‎TheyLetTheDogsOut‬

The Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals signed complaints charging a Howell couple with more than 550 counts of animal cruelty, announced Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Charlene and Joseph Handrik, of Bennett Road in Howell Township, are charged with 276 counts of Animal Cruelty for inflicting unnecessary cruelty upon a living animal or creature by providing inhumane living conditions and an additional 276 counts of Animal Cruelty for failing to provide proper and necessary veterinary care to their dogs.  All of the charges are disorderly persons offenses.

“After extensive discussions between the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and a review of the animal cruelty statute, the decision was made to charge the Handriks with disorderly persons animal cruelty charges as opposed to indictable animal cruelty charges,” Ross Licitra, Interim President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Law Enforcement Officer at the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MCSPCA).

“This decision was due in large part to the miraculous fact that despite living in deplorable conditions and not receiving proper veterinary care, the dogs seized from the residence were in relatively good physical health,” said Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Additional charges are expected to be filed against the Handriks, including charges for not properly licensing and vaccinating their animals. The case is expected to be prosecuted in the Howell Township Municipal Court.

MCSPCA was called in by the Howell Township Animal Control, on Friday, June 3, after responding to call about a stray dog running around the neighborhood prompted concern about the number of dogs inside the Bennett Road home.

MCSPCA, the along with the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Howell Township Police Department, St. Hubert’s  Animal Welfare Center and Associated Humane Societies responded to the scene where 276 dogs were discovered living in deplorable conditions.

The Handricks could face substantial fines and penalties, if found guilty on all counts.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

The Monmouth County Special Needs Registry (SNR) is a voluntary service open to all citizens with disabilities who reside, attend school or are employed in Monmouth County.  The registry was created to help police officers and other emergency service personnel to better assist residents with special needs in the event of an emergency by providing those first responders with vital information regarding a registrant’s disability, emergency contact information, a physical description and current photograph of the registrant.

Millstone resident James Wiater fulfilled his 18 year promise of donating a bullet proof vest to K9 Edge of the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office. 

To purchase “The Adventures of Solo, The Big Dog”

go to the website  www.bigdogbooks.net 

or contact Jim Wiater via email jim@bigdogbooks.net. 

The Monmouth County Special Needs Registry is the model for legislation, urging other counties create similar registries to assist the special needs community throughout the state, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

The legislation, to establish guidelines so counties can create voluntary registries to help first responders better serve those with special needs in emergency situations, passed the state Assembly unanimously earlier this week.

“We are thrilled to have heard the news of the unanimous Assembly passage of this legislation and will gladly share our information and experience with any agency interested in establishing a similar program. Special needs citizens and their families are not limited to travel and transit in Monmouth County.  If our registry concept is modeled statewide, it will only enhance the services first responders provide to our special needs families by providing statewide coverage to those who wish to participate.  I am certain other counties will see the same benefits for their residents, first responders and members of the special needs community,” said Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Assembly bill A-4381 would require the Department of Law and Public Safety, in consultation with the Department of Human Services, to establish guidelines by which counties can create a voluntary special needs registry which can, in the event of emergency situations, provide crucial medical information and assistance for special needs residents. The guidelines would provide a framework counties can use in establishment of their own voluntary special needs registry.

“We were so impressed with the Special Needs Registry here in Monmouth, which is the first of its kind that we wanted to help make it as easy as possible for other counties to follow suit. The bill has already passed the Assembly with unanimous approval and we are hopeful it will pass through the Senate as well,” said Assemblywoman Joann Downey.

The Monmouth County Special Needs Registry (SNR) was unveiled in April 2016, and is a voluntary and free program sponsored by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and the Monmouth County Chiefs of Police Association. The foundation of the SNR is a secure website, where people can register themselves or a loved one with any type of special need so that first responders will be better able to serve those in need of assistance, especially in emergency situations.

The registry intends to provide this service to all persons, including children, adults and elders, who might require any type of specialized assistance during an emergency situation. Those who are eligible to be registered include, but are not limited to, people with mobility impairments of any kind, individuals with Autism, Alzheimer’s Disease, developmental/intellectual disabilities, oxygen/electricity dependence, life threatening allergies, mental illness, visual or auditory impairments, or PTSD.

The registry’s database is maintained by the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office. When responding to an incident, the appropriate information regarding a registrant is transmitted back to the first responder.

“This is a fantastic service for Monmouth residents and can make all the difference in an emergency. By encouraging other counties to establish similar registries we can help our law enforcement officers and first responders save lives,” said Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling.

For more information on how to register for the Monmouth County Special Needs Registry, please visit www.mcsnrnj.org.  Follow MCSNR on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mcsnrnj/.

LONG BRANCH MAN WANTED IN STABBINGS, ROBBERY ARRESTED

A man wanted on charges of Attempted Murder and Robbery was arrested Wednesday, after evading authorities.  Detectives and members of the Monmouth County Emergency Response Team (MOCERT) found him hiding out in a home in Long Branch, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

Denismar Andrade, 26, was being sought by law enforcement after he was charged with two counts of Attempted Murder and Robbery, stemming from an incident that occurred in Long Branch on Saturday, February 18, 2017, at approximately 1:24 a.m. 

It is alleged that on February 18^th, Andrade stabbed two victims in their necks with a knife during the course of a robbery. Both victims were Long Branch residents. The victims have been treated, released, and are expected to survive. 

On Wednesday, February 22, 2017, an investigation led detectives to 224 Ludlow Avenue in Long Branch where Denismar Andrade had been trying to evade authorities, concealing himself in a wall. The Monmouth County Emergency Response Team (MOCERT) was deployed to the address and found Andrade hiding in the basement where he was attempting to conceal himself within the walls of the structure with a stash of food and water. Once Andrade was located in the home, he was arrested without incident on Wednesday afternoon.

Detectives have no reason to believe that Andrade acted in concert with anyone and there is no further danger to the public.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office would like to thank the agencies that participated in the investigation that led to Andrade’s arrest. Those agencies include: the Long Branch Police Department, the U.S. Marshal’s Office, the Long Branch Fire Department, Officers of the Monmouth County Emergency Response  and Rapid Deployment Teams, the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, and in particular, the Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit. 

Anyone who feels the need to remain anonymous but has information about a crime can contact Monmouth County Crime Stoppers confidential telephone tip-line by calling 1-800-671-4400; can text “MONMOUTH” plus their tip to 274637; or, they can email a tip via the website at www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com. Monmouth County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of criminals and fugitives.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the United States Constitution and State law. 

Freehold-area Drug Ring Sold Heroin, Cocaine, Marijuana, Prescription Pills

A Monmouth County grand jury returned a 100-count indictment Thursday charging a dozen people for their roles in a Freehold area drug distribution ring involving heroin, cocaine, marijuana and prescription medications. 33 people were also charged with drug possession and conspiracy offenses, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni. 

The 5-month undercover investigation by federal, state, county and local law enforcement agencies dubbed “Operation Justice Served” culminated with the arrest of 42 people between September and November 2016.

“We are faced with a drug problem of epidemic proportions and we must continue our coordinated assault on supply lines that feed off the problem like a cancer,” Gramiccioni said.

Most of the criminal activity was concentrated in the borough, with the investigation ultimately leading to the seizure of over 2,700 bags of heroin, 300 grams of cocaine, 16 ounces of marijuana and dozens of prescription pills intended for distribution in and around Freehold. The joint investigation revealed the trafficking network was moving about 2,500 bags of heroin and 200 grams of cocaine a week.

The investigation began in late spring 2016 by focusing on drug sales by Kenneth Crooms, 45, of Bowne Avenue, Freehold Borough, but quickly expanded to include 13 others who were either aiding Crooms in his distribution of drugs or selling drugs. 

The grand jury indicted Crooms and his co-defendants listed below with first degree charges of Distribution of Cocaine and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, second degree charges of Distribution of Heroin and Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute, two counts each of third degree Distribution and Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Dangerous Substances (marijuana and pain medications) and one count of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute these drugs:

• Welman Crooms, 39, of Weaverville Road, Freehold Township
• Newman Davis, 40, of Pond Road, Freehold Township
• Angel J. Fuentes, 25, of Kingsberry Drive, Somerset Township
• Michael W. Garrett, 51, of Vought Avenue, Freehold Borough (Garrett was also charged with second degree Possession of a Firearm During a CDS Offense)
• Carson Givens, 37, of Amberly Drive in Manalapan Township
• Juan Heredia, 32, of Ford Avenue, Freehold Borough
• Amanda N. Rivera, 36, of Second Avenue, City of Long Branch
• Husmir Salihagic, 32, of Jackson Street, Freehold Borough
• William Torres, 54, of Bowne Avenue, Freehold Borough
• Kayla Vold, 22, of Waterworks Road, Freehold Township
• Andre L. Williams, 40, of Avenue C, Bayonne

Kelly Andriessen and Erikan Hassan were charged with similar offenses, not including the first degree charges, in November 2016.  Their cases were resolved prior to the return of the indictment.

The indictment also charged 33 individuals with third degree offenses of possession of controlled dangerous substances.  The investigation revealed that these individuals regularly met Kenneth Crooms or Newman Davis to buy drugs.

• John Smith Jr., 41, of Whistler Drive, Freehold Township
• Ahmed Ibrahim, 25, of Corral Court, Freehold Township
• Shannon Gregory, 25, of Fort Plains Road, Howell
• Cody Olmo, 25, of Trinity Place, Oceanport
• Eric Alleyne, 46, of Bowne Avenue, Freehold Borough
• Emmett Odonnell, 49, of Union Avenue Borough, Freehold
• Stevens Cordova, 36, of Haley Street, Freehold Borough
• Jason Galatro, 45, of Tally Drive, Freehold Borough
• John Loprete, 56, of Broad Street, Freehold Borough
• Michael Perri, 47, of Zlotkin Circle, Freehold Borough
• Christopher Odonnell, 54, of Englishtown Road, Monroe Township
• Austin Ventura, 28, of Saratoga Drive, Manalapan
• James Mulligan, 61, of Oliver Court, Freehold Township
• Fabrizio Illiano, of Whistler Drive, Freehold Township
• Giovanni Illiano, 46, of Whistler Drive, Freehold Township
• Louis Almonte, 47, of Helen Avenue, Freehold Borough
• Richard T. Burger, 46, of Gloucester Court, Freehold Township
• Michael J. Migliore, 43, of Kinnon Hill Court, Freehold Township
• Jaclyn R. Nalven, 32, of Kentucky Way, Freehold Township
• Gina B. Levtov, 35, of Heron Court, Manalapan Township
• Kevin Bellach, 44, of Bergerville Road, Freehold Township
• Peter C. Stiles, 47, of Park Avenue, Freehold Borough
• Michael J. Ferriole, 37, of Ticonderoga Boulevard, Freehold Township
• Richard J. Pretty, 42, of Howell Township
• Eric Ousley, 56, of Manchester Court, Freehold Township
• Darren Whiting, 49, of Bond Street, Freehold Borough
• Kevin L. Washington, 52, of Monmouth Road, Millstone Township
• James M. Fair, 52, of First Street, Freehold Borough
• Jennifer Suydam, 28, of South Route 79, Marlboro
• Christine Hicks, 46, of Jackson Mills Road, Freehold Township
• Anthony Macario, 49, of Jefferson Court, Jackson
• Amanda Dunham, 25, of Saint Andrews Place, Manalapan
• Miguel Rios-Bautista, 25, of Institute Street, Freehold Borough

Prosecutor Gramiccioni credited numerous law enforcement agencies for their hard work and dedication to the investigation, including: Freehold Borough Police Department, Freehold Township Police Department, Marlboro Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Howell Police Department, Brielle Police Department, Asbury Park Police Department, Eatontown Police Department, Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Police, Drug Enforcement Administration and United States Marshals’ Service.

If convicted of any of the first degree charges, defendants face a sentence of 10 to 20 years in a New Jersey state prison. If convicted of second degree offenses, defendants face an exposure of five to ten years in state prison, and third degree charge come with a potential custodial sentence of three to five years in state prison.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

We got him!!!

Keansburg Borough neighbor arrested and charged in murder of 11-year-old Abbiegail Smith.

Andreas Erazo, 18, who lived in an upstairs apartment, facing murder and weapons charges is expected to appear in Judge English courtroom at 1:30 pm

Middlesex County Medical Examiner’s Office is expected to conduct an autopsy of the young girl today to determine the cause and manner of her death. 

Prosecutor Gramiccioni wishes to thank the following agencies for their assistance: Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office Keansburg Police Department Keansburg Fire Company #1 New Point Comfort Fire Company No. 1 West Keansburg Fire Company Keansburg First Aid Squad Monmouth County Park System

An investigation launched earlier this year prompted by a spike in shootings in Long Branch, Asbury Park and Neptune Township, resulted in the arrests of members of a Long Branch-based “G-Shine” set of the Bloods criminal street gang along with gang associates. The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Gang Unit initiated Operation Lights Out in an effort to identify those responsible for this increased violence and to dismantle their criminal enterprise, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

“Our objective is to continue to do all that we can to make the streets of Monmouth County safe for everyone.   Dismantling entrenched criminal enterprises that peddle drugs, unlawfully possess and transfer firearms and inflict violence, remains our priority. We had great support from our law enforcement partners throughout the county and we collectively share this same goal,” Gramiccioni said.

The nine-month investigation led to the arrest of 29 people who now face charges ranging from  Racketeering, Distribution of Narcotics, Conspiracy to Distribute and/or Possess Narcotics, Unlawful Possession of Handguns, Unlawful Transfer or Sale of Firearms, Certain Persons Not to Possess Weapons and Hindering Apprehension of Another. The investigation revealed the criminal organization distributed approximately 150-200 grams of powder and crack cocaine a week with an estimated street value of $225,000.00, and approximately 250 packets of heroin per week with an estimated street value of $22,500.00.  Operation Lights Out culminated last week with the seizure of two semi-automatic handguns (.40 and .380 caliber), over 200 grams of cocaine, 35 bricks of heroin, approximately $14,000 in cash and three vehicles.

This operation would not have been possible without the support of our partners: Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Shaun Golden; Monmouth County Correctional Institute, Warden Barry Nadrowski; Marlboro Police Department, Chief Bruce Hall; Belmar Police Department, Chief Andrew Huisman; Freehold Township Police Department, Chief Ernie Schriefer; Long Branch Police Department, Director Jason Roebuck; Freehold Borough Police Department, Chief Glenn Roberts; Little Silver Police Department, Chief Daniel Shaffery; Asbury Park Police Department, acting Chief David Kelso; Neptune Township Police Department, Chief James Hunt; Brookdale Community College Police Department, Captain Robert Kimler; Middletown Police Department, Chief Craig Webber; Holmdel Police Department, Chief John Mioduszewski; Keansburg Police Department, Chief James Pigott; Shrewsbury Police Department, Lieutenant Robert Turner; Wall Township Police Department, Chief Kenneth Brown; Manalapan Police Department, Chief Michael Fountain; Hazlet Police Department, Chief Philip Meehan; and Highlands Police Department, Chief Robert Burton.

The following 18 individuals were members of a Racketeering Enterprise, which involved drugs, guns and gang violence, and arrested as a result of Operation Lights Out:

1. 1. Lamont “Snub” Williams, 32, of Long Branch, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Promoting Organized Street Crime (NJSA 2C:33-30), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d), Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose (NJSA 2C:39-4a(1)), fourth degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (NJSA 2C:39-7a), first degree Armed Robbery (NJSA 2C:15-1), Hindering Apprehension of Another (NJSA 2C:29-3a(2)), second degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), second degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet and/or Xanex) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet and/or Xanex) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet and/or Xanex)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
2. 2. Jamire “Jah” Williams, 26, of Long Branch, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d), Possession of a Firearm for an Unlawful Purpose (NJSA 2C:39-4a(1), second degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (NJSA 2C:39-7b), first degree Armed Robbery (NJSA 2C:15-1), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
3. 3. Pernell Scott (aka “90” and “1090”), 32, of Long Branch, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d), second degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (NJSA 2C:39-7b), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
4. 4. Gregory “Wise” McLeod, 40, of Long Branch,is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d), second degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (NJSA 2C:39-7b), first degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(1)), first degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(1)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
5. 5. Lawrence “Salaam” Booker, 49, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
6. 6. Jayson Buffaloe, aka (“H.O.” and “Buff,”), 31,  is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), third degree Hindering Apprehension of Another (NJSA 2C:29-3a(2)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Marijuana) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(11)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute (Marijuana) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(11)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
7. 7. Dashon Coleman, aka “Pop” and “PO,” 30,  is charge with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d), second degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (NJSA 2C:39-7b), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet and/or oxycodone) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet and/or oxycodone) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet and/or oxycodone) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
8. 8. Karon “Fly” Covin, 26, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
9. 9. Dale Davis, aka “Doozie” and “Do,” 37, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), second degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet and/or oxycodone) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet and/or oxycodone) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)),third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet and/or oxycodone) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
10. 10. Michael “Vic” Dismuke, 45, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), first degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(1)), first degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(1)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
11. 11. Waldyr Donayre, 33, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
12.  12. Darnell J. Johnson, aka “P.K.” and “Pyrex Kid,” 29, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), second degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
13.  13. Tyshon Kelley, aka “Q.S.,” “Quiet Storm” and “Black Jack,” 29, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons (NJSA 2C:39-7b) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
14.  14. Maya Lee, 31, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
15.  15. Arthur “Art” Ratcliffe, 37, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), Unlawful Possession of a Handgun (NJSA 2C:39-5b), Unlawful Transfer or Sale of a Firearm (NJSA 2C:39-9d), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(5)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Percocet) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
16.  16. Robert Shannon, aka “Tank,” 41, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).
17.  17. Jermaine E. Stovall, 35, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), second degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third  degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA2C:5-2).
18.  18. Joseph “Pop Shine” Willis, 31, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), third degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)), third degree Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(3)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (heroin)  (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).

An additional 11 defendants have been arrested and charged with third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and third degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance (NJSA 2C:5-2/NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)):  Howard D. Coleman, 57; Abdelmone M. Elbakry, 48; Dana L. Gilardi, 37; Laura Kale, 43; Kyle J. Manger, 31; Thomas Murphy, 54; Michael Nucci, 56; Joseph Pecoraro, III, 36; Patricia Rodgers, 44; Omar Sanders, 37; Oakley “Buzz” Smith, 65.

The following three defendants remain at-large and are fugitives from justice:

Rory D. Quill, 33, is charged with third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and third degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance (NJSA 2C:5-2/NJSA 2C:35-10a(1).

Jamie L. Shaw, 37, is charged with third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and third degree Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Dangerous Substance (NJSA 2C:5-2/NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)).

Rasheen Yarbrough, 38, is charged with first degree Racketeering Conspiracy (NJSA 2C:41-2d), second degree Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), second degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with Intent to Distribute (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-5b(2)), third degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (cocaine) (NJSA 2C:35-10a(1)) and Conspiracy to Commit the Foregoing Offenses (NJSA 2C:5-2).

If convicted of any of the first degree charges, each defendant faces a sentence of up to 20 years in a New Jersey state prison and would also be under parole supervision for five years following release from state prison.

If convicted of any of the second degree charges, each defendant faces a sentence of five to ten years in prison.

If convicted of third degree offenses, each defendant faces a sentence of three to five years in prison.

If convicted of fourth degree offenses, each defendant faces up to 18 months in state prison.

The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Merlin Thomas and Emily Cartmell.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

FORMER ASBURY PARK COP, GANG MEMBERS GUILTY

Jury Returns Guilty Verdicts to Close Latest Chapter of Successful Operation Dead End

FREEHOLD – A jury returned guilty verdicts yesterday afternoon on most of the charges that a former Asbury Park police officer and a pair of criminal street gang members were facing during a trial that began in May, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

“One corrupt cop and two bad gang members are going to prison. Today’s verdict reinforces the message that we are serious about our mission to improve the quality of life for our citizens in Monmouth County. Violent street gangs will not be allowed to terrorize neighborhoods shooting, robbing or selling drugs,” Gramiccioni said.

Former Asbury Park Police Officer Keith German, 49, of Tinton Falls, was found guilty of three counts of second degree Official Misconduct, one count each of second degree Computer Theft, second degree Unlawful Access and Disclosure, third degree Hindering the Apprehension of Another, fourth degree Conspiracy to Commit Stalking, and Harassment, a petty disorderly persons offense.

At trial it was revealed that German, a 16-year veteran of the Asbury Park Police Department, used his official position to assist the members of violent Bloods criminal street gangs from avoiding detection and prosecution by providing them with confidential law enforcement information, including on one occasion unlawfully accessing a law enforcement database.

German faces five to 10 years in a New Jersey state prison on each of the official misconduct charges, as well as the computer theft and unlawful access and disclosure charges, with a minimum of five years imprisonment without parole on each official misconduct charge, when he returns to the courtroom of Monmouth County Superior Court Judge Joseph W. Oxley on Dec. 20, 2017.

Bloods street gang member James Fair, 29, and Crips street gang member Haneef Walker, 25, both of Asbury Park, were found guilty on numerous counts, including first degree Racketeering Conspiracy, for their respective roles in violent street crimes, conspiracy to commit murder, robbery, burglary, aggravated assault and other criminal activity in and around the seaside city.

Fair was found guilty on 78 charges: one count of first degree Racketeering Conspiracy, three counts of second degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, second degree Robbery, second degree Attempted Armed Robbery, eight counts of second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, six counts of second degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, first degree Armed Robbery, second degree Armed Burglary, two counts of Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, two counts of third degree Burglary, four counts of Theft of Movable Property, second degree Promoting Organized Street Crime, second degree Conspiracy to Commit Shoplifting as Part of an Organized Retail Theft Enterprise, disorderly persons Theft by Deception, second degree Shoplifting as Part of an Organized Retail Theft  Enterprise, third degree Fencing, second degree Conspiracy to Possess a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, third degree Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Assault – Bodily Injury with a Deadly Weapon, third degree Aggravated Assault – Attempt to Cause Bodily Injury to Another, second degree Promoting Organized Street Crime to Commit Aggravated Assault – Attempt to Cause Bodily Injury, first degree Conspiracy to Commit Murder, second degree Aggravated Assault, first degree Promoting Organized Street Crime to Commit Aggravated Assault, two counts of second degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child, second degree Unlawful Possession of a Community Gun, third degree False Public Alarm, fourth degree Conspiracy to Commit Stalking, and numerous drug charges, including third degree Distribution of Cocaine, second degree Distribution of Cocaine within 500 feet of a Public Housing Complex, third degree Distribution of Cocaine with 1,000 feet of a School, third degree Possession of Cocaine, third degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, third degree Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of Cocaine, third degree Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of Heroin, third degree Distribution of Heroin, second degree Distribution of Heroin within 500 feet of a Public Housing Complex, third degree Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of Methylone aka Molly, third degree Conspiracy to commit Distribution of Oxycodone, third degree Possession of Oxycodone, and third degree Possession of Oxycodone with Intent to Distribute.

Fair could face a state prison sentence of 10 years to life imprisonment on the first degree charges, which are subject to the No Early Release Act.  Further, each conviction for Promoting Organized Street Crime must be served consecutively to whatever sentence is imposed on the underlying crime being promoted.  Fair is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Oxley on Dec. 21, 2017.

The jury found Walker guilty on 25 charges, one count of first degree Racketeering Conspiracy, two counts of second degree Conspiracy to Commit Robbery, second degree Attempted Armed Robbery, four counts of second degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, three counts of second degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, second degree Conspiracy to Commit Shoplifting as Part of an Organized Retail Theft Enterprise, second degree Shoplifting as Part of an Organized Retail Theft Enterprise, third degree Fencing, two counts of second degree Conspiracy to Possess a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, third degree Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Assault – Bodily Injury with a Deadly Weapon, third degree Aggravated Assault – Attempt to Cause Bodily Injury to Another, second degree Unlawful Possession of a Community Gun, and several third degree drug charges, including Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine, Conspiracy to Possess Heroin, Conspiracy to Possess Methylone a/k/a “Molly”, and Conspiracy to Distribute Oxycodone.

Walker could face a sentence of up to 20 years in a New Jersey state prison for the first degree charge, five to 10 years in prison for the second degree charges, and three to five years in state prison for the third degree charges. Walker is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Oxley on Dec. 21, 2017.

The convictions are the results of a 14-month investigation, dubbed “Operation Dead End.”  The investigation started in the summer of 2013 in conjunction with law enforcement efforts to stem violent street crimes and firearms offenses in Asbury Park.  During the investigation, members of the criminal organization and their conspirators based their criminal activities out of two dead end streets in Asbury Park – Dewitt Avenue, and a section of Jersey Street in the Washington Village Public Housing Complex. 

The investigation revealed that members of the criminal organization acted together on numerous occasions to commit a series of armed robberies, residential burglaries, and thefts, and included an organized shoplifting ring that had an established relationship with the owners of a local pawn shop.  The investigation further revealed that members of the criminal organization regularly conspired to commit several different firearms-related offenses including unlawfully possessing firearms, transferring guns between various members of the criminal organization, and targeting rival gang members and enemies for shootings.  The investigation also revealed that members of the criminal organization supported their criminal activities by distributing narcotics including cocaine, heroin, oxycodone, and “molly,” a form of ecstasy.

The investigation further revealed the coordinated efforts of members of the organization to distract law enforcement and conduct counter-surveillance of law enforcement, which included obtaining the assistance of an Asbury Park police officer who provided information to the leaders of the organization.

Fair, one of two of the leaders of the criminal enterprise, conspired with several other members of the criminal enterprise to obtain and transfer guns amongst the organization and to target rival street gang members for shootings. To that end, Fair directed others within the criminal organization to notify him when their enemies were located and to then assist Fair in attempting to shoot at their enemies.

“These convictions are the result of a coordinated team effort between the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and our federal, state and local partners in law enforcement. It’s also important to note that the conviction of Keith German is in no way a reflection of our law enforcement community. He made choices that reflect adversely upon him, not on the hard-working men and women of the Asbury Park Police Department who continue to do an exceptional work for the citizens of the city,” Gramiccioni said.

Prosecutor Gramiccioni wishes to thank numerous law enforcement agencies for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this case: Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office; Asbury Park Police Department; Neptune Township Police Department; Neptune City Police Department; Brielle Police Department; Hazlet Township Police Department; Tinton Falls Police Department; Long Branch Police Department; Deal Police Department; Atlantic Highlands Police Department; Ocean Township Police Department; Marlboro Township Police Department; Freehold Township Police Department; Howell Township Police Department; Wall Township Police Department; Avon-by-the-Sea Police Department; Sea Bright Police Department; West Long Branch Police Department; Toms River Police Department, Freehold Borough Police Department, Shrewsbury Police Department, United States Marshal’s Service; United States Drug Enforcement Administration; and United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.

The case was prosecuted by Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Matthew Bogner and Joseph Cummings.

German is represented by Robert P. Ward, Esq., of Brick.

Fair is represented by Jeffrey W. Coghlan, Esq., of Freehold.

Walker is represented by George Mardinly, Esq., of Rumson.

OPERATION SNOWBALL SHUTTERS FREEHOLD BOROUGH COCAINE DISTRIBUTION RING

Drug Network was Moving 1/3 of Kilogram of Cocaine a Week in Freehold

Nine members of a Freehold Borough cocaine distribution ring were arrested yesterday, after a nine-month investigation.  The group was moving approximately one-third of a kilogram of cocaine a week, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

The investigation dubbed, “Operation Snowball,” and led by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Narcotics Office and Criminal Enterprise Unit, culminated with the arrest of Hugo Hernandez, as the leader of a narcotics trafficking enterprise, who was based primarily in the downtown Freehold Borough area.

Four search warrants in Freehold Borough, and one search warrant in New Brunswick, were simultaneously executed on Thursday leading to the arrests of nine members of the drug distribution ring. The investigation revealed that Hugo Hernandez supplied numerous lower level dealers, including his brother, Carlos Hernandez-Campos, and Lucino Roldan-Coria a/k/a Rufino Roldan.  Also identified in the operation were lower level dealers Antonio Romano-Jiminez, Miguel Garcia, and Roberto Tlapa De La Era, who delivered cocaine at the direction of Hugo Hernandez to locations in downtown Freehold Borough.

As a result of the investigation over 721 grams of cocaine and $14,943 were seized.

The arrests were made with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service New York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task Force; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Monmouth High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area working group; DEA Special Response Team; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office; Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office; Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office; and the Asbury Park, Neptune City, Neptune Township, Tinton Falls, Freehold Borough, Manalapan Township, Franklin Township, New Brunswick, Highlands, Middletown Township, Holmdel Township, Keansburg, and Hazlet Township police departments.

Hugo Hernandez, 48, of Freehold Borough, is charged with one count each of first degree Leader of a Narcotics Trafficking Network; second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine; first degree Distribution of Cocaine;  eight counts of second degree Distribution of Cocaine; eight counts of second degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; one count of third degree Distribution of Cocaine; one count of third degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; nine counts of third degree Possession of Cocaine; and one count of first degree Distribution of Cocaine.

Lucino Roldan-Coria, 58, of Freehold Borough, a/k/a Rufino Roldan, is charged with one count each of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine; three counts of second degree Distribution of Cocaine; three counts of second degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; two counts of third degree Distribution of Cocaine: two counts of third degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; five counts of third degree Possession of Cocaine; and one count of first degree Distribution of Cocaine.

Carlos Hernandez-Campos, 35, of New Brunswick, is charged with one count each of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine; two counts of second degree Distribution of Cocaine; two counts of second degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; two counts of third degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute within 1,000 feet of School Property; two counts of third degree Distribution of Cocaine within 1,000 feet of School Property;  two counts of third degree Possession of Cocaine; and one count of first degree Distribution of Cocaine.

Antonio Romano-Jiminez, 29, of Freehold borough, a/k/a Merito Romero-Jimenez, is charged with one count each of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine; and first degree Distribution of Cocaine.

Miguel Garcia-Tapia, 30, of Freehold Borough, is charged with one count each of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine; third degree Distribution of Cocaine; third degree Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; third degree Possession of Cocaine; and first degree Distribution of Cocaine.

Procopio Morales-Trinidad, 49, of Freehold Borough, is charged with one count each of second degree Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; and third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine.

Gregorio Morales-Morales, 35, of Manalapan, is charged with one count of third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine.

John A. Depaola, 53,       of Jackson, is charged with one count of third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine.

Roberto Tlapa De La Era, 35, of Freehold Borough, is charged with one count of third degree Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine.

If convicted of the charge of Leader of a Narcotics Trafficking Network, Hugo Hernandez faces an ordinary term of life imprisonment without being eligible for parole for 25 years.

If convicted of the first degree offenses, each defendant faces a sentence of up to 20 years in a New Jersey state prison.

If convicted of the second degree offenses, each defendant faces a sentence of five to ten years in prison on each count. 

If convicted of the third degree offenses, each defendant faces a sentence of three to five years in prison. 

The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutors Paul Alexander and Amanda Dalton.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.

JUVENILE CHARGED WITH MURDER OF 10-YEAR OLD CHILD IN ASBURY PARK

FREEHOLD – A Neptune Township teen was arrested and charged Thursday for his role in the shooting death of a child and wounding of the victim’s mother in Asbury Park overnight, announced Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.

The 16-year old juvenile was arrested at Neptune High School this morning without incident. The Prosecutor’s Office alerted both the school and the district to the impending arrest. Due to school protocols, Neptune High School was briefly in a lockdown status following the arrest.

Asbury Park Police responded to a 911 call around 10:40 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2018, reporting shots fired at a home in the 400 block of Ridge Avenue in the city.  Police arrived to find the 10-year old child and his 39-year old mother had been struck with gunshot wounds.  The child’s mother was treated and released for her injuries, however the child was pronounced deceased at 11:18 p.m.

The joint investigation is being conducted by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and the Asbury Park Police Department with assistance from Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office and Neptune Township Police Department. At this point in the investigation, it appears that neither the 10-year old child nor his mother were the intended victims of this shooting.  The intended target was another occupant also present within the home.

The juvenile is charged with Murder, Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Aggravated Assault, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.

Investigators are seeking the assistance of the public to identify other(s) who may have been involved in this criminal conspiracy. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Detective Brian Weisbrot of the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office at 800-533-7443 or Detective Sean DeShader of the Asbury Park Police Department at 732-774-1300.

Anyone who feels the need to remain anonymous but has information about a crime can contact Monmouth County Crime Stoppers confidential telephone tip-line by calling 1-800-671-4400; can text “MONMOUTH” plus their tip to 274637; or, they can email a tip via the website at www.monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com.  Monmouth County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of criminals and fugitives.

The case is assigned to Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Matthew Bogner.

Despite these charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, following a trial at which the defendant has all of the trial rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and State law.