MORRIS PLAINS — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Hanover Township Police Chief Michael Loock confirmed the sentencing of Anthony Dello-Russo, 28, of Morris Plains, for first-degree Strict Liability for Drug Induced Death and other charges.
On June 5, 2024, Dello-Russo entered guilty pleas to first-degree Strict Liability for Drug Induced Death and second-degree Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to Distribute in connection with a 2023 fatal overdose. On Friday, July 26, the Honorable Ralph Amirata, J.S.C., imposed an aggregate sentence of seven years in New Jersey State Prison, five of which will be subject to the No Early Release Act. The defendant also consented to forfeit $51,788 in U.S. currency as part of this resolution.
On February 16, 2023, law enforcement responded to a residence in Whippany on a report of an unconscious male. The male victim, later identified as T.H., age 28, was pronounced deceased on scene. The Morris County Medical Examiner’s Office certified the cause of T.H.’s death as combined toxicity of cocaine, fentanyl, and acetyl fentanyl.
Based on subsequent investigation, it was determined that Dello-Russo distributed controlled dangerous substances to T.H. on February 15, 2023, in Morris Plains, and that T.H.’s death resulted from his ingestion of the substances distributed by Dello-Russo. Additionally, it was determined that on December 8, 2023, Dello-Russo possessed more than one-half ounce of cocaine at his residence with the intent to distribute.
Dello-Russo was initially arrested on December 8, 2023, and charged with second-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance with the Intent to Distribute and related offenses. He was subsequently charged with first-degree Strict Liability for Drug-Inducted Death and related offenses on December 26, 2023.
The Strict Liability for Drug-Induced Death statute, N.J.S. 2C:35-9, provides that any person who manufactures, distributes, or dispenses any number of controlled dangerous substances is strictly liable for a death that results from the injection, inhalation, or ingestion of that substance.
Multiple law enforcement agencies contributed to this investigation and arrest, including the Hanover Township Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “Morris County law enforcement agencies are committed to investigating and enforcing state law, and when appropriate, holding distributors of these deadly narcotics accountable. Drug dealers who operate in Morris County, take note – you are taking a huge risk with every dose of heroin/fentanyl you sell.”
DOVER — Jamal Naymeddin, a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Metropolitan Campus in Teaneck, NJ, has been named to the Honors List for the Spring 2024 semester.
To qualify for the Honors List, a student must carry a 3.5 or better grade point average out of a possible 4.0 and be enrolled in at least 12 letter-graded hours (four courses).
The University’s Metropolitan Campus, located in the dynamic NY/NJ corridor in Teaneck, NJ, features a university atmosphere with an international perspective, attracting students from the U.S. and around the world. Undergraduates have access to the resources of a major graduate center and nearby New York City as an integral part of their learning experience.
Devoted to preparing world citizens through global education, Fairleigh Dickinson University is New Jersey’s largest private university. It features more than 100 liberal arts and professional degree programs, two international campuses, dozens of partnerships with internationally renowned institutions, special programs, and status within the United Nations. For more information, go to www.fdu.edu.
The catalytic converter is located on the underside of a vehicle and looks like a large metal box. There are two pipes coming out of it. The convertor utilizes these two pipes and the catalyst during the process of making the gases safe to be expelled.
BOONTON — Police in Boonton are searching for four suspects involved in stealing catalytic converters early Thursday morning.
According to police, on July 25, between 4:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., four suspects arrived in the area of Green Street and William Street in what appeared to be a dark-colored BMW X5.
The suspects accessed six vehicles and sawed off catalytic converters from a Volkswagen and two Toyotas.
The six owners of the affected vehicles notified police throughout the day between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Officers gathered information regarding vehicle burglaries, thefts, and criminal mischief.
Detectives responded to the scenes to collect evidence and canvass the area. The Morris County Sheriff’s Department CSI also assisted in the investigation.
The investigation is ongoing; anyone with information is urged to email detective@boontonpolice.org.
“Our department remains active day and night patrolling our community. If you see or hear anything suspicious, please call our Boonton Police Desk at (973) 402-9371 or, in case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1,” police said.
MORRIS COUNTY — Longtime Delta Dental President and CEO Dennis G. Wilson is retiring at the end of the year, paving the way for Paul Di Maio to take over the post beginning in 2025. After 11 years of transformative leadership, Dennis G. Wilson, President and CEO of Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut (DDNJCT), will retire effective December 31. Succeeding him will be Paul Di Maio, currently Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Chief Administrative Officer, who will assume the roles of President and CEO starting January 1, 2025.
Wilson joined DDNJCT in 2013, driving significant growth and enhancing the organization’s outward focus. In his first year, he established a new corporate social responsibility program and facilitated engagement with business, community, and charitable organizations across New Jersey and Connecticut.
Wilson spearheaded several strategic initiatives, including targeting individual and small group sales, creating DDCT as a separate entity, and expanding the DDNJCT portfolio to include vision insurance. His tenure also saw the introduction of unique small businesses and individual products and the market’s first Special Health Care Needs program supporting individuals and families with disabilities.
Although retiring, Wilson will continue to serve the organization as a Special Advisor until June 30, 2025. Wilson reflected on his tenure: “Leading DDNJCT has been a true privilege, and I am thankful for the hard work and cooperation of the Board and our associates in positioning the company for growth and continued success into the future. I am also proud of how our Board, senior leadership, and associates have embraced the company’s efforts to engage in the community and sincerely participate in supporting causes and activities in meaningful ways.”
Di Maio joined DDNJ in 2016 as Senior Vice President and General Counsel, providing invaluable advice and guidance to the Board and management. In 2022, he was appointed Chief Administrative Officer, successfully leading the Legal, Compliance, Human Resources, Audit, and Special Investigations departments. Di Maio has consistently demonstrated his leadership abilities and his capacity to handle diverse opportunities and challenges.
A Massachusetts native, Dennis Wilson received a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Massachusetts and credits his family’s military experience and his love for sports for his work ethic, drive, and approach to leadership. A devoted husband and mentor, Dennis is a proud survivor of quintuple bypass surgery and continues to share his personal health story to encourage others to embrace preventative healthcare.
MADISON — Carmine J. Toto was named to second honors on the Clark University Dean’s List. This selection marks outstanding academic achievement during the Spring 2024 semester.
Carmine Toto’s high school days at Madison High School they blended academic rigor, athletic achievements, and community involvement. From the moment he stepped through the front doors as a freshman, Carmine’s enthusiasm and dedication were evident to everyone around him. He was a graduate of the Class of 2023.
Freshman Carmen Toro
In the classroom, Carmine excelled in his studies, showing a passion for history and mathematics. His teachers often praised his curiosity and ability to grasp complex concepts quickly. Carmine’s peers admired his willingness to help others, often organizing study groups and tutoring sessions to ensure everyone could succeed.
Looking ahead, Carmine planned to attend college, where he hoped to continue his academic and athletic pursuits. With the strong foundation he built at Madison High School, Carmine was ready to take on new challenges and make a difference in the world.
Carmine J. Toto’s high school journey was a testament to his hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His legacy at Madison High School will be remembered for years, inspiring future generations of students to strive for greatness in all aspects of their lives.
Students must have a GPA of 3.8 or above for first honors or a GPA between 3.50 and 3.79 for second honors.
Founded in 1887, Clark University is a liberal arts-based research university that prepares its students to meet tomorrow’s most daunting challenges and embrace its greatest opportunities.
Through 33 undergraduate majors, more than 30 advanced degree programs, and nationally recognized community partnerships, Clark fuses rigorous scholarship with authentic world and workplace experiences that empower our students to pursue lives and careers of meaning and consequence.
This photo features our dearly missed police dog, Spike, who will always be remembered with love and gratitude.
HANOVER — The Morris County Library is hosting an engaging and educational K9 demonstration to thrill attendees of all ages. The hour-long demonstration will provide insights into K9 units’ vital roles in the field and feature live-action demonstrations.
The event, scheduled for Friday, August 2, at 11:00 a.m., will be held on the lawn behind the library’s children’s room. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy this outdoor event comfortably. No registration is required, making it easy for everyone to participate.
In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, August 29. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Library’s Children’s Department at (973) 285-6980. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn and witness the impressive skills of K9 units in action!
Morris County Library is located at 30 East Hanover Avenue, Whippany.
MORRIS COUNTY — President and CEO Tom Loughman is pleased to announce that Paul Muir will join the organization’s executive team as its Director of External Affairs later this month. A well-known community leader and experienced cultural professional, he brings to the role a wealth of perspective and skill at a critical moment in the history of the Museum.
This vital appointment comes thanks to a thorough, region-wide search that drew over 200 applicants—Muir distinguished himself as a superlative leader, eager and well-prepared to help shape the institution’s relationship to the community while directing its fundraising and audience-building efforts.
“Welcoming Paul to the team is another great step in rebuilding our 112-year-old institution’s connection to community,” said Loughman. “People and enterprise make this region an extraordinary place, and the Museum is at its best when we build great cultural experiences for everyone in a spirit of shared stewardship. Paul brings an uncommon combination of entrepreneurship and service to this role that will help us in this important work .”
Muir is a lifelong region resident with a track record of service in many civic roles. Elected to the Bethlehem Township Committee in 2011, he is currently in his 10th year as Mayor. Muir is a former chairman of the non-profit roundtable of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, presently leads the statewide advocacy group PreservationNJ, and recently served as president of the New Jersey Council of Mayors. Professionally, he is the former executive director of the iconic landmark, Red Mill Museum Village (Clinton), and is managing director of Vintage Motor Car of Hunterdon (Asbury). He recently led the advancement team of Imagine, A Center for Coping and Loss (Mountainside and Newark). Muir is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has won the Good Neighbor Award from the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce and the Non-Profit Leader of the Year Award from the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.
The Angeletti Group (Morristown) assisted in the search, which benefited from the participation of several trustees and staff.
The Morris Museum—founded in 1913 and located on 8.5 sylvan acres in Morris Township, New Jersey, since the mid-1960s—draws visitors across the region to its dynamic and acclaimed art exhibitions program and performing arts events. Its 45,000+ object collection of art and material culture from around the world joins the art of our time in displays throughout the Museum’s purpose-built spaces and within the historic Twin Oaks mansion, designed by McKim, Mead & White.
MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) has issued an urgent call for type O+ and O- blood donations. This dangerous shortage impacts local hospitals and is part of a disturbing national trend, with Type O shortages reported across the U.S. The current inventory of type O blood is the lowest since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Further complicating this shortage is a recent surge in blood usage. Seven massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) have occurred across the region in the past several days. MTPs involve administering ten or more units of blood to a patient within 24 hours. Still, they can often require 50 or more lifesaving blood products per patient, which strains the blood supply tremendously.
Type O+ is the most common blood type, representing nearly 40% of the U.S. population. Type O- is the universal blood type and is commonly used in emergency settings. A shortage of both types, both locally and nationally, poses serious concerns for our healthcare system, and the need for donors is critical.
In addition, the region continues to struggle with the challenges that often accompany the summer months. Seasonal travel, school breaks, and a rise in traumatic accidents during summer usually strain the blood supply and lead to shortages. NJBS calls on all individuals with Type O blood to immediately donate.
“We are appealing to our community to step up and donate blood, especially those who are type O. The summer months are always a challenging time for the blood supply, but we are currently experiencing an even lower level of this crucial blood type than at the start of the pandemic,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New Jersey Blood Services. “Following the recent surge in blood usage, our local inventory is critically low, and we need immediate support to ensure every patient receives the lifesaving care they need.”
NJBS hosts daily blood drives and operates 19 area donor centers to reach donors and meet local hospital needs. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice monthly. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit nybc.org or call 800.688.0900.
To make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org. Can’t donate blood? You can still support NYBC’s mission by texting ‘NYBC’ to ‘20222’ to give $25.
Publisher Frank Cahill and Barbara Freda holding a puppy during the Arden Courts Pet Adoption Extravaganza
MORRIS COUNTY—On Saturday, July 20, Arden Courts Memory Care, located at 18 Eden Lane, Whippany, held an “Animal Adoption Day”.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter participated and provided many dogs for adoption.
Arden Courts provides specialized memory care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia, offering a safe and nurturing environment. The facility focuses on enhancing the quality of life through personalized care, engaging activities, and a supportive community designed to meet the unique needs of memory care residents.
A local pet store, Home Towne Pet Shoppe, and Longevity Veterinary Center participated.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, located in East Hanover, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing exceptional care for homeless animals and finding them loving, permanent homes. The shelter offers a safe and nurturing environment for cats and dogs until adoption. The mission of Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter is to improve the lives of homeless animals and place them in permanent, loving homes. They are committed to ensuring that every pet receives high-quality care, attention, and medical treatment. The shelter aims to build a community without unwanted or homeless animals.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter provides a range of services, including:
Adoption Services: The shelter works diligently to match pets with loving families. They offer an easy and supportive adoption process to ensure the best fit for both the animals and the adopters.
Foster Program: This program allows volunteers to temporarily care for animals in their homes, giving them the attention and socialization needed to thrive.
Medical Care: All animals receive comprehensive medical care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and treatment for health issues.
Community Outreach: The shelter engages with the community through educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and events to promote animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.
Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter relies heavily on the support of volunteers and donors. Volunteers assist with animal care, administrative tasks, and events, while donations help cover the costs of medical care, food, and other necessities.
Visit their official website or contact them directly for more information, volunteer, or donate.
Longevity Veterinary Center in Whippany is a state-of-the-art animal hospital that provides comprehensive and compassionate pet care. Its mission is to ensure that every pet lives a long, healthy, and happy life through preventive care, advanced medical treatments, and a holistic approach to veterinary medicine.
Barbara Freda with Nancy Peplinsky, Director of Marketing and Communications
Longevity Veterinary Center offers a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of pets and their owners. These include:
Preventive Care: Regular wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care to keep pets healthy.
Diagnostics: Advanced diagnostic tools such as digital radiography, ultrasound, and in-house laboratory services for accurate and timely diagnoses.
Surgery: A full suite of surgical services, including routine spaying and neutering, soft tissue surgery, and orthopedic procedures.
Holistic Care: Integrative approaches such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and nutritional counseling to support overall health and well-being.
Emergency Care: Urgent and emergency veterinary services to address critical health issues promptly.
For more information on Longevity Veterinary Center, click here.
Sam D’Angelo, owner of Home Towne Pet Shoppe, with Barbara Freda, Business Development Specialist Arden Courts
Home Towne Pet Shoppe, located in Morris Plains, is a locally owned and operated pet supply store that caters to the needs of pets and pet owners in the community. Known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, the shop offers various products and services to ensure pets’ health and happiness.
Home Towne Pet Shoppe provides an extensive range of high-quality pet supplies, including:
Pet Food: Various premium pet food brands for dogs, cats, birds, fish, and small animals, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.
Pet Accessories: A wide selection of toys, bedding, grooming supplies, leashes, collars, and other accessories to keep pets comfortable and entertained.
Aquatic Supplies: Products for maintaining aquariums and ponds, including fish food, water conditioners, and aquarium decorations.
Small Animal Supplies: Items for small pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and reptiles.
For more information on Home Towne Pet Shoppe, click here.
Bud Ravitz, Justin Strickland, and Jonathan Sackett are running for the position of Morris County Commissioner.
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Democratic Committee announced three local elected officials have filed to seek the office of Morris County Commissioner. The trio recently held a listening tour at the Parsippany IHOP.
Morris County Democratic Chair Amalia Duarte, Bud Ravitz, Jonathan Sackett, Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilwoman Judy Hernandez, Matthew Clarkin, and candidate Justin Strickland during the “Listening Tour” held on Monday, July 15.
The Democratic slate is:
Bud Ravitz, a two-term Morris Township Committeeman and former Deputy Mayor
Jonathan Sackett, a two-term Rockaway Township Councilman and former Council President and Vice President
Justin Strickland, a newly elected Chatham Borough Councilman
“They are going to break through the logjam of Republican control, bringing new ideas to the table based on their practical experience governing in the community. It’s time to bring a new set of ideas and fresh thinking to the Board of County Commissioners,” said Morris County Democratic Chair Amalia Duarte.
A little about the candidates:
Justin Strickland, a newly elected Chatham Borough Councilman: After traveling all over the globe, I chose Morris County as my home, and I humbly represent the residents of Chatham on the Chatham Borough Council. I am a proud war veteran who served on Iraq’s front lines, earning a Bronze Star. As a civilian, I also served in the Pentagon and earned the Office of the Secretary of Defense Outstanding Achievement Award for my work in Afghanistan. I’m a seasoned manager across multiple Fortune 500 companies who is passionate about public service, sustainable economic development, historic preservation, and the untapped potential of Morris County.
Jonathan Sackett, a two-term Rockaway Township Councilman and former Council President and Vice President: As a father of four, small business owner, and lifelong resident of Morris County, I’m passionate about my community. I ran for County Commissioner last year, and I will win this year. My background in economics, finance, and accounting and my experience as a local business owner provide the understanding and real-life expertise to tackle fiscal and quality-of-life issues. I’m serving my second term on the Rockaway Township Council as Council President and Vice President.
Bud Ravitz, a two-term Morris Township Committeeman and former Deputy Mayor: I am a former Deputy Mayor, serving in my fourth year on the Morris Township Committee. I have made a visible and positive impact on the Township Committee during my tenure. I’m passionate about transparency in government and representing all my constituents fairly. I spearheaded two bipartisan pay-to-play legislation ordinances that were more strict than the legislation passed by the state of New Jersey. I have served on almost every Township Standing and Advisory Committee, including the Planning Board and Board of Health. I have been instrumental in prioritizing park and field renovations, smart growth, and environmental sustainability.
Focus Publications asked the candidates the following questions:
Overdevelopment is the big buzzword around town. People are upset about large projects being built without community input. How would you address this?
Concerns about overdevelopment in Morris County are valid and should be addressed carefully. Overdevelopment is not a partisan issue because it impacts all residents. As Morris County Commissioners, we plan to ensure we have a County-wide Master Plan that sets all communities up for success. True vision planning involves collaborating with key stakeholders, including residents and municipal governing bodies. We plan to bring municipal leaders together to create a dialogue that can ensure successful development where it’s needed and carefully evaluate development in areas where it could be detrimental.
2. What we hear about in county government is a need for more transparency. We can see from this listening tour today that you are happy to engage with the community – but if elected, how would you continue to implement transparency and robust community engagement?
AsMorris County Commissioner, we know that it’s essential to listen to the residents of Morris County. Listening means holding town halls, making yourself available, and meeting with folks in their communities. We will have regular meetings with representatives of all Morris County municipalities to share and collaborate on ideas and issues that will benefit both. We will also hold periodic town halls for county residents in various locations to highlight issues important to them.
Additionally, as county commissioners, we would work to establish a YouTube channel where all commissioner meetings are video-recorded for public use.
3. The job of the Commissioner comes down to keeping our county running smoothly. But our current commissioners have weighed in on national issues like reproductive health and gun control – going as far as to make official proclamations on the county’s behalf. What are your thoughts on these actions in the role of commissioner?
The primary responsibility of a County Commissioner is to focus on policy that governs Morris County. There may be times when the County Commissioners need to weigh in on national issues, such as 9/11 or supporting the U.S. Armed Forces when deployed abroad. We believe County Commissioner proclamations should be focused on unifying Morris County and supporting folks who need our support. As Commissioners, we will work hard to represent all the county’s residents regardless of political affiliation.
4. Most residents don’t understand where the Commissioners get money to use in their budget. Can you explain?
Each municipality pays a different percentage of property taxes to the county based on the county’s equalized tax assessment. The budget is $365 million per year. As commissioners, we would be active in the communities to ensure residents across Morris County know how their money is spent. In addition, the County applies for and receives state and federal grants for County projects.
