Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney confirmed the arrest of Eric Morales-Cortez, 20, of Dover, for Invasion of Privacy, Stalking, Cyber Harassment, and Obscenity.
It is alleged that the defendant filmed a victim during an explicit act without the victim’s consent and then released that video directly to multiple individuals and on social media. It is also alleged that the defendant sent different explicit videos to one victim in 2023 and to another victim in 2025. It is further alleged that the defendant took videos of a different victim on multiple occasions placing her in fear for her safety. Additionally, it is alleged that the defendant repeatedly trespassed on another victim’s property and peered into her windows causing her to fear for her safety. It is alleged he followed another victim while they were on foot and he was following in a vehicle. These acts occurred over the course of 2024 through 2025.
As a result of this thorough investigation, Morales-Cortez has been charged with two counts of third degree Invasion of Privacy, four counts of fourth degree Cyber Harassment, three counts of fourth degree Stalking, four counts of fourth degree Obscenity, and one count of fourth degree Peering. He has also been charged with one count of Criminal Trespass in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C: 18-3a, which is a disorderly persons offense.
Pursuant to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, the defendant has been detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending future court proceedings.
Law enforcement agencies that participated in this investigation include members of the Dover Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit.
Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Nicks Hope is located at 5558 Berkshire Valley Road, Oak Ridge
OAK RIDGE — Nick’s Hope will take part in the Jefferson Township Townwide Garage Sale on Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 5716 Berkshire Valley Road in Oak Ridge.
The sale will be set up in the parking lot near Berkshire Valley Road, at Nick’s Hope’s Oak Ridge location. Shoppers will find racks and tables filled with clothing, accessories, boutique items, and assorted treasures, all priced at garage sale prices.
Proceeds will help support Nick’s Hope as the organization continues providing free clothing to local families in need throughout the community.
Residents are encouraged to stop by, bring a friend, shop for great finds, and support a meaningful local cause.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — It’s hard to believe that one year has already passed since the launch of Jefferson Focus, a community news platform created to help keep the more than 21,000 residents of Jefferson Township informed about the people, businesses, organizations, and events shaping their community.
Jefferson Focus was established in response to what many residents felt was a lack of consistent local news and community information dedicated specifically to Jefferson Township. Since its launch, the publication has focused on providing coverage of local government, schools, police and fire activity, community organizations, business openings, nonprofit initiatives, sports, and events happening throughout the township.
Over the past year, Jefferson Focus has published more than 260 local stories covering issues important to township residents — from local government and development to community events and public safety. The publication has quickly gained strong community support, with its email subscriber base now exceeding 6,000 readers.
According to publisher Frank Cahill, the response from residents has demonstrated the importance of independent local journalism focused exclusively on Jefferson Township.
“Jefferson Focus was extremely well received by the residents,” said Frank Cahill, publisher of Jefferson Focus. “It just shows that the residents of Jefferson Township want to stay focused on local government and what is happening in their community. Our readers want local news, transparency, accountability, and information that directly impacts their daily lives.”
Cahill noted that one recent article, “Jefferson Township Under Scrutiny as Questions Go Unanswered,” was read by more than 27,000 people, underscoring the strong public interest in local government coverage and township issues.
In its first year, Jefferson Focus stories averaged nearly 5,000 views each — a number Cahill says reflects the community’s demand for reliable, community-centered reporting.
“We are committed to publishing the news the residents deserve,” Cahill added. “Local journalism matters, and Jefferson Township deserves a news source dedicated to covering the people, organizations, businesses, and issues that shape this community.”
Cahill also founded Jefferson Focus’ sister publication, Parsippany Focus, in 1989. Over the decades, Focus Publications has grown into one of the area’s most recognized independently owned local news organizations serving communities throughout Morris County and beyond.
Commissioners John Krickus and Deborah Smith, Frank Cahill, Director Tayfun Selen, Commissioners Christine Myers and Thomas Mastrangelo, and Deputy Director Stephen Shaw. Cahill was recently honored by the Morris County Commissioners.
“In 2015, Parsippany Focus and Cahill were recognized with the prestigious ‘Courage Under Fire’ award by the New Jersey chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. The award was presented on June 27 at the New Jersey Historical Society in Newark by Michael Shapiro, founder and publisher of TAPinto.” The honor recognized Cahill’s successful legal battle to protect journalistic integrity and confidential sources after the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills sought to compel him to reveal sources connected to an article involving former Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Captain James Carifi.
Cahill invoked New Jersey’s shield law, which protects journalists from being forced to disclose confidential sources. The courts ultimately ruled in favor of Parsippany Focus, with Superior Court Judge Honigfeld affirming that “newspersons are allowed to protect the confidentiality of sources.” The decision helped establish an important precedent recognizing that online news organizations are entitled to the same protections as traditional media outlets under New Jersey law.
Focus Publications remains privately owned and operated with the motto: “Your Community. Your News.”
As Jefferson Focus enters its second year, the publication says its mission remains unchanged — keeping residents informed, connected, and engaged while celebrating everything that makes Jefferson Township a special place to live, work, and raise a family.
Cahill received numerous accolades and awards from the New Jersey Governor, Senators, Assembly members, Commissioners, as well as local Mayors and Council members.
Frank Cahill’s leadership has ensured that Focus Publications remains resilient and relevant in an evolving media landscape, continuing to be a vital source of information and community engagement.
Members of the Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce gathered to celebrate community leadership, volunteerism, and local achievement during the Chamber’s annual awards celebration honoring individuals, businesses, and organizations making a positive impact throughout Jefferson Township.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce celebrated the strength and spirit of the local community during its 2026 Awards Dinner held at Casa Bianca in Oak Ridge.
James Wynne was honored by the Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce with the “Public Servant of the Year” award in recognition of his dedicated service and lasting contributions to the Jefferson Township community.
The annual event brought together local officials, business owners, community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and residents for an evening dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations making a lasting impact throughout Jefferson Township.
Among those honored during the evening were Audrey Gorlich, recipient of the Mayor’s Citizen of the Year Award; the Jefferson Township Historical Society, recognized as the 2026 Non-Profit of the Year; James Wynne, honored with the 2026 Public Service Award; Kaia Canales, named 2026 Educator of the Year; and Jefferson Recycling, selected as the 2026 Business of the Year.
The Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce continues to play an important role in supporting local businesses, promoting economic growth, and strengthening community partnerships throughout the township. The annual awards dinner serves as one of the Chamber’s signature events, highlighting the volunteers, educators, public servants, nonprofits, and business leaders whose dedication helps make Jefferson Township a stronger and more connected community.
For more information about the Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce, call (973) 663-2240 or email [email protected].
Members of the Jefferson Township Historical Society proudly accept the “Non-Profit of the Year” award during the Jefferson Township Chamber of Commerce celebration, recognizing the organization’s continued dedication to preserving and promoting the rich history of the community.
Jefferson Township council members Bob Birmingham, Barbie Garruto, and Dan Schultz have made the very crucial decision to endorse the Save Jefferson team for mayor and council in the June Republican primary.
The council members jointly stated: “After 14 months of having town employees told that they cannot contact us without the explicit permission of town hall and continued resistance to transparency in the Township’s business dealings, it is time for Jefferson to vote for new leadership. Rising taxes and closing schools are crushing our community and our current leadership has sat back for the past 8 years and let it all happen. The present administration has lost our confidence and because of that we are proud to endorse the Save Jefferson team. Barranco, Brown and Santasieri are the real Republicans that we need in town hall and they have our full endorsement.”
“We are honored to have the endorsement of the three council members as they are on the frontlines fighting for Jefferson. We share their sentiment towards the current state of the town. Town hall has lost the confidence of the council and it is time for new leadership in Jefferson. On June 2nd vote for real Republicans, vote for Barranco, Brown, and Santasieri to save Jefferson!”
Jefferson Township Clerk Michele Reilly steps down on May 8
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township Clerk Michele Reilly will conclude her service with the township on May 8 after nearly ten years in the position. The announcement was made during the Jefferson Township Council meeting held on May 6.
Reilly, who began serving as Township Clerk in March 2016, has accepted a position as Clerk to the Board of Morris County Commissioners.
As Township Clerk, Reilly served as secretary to the governing body and was responsible for maintaining official township records, administering elections, overseeing public notices, handling Open Public Records Act requests, licensing, and numerous other statutory responsibilities required under New Jersey municipal law.
“Working in Jefferson Township for the last 10 years has been an honor,” Reilly said. “I’m thankful for the people I’ve met here and especially for those who have supported me during my tenure.”
During the meeting, Mayor Eric Wilsusen presented a proclamation recognizing both Reilly and Deputy Clerk Amanda Nevins as part of the 57th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week, acknowledging the important role municipal clerks play in local government operations and in serving as secretary to the governing body.
“The clerk has a lot of roles and responsibilities. There are so many services that the clerk’s office provides, and they do it independently,” Wilsusen said. “I appreciate all you’ve done over the last eight years — you’re going to be missed.”
As part of the recognition ceremony, Reilly received a Certificate of Appreciation honoring her outstanding dedication and commitment during her decade of service to Jefferson Township.
Reilly holds the professional certifications of Registered Municipal Clerk (RMC) and Certified Municipal Registrar (CMR), credentials recognized throughout New Jersey municipal government.
Township officials stated that the search for a new Township Clerk will begin shortly. In the interim, Deputy Clerk Amanda Nevins will assume the additional responsibilities associated with the position and will receive a monthly stipend while performing those duties.
MORRIS COUNTY — Every teen under 18 in New Jersey must have working papers before starting any job — including summer and seasonal work. The entire process is online at MyWorkingPapers.NJ.gov. Schools are no longer involved.
Here’s how it works: once you have a job offer, your employer registers and shares a unique code with you. You complete the online application, your caregiver uploads age verification documents, and you’ll get an email when you’re approved to start.
You’ll need a new application each time, whether you’re switching jobs, changing roles, or returning to a seasonal position.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Township officials have announced a tentative schedule for upcoming fire hydrant flushing operations throughout several neighborhoods in the Milton and Lake Hopatcong sections of Jefferson Township.
Hydrant flushing is scheduled to take place nightly between approximately 9:00 p.m. and midnight. Residents may experience temporary low water pressure and discolored or brown water during flushing operations. Officials noted that the schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions and operational needs.
The flushing program is part of routine maintenance designed to help maintain water quality, remove sediment from water mains, and ensure hydrants remain in proper working condition for emergency use.
Milton Area Schedule
Monday, May 11
Chamberlain from Wellhouse
Notch
Maryann
Tuesday, May 12
Chelsea
Moosepac
Cozy Lake School area
Waters Edge
Wednesday, May 13
Finish Waters Edge
Chamberlain to BVR
BVR
Legion
Thursday, May 14
Swananoas
Paderewski
Cozy Lake Road/Pecan
Monday, May 18
Elro
Pond Hollow
Berkshire Ridge
White Rock
Tuesday, May 19
Schoolhouse
Ridge
Robin
Fairways
Lake Hopatcong Area Schedule
Monday, May 11
Lake Shawnee
Tuesday, May 12
Shawnee
Jessica
Weldon
Wednesday, May 13
Howard
Espanong
Thursday, May 14
Nolans Point
East Shore
Monday, May 18
East Shore
Windjammer
Spinnaker
Tuesday, May 19
Edison
Route 15 Edison side
Wednesday, May 20
Boa Vista
Canal Crossing
Swan
Venetian
Hellers
Bowling Green
Thursday, May 21
Brady
Prospect Point
Peaks
Tuesday, May 25
Lake Forest
Alpine
John Street
Peaks
Wednesday, May 26
181
Winona
Peaks
Residents experiencing brown water following hydrant flushing are advised to run cold water from a faucet until the water clears. Officials also recommend avoiding laundry during flushing hours to prevent possible staining.
Jefferson Township residents and officials gather at the Township Council meeting for the presentation of a proclamation recognizing May as National Osteoporosis Month.
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township has officially recognized May as National Osteoporosis Month, encouraging residents to learn more about bone health, prevention, early screening, and healthy aging.
The proclamation, issued by Mayor Eric F. Wilsusen and the Jefferson Township Council, was scheduled to be read publicly and entered into the minutes of the May 6, 2026 Township Council Meeting.
The proclamation notes that osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, which can increase the risk of bone fragility and fractures. It also emphasizes that osteoporosis often progresses without symptoms until a fracture occurs, making awareness and prevention especially important.
Township officials highlighted the importance of education about bone health, including proper nutrition, regular weight-bearing exercise, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and early screening. These steps can help prevent or delay the onset of osteoporosis and support long-term health and independence, particularly among older adults.
The proclamation also recognizes the role of local and regional health care providers, including the Jefferson Township Health Department, in promoting bone health through education, screenings, and treatment resources for residents.
In addition, the township acknowledged local wellness programs such as Project Healthy Bones, which help provide resources, health education, and activities that encourage active lifestyles and healthy aging for older adults in the community.
By recognizing National Osteoporosis Month, Jefferson Township is encouraging residents of all ages to take proactive steps to protect their bone health, participate in community wellness programs, and support efforts that promote healthy aging throughout the community.
22 Winding Hollow Drive, Oak Ridge, was recently sold for $740,000
JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A single-family home at 22 Winding Hollow Drive in Oak Ridge has sold for $740,000, marking another notable residential transaction in Jefferson Township’s Oak Ridge section.
The home also includes a kitchen designed to serve as a central gathering space, offering convenient access to the home’s main living and dining areas.
The home, located on a 0.69-acre lot, features four bedrooms, two full bathrooms, one half bathroom, and a two-car garage. The property was built in 1994 and includes approximately 3,186 square feet of living space, according to real estate listing information. The sale price equals approximately $232 per square foot.
The Colonial-style residence includes a welcoming front porch, landscaped grounds, a family room with an updated custom fireplace, a primary bedroom suite with a bonus room, a renovated main bathroom, and an unfinished basement offering additional storage. Outdoor amenities include a heated in-ground gunite pool and pool house, providing added recreational space for the property.
According to listing records, the home was originally listed on August 29, 2025, for $774,900 and sold on January 8, 2026, for $740,000. The 2025 property taxes was listed as $14,550 based on a tax assessment of $501,200.
The listing agent was William Roberts of Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan, located in Morristown, as the brokerage associated with the property.
The sale reflects continued buyer interest in Jefferson Township homes offering larger lots, established neighborhoods, and outdoor amenities. Winding Hollow Drive is located in the Oak Ridge section of the township, with access to Jefferson Township schools and nearby residential communities.
