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Man Found Guilty by Jury of Aggravated Sexual Assault, Sexual Assault, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert M. McNally, and Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson confirmed that a jury has found Alexander Masariego-Flores, 45, formerly of Morristown, guilty of sexual offenses related to his sexual abuse of a child on multiple occasions between February and September of 2023.

The jury returned guilty verdicts on December 6, following a three-day trial. The defendant was found guilty of three counts of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, two counts of second-degree Sexual Assault, and two counts of second-degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child. He was found not guilty of one count of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault.

The Honorable Claudia R. Jones, J.S.C., presided over the trial and scheduled a sentencing hearing in the matter for February 21, 2025. The defendant will remain in custody until that time.

At sentencing, the Aggravated Sexual Assault convictions will be subject to the provisions of the Jessica Lunsford Act, which makes the defendant ineligible for parole for at least twenty-five years, and the Sexual Assault convictions will be subject to the provisions of the No Early Release Act (NERA), which makes the defendant ineligible for parole until he has served 85% of the sentence imposed. Additionally, the defendant will be subject to Megan’s Law registration requirements and the Special Sentence of Parole Supervision for Life.

On September 16, 2023, the Morristown Police Department received a referral regarding the sexual abuse of a child. Thereafter, members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit and the Morristown Police Department investigated the referral. The investigation revealed the defendant sexually abused a child on multiple occasions between February and September 2023 at her home in Morristown, and that he sexually abused the child on one occasion in front of another child.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation that led to the successful guilty verdicts, including the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, the Morristown Police Department, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Department. The Prosecutor commended Assistant Prosecutor Alyssa DiSturco, Assistant Prosecutor Tina DiFranco, Detective Raquelin Perea, and all others who contributed to the investigation and successful prosecution in this case.

Dover Board of Education President Announces Run for Town Council

By
Frank Cahill
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Daniella Mendez

DOVER — Daniella Mendez, a trailblazing leader and President of the Dover Board of Education, has announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for Town Council in Dover’s First Ward.

“I am running for Council because I believe in Dover’s potential,” said Mendez. “Ward One deserves leadership that is responsive, proactive, and fully committed to our community. Together, we can create a future that reflects the strength and resilience of our town.”

Mendez made history in 2021 as the first trans woman elected to a Board of Education in New Jersey and served as Board President in 2023 and 2024. She chose not to seek re-election to focus on her vision for Dover’s future as a candidate for Town Council.

“During my time as Board President, I saw firsthand the power of open and honest conversations to unite people and bring clarity to challenging issues,” Mendez said. “I believe that collaboration, courage, and a commitment to transparency are key to moving Dover forward, and I am ready to bring that approach to Town Hall.”

Mendez’s campaign centers on building on Dover’s strengths and addressing key priorities such as quality of life, fiscal responsibility, trust, accountability, and unity. She plans to officially kick off her campaign with an event in late January.

Mendez will be seeking the council seat currently occupied by Claudia Toro, whose term is up December 31, 2025.

“The future of Dover is bright, and I believe that by working together, we can achieve so much more,” said Mendez. “This campaign is about turning the page and focusing on what unites us as a community. I am excited to show the residents of Ward One that, with collaboration and determination, Dover can truly thrive.”

2025 Leadership Announced: Selen and Shaw to Drive Morris County’s Vision

By
Frank Cahill
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Freeholder Tayfun Selen (left) with Freeholder Stephen Shaw

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of Commissioners has appointed Tayfun Selen as Commissioner Director and Stephen Shaw as Deputy Director for 2025. Morris County Republican Chairwoman Laura Marie Ali lauded this decision and emphasized their potential to provide fiscally conservative leadership.

Ali noted that the team is committed to maintaining low taxes, investing in infrastructure and education, and continuing the county’s legacy of success, which includes achievements such as having New Jersey’s top-rated county college and vocational school district and maintaining a “AAA” bond rating.

During the announcement, Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, emphasizing his commitment to connecting with residents and upholding fiscally conservative policies.

Deputy Director Stephen Shaw expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Selen and the rest of the board to sustain Morris County as a prime location for living, working, and leisure.

This new leadership team is positioned to advance Morris County’s success and ensure prosperity for its residents in 2025.

Gerard Freda Reflects on 16 Years of Service to the Hanover Park Regional High School Board of Education

By
Frank Cahill
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Gerard Freda, DMD

EAST HANOVER — Gerard Freda, DMD, concluded his remarkable 16-year tenure on the Hanover Park Regional High School Board of Education with a heartfelt farewell during his final meeting. Over five terms, Freda’s leadership and dedication left an indelible mark on the community, contributing to the success of both Hanover Park and Whippany Park High Schools.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve on the Hanover Park Regional High School Board of Education these past 16 years,” Freda began, addressing the attendees. “Serving this community for my five terms has been a wonderful experience.”

Reflecting on the board’s accomplishments, Freda highlighted three successful referendums, numerous initiatives, and lasting improvements that enriched the academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs offered to students. He emphasized how these collective efforts propelled Hanover Park and Whippany Park high schools to become among the top-performing institutions in the state.

“Together, we raised the quality of academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs available to our students,” Freda said. “Our work has left a lasting impact on their lives and on the future of this district.”

Freda expressed profound gratitude to the individuals and teams who supported him throughout his journey. He acknowledged Superintendent Maria Carrell, Board Administrator Bill Albert, former Superintendent Carol Grossi, and his fellow board members—both past and present—for their shared commitment to advancing the district’s goals. He also extended his appreciation to the administration, staff, and parent communities, crediting their partnership and dedication as pivotal to the district’s progress.

“As I step away, I leave with full confidence that Maria, Bill, and the new board will continue to drive our district forward with their strong dedication and vision of the future,” Freda remarked.

Freda closed his speech by thanking the community for the trust and confidence placed in him over the years. “It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve you,” he said, his voice reflecting both pride and gratitude.

With his departure, the Hanover Park Regional High School District bids farewell to a leader whose legacy of service, collaboration, and vision will continue to inspire.

Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney Named 2025 MCPCA President

By
Frank Cahill
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Dover’s Chief Delaney Takes Helm as MCPCA President

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Police Chiefs Association (MCPCA) announced Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney as its 2025 President during the association’s annual holiday luncheon at the Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park. Chief Delaney’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in the MCPCA’s mission to unify law enforcement efforts and enhance public safety throughout the county.

In addition to Chief Delaney’s installation as President, the MCPCA welcomed its 2025 Executive Board:

Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney
  • Vice President: Florham Park Police Chief Joseph Orlando
  • Vice President At Large: Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski
  • Sergeant at Arms: Madison Police Chief John Miscia
  • Treasurer: Wharton Police Chief David Young
  • Secretary: Hanover Police Chief Michael Loock

Chief Delaney expressed his commitment to advancing the association’s goals, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and professionalism among Morris County’s law enforcement agencies. “It is an honor to lead this dedicated group of professionals as we work to strengthen public safety and improve the quality of life for the communities we serve,” Delaney said.

The MCPCA plays a vital role in fostering cooperation among police departments, enhancing training, and implementing innovative strategies to combat crime and protect residents. With a new slate of officers, the association looks forward to continuing its legacy of excellence in law enforcement.

Morris County Honors Outgoing Morris Plains Police Chief Koroski for Leading the MCPCA Through 2024

By
Frank Cahill
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Commissioners Tayfun Selen, Thomas Mastrangelo, Commissioner Director Christine Myers, Commissioner Douglas Cabana, Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski, Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, Commissioners John Krickus and Deborah Smith.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners honored Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski for his leadership and service as the 2024 President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association (MCPCA) during the association’s annual holiday luncheon at the Park Savoy Estate in Florham Park.

Morris County Sheriff James Gannon honoring John Sette, Chairman of Morris County Crimestoppers, as “Honorary Chief” 

Under his guidance, Chief Koroski helped advance the MCPCA’s mission to unify law enforcement efforts and elevate professional standards, in addition to enhancing training and techniques to improve crime prevention, detection, and prosecution across Morris County.

“Chief Koroski’s leadership and more than two decades of dedicated service to Morris Plains have made a tremendous impact on Morris County’s law enforcement community,” said Commissioner Douglas Cabana, presenting a framed Resolution of Honor alongside his fellow County Commissioners.

Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski and Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney

The MCPCA named Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney as its 2025 president and honored John Sette, Chairman of Morris County Crimestoppers, as “Honorary Chief” of the association during the luncheon.

Chief Koroski and Sette were also praised and presented formal awards by Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood on behalf of Prosecutor Robert Carroll and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, and Rockaway Borough Police Chief Conrad Pepperman on behalf of State Sen. Anthony Bucco (Morris-25).

Chief Koroski joined the Morris Plains Police Department in 2001 and served in every rank before becoming Chief of Police on April 1, 2020. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s in leadership and public administration from Centenary University, is a graduate of the Rutgers Certified Public Manager Program, and is an accredited Chief by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

The Patriots’ Path Council of the Boy Scouts of America awarded him the Morris Lifetime Achievement Award earlier this year for his community service and embodying the Scout Oath and Law.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside some of the finest law enforcement leaders in New Jersey. The success of this Association is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of its members,” said Chief Koroski.

The event included the installation of other members of the MCPCA’s 2025 Executive Board:

  • President: Dover Police Chief Jonathan Delaney
  • Vice President: Florham Park Police Chief Joseph Orlando
  • Vice President At Large: Morris Plains Police Chief Michael Koroski
  • Sergeant at Arms: Madison Police Chief John Miscia
  • Treasurer: Wharton Police Chief David Young
  • Secretary: Hanover Police Chief Michael Loock

Prime Office Space Adjacent to Novartis Headquarters Now Available for Lease

By
Frank Cahill
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310 and 315 Health Plaza, two trophy office towers adjacent to Novartis’ northeast headquarters complex. - JLL Capital Markets

EAST HANOVER — Two premier office towers adjacent to Novartis’ northeast headquarters complex in East Hanover, totaling 350,000 square feet, now have space available for lease. This announcement was made on Monday by JLL, which has been appointed as the exclusive marketing and leasing agent for the properties.

The two buildings, located at 310 and 315 Health Plaza, were recently purchased by New Vernon Equities, a locally based investment group, from global pharmaceutical leader Novartis.

New Vernon Equities plans to integrate 310 and 315 Health Plaza into its newly envisioned Arena development, a six-building, 625,000-square-foot innovation hub spanning 20 acres. The development is designed to include multiple outdoor spaces and shared areas to foster collaboration and encourage community interaction.

Novartis will retain approximately 100 acres of its campus, highlighting its ongoing significance in the pharmaceutical industry and its commitment to the local community. Additionally, a partnership between Russo Development and Onyx Equities is repurposing 62 acres, acquired from Novartis in 2021, into a flexible technology and industrial campus.

“New Vernon Equities is excited to finalize the acquisition of 310 and 315 Health Plaza and to introduce our visionary plan to transform this pharmaceutical complex into a modern, dynamic campus,” said Peter Gilpatric, who co-founded New Vernon Equities in 2019 with Michael Mackessy and Mike Petillo. “Arena will serve as a hub where diverse organizations can come together to collaborate. The campus will feature workspaces integrated with lush outdoor lounges and vibrant amenities that inspire innovation and connection.”

New Vernon Equities has previously acquired four properties surrounding the Novartis campus. These include 30 Farinella Drive, fully leased to biotech leader GenScript; 31 Farinella Drive, currently available for lease; and 135 Route 10, a two-story office building undergoing reimagining for future use.

The Arena development, totaling 625,000 square feet of office and research space, is being designed to enhance well-being, promote inclusivity, and provide an ideal environment for productivity and growth. An immersive biophilic corridor will connect 310 and 315 Health Plaza, and the campus will include multiple cafeterias, fitness centers, wellness zones, and expansive outdoor spaces for recreation and relaxation. The JLL leasing team consists of Executive Managing Director Tim Greiner, Managing Director Blake Goodman, and Associate Colleen Maguire.

“We are proud to contribute to transforming this iconic New Jersey workplace into a hub for the workforce of the future,” said Greiner. “As the name suggests, Arena will be a center of activity, innovation, and collaboration, inspiring the next generation of innovators from companies that can grow and learn together.”

The Arena campus will primarily occupy the southeast quadrant of the intersection of New Jersey Route 10 and Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover, a community consistently ranked among New Jersey’s best places to live and a prominent amenity corridor in Morris County. The property offers convenient access to Route 10, Route 24, and Interstate 287, as well as proximity to Morristown Airport, ensuring accessibility from all directions.

Dover Honors the Legacy of Shirley Jerome, Retired Educator and Advocate

By
Frank Cahill
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Shirley A. Jerome, Lifelong Educator and Community Icon, Passes Away

DOVER — Shirley A. Jerome (Harper) passed away on December 7, 2024. She was born in 1939 in Long Branch, New Jersey, to Anna Marie Harper and Bill Harper. She moved to Dover at the age of five, attended Dover Public Schools, and graduated from Dover High School in 1957. Shirley went on to graduate from Paterson Teachers College in 1961.

Shirley worked for the Dover Board of Education for 51 years, retiring in 2015. She served the district as a Classroom Teacher, Basic Skills Math Instructor, and District Test Coordinator for grades 1-8. Most of her career was spent at Academy Street School as a classroom teacher.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Samuel M. Jerome; her mother, Anna Marie Harper; her father, William M. Harper; and her sister, Mildred Claudeen Orlandi. She is survived by her two sons, Sam M. Jerome and Steve M. Jerome; her sister, Mary J. Rodriguez; her stepdaughter, Marlene Halcott; several nephews and nieces; and many wonderful and caring friends.

Shirley was a member of the New Jersey Retired Education Association, the Morris County Education Association, and the Boost Your Mind Group of Long Valley, NJ.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tuttle Funeral Home in Randolph (Tuttlefh.com). A Funeral Service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at the funeral home, followed by interment at Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover.

Man Sentenced in Connection with 2022 Aggravated Sexual Assault and Robbery on Traction Line Recreation Trail in Morristown

By
Frank Cahill
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Morris County Prosecutor

MORRIS COUNTY –Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Morristown Police Chief Darnell Richardson, and Morris Township Police Chief Robert Shearer confirmed the sentencing of Lizandro Osorio-Mejia, 20, in connection with an aggravated sexual assault and robbery that occurred on May 3, 2022 in Morristown on the Traction Line Recreation Trail.

On August 19, 2024, Osorio-Mejia pled guilty to one count of first-degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, one count of first-degree Robbery, and one count of third-degree Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose.

On December 6, 2024, the Honorable Claudia Jones, J.S.C. imposed a sentence of ten (10) years in New Jersey State Prison, with eight years and six months of parole ineligibility. Defendant was also sentenced subject to the No Early Release Act, and Parole Supervision for Life. Upon release, Osorio-Mejia will be subject to Megan’s Law and is not to have any contact with the victim.

Osorio-Mejia was arrested following an investigation into the May 3, 2022 incident on the Traction Line Recreation Trail in Morristown. Two males, Osorio-Mejia and a juvenile, approached the female victim and asked for money. When the female victim did not provide money, Osorio-Mejia pushed the victim to the ground and sexually assaulted her while the juvenile male watch stood nearby. Osorio-Mejia was armed with a rock at the time of the assault. Thereafter, both suspects fled the area. Both suspects were unknown to the victim.
Osorio-Mejia was subsequently arrested and charged, along with the juvenile male, on May 6, 2022. He has been in custody since his arrest.
The juvenile involved in the incident, now identified as Kenneth Barios Aviles, previously pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Theft, an offense that would constitute a crime of the third degree if committed by an adult. On December 18, 2023, the Honorable Michael P. Wright, J.S.C. imposed an 18 month probationary disposition, with credit for time-served (40 days), and no contact with victim.

Members of the Morristown Police Department, Morris Township Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division and Crime Scene Investigations Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit contributed to the successful prosecution of the case.

County College of Morris Opens Veterans Resource Center

By
Frank Cahill
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President Dr. Anthony Iacono, Assemblyman Michael Inganamort, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, CCM Coordinator of Veteran and Military Services Shenandoah Ellis-Ulmer, MSgt (ret.), USAF, CCM Board of Trustees Jim Loveys, Dave Cathcart, U.S. Army Veteran, Scott Dadaian, U.S. Navy Veteran, CCM Board of Trustees Chair Paul Licitra, Emerson Crooks, Marine Corps Veteran, CCM Board of Trustees Justin Lash, Deacon Rich Reck, U.S. Army Veteran, Morris County Commissioners Deborah Smith and John Krickus.

MORRIS COUNTY — The County College of Morris (CCM) celebrated the grand opening of its Veterans Resource Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, December 6, drawing veterans, students, and local dignitaries from around the county in support of a reconstructed area of Sheffield Hall that will assist veterans and their families both on campus and in the broader community.

The Veterans Resource Center on campus was designed to provide a dedicated space for veterans to access U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits, academic and career advice, and counseling services. The center will also connect veterans to county, state, and federal resources available directly on campus.

Assemblyman Mike Inganamort and Commissioner Deborah Smith.

“This center represents years of dialogue, effort, and collaboration to meet the needs of our veterans,” said Morris County Commissioner John Krickus. “Morris County is proud to expand services for our veterans, including doubling the space for our Veterans Services Office and adding a fourth Veterans Services Officer. With partnerships at the state and federal levels, we continue to provide critical resources, from mental health and housing assistance to educational support.”

Commissioner John Krickus speaking to the attendees at the December 6 CCM Veterans Resource Center ribbon cutting.

The CCM Veterans Resource Center was developed in partnership with a Veterans Steering Committee comprised of representation from CCM, public officials, area veterans, and organizations including the VA and many others throughout the state and county. The steering committee was led by CCM Board of Trustees Chair Paul Licitra (U.S. Army Vietnam veteran), former director of the Secaucus Vet Center David Cathcart (U.S. Army Vietnam veteran), Morris County Commissioner John Krickus (U.S. Marine Corps veteran), U.S. Dept. of VA Public Affairs Specialist Scott W. Dadaian (U.S. Navy veteran), Morris County Sheriff’s Officer Ryan Wood (U.S. Army Veteran), and VFW Post 7333 members Emerson Crooks (U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran), Deacon Richard Reck (U.S. Army Korean War veteran) and William Menzel (U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran).

During the event, Assemblywoman Aura Dunn (Morris-25) and Assemblyman Mike Inganamort (Morris-24) presented joint assembly resolutions to Cathcart, Crooks, Menzel, Dadaian and Reck, and Paul Licitra acknowledged Wood, who had just returned home from being deployed.

“The Center was created with extensive input from community veterans,” said Dr. Anthony Iacono, president of CCM. “It will be a true resource not only for CCM students who are veterans, but for veterans in the community along with their families. CCM is honored to have this opportunity to serve the men and women who have sacrificed for our country, allowing all of us to enjoy freedom and democracy.”

The idea for the center originated after CCM hosted the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall in July 2022, an initiative spearheaded by State Senator Anthony Bucco in partnership with VFW Post 7333. Following the event, CCM leadership engaged with veterans to identify their needs and began planning the resource center.

Attendees at the ceremony included Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith, County Administrator Deena Leary, Sheriff James Gannon, Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Morris County Chamber of Commerce President Meghan Hunscher, and Kasey Errico and Christine Hellyer of the Morris County Department of Human Services. Representatives from U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill’s office, State Sen. Anthony Bucco and U.S. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), as well as Randolph Township Mayor Christine Carey, Councilmembers Joseph Hathaway and Joanne Veech, and Mount Olive Mayor Joe Nicastro, were also in attendance.

The event followed a soft opening for the Veterans Resource Center that Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw and Commissioner Krickus attended in November.

The Veteran Resource Center’s services are available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Veterans can reach out to CCM’s Coordinator of Veteran and Military Services, Shenandoah Ellis-Ulmer, MSgt (ret.), USAF, at 973-328-5220 or [email protected].

For more information click here.

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