MORRIS COUNTY — A Hackettstown man, Edward W. Wess, filed a false police report in Denville Township. On August 31, Wess reported to Denville Police that he had been assaulted by a group of people on Luger Road and that a blunt object had severely damaged his vehicle. However, after investigating the claim, police determined that the incident did not occur as Wess had described.
As a result, Wess was charged with third-degree false reporting to law enforcement authorities. He voluntarily turned himself into the Denville Police Department, where he was served with a criminal complaint summons. Wess has since been released pending a court appearance.
This case highlights the seriousness of filing false reports, which not only misuses police resources but can also carry significant legal consequences.
Editors 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 reasonable doubt.
DOVER — The Town of Dover Mayor and Council will meet on Tuesday, September 10, at 7:00 p.m. at 37 North Sussex Street. I guess one of these shifts are locked in is my password up low and I can’t login and then you’re stuck in limo somewhere somehow
This meeting is being held in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, also known as the Sunshine Law, N.J.S.A. 10:4-6. Notice of the meeting was sent to the Daily Record and Star-Ledger on January 2, 2024, and published in the Record and Ledger on January 5, 2024. It was sent to the Citizen on February 2, 2024, and published in the Citizen on February 7, 2024. Notice was also posted on the Bulletin Board of the Municipal Building.” These notices were sent within 48 hours before this meeting, and there was sufficient time for the publications to publish them. A copy of said notice is on file with the Municipal Clerk.
Mayor James Dodd (December 31, 2027)
Claudia P. Toro Council Member – First Ward (December 31, 2025)
Sandra Wittner Council Member – First Ward (December 31, 2024)
Sergio Rodriguez Council Member – Second Ward (December 31, 2025)
Geovani Estacio Council Member – Second Ward (December 31, 2024)
Michael Scarneo Council Member – Third Ward (December 31, 2025)
Karol Ruiz Council Member – Third Ward (December 31, 2024)
MORRIS COUNTY — The stage is set for one of the most anticipated pet competitions of the year – WDHA’s Ultimate Rock Dog 2025! For years, this beloved calendar contest has rallied the community in support of shelter dogs, raising tens of thousands of dollars for those searching for their forever homes. This year is no different, and your furry friend has the chance to rock out on the cover of the 2025 Ultimate Rock Dog calendar!
With their spiked collars on and ears perked up, local pups are ready to compete for the “Ultimate Rock Dog” title and a shot at calendar stardom. Entries are now open, and dog owners across the region are submitting photos, hoping to see their beloved pets become the next face of WDHA’s annual fundraising calendar. But the clock is ticking — submissions close at the end of the day on Sunday, September 15th.
Following that, the real excitement begins. From Tuesday, September 16th to Sunday, September 29th, the public will vote, narrowing the field to 12 finalists. These rock star canines will have their moment to shine in the 2025 calendar. Then, at the grand Puptoberfest on Saturday, October 5th, at Horseshoe Lake in Succasunna, the finalists will compete head-to-head for the ultimate honor: to be crowned WDHA’s Ultimate Rock Dog.
The winner will land the prestigious calendar cover, and their victory will also help raise funds for a great cause. All proceeds from the calendar sales go toward supporting local animal shelters and helping dogs in need find their forever homes. It’s a contest that truly makes a difference.
Do you think your dog has what it takes? Now’s the time to enter! Visit the WDHA website and submit your pup’s photo today. If you encounter any issues during submission, don’t fret — WDHA’s Promotions & Marketing Director, Mike Bufis, is here to help at [email protected].
After entering, keep an eye on the public gallery, as all submissions will be posted the next business day. Grab your dog’s favorite treat, sit back, and get ready to watch as the battle for rock dog glory unfolds!
From epic puppy poses to wagging tails, it’s time to unleash the rock star within your furry friend. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a paw-some cause and support shelter dogs in style!
FLORHAM PARK– Dust off your lederhosen and prepare for a fun-filled afternoon as the Florham Park Jaycees gear up to host their annual Oktoberfest celebration on Saturday, September 21. The festivities will kick off at 1:00 p.m., offering a taste of traditional German culture with an afternoon of food, music, and games.
Attendees can enjoy classic German beer selections, hearty traditional food, and a lively atmosphere filled with music and games. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply looking for an exciting way to spend your weekend, this event promises something for everyone.
Tickets for Oktoberfest are priced at $40.00 per person, with a discounted rate of $20.00 for guests under 21. The proceeds from the event will support future community initiatives led by the Florham Park Jaycees, a nonprofit organization dedicated to leadership development and community service.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said a representative from the Florham Park Jaycees. “It’s a great way to bring the community together to enjoy good food, great beer, and even better company, all while supporting local projects.”
For more information or to purchase tickets, attendees can purchase tickets by clicking here.
Make sure to mark your calendars and join the Jaycees in celebrating Oktoberfest, Florham Park-style!
DOVER — On Monday, August 19, 2024, at approximately 1:51 a.m., Dover Patrol Officer Ulises Corona noticed a black sedan speeding along East Blackwell Street, swerving between lanes. The officer had initially been addressing another individual for a local ordinance violation involving an open container of alcohol. Upon seeing the erratic driving, the officer shifted focus to pursue the vehicle. The officer activated emergency lights, followed the sedan as it accelerated, and ran a red light at the intersection of South Salem Street.
The officer caught up with the vehicle as it turned into the 262 East Blackwell Street parking lot. Upon approaching the car, the officer identified the driver as Oswaldo Chavez, 29, of Morristown. When Chavez leaned to his right inside the vehicle, the officer opened the door to stop him and requested assistance from another officer. The interaction took place in Spanish, as Chavez only spoke Spanish. He appeared disoriented, with a strong smell of alcohol on his breath, and he repeatedly gave slow responses to the officer’s questions.
Chavez admitted to drinking alcohol that night, initially stating he had one drink but later acknowledging he had two. He was unable to produce a valid driver’s license. The officer then conducted field sobriety tests, which led to the determination that Chavez was impaired.
Chavez was arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) and handcuffed. His car was impounded, and he was transported to the Dover Police Headquarters for processing. Due to the department’s breathalyzer machine being out of service, Chavez was taken to Randolph Police Headquarters, where he provided two valid breath samples, revealing a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.23%, well over the legal limit.
Chavez was issued the following traffic summonses:
39:4-50 – Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
39:4-50.19 Failure to install interlock/drive car without interlock
39:3-10 – Driving without a license
39:3-40 – Driving after Drivers License/Registration Suspended/Revoked
39:4-81(A) – Failure to obey a traffic signal
He was released into the custody of a responsible adult after signing the necessary paperwork.
This incident underscores the importance of responsible driving and the serious consequences of impaired driving.
Editors 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 reasonable doubt.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
DOVER — On Monday, August 12, 2024, at 1:56 a.m., Dover Police Officer German Liranzo observed a black Honda Accord traveling southbound on South Morris Street. The vehicle was pulled over after it was noticed that the rear license plate lights were not functioning. The officer conducted the stop near the intersection of West Chrystal Street and Searing Lane. As the vehicle pulled over, it began to reverse unsafely toward the patrol car, forcing the officer to sound the emergency horn. Despite this, the vehicle continued to reverse, and the officer had to put the patrol car in reverse to avoid a collision.
The officer then approached the driver, Kevin Gonzalezmarin, 20, from Dover, and informed him of the reason for the stop. While speaking with Mr. Gonzalezmarin, the officer detected the smell of alcohol coming from inside the vehicle and noticed that the driver’s eyes were bloodshot and watery. When asked, Mr. Gonzalezmarin admitted to having “two small drinks.” He also stated that he was not on any medication and had no vision problems, though he mentioned an old soccer injury to his left foot.
Mr. Gonzalezmarin was then asked to leave the vehicle and perform standardized field sobriety tests. The tests were conducted on a flat surface with no obstructions, and the driver was given clear instructions, which he confirmed he understood. During the tests, Mr. Gonzalezmarin exhibited several signs of impairment. In the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, he showed distinct Nystagmus at maximum deviation and onset Nystagmus before reaching 45 degrees. He missed heel-to-toe steps and turned improperly during the Walk-and-turn test. Lastly, in the One-Leg Stand test, he swayed from front to back, used his arms for balance, and placed his foot down.
Based on these observations, Mr. Gonzalezmarin was arrested for driving while intoxicated. He was handcuffed and informed of his Miranda rights in Spanish, which he understood. His vehicle was released to his mother, Luz Marin Cardona, and a search of the vehicle did not yield any intoxicants.
Mr. Gonzalezmarin was then transported to Dover Police Headquarters for processing. During processing, he admitted to taking medication for his left foot before drinking alcohol. As the Dover Police Department’s breathalyzer machine was out of order, he was taken to the Rockaway Borough Police Department, but the machine there also malfunctioned. They arrived at Randolph Police Department, where Mr. Gonzalezmarin provided two valid breath samples. The results showed a blood alcohol content of 0.04 percent.
Mr. Gonzalezmarin was issued the following summons:
•39:3-13.4(B) – Probationary Licensee-too many passengers-after hours •39:3-66 – Maintenance of Lamps •49:4-50 – Operating under the influence of liquor or drugs
Editors 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 reasonable doubt.
Whippany Railway Museum Commemorates the Legacy of the Lackawanna Electric Trains
HANOVER — The Whippany Railway Museum invites families and friends to join them on Sunday, September 8th for a special event commemorating the 40th anniversary of the last run of the iconic “Lackawanna Electrics.” These old Multiple Unit (MU) cars hold a special place in the heart of Northern New Jersey’s railway history, and their legacy continues to endure. One of the museum’s prized possessions, the Lackawanna Subscription Car No. 2454, was the lead car on the final train to arrive at Dover Station on the evening of August 24, 1984.
The “Lackawanna Electrics” appeal lies in their unique blend of nostalgia and history. These steam-era coaches, with their openable windows and Pullman green paint, are etched into the memories of countless commuters. Their headlights, reminiscent of steam locomotives, made them iconic symbols of a bygone era. For decades, the MUs shuttled passengers between grand stations built when the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad thrived on the prosperity of coal profits.
Even as late as the 1960s, the Lackawanna train experience was marked by attention to detail and pride. Trainmen who punched tickets wore polished shoes, and some even sported carnations in their lapels. The railway staff were known for their friendliness, making a simple chat with a station agent a pleasant part of the commute. The Lackawanna’s infrastructure was monumental and well-maintained, reflecting the company’s commitment to excellence.
The Lackawanna Electrics was also a living reminder of the railroad’s golden era, symbolized by the famous “Phoebe Snow” advertising campaign, which highlighted the elegance and efficiency of train travel. For many, these MUs were a beloved connection to a time when everyone traveled by train.
Trains for the anniversary event will depart from 1 Railroad Plaza at the intersection of Route 10 West and Whippany Road in Whippany, New Jersey, at 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. Ticket prices range from $13.00 to $26.00, and the fare includes admission to the museum building and its grounds.
Join the Whippany Railway Museum in celebrating this rich history by booking your tickets at www.WhippanyRailwayMuseum.net.
BOONTON — Edward Forman of Montclair, a longtime educator in the New York City and Boonton school districts and an avid golfer, gardener, and exercise enthusiast, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. He was fifty-four years old.
Edward Forman was born to Alice Forman in the Bronx in 1970. In 1973, he moved to Staten Island with his mother and older sister, Remunda Forman-Fong. A fierce competitor, he excelled in athletics at New Dorp High School on Staten Island. He later attended Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania, where he played football and studied economics. At Bloomsburg, he met his future wife, Carolyn Epting. The two married in 1995 and had two daughters, Danielle and Katelyn.
Boonton High School Grieves the Sudden Loss of Vice Principal Edward Forman
After graduating, Edward began his career in finance as a trader at Bank of America. Still, he soon transitioned to a career in education with the New York City Department of Education. In 2005, he pursued a graduate degree in educational leadership and administration at the University of Scranton. After earning his Master of Education degree, he embraced a new role in school leadership, first as a dean in the New York City school system and later as a vice principal and dean in the Boonton Public School District.
An avid golfer, Edward was known to be on the golf course whenever he could, regardless of the weather. In January 2020, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by playing at Pebble Beach during a trip to California with his wife. He was also a dedicated gardener, transforming the outdoor space of his Montclair home every spring, much to the delight of his mother-in-law, Barbara.
Edward’s passion for fitness extended to his entire family. Despite his distaste for running, he participated in CrossFit and ran half-marathons and one full marathon with his wife. His children and nieces loved and feared his summer workout regimen, affectionately known as “Eddie Bootcamp.” A devoted fan of New York sports teams, especially the New York Giants, he bled blue through both good seasons and bad.
Edward is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his daughters, Danielle and Katelyn; his sister, Remunda; his nieces, Mei-Ling Fong, Kaya Weiser, Allie Weiser, Ava Epting, Chloe Epting, and Cece Jacknick; his nephew, Al Jacknick; and his grand-nephew, Major Stevenson, and grand-niece, A’Mei Stevenson.
He was preceded in death by his nephew, Malik Findley, and his mother, Alice Forman. At his mother’s recent funeral service, he encouraged those in attendance to use the loss of loved ones as a reminder to hold close to those who remain.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hugh M. Moriarty Funeral Home, 76 Park Street. A Mass of Resurrection celebrating his life will take place on Saturday, September 7, at 1:00 p.m. at St. Cassian Roman Catholic Church, located at 187 Bellevue Avenue.
Book Donations Needed for Madison AAUW’s Fall Fundraiser
MADISON — The Madison Area Branch of the American Association of University Women seeks book donations for its upcoming book sale.
Collections will take place from Monday, September 23, to Wednesday, September 25, at the Madison Area YMCA, 111 Kings Road, and the F.M. Kirby Childcare Center, 54 East Street.
The book sale will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 19, at the F.M. Kirby Childcare Center. For a $10.00 fee, shoppers can attend the preview at 9:00 a.m. Additionally, there will be a bag sale from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 20, where shoppers can fill a bag of books for $10.00.
Donors are asked to contribute only gently used books. Donors with more than four boxes can call (973) 476-2751 to arrange for drop-offs at another location in Madison.
The AAUW cannot accept textbooks, encyclopedias, magazines, or audio/visual materials.
The Madison community typically donates around 5,000 books every six months for the semi-annual sale.
AAUW has held book sales nationwide for over 100 years, with proceeds supporting education programs for women and girls. In Madison, funds from the sale benefit the Branch’s Mature Women’s Grants, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs for girls, and the Tech Trek STEM camp for middle school girls.
In the past three years, the branch has awarded 13 grants to local women continuing their education, organized a local STEM event for middle and high school girls, and provided financial aid to four middle school girls to attend the AAUW New Jersey Tech Trek camp this past July.
MORRIS COUNTY — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Bradford Seabury, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Rockaway Borough Police Department Chief of Police Conrad Pepperman confirmed the arrest of Santiago J. Escobar, 32, of Rockaway Borough, on complaint warrants for controlled danger substance and firearm charges arising out of his distribution of cocaine and a handgun in Rockaway, New Jersey.
The complaint warrants allege that between the dates of April 24, 2024, and August 21, 2024, Escobar distributed over 5 ounces of cocaine, a Taurus handgun, and hollow nose bullets in Rockaway, New Jersey. As a result of this investigation, on September 3, 2024, approximately 100 grams of cocaine, several pounds of marijuana, over $1,000 of suspected narcotics proceeds, and scales and baggies commonly used to distribute CDS were seized by investigators.
As a result of the investigation, Escobar has been charged with one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine in an amount of Five Ounces or more, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1)b(1), a crime of the First Degree; one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine in an amount of Five Ounces or more, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:5-2 and N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1)b(1), a crime of the Second Degree; one count of Unlawful Possession of a Handgun, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(b), a crime of the Second Degree; one count of Unlawful Sale of a Handgun, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9(d), a crime of the Fourth Degree; one count of Possession of Hollow Nose Bullets, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-3(f), a crime of the Fourth Degree; one count of Unlawful Sale of Hollow Nose Bullets, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:39-9(f), a crime of the Fourth Degree; six counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine in an amount of One-Half Ounce or more, but less than Five Ounces, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1)b(2), a crime of the Second Degree; five counts of Distribution of Cocaine in an amount of One-Half Ounce or more, but less than Five Ounces, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5a(1)b(2), a crime of the Second Degree; six counts of Possession of Cocaine, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(a)(1), a crime of the Third Degree; one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana in an amount more than One-Ounce but less than Five-Pounds, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-5(b)(11)(b), a crime of the Third Degree; one count of Possession of more than Six Ounces of Marijuana, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10(a)(3)(b), a crime of the Fourth Degree; one count of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia with Intent to Distribute, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:36-3, a crime of the Fourth Degree; and one count of Money Laundering, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:21-25(a), a crime of the Third Degree.
According to the Criminal Justice Reform Act, Escobar has been detained in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a motion for pretrial detention.
Acting Prosecutor Bradford Seabury wishes to thank the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Enforcement Unit, Rockaway Borough Police Department, Town of Boonton Police Department, Morristown Police Department, Roxbury Township Police Department, Dover Police Department, FBI-Newark Division, and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, who worked jointly on this investigation.
Editors 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 reasonable doubt.
