Honored were Sheriff's Officers Gregory Wiatroski, Justin Yen, and Mamdouh Hassan, each recognized for their dedication and service to the community
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the swearing-in of one supervisor and 14 officers in a ceremony at the historic Morris County Courthouse, led by Sheriff James M. Gannon.
We extend a warm welcome to our newly sworn Correctional Police Officers: Jose Abreu Quezada, Matthew Green, Thomas Anderson, Maleek Awan, Almir Bojkovic, Nicholas Falivene, Edward Mastrodomenico, Marcello Guillermo, Daniel Juarez, Katlyn Lloyd, and Kyle Winter. Your diverse talents, dedication, and unique backgrounds will undoubtedly strengthen our mission to serve and protect the community.
We also congratulate Sheriff’s Sergeant Adam Nestinger, and Sheriff’s Officers Justin Yen, Gregory Wiatroski, and Mamdouh Hassan. Each of you has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service and an impressive range of accomplishments that bring honor to the Sheriff’s Office and the community.
Your hard work, determination, and passion for law enforcement inspire all of us. We are excited to witness the incredible contributions you will bring to the Bureau of Corrections and beyond. Together, you represent the very best of what it means to serve with integrity, professionalism, and pride.
Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, and Senator Anthony Bucco
MORRIS COUNTY — In response to the recent escalation of residential home invasions/burglaries, Morris County law enforcement has announced that it will utilize a new law to prosecute home invaders to the fullest extent of the law.
Statewide and in Morris County, thieves have progressed from burglarizing and stealing vehicles using key fobs left in cars, to entering residences – often occupied – looking for key fobs and valuables. This creates the potential for dangerous confrontations, both for the burglar and for the residents, as some of these criminals have been arrested carrying firearms and other weapons.
On Oct. 18, 2024, Governor Phil Murphy signed a bi-partisan bill S-3006. Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Morris County Sheriff James Gannon joined primary sponsor Senator Anthony Bucco for the signing, as they have been strong advocates for the legislation through its drafting.
In brief, the legislation established two new burglary classifications – home invasion burglary and residential burglary. Residential burglary, a second-degree crime, refers to a person entering a residence to commit an offense. Home invasion burglary, a first-degree crime, refers to a person entering a home to commit an offense and ultimately inflicts bodily injury or is armed with a deadly weapon, whether or not that weapon is used.
Both crimes are subject to the No Early Release Act, meaning upon conviction, the person must serve at least 85 percent of their term in prison before becoming eligible for parole. Both offenses also carry a presumption of incarceration, meaning judges are more likely to grant pre-trial detention. A juvenile charged with home invasion burglary or residential burglary, while in possession of a firearm, may be waived from the Family Part of the Superior Court to the Law Division to be tried as an adult.
Prosecutor Carroll said: “My Office has heard from members of the public and our municipal police chiefs that this trend has eroded residents’ sense of security in their homes. These enhanced penalties not only punish the offenders of these heinous crimes but also serve to deter the recruitment of juveniles into criminal organizations by career criminals, which has become a serious problem. We do not want our teenagers to be drawn into criminal networks.
By classifying these crimes as first and second-degree, my fellow prosecutors and I now have enhanced statutory authority to detain subjects in appropriate cases, and if convicted, provide for incarceration for meaningful terms and parole ineligibility. We will not hesitate to utilize these stricter statutes to keep defendants in custody during the pendency of their cases, and aggressively use the law when appropriate to hold those who violate the sanctity of our residents’ homes accountable.”
I wish to thank Governor Phil Murphy, New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, Senator Anthony Bucco, Senator Brian Stack, Senator Vin Gopal, Assemblyman Sterley S. Stanley, Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, Assemblyman Alexander Schnall, and the New Jersey Senate and Assembly members for overwhelmingly passing this critical legislation to protect our citizens from this predatory conduct. I also want to thank the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, the Morris County Police Chiefs Association, and the Sheriffs Association of New Jersey for their steadfast support.”
Sheriff Gannon said, “We know the impact of burglary on the crime victim is second only to sexual assault in regards to its lasting effects. Their home is no longer a safe place. Privacy is violated. The devastation is so immense, that victims often move out and move away. It is our responsibility as law enforcement professionals to diligently protect our citizens, investigate the crimes, and capture the offenders. We do that well, in my opinion. I applaud our legislators, particularly Senator Anthony Bucco, for coming together and enhancing the penalties associated with the crime of residential burglary. It is a great first step in the process of making positive change for the benefit of the crime victim. Now that this is law, I believe we will see a measurable difference in the safety of our communities. This will keep the criminal off the street and out of your house!”
Morris Plains Police Chief and Morris County Police Chief’s Association President Michael Koroski said, “These changes are yet another example of positive and impactful partnerships held between the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Municipal Chiefs of Police. While our Patrol Officers and Detectives are steadfastly patrolling and investigating crimes, our law enforcement leadership is working equally as hard to create and endorse legislation, draft policy, and support initiatives that aim to further protect the citizens of Morris County.”
Prosecutor Robert Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, AP Robert Lombardo, and Chief Robert McNally.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally announce Robert J. Lombardo has rejoined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and was sworn in as an Assistant Prosecutor.
A swearing-in ceremony was held on Monday, December 2, 2024
Assistant Prosecutor Lombardo will be assigned to the Domestic Violence Unit within the Family Division.
AP Lombardo initially served in the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office from December 2021 through March 2024, assigned to detention cases, adult prosecutions, appellate litigation, and Megan’s Law. Most recently, he worked at a private legal practice as a litigation associate.
He previously worked as an assistant prosecutor at the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office from 2020 through 2021, a law clerk at the Superior Court of New Jersey 6th Vicinage, a law extern at the New York County District Attorney’s Office, and held internships at the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, Warren County Prosecutor’s Office, and Centre County Court of Common Pleas.
AP Lombardo graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science; and a Bachelor of Sciences degree in Crime, Law, and Justice; and earned his Juris Doctor from Penn State Law.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “I am glad to have AP Lombardo rejoin our legal team.”
MORRIS COUNTY – Assemblyman Brian Bergen is calling for the resignation of attorney Michael R. Burns, a partner at the law firm of Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, after a controversial incident where police removed a resident from an Edison council meeting.
The incident, captured on video, occurred during a November 25 meeting when Joel Bassoff was escorted out after waving an American flag during his public comment. Both Burns, the municipal attorney, and Democrat Council President Nishith Patel demanded Bassoff put away the flag and stop speaking. When he refused, they barred him from returning to his seat. Local news reports indicate another individual, holding a copy of the U.S. Constitution, was also removed.
The council recently enacted an ordinance banning “props,” including the American flag.
“Who else’s constitutional rights has this guy trampled?” asked Bergen. “Burns’ background in European history and law from U.C. Hastings in San Francisco might explain this blatant disregard for American values.”
Bergen criticized Speaker Coughlin on X (formerly Twitter) and linked the incident to broader issues, including Democrats’ failure to provide property tax relief for disabled veterans.
“The Democrats never fail to show their disdain for America and its citizens. Our flag is now considered a ‘prop’? Scary stuff,” Bergen said.
Edison’s newly adopted ordinance reduces public comment time from six to four minutes, prohibits rebuttals, and bans costumes and props. Bergen slammed Burns for failing to prevent what he called a “costly misstep.”
“Burns’ job is to advise against such unconstitutional ordinances. Instead, he enforced them. He should step down immediately,” Bergen added.
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.
MORRIS COUNTY — Randolph Township Mayor Chris Carey has issued a statement addressing recent reports of drone activity in Morris County over the past two weeks. According to the mayor, there is no known threat to public safety at this time.
The situation is being closely monitored by Randolph Police Chief Will Harzula in coordination with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and various federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. The Mayor emphasized that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of Randolph residents.
Residents with any information about the drone activity are encouraged to contact the Randolph Police Department directly at 973-989-7000. Emergency calls should still be directed to 911. Mayor Carey assured the community that maintaining the safety and security of Randolph Township remains the top priority.
Authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available.
Children Make Up 20% of Homeless Population Amid Statewide Housing Crisis
MORRIS COUNTY — Family Promise of Morris County, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to ending the crisis of homelessness and housing insecurity faced by Morris County families and individuals, announced that it has received a $1.25 million grant from Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez through the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund. This is the seventh year that the Day 1 Families Fund has awarded grants to organizations across the country that are leading the way to move the needle on family homelessness to ensure that no child sleeps outside.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this funding and be nationally recognized for our work across outreach, shelter, and housing,” said Joann Bjornson, LSW, CEO of Family Promise of Morris County. “This support empowers us to expand safe and accessible housing for families in need. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to make a greater impact in our community. As a member of Family Promise National, we are all working together to end family homelessness across the county. “
Family homelessness in the U.S. rose dramatically from 2022 to 2023, and families now represent more than 28 percent of the country’s homeless population, according to a 2024 report from the National Alliance to End Homelessness. With its one-time Day 1 Families Fund grant, Family Promise of Morris County will work to reverse this national trend by serving families experiencing homelessness in Morris County.
Specifically, Family Promise of Morris County plans to use its funds over the next five years for a planned expansion of its program to support moving families from the temporary situation of homelessness to permanent housing. With this funding dedicated to program expansion, the team is actively raising additional funds to support their existing efforts in homelessness prevention, unsheltered homelessness, and healthcare.
A group of national advisors who are leading experts on family homelessness and its solutions, including the intersection of homelessness and housing policy, child welfare, racial equity, and service provision, identified the organizations selected for funding.
“Family Promise of Morris County was a lifeline for me. The support and resources I’ve received not only helped me find housing but also gave my daughter a sense of stability, safety and hope. Now, working at the Family Promise’s Our Promise Drop-In Center, I see firsthand the incredible impact this organization has on families, and I’m proud to be part of a team that helps others find their way home too,” said Angel Johnson, program alumna and Outreach Team member.
Since 2018, the Day 1 Families Fund has awarded 248 grants totaling nearly $750 million to organizations serving families in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The grants are uniquely flexible and enable organizations to support families experiencing homelessness—including those who are unsheltered or staying in shelters—to regain safe, stable housing and achieve well-being.
This year, the Fund issued a total of $110.5 million in grants to 40 organizations, and for the first time, nonprofits in Kansas and New Jersey are among the awardees. The other organizations receiving grants in New Jersey are Family Promise of Essex County, Family Promise of the Jersey Shore, and Monarch Housing Associates. The full list of awardees is available at bezosdayonefund.org/day1familiesfund.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover Fulfills Its Mission with Aid to Honduras
DOVER — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover proudly announced that their donation boxes, filled with children’s clothing and backpacks, have successfully arrived in Honduras. Thanks to the dedication of Dover community member Sonia Yanes, these essential items were distributed to children in need on behalf of the Kiwanis Club.
This act of kindness exemplifies the true mission of Kiwanis—serving children and communities around the globe. The club expressed heartfelt gratitude to Sonia for her incredible efforts in bringing this project to life, showcasing the impact of community collaboration and generosity. It’s a reminder of how small actions can create meaningful change.
For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, click here.
Veterans Across New Jersey Receive Heartfelt Thanksgiving Messages
MORRIS COUNTY — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and her office collected and distributed thousands of Thanksgiving Thank Yous for veterans across New Jersey, written by residents from the 11th District of New Jersey.
“Thank you to all of the students and community members who participated in this year’s Thanksgiving Thank Yous for Veterans program. Our veterans and their families make immense sacrifices to protect us and it is important that, around Thanksgiving, we take the time to show our appreciation for their service to our nation. I know that the cards were truly enjoyed by veterans across New Jersey,” said Representative Sherrill.
The fourth annual Thanksgiving Thank Yous Program provided an opportunity to say thank you to local veterans and active-duty service members in the community. Notes were distributed to military and VA facilities; veteran service providers; and VFWs and American Legions across New Jersey. Thank Yous collected by Representative Sherrill’s office were distributed to organizations that serve New Jersey’s veterans and service members, including:
•United States Coast Guard Training Center, Cape May •Preakness Healthcare Center •Morris County Veterans Services Office •Picatinny Arsenal •Boonton Fireman’s Home •Community Hope •Paramus Veterans Memorial Home •Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home •Vineland Veterans Memorial Home
Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, alongside the Morris Hills High School Key Club, served over 175 meals at the Kenvil IHOP. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.
MORRIS COUNTY — This week, Kiwanis Clubs in Northern New Jersey embraced the holiday spirit by serving over 300 hot turkey dinners to senior citizens and individuals in need, spreading warmth and compassion throughout the community.
“We are honored to partner with the Kiwanis Clubs and Key Club students to host this meaningful event,” said Mo Abdehady, owner of IHOP. “Providing a warm meal and a welcoming space for our senior citizens and those in need is truly special, and we’re proud to be part of such a heartfelt community effort.”
The Morristown High School Key Club, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Morristown, volunteered their time and energy to serve turkey dinners to senior citizens and individuals in need. Their dedication and teamwork embodied the spirit of the season, ensuring every guest felt welcomed and cared for during the event.
In Cedar Knolls, the Morristown Kiwanis Club, in partnership with the Morristown High School Key Club, hosted an event at the Cedar Knolls IHOP, serving over 100 meals. Key Club students greeted guests, guided them to tables, took their orders, and served a hearty meal of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.
Kiwanis Club of Morristown President, Sarah Togawa, extended the spirit of giving by personally delivering hot meals to residents who were unable to attend the Thanksgiving dinner at IHOP. Her thoughtful efforts ensured that everyone, regardless of circumstance, could enjoy a warm meal and feel included in the holiday celebration.
Morristown Mayor Timothy P. Dougherty joined residents at IHOP, sharing in the warmth and camaraderie of a Thanksgiving dinner. His presence highlighted the spirit of community and gratitude, as everyone came together to enjoy a hearty meal and meaningful connections during the holiday season.Colonial Coach generously donated a bus to provide transportation for guests who needed a ride to the dinner, ensuring everyone could participate in the event and enjoy the meal together.
Guests also took home pies—generously sponsored by Barbara Freda of Genesis Health Care and Michelle Gabayoyo, Home Care Director—choosing from Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Apple, Apple Crumb, or Coconut. The pies, provided by ShopRite Parsippany at a discount, added a sweet finishing touch to the day.
On Tuesday, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, alongside the Morris Hills High School Key Club, served over 175 meals at the Kenvil IHOP. Key Club students once again provided a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring guests enjoyed a delicious meal and attentive service. Sponsored by Frank Cahill of Focus Publications, guests also received pies courtesy of ShopRite Parsippany.
Percy Zegarra of Premier Car Service and the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs provided transportation that made this event accessible to our seniors, ensuring everyone could participate in the celebration and enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Dover, alongside the Morris Hills High School Key Club, served over 175 meals at the Kenvil IHOP. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.Frank Cahill, NJ District Governor-Elect, demonstrated the true spirit of service by personally attending to a table of Townsquare Senior Singles, ensuring they felt welcome and cared for during the Thanksgiving dinner. His hands-on approach exemplified the Kiwanis’ commitment to fostering community and connection. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.Michelle Espada and Dover Councilman Geovani Estacio ensured that each guest received a pie, generously sponsored by Frank Cahill, Publisher of Dover Focus. Their efforts added a sweet conclusion to the event, leaving attendees with a memorable and heartfelt experience. Photo by Leonardo Garcia.
On Wednesday, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, joined by the Parsippany Hills High School Key Club, Parsippany High School Key Club, and Mountain Lakes High School Key Club, served over 100 meals at the Parsippany IHOP. Students continued their tradition of hospitality, creating a warm and inclusive environment for all attendees. Barbara Freda and Michelle Gabayoyo once again sponsored the pies, allowing guests to leave with a sweet treat for the holiday. In addition, Cahill and Lt. Governor Nicolas Limanov started the afternoon by delivering hot meals to residents in Parsippany, who are disabled and couldn’t make the trip.
Key Club members enthusiastically stepped up to serve food during the event, embodying the core values of leadership and service. They welcomed guests with warm smiles, took orders, and delivered plates filled with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and more. Their dedication and teamwork ensured a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone in attendance. Photo by Giovanni DiDomenico, ShopMorris County.
“Heartfelt thanks to all the amazing volunteers who came together to serve our seniors today! Your kindness, dedication, and hard work brought smiles and joy to our community. A special shoutout to the Kiwanis Club for your unwavering support and partnership—your passion for service is an inspiration to everyone. Together, we’ve made a lasting impact, creating a day full of love and connection. Let’s continue to spread positivity, one act of kindness at a time,” said Edgar Ortega, General Manager of Parsippany IHOP.
Guests also took home pies—generously sponsored by Barbara Freda of Genesis Health Care and Michelle Gabayoyo, Home Care Director—choosing from Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Apple, Apple Crumb, or Coconut. Photo by Giovanni DiDomenico, ShopMorris County.
Special thanks to Michele Picone, Director of Health and Human Services for coordinating with the seniors making sure everyone was not alone and had an opportunity for a hot meal.
The Parsippany Transit System ensured senior citizens could join the festivities by providing transportation to IHOP, where they enjoyed a hot dinner served by the dedicated Kiwanis Key Club students. This thoughtful service highlighted the community’s commitment to making the event accessible and enjoyable for all.
Justin Chen, New Jersey Key Club Governor, and Janvi Singh, Lt. Governor of Division 17 NJ Key Club, joined the effort, lending their leadership and support to this meaningful community initiative.
“This has been a project of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany for many years,” said Frank Cahill, NJ District Governor-Elect and member of the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. “We added the other clubs last year and continued the tradition this year.”
The initiative, coordinated by Cahill, showcased the strength of community, collaboration, and compassion, demonstrating the impact of service during the holiday season.
Dover Councilwoman Claudia Toro and Carlos Caprioli
DOVER — Mayor James P. Dodd, joined by Councilmembers Claudia Toro and Sergio Rodriguez, celebrated a special community moment at the Dover Public Library: the launch of Carlos Caprioli’s new book, Parque Chas.
Renowned for his captivating storytelling and dynamic character development, Carlos delighted attendees by sharing insights into his writing process, and inspirations, and answering audience questions.
The event was a wonderful tribute to a talented Dover author. Congratulations, Carlos, on this incredible accomplishment, and best wishes for continued success on your literary journey!
The launch of Carlos Caprioli’s new book, Parque Chas.
