Thursday, October 10, 2024
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Hanover Township Wants Your Pets!

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Oliver was rescued from a high kill shelter

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Hanover Township officials are looking for pictures of residents’ pets for possible use in the “Great Things Happen in Hanover” 2023-2024 desk calendar.

Residents who are interested in submitting pictures for consideration should submit their high-resolution color pictures in a JPEG format until May 1, 2023,  to info@hanovertownship.com.

The assistant business administrator and project coordinator will review all submissions and select those that will work best. 300 calendars will be printed and distributed to residents for free during public events including Hanover Township Day. An online version will also be posted on the township’s website.

The township will confirm receipt of all submissions and follow up later with everyone whose picture was selected. All contributors whose photographs will be included in the calendar must sign the township’s standard release form to verify the owner’s consent to allow the picture to be used. Each contributor will receive a photo credit under their picture.





Suspicious Male Entered Weston Assisted Living

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Weston Assisted Living

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Hanover Township Police Department responded to 905 Route 10, Weston Assisted Living, regarding a report of a suspicious male that entered the building, on Thursday, October 20  at 7:27 p.m.

The property that 905 Route 10 is located on also encompasses 901 and 903 Route 10. These buildings contain approximately 200 apartments, along with administrative offices, medical facilities, and spaces for leisure activity.

This initial report was called in by an employee who described the male as wearing all-black tactical clothing, combat boots, and carrying a backpack.

During these initial stages of the investigation, Officers made contact with additional employees of the facility and were provided the following description of the suspicious person: a white male unshaven for about 48 hours or so, with dark hair, approximately 5’6″ tall, who was wearing a dark jacket, dark pants, military boots, a bulletproof vest and carrying a large backpack.

Due to the sensitive nature of the location and the number of residents throughout the complex, additional law enforcement resources were requested to assist with a search in an attempt to locate the suspicious individual. With the assistance of the administrative personnel and facility staff for the complex, law enforcement was able to coordinate and complete a search of the interior of the buildings at 903 and 905 Route 10 and the surrounding property. This search was unsuccessful in locating anyone matching the description of the suspicious person that had been earlier reported.

Additional information that was gathered by law enforcement during the investigation was compiled and analyzed. Based on this information and the physical search of the buildings not resulting in locating an individual that matched the previously described suspicious person, the investigation has been turned over to the Hanover Township Police Department Detective Bureau.

There is no credible threat to the location or surrounding area. The Hanover Township Police Department Detective Bureau will continue the investigation to identify and locate the individual.

The Hanover Township Police Department was assisted at the scene by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Florham Park Police Department, Madison Police Department, East Hanover Police Department, Hanover Township Office of Emergency Management, Whippany Fire Department, Cedar Knolls Fire Department, First Aid Squad, East Hanover Office of Emergency Management, along with the New Jersey State Police Aviation Unit.

Anyone that has information that may assist in identifying this individual is asked to contact the Hanover Township Police Department at (973) 428-2511.




Man Wanted By Morris County Prosecutor’s Office

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Tyson McCoy
Tyson McCoy

MORRIS COUNTY — Tyson McCoy is wanted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Narcotics Task Force, for numerous drug related offenses, including first degree Possession with Intent/Distribution of narcotics, announced the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

McCoy is a 41-year-old male, 6’1’’ tall, and approximately 180 pounds, they said.

He has a barbed wire tattoo on his forehead and multiple other tattoos.

McCoy goes by the nickname “Nitty Gritz” and is the subject of an active arrest warrant.

He is known to frequent the Morristown and Dover areas. If you have any information, please contact the Morris County Sheriff’s CrimeStoppers call (973) COP-CALL or click here.





Hanover Township P.B.A. 128 Food, Wine, and Beer Festival

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There were many other choices available

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — The Hanover P.B.A. held their Annual Food, Wine and Beer Festival at Bee Meadow Park/Brick Yard Field on Sunday, October 2.

Despite the dreary, cool, and windy weather there was a nice turnout of supporters and friends who ventured out to enjoy a full day of good food, drink, and activities.

Brick Yard Field was filled with various food trucks offering a wide variety of different cuisines, beer and wines providing your choice of many of your favorite brew and/or wine to suit your palate. Plenty of local vendors were on hand selling their assorted wares and providing public service information. And of course, the kids were also able to enjoy rides, face painting, and other youth orientated activities throughout the event.

A large tent, with plenty of seating was available, with large screen televisions available to catch both the Giants and Jets game, or to just sit and enjoy a crispy pizza from Avellino’s, a Pierogi from Smaczny, a cold one from Angry Dad’s, or one of the many other choices available; while a live band, “Suspended Justice”, played continuously throughout the afternoon.

All things considered, it was a fun packed afternoon; and despite the chill in the air, all those who attended shared a wonderful early fall day with family, friends, neighbors, and supporters. Congratulations to Hanover P.B.A. on a successful event.





Morris County School of Technology Collaborates with Morristown Museum, Macculloch Hall

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MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County School of Technology History and English Departments recently collaborated with the local Morristown museum, Macculloch Hall. The interdisciplinary lesson centered around the essential question, “How does the past shape our future?” Macculloch Hall provided the teachers with copies of primary sources that are housed at the museum. Sources included an original letter written by General George Washington to Robert Morris (1777) and Thomas Nast’s cartoon, Uncle Sam’s Thanksgiving Dinner (1869).

Cynthia Winslow, Curator of Education and Community Engagement, and Dr. Patricia Pongracz, Executive Director from Macculloch Hall recently visited the school to facilitate the lesson. Winslow and Dr. Pongracz led discussions about key takeaways from each primary source. Students were able to engage deeper with the primary sources to determine how we can learn from the past to better ourselves for the future.

Macculloch Hall Historical Museum’s Executive Director, Dr. Patricia Pongracz, said, “MHHM loves being in the classroom sharing primary sources that highlight where in Morris County history happened. We hope that the students learn as much from us as we always do in conversation with them. And we love when students then bring their families to visit so we can continue the conversations at MHHM.”

Sophomore students worked in small groups to answer questions about the importance and reliability of primary sources in academia and reviewed proper ways to incorporate text evidence in their writing to support their claims.

Authentic and interdisciplinary lessons break down the walls of the classroom to allow students to engage with the real world. The experience allows students to connect with professionals and create meaningful learning connections. Lisa Adams, Supervisor of Instruction shared, “At MCST we try to connect our students with members of various professions to expose them to potential career opportunities. While most of these connections take place in their Career and Technical Education courses, our academic teachers also see the value in collaborating with others outside of our school walls.” The English and History Departments will continue to plan and facilitate interdisciplinary lessons in future classes. Students will engage in real-life projects and various guest speakers throughout the year.

Macculloch Hall is located in the heart of Morristown’s National Historic District. Macculloch Hall Historical Museum preserves and interprets its historic house and gardens, unparalleled collection of the work of political cartoonist Thomas Nast (1840-1902), fine and decorative arts collections, and Macculloch family archives, inspiring visitors to experience everyday American history where it happened. To learn more information click here.

Morris County Vocational School District offers a wide range of career and technical education programs that inspire and prepare students to succeed in today’s world and pursue tomorrow’s opportunities.  Programs range from auto service and construction trades to healthcare sciences, performing arts and cybersecurity. The high school offers full-time academies and share-time programs on its Denville campus. In addition, through collaboration with local school districts and the County College of Morris, it offers full-time academies and share-time programs established at off-site satellite locations. To learn more about full-time academies and share-time high school programs click here or call (973) 627-4600 ext. 277.





Knoll West Bar & Grill Opens to the Public: A New Shining Star

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Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio cuts the ribbon at the new Knoll West Bar & Grill - Catering, 990 Greenbank Drive, Boonton, NJ 07005 (Located in Parsippany)

PARSIPPANY  — If you happen to be a follower of these restaurant reviews, you are aware of the wonderfully eclectic abundance of diverse eateries that fortunately call home in Morris County. In the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills a bright new go to destination has joined that elite group of culinary institutions.

The Bar & Grill offers a fine wine, cocktails, and gourmet food experience

This past September the Knoll West Bar & Grill celebrated their long-awaited grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony. Attending the Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting ceremony was Mayor James Barberio, Council President Michael dePierro, Council Vice President Loretta Gragnani, Councilman Justin Musella, Councilman Frank Neglia, Former Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, Morris County Commissioner Thomas Mastrangelo, Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Committee Chairman Frank Cahill, members Tom Williams, Drew Blind, Raj Dichpally as well as Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce President Robert Peluso.

The Bar & Grill will now be open to the public, for the first time, as a full-time sports themed, casual, comfortable upscale restaurant, offering a fine wine, cocktails, and gourmet food experience. I thought this would be a great for a visit to this new, highly anticipated, sports bar and reportedly “upscale continental” dining experience.

Knoll West Country Club

Once you ascend the steps to the Knoll West Country Club, which its majestically perched on the top of a hill, on entry one must be impressed with the grandeur of the foyer and sitting room. The attractive, stylish, elegance you initially encounter, with a giant bouquet of flowers, beautiful paintings, decorative fireplace, and perfectly accentuated seating and classy decor immediately creates an atmosphere that tells you that this venue is something special.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Michael dePierro,, Kelli Laglia Olsen, Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio and Knoll Country Club Manager Kevin Brancato, at the ribbon cutting ceremony
The room was filled with a contagious energy, perfect for a sports bar, with many in the room sporting their blue Giants attire

A quick left turn leads one into the newly renovated Bar & Grill where you enter a brightly lit, airy, spacious room, with high ceilings, multiple circular wood topped designed tables, thoughtfully spaced throughout the room, accompanied by beautifully matched upholstered white & brown seating, gray patterned carpeting which offset the soothing pale blue walls. Floor to ceiling windows, provide not only great lighting, but captures a picturesque panoramic view of the Knoll West course.

window seating overlooks both the 1st and 10th holes of the West course
The outdoor balcony

In fact, window seating overlooks both the 1st and 10th holes of the West course, as well as an enticing view of the perfectly manicured fairways. Along the back wall sits the lengthy marble designed bar, with ample seating to accommodate approximately fifteen or so people, and along with the usual selection of liquors, specialty cocktails, assorted wines, and nine beers on tap, including local craft beers from three different breweries, IPA’s, Strongbow Cider, Sierra Nevada Hazy, and of course your usual favorites. Four of the grill’s large screen T.V.’s provides those sitting along the bar with a clear and unencumbered view of the screens. In addition to those T.V.’s at the bar, there are an additional six T.V.’s spaced throughout the dining area, both on the back wall and decorative beams, so those visiting the restaurant can easily watch and enjoy their favorite sports team from any location. I guess I should mention that the Bar & Grill does offer the full “NFL Package.” Despite the obvious activity, the acoustics throughout are excellent and comfortable, allowing diners to easily converse without difficulty.

The attractive, stylish, elegance you initially encounter, with a giant bouquet of flowers, beautiful paintings, decorative fireplace, and perfectly accentuated seating and classy decor immediately creates an atmosphere that tells you that this venue is something special.

I returned a couple of days after my initial visit to check out the vibe during the Giants/Packers game. The dining room, which seats approximately one hundred, was packed. The room was filled with a contagious energy, perfect for a sports bar, with many in the room sporting their blue Giants attire. It should be noted that the atmosphere was clearly family friendly as well, with a mixed and happy crowd, including some young ones, totally enjoying the experience. It appears to me that this new venue will be a wonderful new addition to the Township, and appears destined to become one of Parsippany’s shining stars.

Bavarian Knot; a Jumbo Pretzel

A guest and I stopped in for lunch on a Friday afternoon, we sat by a window table overlooking the starter’s shack and enjoyed the golfers teeing off on the first hole as I enjoyed my cold draft Yuengling, and we discussed the menu items. For a starter I chose the Bavarian Knot; a Jumbo Pretzel (and I mean humongous), which came presented on a metal stand, and accompanied by Jalapeño Beer Cheese and Honey Mustard dipping sauces. I love hot pretzels, and this one was something I will certainly order over and over. The pretzel was just warm enough, had the right crispiness to the outside, and was nice and chewy inside. Delicious! This could have been my meal by itself. The dipping sauces were the perfect accompaniment, especially the Jalapeño Beer Cheese.

Classic Club
10-ounce California Burger

Then came my 10-ounce California Burger, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, mayo and cheese, and served on a Brioche Bun. I know it is only a burger, but it was tasty and very well done. Cooked to perfection and packed with toppings and a side of crispy French Fries. After the pretzel and burger (which even I could not finish) I surrendered. My friend chose the Classic Club; on Country White Roasted Turkey, Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, and Mayo, which was also served with a choice of French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries. It too was a generously sized portion and easily satiated his appetite.

Demetri Rotsides, Joe Jannarone, Jr., Pat Minutillo and Kypros Andreou

After finishing our dinner, I had the pleasure of having Kypros Andreou, General Manager, and Demetri Rotsides, Food and Beverage Director for the Knoll Country Club and Catering join us at our table to discuss the upcoming plans for the Bar & Grill (www.KnollCatering.com)

A little history, Mr. Andreou had been the long time General Manager of Knoll C.C. Catering prior to its two years and eight month hiatus due to the pandemic, and has now, after being awarded a new contract returned to resume those duties with the municipal utility. Both gentlemen informed me that the restaurant has now acquired two highly renown Chef’s with impressive resumes, both with training at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), and one trained at the French Culinary Institute of New York, as well as extensive culinary experience in some highly acclaimed restaurants, including such places as Ninety Acres. They were proud to note that everything in the Bar & Grill will be made from scratch, using local produce, and with a menu that will indulge your appetite.

The Bar & Grill’s new full menu will include “Brunch,” which offers such choices as Avocado Toast, The Classic Benedict, a Breakfast Burrito, as well as other great selections. “Starters,” include such tantalizing items as Crispy Firecracker Shrimp, Birria Tacos, Prince Edward Island Mussels, Jumbo Wings. “Handhelds,” offers a Duck Confit Sandwich, Short Rib Sandwich, Hole-in-One Burger, a well as many other delectable choices. The “On the Greens” section offers a choice of appetizing salads, and of course there is a lot more that is too extensive to cover in this review. You will have to check that out for yourself.

Other upcoming plans include opening the outdoor patio area, which overlooks the 18th hole. “Food and Drink Specials” will be offered throughout the season. “Game Day Specials” (buffets and reduced priced drinks), “Rotating Seasonal Menus” will be forthcoming, and after speaking with both Mr. Andreou and Mr. Rotsides I am confident the future holds many great things to come from the Knoll West Bar & Grill.

If you are a sports fan, or just looking for a new, and fun, dining adventure make sure to stop by the Knoll West Bar & Grill. I know I will be stopping in now and again to catch a game, and to try some more of those mouthwatering dishes.

The Knoll West Bar and Grill is open 7 days a week to both members and the public for brunch, lunch and dinner! Current hours are 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with hours expected to expand during the first week of November from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Knoll West Bar & Grill – Catering, 990 Greenbank Drive, Boonton, NJ 07005 (Located in Parsippany)  (973) 263-7110 www.knollcatering.com





Sheriff’s Office Charges Three Suspects with Thefts at County Parks

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File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon announced that two men and one woman have been arrested and charged in connection with motor vehicle burglaries.

On Monday afternoon, October 10, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division responded to multiple motor vehicle burglaries across the Morris County Parks. At least five vehicles were burglarized.  The Patrol Division alerted surrounding agencies.  The cars were parked in various County Parks in Mendham Township, Chester Township and Washington Township.

A few hours later, at approximately 6:45 p.m., the Peapack and Gladstone Police Department, located in Somerset County, conducted a motor vehicle stop on a suspicious vehicle.  After an investigation, it was determined the occupants of the vehicle were suspects in the burglaries that occurred in the Morris County Parks.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Detective Squad responded to the Peapack and Gladstone Police Department and conducted a follow up investigation.  Through the investigation, it was determined the three occupants, Bennie M. Ogletree of Coral Springs, FL, Travis J. Ward of Fort Lauderdale, FL and Misty M. Stover of Philadelphia, PA were responsible for the motor vehicle burglaries that occurred within Morris County.  The actors were arrested and charged with the following crimes:

Ogletree was arrested and charged with:

  • Three counts of Burglary in violation of NJSA 2C:18-2A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • Three counts of Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of NJSA 2C:20-3A, a crime of the 3rd
  • Two counts of Credit Card Theft in violation of NJSA 2C:21-6C(1), a crime of the 4th
  • Three counts of Conspiracy in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:18-2A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • Three counts of Conspiracy of Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:20-3A, a crime of the 3rd

Ward was arrested and charged with:

  • Three counts of Burglary in violation of NJSA 2C:18-2A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • Three counts of Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of NJSA 2C:20-3A, a crime of the 3rd
  • Two counts of Credit Card Theft in violation of NJSA 2C:21-6C(1), a crime of the 4th
  • Three counts of Conspiracy in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:18-2A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • Three counts of Conspiracy of Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:20-3A, a crime of the 3rd

Stover was arrested and charged with:

  • One count of Possession, Use or Being Under the Influence, or Failure to Make Lawful Disposition in violation of NJSA 2C:35-10A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • One count of Hindering Apprehension or Prosecution in violation of NJSA 2C:29-3b(4), a crime of the 4th
  • One count of Use or Possession with Intent to Use in violation of 2C:36-2A, a Disorderly Persons offense.
  • Three counts of Burglary in violation of NJSA 2C:18-2A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • Three counts of Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of NJSA 2C:20-3A, a crime of the 3
  • Two counts of Credit Card Theft in violation of NJSA 2C:21-6C(1), a crime of the 4th
  • Three counts of Conspiracy in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:18-2A(1), a crime of the 3rd
  • Three counts of Conspiracy of Theft by Unlawful Taking in violation of NJSA 2C:5-2A(1)/2C:20-3A, a crime of the 3r

Sheriff Gannon commended the Patrol Division and Detective Squad for a quick investigation.  Gannon said, “The Morris County Sheriff’s Office continues to uphold the safety and the security in the Morris County Parks.  This is a great example of fast police work.  People should be able to enjoy the County Parks on a beautiful day without any worries.”

The three actors were charged on complaint warrants and lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility.  The Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Section also assisted in the investigation.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or signing a criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  Despite this accusation, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until he or she has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.





Morris County Proclaims October “Arts & Humanities Month”

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With the proclamation, Director Selen, Tom Werder, Jenna Castano, Dave Sipple, Weusi Baraka, Commissioner Deborah Smith, Commissioner Stephen Shaw, Commissioner Deputy Director John Krickus and Commissioner Kathryn DeFillippo.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed October 2022 “Arts and Humanities Month” during a recent work session meeting in Morristown.

Director Selen presents proclamation to Tom Werder of Morris Arts

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen read parts of the formal resolution as he presented the framed proclamation to Tom Werder, Executive Director of Morris Arts. Werder was joined by Weusi Baraka, Director of Arts in Community for Morris Arts; Dave Sipple, President, Morris Music Men, and Jenna Castano, Director of Marketing and Communications for Morris Arts.

“Tonight, Morris County will resume an annual practice that was interrupted by the pandemic.  The Board of County Commissioners will formally recognize the month of October to be Arts and Humanities Month by virtue of the proclamation I now hold,” said Director Selen.

“It says in part, that we honor arts and humanities because they have come to embody much of the accumulated wisdom, understanding and imagination amassed over the centuries by humankind and have allowed us to explore ideas, express emotions and better appreciate the diverse and many cultures around the globe,” the director added.

Many organizations, nonprofits and small businesses involved in the arts and humanities benefited from the Morris County Small Business Grant Program, which was launched on Valentine’s Day and closed to applications last month.  Designed to assist small businesses and nonprofits still impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, 723 grants had been approved as of September 30, although many applications submitted by that deadline are still under review.

Among the grants were more than 40 approved for groups such as the Growing Stage in Netcong, the Morris County Art Association, the Morris Museum, the Denville String Band, the All Children’s Art Center, The Barn Theatre, the Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, The Shakespeare Theater of New Jersey and, of course, The Morris Arts.

The Morris Arts has been actively promoting the arts in Morris County for nearly 50 years and that work is noted in the proclamation presented.

Jenna Castano, Dave Sipple, Tom Werder and  Weusi Baraka posing with proclamation in the Morris County atrium, where Morris Arts is currently sponsoring the “Through Women’s Eyes” exhibit – the works of five women artists now on display and available for viewing by the public for free




Prosecutor’s Agent Issued Commendation For Rendering Medical Assistance While Off-Duty

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Prosecutor Carroll congratulates Agent Amato

MORRIS COUNTY —  On Tuesday, October 11, Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll issued a commendation to Agent Gus Amato for rendering medical assistance while off-duty.

The commendation, signed by Prosecutor Carroll, First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie M. Calderwood, and Chief of Detectives Christoph K. Kimker, was prompted by Agent Amato’s potentially life-saving actions on Thursday, September 15, 2022.

At approximately 12:10 p.m., while on a scheduled day off, Agent Amato entered the BP Gas Station, 42 East Main Street, Denville, where he observed an employee, (who declined to be identified in this release), within the convenience store exhibiting odd and peculiar behavior, and who appeared confused.

Based upon his prior law enforcement first aid training and experience, Agent Amato correctly identified that the victim was suffering from a medical episode.  Agent Amato assisted the victim to the floor, then called 9-1-1 and requested medical assistance. While waiting for the arrival of emergency services, Agent Amato continued care and ultimately determined that the victim may have been suffering from a diabetic episode, at which time he asked another patron in the establishment to get a can of soda, then assisted the victim while consuming it.

Once the victim ingested some soda, the condition improved, but medical distress continued.

Agent Amato continued to monitor the situation until emergency services arrived and assumed care of the victim, who was ultimately hospitalized for several days.  The victim subsequently spoke with Agent Amato and said, “Thank you, you saved my life”, multiple times.

Prosecutor Carroll stated, “During this incident, Agent Amato exemplified his dedication to public service, and demonstrated how professionals are always on-duty.  He not only represents himself well, but also the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.”





Rep. Sherrill Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Auto Thefts in NJ-11

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Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill

MORRIS COUNTY — Representatives Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Don Bacon (NE-2) introduced the Auto Theft Prevention Act. This bipartisan legislation will provide state and local law enforcement agencies with federal grant funding to help them combat auto thefts and stolen vehicle trafficking. According to State Police data, 14,320 cars were reported stolen in 2021 in New Jersey. That is a 22% rise in car thefts from 2020. By August 2022, 9,000 cars were stolen. That is expected to rise to 17,000 by the end of the year.

“Motor vehicle theft is a growing public safety issue. Not only are members of our community having cars stolen, but their sense of safety and security is being stolen, as well,” “In response to alarming trends across the state and many conversations with concerned residents, police chiefs, prosecutors, and mayors in NJ-11, I introduced commonsense legislation to give our law enforcement the tools needed to curb these auto thefts and make our neighborhoods safer. As a former federal prosecutor, I am committed to making sure our local police departments have the resources needed to strengthen community safety and build trust in our towns and cities.”

“Local law enforcement, including those in our district, need the technology and top-notch equipment to track and catch car thieves quickly and efficiently,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m glad to lead this legislation with Rep. Sherrill and believe this grant program will not only combat the rise in auto thefts but will help deter future crimes and show criminals they won’t be able to get away with robbing the community.”

This legislation will create a new competitive grant program within the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) to fund state and local law enforcement efforts to combat auto thefts. In addition, the legislation creates a new eligible use of funds within the existing COPS grant program that allows police departments to use funds on new equipment, hiring, and compensation to help combat auto thefts. It is designed to direct funding to areas of the country that are most impacted by a rise in auto thefts.

Grants can be used by police departments to purchase equipment used to combat auto theft, such as law enforcement vehicles and license plate readers, hire additional law enforcement officers and support staff, fund overtime costs and additional compensation for law enforcement officers and support staff, provide resources for joint task forces, and fund law enforcement data collection and research activities related to combating auto theft.

The legislation has been endorsed by the National Troopers Coalition, International Union of Police Associations, New Jersey State Troopers Fraternal Association, and New Jersey Association of Counties. Original cosponsors of the bill include Reps. Salud Carbajal, Angie Craig, Josh Gottheimer, Andy Kim, and David Trone.

New Jersey’s Attorney General has published information on best practices to keep your vehicle safe, which can be found here. Important tips to prevent vehicle theft include:

  • Never leaving your keys or key fob in your vehicle
  • Not leaving your vehicle running while unattended
  • Parking your car in well-lit areas
  • Ensuring all windows are closed
  • Hiding your valuables
  • Making sure all doors are locked




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