MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County ranked among “The 25 Healthiest Communities in America” in a new analysis of health and wellness in 3,000 communities across the United States released today by U.S. News & World Report in collaboration with CVS Health.

The “Healthiest Communities” report is the fifth annual analysis conducted by U.S. News & World Report with Morris County consistently ranking among the top.  The new report ranked Morris County 16^th nationwide and first in New Jersey, just after the county was ranked healthiest in New Jersey in a separate national study released in April by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

“This is wonderful news. Morris County is continuously ranking among the top healthiest places to live in America, and as these studies repeatedly underscore, there are important factors that contribute to these findings,” said Tayfun Selen, Director of the Morris County Board of County Commissioners.

“All of these studies cite our excellent economy and employment opportunities. They note the strength of our education system, our residents’ access to health care and healthy lifestyles, and our access to parks and green spaces. These are aspects of Morris County that all of us in the public and private sectors have worked over the decades to maintain and improve, and I believe these reports inspire us to continue our efforts to make Morris County the best place to live, work and raise a family,” Director Selen added.

The Healthiest Communities rankings from U.S. News & World Report evaluate 89 factors that fuel and form the health of residents across nearly 3,000 U.S. counties and county-equivalents. Counties were assessed on a 100-point scoring system tied to how they perform relative to one another across 10 health-related categories, ranging from education and the economy to community vitality, equity, infrastructure, and public safety. They receive a ranking based on their performance as well.

The broad framework of categories and subcategories was based on factors key to evaluating community health that was identified by the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics – a policy advisory board to the head of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – as part of its Measurement Framework for Community Health and Well-Being.  U.S. News adapted the NCVHS model in consultation with leading population health experts, resulting in most notably in the inclusion of an equity category.

MORRIS COUNTY — At the annual Morris County Bar Association Installation & Awards Dinner held on June 16, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood was honored with the MCBA’s 2022 Criminal Practice Award.

The Criminal Practice Award is given annually to an attorney member of the MCBA who has elevated the criminal practice by service to the practice, professionalism, and dedication to fostering the relationship between attorney practitioners and the bench.

Maggie Calderwood has served as the First Assistant Prosecutor to Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll since January 4, 2021.

She has been an attorney for thirty years and has served as an Assistant Prosecutor for twenty-eight, specifically with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office for the last twenty-five. She is recognized as a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney by the Supreme Court of New Jersey since 2011. Prior to her appointment as First Assistant Prosecutor, she held the title of Chief Assistant Prosecutor for five years and managed the Tactical Division, including the Major Crimes, Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment, and Domestic Violence Units, and the Courts & Administration of Division, including the General Investigations and Pretrial Services Units.

Prior to that, FAP Calderwood held the title of Executive Assistant Prosecutor for five years and managed the entire legal staff. During her career, she was also the Supervising Assistant Prosecutor of the Professional Standards Unit, the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit, and the Trial Division.

FAP Calderwood handled numerous high-profile, complex jury trials involving Murder, Aggravated Manslaughter/Vehicular Homicide, and Aggravated Sexual Assault cases with adult and child victims. Since January 2020, FAP Calderwood has served as Co-Chair of the Morris County Bar Association’s Criminal Practice Committee.

She was honored by the Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris/Sussex Vicinage, and the Morris/Sussex County Bar Association for contributions to the justice system as part of the “Women Pioneers in the Law” exhibit displayed in the Morris County Courthouse in May of 2019.

FAP Calderwood has received numerous office commendations over the years for her following work: “Challenging and Arduous Task in Preparing for and Implementation of Criminal Justice Reform” (2017); “Successful Prosecution of Anthony Novellino Convicted of Brutally Murdering his Wife” (2014); “Irish Heritage Month Celebration Recognition for Accomplishments in the Field of Public Service” (2010); and “Recognition and Appreciation for her Contribution and Commitment to Strengthen the Community Response to Sexual Assault” (2005). In May of 2005, FAP Calderwood was honored by the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) and received the “Leadership Award: In Recognition of Leadership and Commitment to the Sex Crimes/Child Endangerment Unit”.

Throughout her prosecutorial career, FAP Calderwood has often lectured on various legal and law enforcement topics at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy, local schools, and the community at large. Before joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office in 1997, she began her legal career with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office in 1994. While there, she was assigned to Appellate, Juvenile, Predisposition Court, and the Trial Team in which she represented the State in numerous jury trials.

FAP Calderwood earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from Moravian College in 1988 and her Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1992, where she received the Pro Bono Services Award from the Center of Social Justice while interning with the Essex County Public Defender’s Office. After graduating from law school, FAP Calderwood served as the judicial law clerk to the Honorable Stephen F. Smith, Presiding Criminal Judge of the Superior Court in Morris County. Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll said, “After my appointment, I reviewed the MCPO staffing and specifically was pleased to learn that our office had several supervisory prosecutors who have consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication, skills, and professionalism in their decades of service to Morris County citizens.

Maggie, however, was uniquely impressive due to the scope and importance of her skills and past assignments. Although incoming Prosecutors typically bring in new First Assistants, I believe it difficult to match Maggie’s qualifications, spirit, and institutional knowledge, all of which made her the perfect choice to be my First Assistant Prosecutor. Since her appointment, Maggie has been outstanding in my administration. I am proud that the Morris County Bar Association has recognized this fine lady for all she has given to the MCPO, the Bar, and our communities.”

First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood said, “It means so much to me to receive this award from the Bar Association. I am very fortunate to work with such dedicated and talented assistant prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges. I am also honored to be Prosecutor Carroll’s First Assistant and learn from him daily. I am lucky to be able to continue my career practicing criminal law in Morris County under his leadership.”

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor’s Office members joined thousands of other law enforcement members throughout New Jersey to participate in the annual fundraising and awareness event, Law Enforcement Torch Run For Special Olympics New Jersey, on June 10, 2022.

Every year, law enforcement personnel from agencies across New Jersey carry the “Flame of Hope” throughout the state and into the Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games at the College of New Jersey in Ewing.

This year, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office members ran from Headquarters Plaza in Morristown into Morris Township on Mt. Kemble Ave. and past Harter Road, where the Torch was passed over to other participants waiting to continue the journey southward.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll said, “The value that the Law Enforcement Torch Run contributes to its cause, in both public awareness and monetary terms, cannot be overstated. The participation in this event by members of this office and the countless other members in New Jersey law enforcement is simply another display of their commitment to those they serve and society as a whole.”

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll and Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker officially sworn in Sean Verbist as Detective for the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, on June 13.

He has been assigned to the General Investigations Unit within the Courts and Administration Division.

Prior to joining the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Detective Verbist served as a Police officer for the Montclair Police Department, a Police Officer for the Randolph Police Department, and a Police Dispatcher for Montclair Township.

He has also served as a Park Ranger for Paramus, Substitute Security Person/Custodian for the Rockaway Township Public Schools, Camp Counselor for Paramus, and a Volunteer Police Reserve Officer for Paramus.

Detective Verbist has attended Ramapo College of New Jersey, Bergen Community College (BCC), and Montclair State University (MSU), earning an Associate’s Degree from BCC in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor’s Degree from MSU in Justice Studies.

In addition, he is a graduate of the Morris County Police Academy and has completed several professional training courses. Prosecutor Carroll said, “The addition of Detective Verbist to our ranks is the continuation of our plan to staff the office with personnel who bring a wide array of talent and experience, and we welcome him to our team.”

MORRIS COUNTY — There is still time to register for the Market Street Mission 5K Race for Recovery! If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate the Fourth of July, join the 5K Race or 2-mile Freedom Walk! Click here to sign up.

The race will be held in person on Monday, July 4, 2022, at the Central Park of Morris County. Participants will enjoy a great event with tech tees, chip timing, refreshments, awards, prizes, and family fun (with a free race and other activities for kids, too)! The race will be over before noon, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy other holiday festivities.

If you are more comfortable celebrating from home, or if the race is a bit too far away, we are also offering a virtual option over the course of the Fourth of July weekend where participants can run from anywhere in the world!

A big part of the work at the Mission is our addiction recovery Life Change Program for men. Each year around the Fourth of July, while we celebrate our country’s freedom, we also host this race to celebrate freedom from addiction. It is a powerful time for people to gather together to support the Mission and honor loved ones who have fought the battle against substance abuse.

If you are looking for a fun way to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend while also supporting the work of the Mission, come run with the Mission!

Click here to watch a recap of last year’s race to see the fun they have in store!

Established in 1889, the Market Street Mission is an experienced organization with a proven method of helping to fight alcoholism, substance abuse, hunger, and homelessness in northern and central New Jersey. As a private non-profit we rely on the charitable support of compassionate donors to provide more than 110,000 meals and 30,000 nights of shelter per year across our three locations. For more information on our emergency services, free addiction recovery program, community counseling services, and thrift store please visit us at www.marketstreet.org.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Roxbury Police Chief Dean Adone announce the arrest of a resident from Landing.

On Wednesday, June 8, 2022, law enforcement received information that led to the investigation and arrest of Erik Vandevelde, 33, at his residence in Landing.

During a search of that location, officers recovered the following items:
(2) .45 caliber handguns
(4) Assault Firearms
(2) Rifles
(2) 12 Gauge Shotguns
(1) .357 Magnum Revolver
(1) 5.7x 28MM Pistol
(2) Air Rifles
Over 100,000 rounds of ammunition and 100 high-capacity magazines

Mr. Vandevelde was charged with the following crimes:
– 1 count of third-degree Receiving Stolen Property in violation of 2C:20-7
– 14 counts of second-degree Certain Persons Not to Have Weapons in violation of 2C:39-7(b)1
– 4 counts of second-degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (Assault Firearm) in violation of 2C:39-5(f)
– 1 count of fourth-degree Prohibited Devices (High-Capacity Magazines) in violation of 2C:39-3(j)
– 1 count of 4th degree Certain Person Not to Have Ammunition in violation of 2C:39-7(a)
– 1 count of second-degree Possession of Firearms While Committing Certain Drug Crimes in violation of 2C:39-4.1(a)
– 1 count first-degree Possession With Intent to Distribute LSD in violation of 2C:35-5(b)(8)
– 1 count of third-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (LSD) in violation of 2C:35-10a(1)
– 1 count of Disorderly Persons Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Psilocybin Mushrooms) in violation of 2C:35-10a(5);
– 1 count of third-degree Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Ketamine), in violation of 2C:35-10a(1)
– 1 count of fourth-degree possession of over 6 ounces of Marijuana in violation of 2C:35-10(a)3(b)

Prosecutor Carroll, Chief Kimker, and Chief Adone commend all law enforcement personnel, including U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives members, who assisted and responded to the subject’s Roxbury residence and safely conduct a thorough and detailed investigation. Prosecutor Carroll specifically commended the involved agencies for their professionalism and tactical coordination that resulted in the seizure of these illegal and lethal firearms.

Editor’s Note: An arrest or the signing of 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 — United Way of Northern New Jersey is pleased to announce three new members to its Board of Trustees: Suzanne Brown, Jan Brown Helgeson, and Hima Raju.

A program manager at the New York Stock Exchange, Brown oversees the company’s environmental, social, and governance efforts. She also leads the NYSE Board Advisory Council, which connects diverse candidates with companies seeking new board members.

As a managing director at Deloitte, Helgeson oversees leadership hiring. During her nearly 20-year career with Deloitte and her work at previous companies, she has gained broad experience working with multinational clients to transform and support their global mobility programs.

Along with her new role as a board member, Helgeson has also been involved with United Way as chair of the United Way Women United steering committee. She was also recently named to the Women United Global Leadership Council of United Way Worldwide.

Raju is the Director of Product Innovation and Application Development at Johnson & Johnson. There, she supports data strategies and technology capabilities growth that help businesses generate insights that allow them to move from opinion-based to evidence-based decision-making quickly and safely.

“I am thrilled our Board of Trustees will include these dynamic and talented leaders who are passionate about serving in their communities,” said United Way CEO Kiran Handa Gaudioso. “With the help of our entire board, we can make greater strides in impacting the lives of families we call ALICE and those in poverty who are struggling to afford the basics.”
For more information about United Way of Northern New Jersey click here.

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, the Honorable Stuart A. Minkowitz, and Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll celebrated the one-year anniversary of Community Connections.

A ceremony was held today at the Morris County Board of County Commissioners Meeting Room in Morristown to celebrate the milestone. Guest speakers included Sheriff Gannon, Morris-Sussex Vicinage Assignment Judge Minkowitz, Chief Assistant Prosecutor Meg Rodriguez, Vicinage Chief Probation Officer Michael Lasko, and Community Connections Coordinator Officer Justin Sudol.

Working with the New Jersey Administrative Office of Courts, the innovative Community Connections program is the first of its kind to connect court-involved individuals to an array of services.

Community Connections links individuals to recovery support, mental health services, and social services. Serving as a pilot program for the State of New Jersey, the program has already proven to be successful in connecting over 80 individuals to life-changing services.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Successful Transition and Re-Entry Program (STAR), the New Jersey Administrative Office of Courts, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office are successfully working together to provide support to court-involved individuals struggling with substance use and mental health disorders.

The Mental Health Association (MHA) and Prevention are Key’s Center for Addiction, Recovery, Education & Success (CARES) and also are essential partners in providing these life-saving resources.

Court-involved individuals who want to contact the program can fill out the online referral form on the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Community Connections web page or by simply scanning the QR code on the Community Connections brochure.

Click here for more information regarding Community Connections.