BOONTON — Acting Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Christoph Kimker, and Town of Boonton Captain Stephen Jones announce an active investigation is underway following the discovery of two bodies in a pond on February 23, 2021.
On February 23, 2021, at approximately 5:39 p.m., law enforcement was dispatched to the Upper Pond section of Grace Lord Park in Boonton on a report of an unattended child. While searching the area, law enforcement located the bodies of a 35-year-old female and an approximately 11-year-old child in the water.
The unattended child, age 6, was unharmed. At this time, the identity of these individuals will not be released and the investigation is ongoing.
This is an active and ongoing joint investigation being conducted by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crimes Unit, Morris County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit, Boonton Police Department Detective Bureau and Boonton Fire Department Swiftwater Rescue Team.
HANOVER — Hanover Township Police Officer Stephen Manney arrested Mr. Benjamin Drumm, 54, Towaco for disorderly conduct on Tuesday, February 16. Officer Manney responded to the Red Carpet Inn for unwanted guests refusing to leave a room. Upon arrival Mr. Drumm was highly intoxicated and refused to leave a room after being asked to by the rooms owner.
While attempting to remove the individual he became unruly and combative and began arguing and resisting the officers on scene. He arrested and charged with resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Mr. Drumm was additionally charged with harassment. He was released pending their court dates.
Then on Thursday, February 18, Hanover Township Officer Mike Byrnes arrested Mr. Benjamin Drumm for disorderly conduct. Officer Byrnes responded to the Red Carpet Inn for a medical aid and while assisting the patient Mr. Drumm, who was also an occupant of the room, became combative and began yelling and arguing with the officers who were rendering aid to his roommate. Mr. Drumm was eventually arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and obstruction. He was released pending his court date.
Again on Thursday, February 18, Hanover Township Police Officer Dan Acquaro arrested Mr. Benjamin Drumm for trespassing. Officer Acquaro responded to the Wegmans for a panhandler harassing customers as they exited the store. After a brief investigation, it was learned that Mr. Drumm had been advised in the past that he was not welcome at Wegmans and would be arrested if he returned. He was then arrested and charged with trespassing. He was released pending his court date.
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.
HANOVER — Hanover Township Police Officer Josh Williams arrested Mr. Anthony Fiumefreddo, 30, Matawan for possession of CDS on Friday, February 5. Officer Williams responded to the Hyatt House for a report of an intoxicated male.
Upon arrival, Officer Williams located Mr. Fiumefreddo incoherent and obviously highly altered.
After an investigation, Mr. Fiumefreddo was arrested and charged with possession of heroin, under the influence and possession of hypodermic needles. He was released after processing pending his court date.
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.
The new Lowe's is located at 230 East Hanover Avenue, in the new Cedar Village shopping plaza
HANOVER — Hanover Township Detective Dominic Kaiser charged Eric Brown, 49, Newark and Mr. Alaric Osorio, 42, Newark with shoplifting, on Wednesday, February 3.
Detective Kaiser responded to the Lowes on Hanover Avenue for a report of shoplifting that had occurred in the past.
Upon arrival, Detective Kaiser met with loss prevention who provided him a surveillance video showing both Mr. Brown and Mr. Osorio removing merchandise from the store without paying.
The total amount stolen was approximately $1400.00. Det. Kaiser prepared arrest warrants charging both individuals with shoplifting and conspiracy and mailed them.
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.
HANOVER — Hanover Township Police Officer Paul Weaver responded to ShopRite on Hanover Avenue for a shoplifter in custody, on Sunday, January 31.
Upon arrival, officer Weaver met with the stores loss prevention officer and was advised that Mr. Marco Ruiz, 50, currently homeless, was observed stealing approximately $222.00 worth of merchandise.
He was arrested and charged with shoplifting. He also had active warrants totally $1000.00 out of Morristown. He was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court date.
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.
BOONTON — Dr. Oz: Restaurant Rescue “i2i Indian Italian Fusion.”
The Dr. Oz Show is an American daytime television talk series. Each episode has segments on health, wellness and medical information, including true crime stories and celebrity interviews.
Mr. Yellow Pepper Peruvian Restaurant is located at 450 North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054. For more information call (973) 588-7254 or visit www.mryellowpepper.com.
PARSIPPANY — On Black Friday, November 27, 2020, in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Yellow Pepper, Peruvian Restaurant, decided to make a brave, bold, and risky move and open the doors to their new venture for the first time.
Personally, I am glad that they took that chance because unquestionably this authentic restaurant offers another culinary adventure to our already culturally rich community. I made it a point to be there on that day and thoroughly enjoyed the meal, the ambiance, and the genuinely friendly and accommodating service. I also had the opportunity at that time to meet with new owners, the friendly and personable, Victor and Damaris Arrese. (By the way, Mr. Yellow Pepper is a reference to the flavorful aji amarillo pepper, which is a staple ingredient in many Peruvian dishes). I knew it was about time for a return visit to this enjoyable restaurant, and a restaurant review.
The ambiance is casual, comfortable, cozy, and yet at the same time somewhat classy
As I entered, I was warmly welcomed and offered the table of my choice. As I remembered from my previous visit, the ambiance is casual, comfortable, cozy, and yet at the same time somewhat classy. On entering the restaurant, you immediately encounter an attractive, semi-circled, sparkling clean sports type bar. I personally liked the relaxing vibe. Tiled floors, comfortable lighting, several smaller two-person tables along the sides, three large screen televisions, sound off, above the bar. Great place to catch a game once restrictions are relaxed and that opportunity becomes available again. The attractive, spacious, interior of the restaurant is designed with two levels, the second level, complete with a fireplace, provides an extremely comfortable dining area, which surrounds the lower section. Slightly muted music in the background, brick, and wood accents throughout, provides diners with a cozy, warm feeling, with simple, nicely displayed artifacts and paintings on the walls. Decorative black tables and chairs complete the overall appearance offering a casual, upscale, classy, stylish look. The entire restaurant appeared spotless and well organized, and it was obvious that all recommended COVID-19 health precautions were being adhered to.
Damaris Arrese
I introduced myself to Damaris Arrese, who was my hostess this evening, and it was very humbling that she remembered me from my first visit in November. Even recalling where I sat, and what I ordered. I was obviously impressed. Unfortunately, Victor Arrese, was not in on this evening, but an extremely friendly and gracious Mrs. Arrese was more than willing to sit and talk with me about the restaurant and its diverse menu. Interestingly, Peruvian food, now widely recognized as one of the best cuisines in the world, is heavily influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and South East Asian cultures making it a formidable force in world gastronomy, all of which makes Peruvian food so distinctive and interesting.
Prior to opening Mr. Yellow Pepper, Mr. and Mrs. Arrese owned a small Peruvian restaurant in Passaic, Mar y Tierra, their first venture into the restaurant industry. When the opportunity arose to acquire the former Mule Tavern Bar & Grill on North Beverwyck Road, they saw it as a wonderful opportunity to bring their great Peruvian cuisine to the area in a much larger venue, despite the ongoing pandemic chaos. Residing in the area and having immediate family who live in Parsippany also helped move that decision along.
Causas de Pollo
Mr. Yellow Pepper take pride in the fact that they use only the finest, fresh ingredients in the preparation of their dishes and serve authentic Peruvian traditional fusion recipes, offering some of the best international cuisines from around the world. It is obvious that Mr. and Mrs. Arrese have significant pride in not only their food and service, but in what they bring to the community as well.
Lomo Saltado
During my first visit I also went very traditional in my selections. Causas de Pollo (Peruvian yellow pepper, lime & spices blended into a creamy potato mash served with a topping of your choice) for an appetizer; Peru’s second most popular dish, Lomo Saltado for my entree (Beef tenderloin strips, red onions, tomatoes, seasoned with soy sauce and flambeed in a fire wok).
Tried the traditional Pisco Sour (Peru’s most popular drink) to top off a great meal. Every bite was as delicious the last, delectable, and exciting flavors, and the portions were more than ample.
Pisco Sour
As much as I enjoyed those dishes that I tried that first night I was anxious to experience some, if not all, of the many other appealing selections on the menu. As soon as I sat down, my very amiable server, Paco, promptly arrived with hot rolls and butter, while I pondered over the diverse and appealing menu. When finally deciding on a short rib dish, (more about that later) to compliment my meal, I ordered a glass of Peruvian Tabernero Cabernet Sauvignon recommended by Mrs. Arrese, who was also serving as my hostess. I then focused on the Pulpo Anticuchero as my appetizer (Charcoal grilled octopus served with grinded rustic potatoes and unique Peruvian choclo corn, with a side of “Anticuchera Sauce”). Fantastic!
Pulpo Anticuchero
The very fresh Pulpo (Octopus) was beautifully plated and presented. It tasted so fresh and tender one would think they just caught it. Just looking at the tantalizing visual of this dish, in my mind I had already formulated what it was going to taste like. I was not disappointed! The Pulpo was tender, succulent, crispy on the outside and deliciously meaty inside, perfectly chewy, with a nice smokey flavor, and accompanied with side of tasty, flavor packed, golden yellow pepper Anticuchera sauce, that was perfect for dipping both the Pulpo and the potatoes. As I said, this was an appetizer, but it could have honestly been an entrée by itself.
Seco De Carne
For my entrée I decided to go with another traditional Peruvian dish, Seco De Carne C/Frijoles (Beef short ribs, cooked in traditional Northern Peruvian style w/rich cilantro and black beer sauce, served w/rice, beans and crilla salad). Mrs. Arrese informed me after I ordered it, that his was the second most ordered dish on their menu.
I love short ribs, and these were perfectly cooked; moist, succulent, with a savory umami deliciousness. The tender meat which fell off the bone at the touch of my fork, blended perfectly, and was enhanced with the accompanying sides and sauce, as well as with a separate side dish of nice, flaky white rice.
Patrick Minutillo
I was anxious to try the Crema Volteada De Lucuma (Lucuma flavored flan/custard) which I have heard is delicious, and quite different from the other style flans I am used to. But, being stuffed after devouring the generous sized portions of my other dishes I could not force another bite, so I guess that dessert will have to wait for another day.
As usual, I left Mr. Yellow Pepper with a full stomach and a smile on my face. Genuinely nice dining experience, delicious food and drink, beautiful restaurant, wonderful people, top-notch, friendly, accommodating, and professional service, and reasonable prices. What more can you want from a restaurant? Obviously, this is a restaurant that I would recommend giving a try.
As always, please try to come out and help support all our local, small independent businesses in any way you can.
Ample Parking, Take Out, Dine In, Delivery. Closed Monday.
Mr. Yellow Pepper Peruvian Restaurant is located at 450 North Beverwyck Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054. For more information call (973) 588-7254 or click here.
Some friends enjoying dinner.
Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine – March 2021
MORRIS COUNTY — Forcing school children to take standardized tests this year would be an unnecessary burden heaped on students, parents and teachers, says Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, a member of the Joint Committee on Public Schools.
“I don’t know what of value would be gained by forcing students to take standardized tests when their class schedules have been disrupted for the past year and will continue to be disrupted because of the Covid-19 virus,” said DeCroce (R- Morris).
DeCroce joins state Sen. Declan O’Scanlon (R-Monmouth) who is supporting the New Jersey Education Association’s call for Gov. Phil Murphy to cancel standardized testing this year.
“I agree with Senator O’Scanlon’s position and that of the NJEA,” said DeCroce. “The stress and disruption that normally accompanies standardized tests is an unnecessary burden for all involved at this time. I don’t see a valid reason to put parents, students and teachers through the rigors of standardized test that is likely of little or no value.”
DeCroce said the time and energy put into conducting standardized tests should be directed to developing a statewide plan to reopen schools safely.
“We owe the students the quality education that they are guaranteed under our state constitution. We owe their parents the leadership and concern to deliver quality education in these extraordinary times,” added DeCroce.
The assemblywoman, who has served nine years on the joint education committee, said the state needs to show more leadership on developing a workable plan to get children back in the classrooms.
“Every year we hear people in the administration and elected officials in the legislature tell us how important education is. We need to put meaning to those words and work now to build a framework that will shape the reopening of schools in a safe and effective way,” added DeCroce.
The assemblywoman says she supports teachers being a priority for Covid-19 vaccinations.
“Teachers need to be protected if we expect them to go back to the classrooms,” said DeCroce. “Vaccinations are a first step in an overall school reopening plan that so far has not materialized.”
MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Vocational School District, in partnership with County College of Morris (CCM), is offering a new Criminal Justine share-time program for Morris County high school students. The program is for students interested in law, public safety, corrections, and security.
Students will learn through college-level work and hands-on activities.
“We are thrilled to offer a new program for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice and public safety. We know many high school students will be excited to get a jump start in earning college credits in this subject area”, said Shari Castelli, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Morris County Vocational School District.
Coursework will include “Intro to Public Safety Careers,” “Criminology,” “Intro to Policing,” “Intro to Emergency Management,” “Juvenile Delinquency,” “Criminal Law and Procedure,” “Forensic Science,” and “Cultural Diversity.”
Castelli also stated the program would include strong private and public-sector program partners who offer work-based learning experiences through industry partnerships.
Upon completion of the two-year program, students will earn 36 credits from CCM with three possible pathways after graduation for career advancement:
1) Direct entry into the workforce with college credit
2) One-year completion of Associate Degree
3) Transfer with advanced standing to a four- year college or university
Students in 10th Grade may apply via online application by clicking here. The application deadline is March 26.
Learn more about the program and application process at an upcoming virtual information session on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. Register today for the Share Time Programs by clicking here.
The district’s share time programs provide half-day specialized career and technical education training as part of a student’s junior and senior year high school program. The programs prepare students for career-related employment and post-secondary placement.
The Morris County Vocational School District (www.mcvts.org) offers programs for Morris County high school students, including Career Academies, Share Time Programs, and Adult Education programs. For additional information, contact Gina DiDomenico, Student Recruitment & Community Relations Specialist at [email protected] or call (973) 627-4600 ext. 277.MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Vocational School District, in partnership with County College of Morris (CCM), is offering a new Criminal Justine share-time program for Morris County high school students. The program is for students interested in law, public safety, corrections, and security.
Students will learn through college-level work and hands-on activities.
“We are thrilled to offer a new program for high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice and public safety. We know many high school students will be excited to get a jump start in earning college credits in this subject area”, said Shari Castelli, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Morris County Vocational School District.
Coursework will include “Intro to Public Safety Careers,” “Criminology,” “Intro to Policing,” “Intro to Emergency Management,” “Juvenile Delinquency,” “Criminal Law and Procedure,” “Forensic Science,” and “Cultural Diversity.”
Castelli also stated the program would include strong private and public-sector program partners who offer work-based learning experiences through industry partnerships.
Upon completion of the two-year program, students will earn 36 credits from CCM with three possible pathways after graduation for career advancement:
1) Direct entry into the workforce with college credit
2) One-year completion of Associate Degree
3) Transfer with advanced standing to a four- year college or university
Students in 10th Grade may apply via online application by clicking here. The application deadline is March 26.
Learn more about the program and application process at an upcoming virtual information session on February 24 at 6:30 p.m. Register today for the Share Time Programs by clicking here.
The district’s share time programs provide half-day specialized career and technical education training as part of a student’s junior and senior year high school program. The programs prepare students for career-related employment and post-secondary placement.
The Morris County Vocational School District (www.mcvts.org) offers programs for Morris County high school students, including Career Academies, Share Time Programs, and Adult Education programs. For additional information, contact Gina DiDomenico, Student Recruitment & Community Relations Specialist at [email protected] or call (973) 627-4600 ext. 277.
