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Florham Park Man Among Eight Lucchese Crime Family Members to Plead Guilty in Racketeering Case

By
Frank Cahill
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MORRIS COUNTY — A Florham Park man was among eight members and associates of the Lucchese crime family — along with three companies — who admitted their roles in a racketeering, gambling, and money laundering operation on June 23, pleading guilty before Superior Court Judge Ralph E. Amirata in Morris County.

Joseph Gossweiler, 41, of Florham Park, a sportsbook sub-agent and poker club manager, pleaded guilty to third-degree conspiracy to promote gambling. He received a recommended sentence of 364 days probation.

Attorney General Jennifer Davenport, the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), and the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) announced the pleas, which bring the total number of guilty pleas in the case to 35. Between October 2025 and June 2026, 27 others had previously pleaded guilty in connection with the illegal gambling enterprise.

The defendants were among 42 people indicted since initial arrests in April 2025, following a two-year investigation into illegal gambling, loansharking, extortion, and money laundering tied to the Lucchese crime family. The investigation identified $4.79 million in suspected criminal proceeds. Seven defendants still face pending charges and are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The gambling operation included social clubs housing live poker games and gaming machines, as well as an online sportsbook run through websites based outside the United States. Enterprise members used multiple shell corporations and legitimate businesses to conceal illegal proceeds.

Among those also pleading guilty were George Zappola, Joseph R. Perna, and John G. Perna — described as high-level managers and alleged Lucchese family members — each entering pleas to second-degree racketeering with a recommended sentence of seven years in state prison.

Other defendants and their pleas include:

  • Wayne D. Cross, Lucchese associate — third-degree promoting gambling; five years recommended
  • Michael P. Frasso, 48, of Cedar Grove — second-degree racketeering, failure to pay income tax, and corporate misconduct; aggregate recommendation of 15 years
  • Frank Imparato, 46, of Saddle Brook — third-degree conspiracy; four years recommended
  • Peter Norcia, 50, of Toms River — third-degree conspiracy to promote gambling; four years recommended

Three corporate entities also pleaded guilty: Café Gio (used by Imparato to facilitate gambling), Frasso Trucking (used to conceal gambling proceeds), and CJW Development and Consulting (used by Cross to conceal proceeds) — each entering second-degree conspiracy pleas carrying a $250,000 penalty.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Heather Hausleben and investigated by Detective Sergeant Michael Gallant of the NJSP. The FBI’s Newark, Red Bank, and New York City offices, the U.S. Marshals, Federal Probation, and the Department of Corrections Special Operations Group also contributed to the investigation.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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Denville Police Arrest Wilfredo Lopez Following Traffic Stop

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DENVILLE — A Denville man was arrested on June 23, 2026 after a motor vehicle stop on Route 10 East revealed an outstanding warrant, according to the Denville Police Department.

At approximately 11:15 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop after observing a violation of New Jersey’s Move Over Law. During the stop, the driver was identified as Wilfredo Lopez, 30, of Denville. Further investigation revealed that Lopez had an active NCIC Warrant issued by the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office.

Lopez was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. He was issued a motor vehicle summons for Failure to Change Lanes for Emergency Vehicles (N.J.S.A. 39:4-92.2) and subsequently turned over to the custody of the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office in accordance with the outstanding warrant.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Dover Student Named to Delaware Valley University Dean’s List

By
Frank Cahill
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Autumn Beesley

DOVER — Autumn Beesley has been named to Delaware Valley University’s Spring 2026 Dean’s List, earning the honor for academic achievement.

Delaware Valley University is a private, comprehensive, nonprofit university located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, approximately 30 miles north of Philadelphia.

The university offers 27 undergraduate majors in business, arts and sciences, and agricultural and environmental sciences, along with 12 master’s degrees and a doctorate in education.

Founded in 1896, DelVal has been recognized by the National Society for Experiential Education for having the country’s top experiential learning program, by Princeton Review as one of the best colleges in the Northeast, and by College Factual as having one of the top 20 animal science programs in the country.

Jefferson Lightning Baseball Opens Fall 2026 Registration

By
Frank Cahill
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JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Lightning Baseball has opened registration for its Fall 2026 season, giving young players the opportunity to keep the season going with competitive league play, continued practice, and ongoing player development.

The fall season is set to begin in early September and run through the beginning of November. Players can expect approximately 9–12 games depending on playoff participation, along with 1–2 practices per week throughout the season.

Registration is now open with two pricing tiers. New players who do not have a uniform will pay $365.00, while returning players who still have their spring uniform can register for $265.00. Players who participated in the Spring 2026 season will receive priority placement on fall roster spots.

Jefferson Lightning Baseball is a competitive youth baseball organization based in Jefferson Township, Morris County. The fall season provides players with an extended opportunity to develop their skills and compete beyond the traditional spring schedule.

For more information or to register click here.

Jefferson Township Man Arrested on DWI, Drug Charges After Erratic Driving on Berkshire Valley Road

By
Frank Cahill
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Jefferson Township Police

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — A 29-year-old man was arrested on May 26, after Jefferson Township Police officers observed him driving erratically on Berkshire Valley Road and subsequently determined he was under the influence of narcotics.

Daniel J. Devries was stopped in the parking lot of 5478 Berkshire Valley Road after officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a red Mazda CX5, swerving over the center line and nearly striking oncoming vehicles.

Upon approaching the vehicle, Jefferson Township Police Officer Kristin Merker observed signs of impairment. Devries submitted to pre-exit sobriety testing and passed all three assessments, but refused to perform standard field sobriety tests after exiting the vehicle. A Drug Recognition Expert from Vernon PD was subsequently called in and concluded that Devries was under the influence of narcotics. A breath test returned a BAC of 0.00%.

A search of the vehicle uncovered wax folds known to contain heroin, caps known to contain narcotics, burnt foil, a rolled dollar bill, and Kratom in both powder and tablet form. A burnt glass pipe and “chore boy” — items associated with CDS use — were recovered from Devries’ person.

Devries was charged with the following:

  • Driving while intoxicated (39:4-50)
  • Possession of CDS/under the influence (2C:35-10)
  • CDS possession in a motor vehicle (39:4-49.1)
  • Traffic on marked lanes (39:4-88)
  • Reckless driving (39:4-96)

Devries was released to a friend under John’s Law. His vehicle was towed and impounded. A court date was set.

Editor’s Note: The charges outlined in this publication are merely accusations, and the defendant and/or defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Kiwanis Club of Denville Serves More Than 200 Meals at 68th Annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast

By
Frank Cahill
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Nancy Witte (left), a member of the Kiwanis Club of Denville since 2004 and a seven-time club president, shares a table with World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War veteran Anton "Tony" Mollagard (center) and John Donnelly during the club's 68th Annual Father's Day Pancake Breakfast at Gardner Field. Mollagard was born in Brooklyn, New York, to a Swedish mother and Norwegian father, Mollagard earned the nickname "Tony" from childhood friends. He joined the U.S. Army at the close of World War II and went on to serve during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, a rare distinction shared by few veterans. Witte has dedicated more than two decades to Kiwanis service, including leadership roles with numerous Key Club, Builders Club, and K-Kids programs throughout Morris County. The annual breakfast served more than 200 meals and raised funds to support local youth and community service projects.

MORRIS COUNTY — The Kiwanis Club of Denville continued a long-standing community tradition on Father’s Day as it hosted its 68th Annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast at the pavilion in Gardner Field.

The popular event drew families, friends, and community members throughout the morning, with volunteers serving more than 200 breakfasts. Guests enjoyed stacks of pancakes, eggs, and sausage while gathering to celebrate Father’s Day and support the club’s ongoing service projects.

A hearty breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, and sausage awaits attendees at the Kiwanis Club of Denville’s 68th Annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast. The longtime community tradition served more than 200 meals, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors while raising funds to support local youth programs, scholarships, and community service projects throughout Denville.

For nearly seven decades, the Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast has been a cornerstone fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club of Denville. The event helps raise funds that are reinvested into local youth programs, scholarships, community initiatives, and service projects benefiting the children and families of Denville.

Club members began preparations early in the morning, cooking and serving meals while welcoming residents to the annual tradition. Many attendees have made the breakfast a Father’s Day ritual, returning year after year to enjoy the food and fellowship while supporting a worthwhile cause.

All smiles at the griddle as Richard Yobs serves up fresh pancakes during the Kiwanis Club of Denville’s 68th Annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast at Gardner Field. Joined by fellow Kiwanis volunteer Amanda Bickford, Yobs helped serve more than 200 breakfasts during the annual community tradition, which raises funds to support local youth programs, scholarships, and community service projects throughout Denville.

“The Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast is one of the club’s signature events and a tradition that brings the community together,” said Nancy Witte, the club’s president. “We are grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered, and helped make this year’s event another success.”

Founded in 1946, the Kiwanis Club of Denville has a long history of serving the community through volunteerism and charitable giving. Proceeds from the breakfast help fund programs and activities that support local youth, continuing the club’s mission of improving the world one child and one community at a time.

Kiwanis leaders from across New Jersey gather at the Kiwanis Club of Denville’s 68th Annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast. Pictured are Kiwanis Club of Hanover Treasurer Nathan Vaisbort, Kiwanis Club of Phillipsburg member Jessica Kiedes, Kiwanis New Jersey District Division 7 Lieutenant Governor Nicolas Limanov, New Jersey District Governor Frank Cahill, and Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township Secretary Yvonne Ioffredo. The annual event served more than 200 breakfasts and raised funds to support local youth programs, scholarships, and community service projects throughout the Denville community.

As the last plates were served and families headed home to continue their Father’s Day celebrations, members of the Kiwanis Club of Denville reflected on another successful year of community service and looked forward to carrying the tradition into its 69th year in 2027.

Carolina Contreras helps prepare pancake batter during the Kiwanis Club of Denville’s 68th Annual Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast at Gardner Field. More than 200 breakfasts were served during the community tradition, with proceeds supporting local youth programs, scholarships, and community service projects throughout Denville.

The club’s tradition will continue this summer as members prepare to host their annual pancake breakfast on Sunday, July 5. The popular community event will once again feature the club’s famous pancakes, along with eggs, sausage, and plenty of fellowship, while raising funds to support local youth programs and community service projects throughout Denville.

The club meets at the Denville Senior Citizen Building, 100 East Main Street, Denville, on the first, third, and fifth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. New members and guests interested in learning more about Kiwanis and its community service projects are welcome to attend.

PBA Local 298 Rallies Support for Morris County Detective Battling ALS

By
Frank Cahill
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Detective Murarik of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement, PBA Local 151, is receiving an outpouring of support from fellow law enforcement officers and community members following his diagnosis with ALS. PBA Local 298 and other organizations are encouraging the public to stand with him and his family as they face the challenges ahead.

MORRIS COUNTY — PBA Local 298 is calling on its members and the community to support Detective Murarik of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement, PBA Local 151, as he courageously battles Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

Detective Murarik began his career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in 2017 and quickly distinguished himself as a dedicated law enforcement officer. Shortly after joining the department, he became a K-9 handler, serving alongside his canine partner while helping protect residents throughout Morris County.

Recently, Detective Murarik publicly shared his diagnosis with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. The diagnosis has prompted an outpouring of supp

To make a donation, click here.

Chatham Library Foundation Names Judy-Ann Hargrove as Development Director

By
Frank Cahill
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Judy-Ann Hargrove smiles at the Library of the Chathams in Chatham, New Jersey, following her appointment as the Foundation’s new Director of Development. (Photo courtesy of the Chatham Library Foundation)

MORRIS COUNTY — The Chatham Library Foundation has appointed Judy-Ann Hargrove, M.A. as its new Development Director, a role focused on fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and community outreach in support of the Library of the Chathams.

Hargrove brings more than 15 years of experience in integrated marketing, brand strategy, and nonprofit collaboration. Her background spans the pharmaceutical, retail, and nonprofit sectors, where she has led creative teams, managed partnerships, and chaired fundraising initiatives for community organizations.

She previously volunteered with the Library of the Chathams and served on the committee that helped establish the Chatham Library Foundation. Her community service includes involvement with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Phi Theta Omega Chapter; Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Morris County Chapter; Habitat for Humanity; Feeding America; and the American Heart Association.

Hargrove and her husband, Brian, have been Chatham residents for more than 21 years. They have three children, Ethan, Olivia, and Grant.

“Judy-Ann brings a rare combination of strategic insight, creativity, and genuine commitment to community service. As we enter a pivotal phase in our growth, her leadership will be instrumental in building the support needed to ensure the Library remains a vibrant resource for generations,” said Andrew J. Hollander, President of the Chatham Library Foundation.

The Foundation is currently focused on advancing a library construction project. For more information, visit chathamlibraryfoundation.org or contact Hargrove at (862) 245-1571 or [email protected].

Chatham Library Foundation Appoints Sean Dailey to Board of Trustees

By
Frank Cahill
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Sean Dailey has been appointed to the Chatham Library Foundation Board of Trustees. Dailey brings over a decade of local volunteer leadership experience to the role as the Foundation works to advance its current library construction project. (Photo courtesy of the Chatham Library Foundation)

MORRIS COUNTY — The Chatham Library Foundation has announced the appointment of Sean Dailey to its Board of Trustees.

Dailey brings a long-standing commitment to the Library of the Chathams, having spent 13 years with the Friends of the Library, where he served as President, Vice President, and Co-Chair of the annual book sale.

A Chatham resident since December 2003, Dailey has spent more than a decade supporting local youth through the Boy Scouts, serving in roles including Assistant Scoutmaster, Popcorn Kernel, Summer Camp Scoutmaster, and Eagle Coach. He currently serves as Committee Chair of Troop 8.

He is also active at St. Patrick’s Church, where he serves as a lector, volunteers with the school, and is a member of the Education Council.

“We are thrilled to welcome this outstanding community leader,” said Andrew J. Hollander, President of the Chatham Library Foundation. “His perspectives and talents will help us continue supporting the programs, services, and capital needs that keep our library strong.”

The Foundation is currently focused on advancing a library construction project. For more information, visit chathamlibraryfoundation.org or contact Development Director Judy-Ann Hargrove at (862) 245-1571 or [email protected].

Denville Music in the Park Returns With Free Summer Concert Series

By
Frank Cahill
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Gardner Field, Denville

DENVILLE — Summer evenings in Denville will once again be filled with live music as the annual Music in the Park concert series returns to Gardner Field.

The free outdoor concert series will be held on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Gardner Field bandstand, offering residents and visitors a chance to enjoy live performances in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and spend the evening outdoors with friends, neighbors, and family members.  

Children’s activities will also be offered each week by the Denville Public Library, making the series an event for all ages.  

This year’s lineup includes:

  • July 14 — Jeiris Cook
    Rain date: Friday, July 17
  • July 21 — Burnt Leftovers
    Rain date: Friday, July 24
  • July 28 — Country Comfort
    Rain date: Friday, July 31
  • August 11 — The Exits
    Rain date: Friday, August 14
  • August 18 — Tropy Band
    Rain date: Friday, August 21
  • August 25 — The Uptown Getdowns
    Rain date: Friday, August 28

The series is presented by the Denville Arts Council and the Township of Denville. Proceeds support the Denville Arts Council’s mission of bringing art and music programming to the community and funding events that benefit Denville residents.  

“Music in the Park is a great way for the community to get together and enjoy some really talented performers on a nice summer evening,” said Vicki Harrison, of the Denville Arts Council. “We hope everyone comes out to support the arts with family and friends.”  

Admission is free. More information is available through the Denville Arts Council.

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