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Boonton Man Charged with DWI, Drug Possession After Falling Asleep at Wheel in Parsippany Walgreens Parking Lot

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Photo for illustration purposes only. The actual incident may not reflect the photo.

BOONTON — A 49-year-old Boonton man faces a DWI charge along with drug possession and paraphernalia charges after Parsippany-Troy Hills police found him asleep behind the wheel of a car that was slowly rolling through the Walgreens parking lot on Baldwin Road earlier this month.

According to a Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department report, Patrolman Christopher Yi and Patrolman Kyratzsis responded to 200-1 Baldwin Road around 4:43 p.m. on June 6 after a report of a man asleep at the wheel of a vehicle that was rolling out of the lot. When officers arrived, they found a black 2002 Volvo S60 with smoke coming from it and the driver, later identified as Laoufi Meghdir, behind the wheel. The vehicle was in drive and moving slowly, and police said Meghdir appeared confused and disoriented.

As Yi approached on foot, the car began moving forward again, the report states. Yi ordered Meghdir to stop, knocked on the window and directed him to shut off the vehicle and step out, which he did. Parsippany fire crews arrived on scene around the same time.

Police said Meghdir could not give a clear account of what had happened. Yi reported observing bloodshot, watery eyes and detecting the odor of alcohol once Meghdir stepped away from the car. When asked if he had been drinking that day, Meghdir told officers he had been drinking the day before and might still be feeling the effects, according to the report. He also told police he did not have a driver’s license and went to the car to retrieve his passport instead.

Yi then conducted a series of standardized field sobriety tests. According to the report, Meghdir showed all six indicators of impairment on the Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus eye test, along with vertical gaze nystagmus in both eyes. During the Walk and Turn test, he took several extra steps before turning, stepped off the line and lost his balance, using his arms for balance throughout. On the One Leg Stand test, he was unable to keep his foot raised and put it down five times before the officer ended the test.

Meghdir was placed under arrest for DWI and handcuffed. A search incident to arrest turned up nothing, police said. He was then transported to the Denville Police Department, with Patrolman Scott Baker following to administer an Alcotest, as Parsippany’s unit was out of service. According to Baker’s supplemental report, the test was administered after a 20-minute observation period and two valid breath samples were obtained, returning a result of 0.24 percent blood-alcohol content — three times New Jersey’s legal limit of 0.08 percent.

Meghdir was brought back to Parsippany-Troy Hills police headquarters for processing. After officers contacted the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Assistant Prosecutor Meg Rodriguez recommended the drug-related charges be handled by summons rather than custodial charges. Meghdir was fingerprinted and issued the following summonses:

  • Summons #1429-S-2026-000184 — N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10a(1), Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
  • Summons #1429-S-2026-000184 — N.J.S.A. 2C:36-2, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (with intent to use)
  • Summons #E26-005674 — N.J.S.A. 39:4-50, Driving While Intoxicated; court date July 14, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
  • Summons #E26-005675 — N.J.S.A. 39:4-51B, Open Container of Alcohol/Unsealed Cannabis in a Motor Vehicle; court date July 14, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
  • Summons #E26-005676 — N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, Reckless Driving; court date July 14, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
  • Summons #E26-005677 — N.J.S.A. 39:3-29A, Failure to Possess a Driver’s License; $181 penalty, payable by June 20, 2026

Meghdir was held at police headquarters until 8:20 p.m., when his wife, Elena, arrived, signed a liability form and took custody of her husband. He was released with his belongings, summonses and court date at 8:25 p.m., according to the report.

The incident report was filed by Patrolman Christopher Yi (Badge #509), with a supplemental report by Patrolman Scott Baker (Badge #486). Both reports were reviewed by Ryan Taylor (Badge #488).

Editor’s Note: The court’s rules require us to include a statement that states: 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.

Denville Issues Proclamation Recognizing June as Pride Month

By
Frank Cahill
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The Pride flag flies in recognition of Pride Month and the ongoing commitment to inclusion, equality, and acceptance.

DENVILLE — The Township of Denville has issued a proclamation recognizing June 2026 as Pride Month, encouraging residents to honor the community’s diversity and continue building a culture of inclusion, acceptance, and respect.

The proclamation, signed by Mayor Thomas W. Andes, states that Denville “welcomes and encourages diversity and inclusion within our community” and affirms that everyone should be able to live without fear of prejudice, discrimination, violence, or hatred based on race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

The proclamation also recognizes the historical importance of the Stonewall Uprising in New York City, noting that June 28, 2026, marks the 57th anniversary of the event. Stonewall is widely regarded as a turning point in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

In the proclamation, Denville officials noted that Pride Month celebrations are held across the country each June to recognize the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community, while also raising awareness of the challenges that many LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face.

“While there has certainly been remarkable progress towards acceptance and equality, members of the LGBTQ+ community still continue to face insensitivity, discrimination, and intolerance,” the proclamation states.

The township also emphasized the need to support LGBTQ+ youth, who may be more likely to experience bullying, violence, depression, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts compared with their peers.

Mayor Andes formally proclaimed June 2026 as Pride Month in the Township of Denville and urged residents to respect and honor the township’s diverse community.

The proclamation was shared publicly by the Township of Denville on social media and drew community reaction, including comments from residents in neighboring towns discussing whether their municipalities should request similar proclamations.

Bucco Bill Increasing Penalties for Assaults on Seniors and People with Disabilities Advances

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25)

TRENTON — Legislation sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco that would increase criminal penalties for assaults against seniors and people with disabilities has advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The bill, S-271, would upgrade certain assaults when the victim is a person with a disability or a senior citizen age 60 or older. Under the measure, a person who causes bodily injury to one of these victims would be charged with aggravated assault, a third-degree crime, and face a mandatory minimum prison term of three years. If the victim suffers significant or serious bodily injury, the offense would rise to a second-degree crime.  

“Our seniors and residents with disabilities deserve to feel safe in their communities,” Bucco said. “When someone deliberately causes harm to a person who may be less able to defend themselves, the punishment should reflect the seriousness of that offense. This bill ensures that those who commit these acts will be prosecuted and when convicted will serve time in jail.”  

The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator Shirley K. Turner, who said the bill is intended to strengthen protections for vulnerable residents and ensure the justice system treats these crimes with appropriate seriousness.  

According to legislative sponsors, the bill was prompted in part by violent attacks involving elderly and disabled victims, including the assault of a Trenton man with an intellectual disability who was left permanently injured, as well as attacks on elderly victims during robberies and home invasions.  

S-271 was pre-filed for the 2026 legislative session and referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 13, 2026. The committee advanced the measure on June 11, 2026.  

Dover Council Recognizes June as Pride Month

By
Frank Cahill
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File Photo

DOVER — The Dover Mayor and Town Council have formally recognized June 2026 as Pride Month, reaffirming the borough’s commitment to respect, dignity, and equal treatment for all residents.

The resolution, scheduled for consideration by the governing body, highlights Dover’s diverse population and acknowledges the contributions of residents who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.

According to the resolution, Dover is committed to fostering a community where individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, faith traditions, and life experiences are treated with dignity, respect, fairness, and equal opportunity.

The resolution notes that Pride Month is observed annually during June to recognize the history, experiences, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals. It further states that LGBTQ+ residents contribute to the social, cultural, civic, educational, and economic vitality of the community.

Town officials emphasized that every resident deserves to live free from discrimination, harassment, and violence while being treated with respect regardless of background, beliefs, or personal identity.

The resolution also recognizes the importance of mutual understanding, civil dialogue, and respect for the diverse religious, cultural, and personal beliefs represented throughout the borough.

“Promoting kindness, acceptance, and neighborly respect helps create a welcoming environment in which all residents can live, work, worship, raise families, and participate fully in community life,” the resolution states.

By adopting the measure, the Mayor and Council officially designate June 2026 as Pride Month in the Town of Dover and encourage residents to continue building a community founded on respect, civility, compassion, and equal treatment for all people.

The resolution reflects the borough’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity while celebrating the diversity that has long been a hallmark of the Dover community.

Dover Native Helmer Garcia Graduates Police Academy, Joins Dover Police Department

By
Frank Cahill
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Dover Police Officer Helmer Garcia (center) is joined by Deputy Chief Matthew Hager (left) and Chief Jonathan Delaney (right) during a ceremony recognizing Garcia's graduation from the police academy and his official swearing-in as a member of the Dover Police Department. The event celebrated Garcia's achievement and welcomed him to the department as he begins his service to the Dover community.

DOVER — The Dover Police Department proudly welcomed its newest officer as Helmer Garcia graduated from the Morris County Police Academy’s 106th Basic Police Class.

Garcia, a lifelong Dover resident, officially joins the department as Officer No. 237 and began field training this week as he prepares to serve the community he has long called home.

The Dover Police Department announced Garcia’s graduation in a social media post, praising his dedication and commitment throughout the academy’s rigorous training program.

“Today, we proudly congratulate Officer Helmer Garcia on graduating from the Morris County Police Academy’s 106th Basic Police Class,” the department stated. “This accomplishment reflects his hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving the Town of Dover.”

Garcia’s achievement marks the culmination of months of intensive training in law enforcement procedures, criminal law, emergency response, physical fitness, and community policing. The academy prepares recruits for the challenges and responsibilities they will face as police officers throughout New Jersey.

Following graduation, Garcia was officially assigned Badge No. 237 and immediately began the next phase of his training. During field training, he will work alongside experienced officers while gaining hands-on experience in patrol operations, investigations, and community engagement.

Garcia’s connection to the borough makes the milestone especially meaningful. Having grown up in Dover, he now has the opportunity to serve and protect the same community that helped shape him.

Police Chief Jonathan Delaney and Deputy Chief Matthew Hager joined Garcia in celebrating the accomplishment, welcoming him to the department and wishing him success as he begins his law enforcement career.

The Dover Police Department encouraged residents to join them in congratulating Officer Garcia on his achievement and welcoming him to the force.

Community Invited to Celebrate the Life of Rev. Tony M. MacNaughton

By
Frank Cahill
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Rev. Tony M. MacNaughton

HANOVER TOWNSHIP — Family, friends, parishioners, and community members will gather on Saturday, June 14, to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Tony M. MacNaughton, who faithfully served as pastor of Hildale Park Presbyterian Church in Cedar Knolls for 46 years.

Rev. MacNaughton was known throughout Hanover Township not only for his ministry but also for his extraordinary commitment to community service. In addition to leading his congregation, he served as volunteer chaplain for the Hanover Township Fire and Police Departments, a driver for the First Aid Squad, president and secretary of the Hanover Rotary Club, and a volunteer with numerous organizations dedicated to youth education, enrichment, and substance abuse prevention.

Remembered for his warm personality, remarkable memory, and sincere interest in everyone he met, Rev. MacNaughton touched countless lives during his decades of service.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Hildale Park Presbyterian Church, 85 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls. The service will take place in the church sanctuary and will be simulcast to the Fellowship Hall, which was named in Rev. MacNaughton’s honor.

The community is invited to attend. Overflow parking will be available at nearby Notre Dame, which has graciously opened its parking lot for those attending the service.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be livestreamed through the church’s website at Hildale.org and directly on Zoom at https://zoom.us/my/hildale. A livestream will also be available on the church’s Facebook page. A recording of the service will be made available in the coming days.

Following the service, the MacNaughton family invites attendees to gather at the Hanover Township Recreation Center, 15 North Jefferson Road, for refreshments and an opportunity to share memories, stories, and condolences.

Rev. MacNaughton’s impact extended far beyond the walls of his church. Through nearly five decades of spiritual leadership and community involvement, he helped shape Hanover Township and inspired generations through his faith, compassion, and dedication to serving others.

Former Casio Headquarters in Dover Sold to Logistics Firm for New Corporate Headquarters

By
Frank Cahill
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Peter Feldman, president of Legacy Real Estate Developers, and Sal Frassetto, chairman of Saddleback Real Estate Developers, mark the conclusion of a plan to reposition the former Casio America Inc. headquarters at 570 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Dover. — Courtesy: Legacy

DOVER — The former headquarters of Casio America has a new owner and a new future.

A partnership led by Legacy Real Estate Developers has sold the 126,108-square-foot industrial and office complex at 570 Mount Pleasant Avenue to Z Transportation Inc., a privately owned freight and logistics company that plans to establish its corporate headquarters at the site.

The sale marks the successful completion of a redevelopment strategy that transformed the property less than nine months after it was acquired. The purchase price was not disclosed.

A joint venture has acquired the former Casio America Inc. headquarters in Dover, adding more than 126,000 square feet of commercial space that it will update and look to fill with new users.

Located on a 22.8-acre tract approximately one mile from Interstate 80, the property includes roughly 70,000 square feet of warehouse space and 60,000 square feet of office space. Casio America vacated the building last year after relocating its operations to new offices in Jersey City and Rockaway.

The ownership group, consisting of Legacy Real Estate Developers, Saddleback Real Estate Developers, and Commerce Park Investors, acquired the property in October 2025 through an all-cash transaction. Their strategy focused on repositioning the building and identifying a user capable of maximizing its long-term value.

As part of the process, the partnership secured local planning approvals to accommodate Z Transportation’s operational needs, including modifications to parking areas and site circulation.

“This was the perfect opportunity for our partnership,” said Peter Feldman, president of Legacy Real Estate Developers. “Our ability to move quickly with certainty, navigate approvals and structure solutions for the end user helped make this a win for everyone involved. The property checked every box for a corporate headquarters operation with excellent highway access and existing infrastructure already in place.”

Salvatore Frassetto, chairman of Saddleback Real Estate Developers, said the transaction reflected the importance of experience and execution in today’s real estate market.

“Saddleback’s president, Terry Frassetto, and I have always agreed that in today’s market, certainty and execution matter as much as pricing,” Frassetto said. “Our reputation has always been built on doing exactly what we say we’re going to do. That credibility continues to create opportunities for us, especially in transactions that require speed, experience and problem-solving.”

The transaction was brokered by CBRE Executive Vice President Elli Klapper, who represented the sellers. Dan Whitehead of Resource Realty of Northern New Jersey represented the buyer. Legal counsel for the ownership team was provided by Jason Rubin of Schenck Price Smith & King LLP.

Roy Pascal, a principal at Commerce Park Investors, noted that the approval process played a key role in bringing the deal to completion.

“The approval process was an important part of making this deal successful,” Pascal said. “Because we understand both the real estate and municipal side of these transactions, we were able to help guide the project efficiently through the process and create a solution that worked for the buyer and the community.”

The sale underscores the continued strength of the industrial and flex-property market throughout northern New Jersey, where demand remains high for strategically located facilities that can support logistics, transportation, warehousing, and corporate headquarters operations.

With Z Transportation establishing its headquarters in Dover, the property begins a new chapter while bringing additional business activity and employment opportunities to the area.

New Jersey E-Bike Rules Take Effect in July 2026: What Riders and Families Need to Know

By
Frank Cahill
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0

MORRIS COUNTY — New Jersey residents who own or operate electric bicycles will soon face significant new requirements under a state law that takes full effect on July 19, 2026. The legislation changes how e-bikes are regulated throughout the state and introduces licensing, registration, age restrictions, and helmet requirements for riders.

Under the new law, riders must be at least 15 years old to operate an e-bike. Anyone age 15 or 16 who does not possess a driver’s license will be required to obtain a special e-bike or motorized bicycle license through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Riders 17 and older may use a standard driver’s license to satisfy the licensing requirement.

The law also requires e-bikes to be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. While registration procedures are still being finalized, state officials have indicated that riders will need to provide proof of ownership and other documentation before receiving registration credentials.

Helmet use will become mandatory for all e-bike riders, regardless of age. Previously, helmet requirements primarily applied to younger riders, but the new law extends that requirement statewide in an effort to improve rider safety.

The legislation creates different categories of electric bicycles. Low-speed electric bicycles, which provide pedal-assist power and stop assisting at 20 miles per hour, will require registration and licensing. Higher-powered e-bikes and throttle-equipped models may also require liability insurance in addition to registration and licensing requirements.

Supporters of the law say the changes will improve safety and accountability as e-bike usage continues to grow throughout New Jersey. However, bicycle advocacy organizations and some industry groups have expressed concerns that the requirements could discourage e-bike use and create additional costs and administrative burdens for riders.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission is expected to release additional guidance regarding licensing, registration procedures, and implementation details before the July 19 deadline. Riders are encouraged to monitor MVC announcements and ensure they understand the new requirements before taking their e-bikes on public roads, trails, or other public property.

Video: Jefferson Township Council Meeting – June 10, 2026

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Jefferson Township

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Jefferson Township Council Meeting – June 10, 2026.

Click here to download the agenda.

Foot Care Clinic Offered at Jefferson Township Health Center

By
Frank Cahill
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0

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — Residents seeking professional foot care services can take advantage of the upcoming Foot Care Clinic on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Jefferson Township Public Health Center, located at 57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong.

A Board-Certified Podiatrist will provide evaluations and routine foot care services, including nail trimming, corn removal, and callus care. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling (973) 663-0700.

The clinic will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and is open to residents seeking affordable preventive foot care.

The Foot Care Clinic is offered on the first and third Thursday of each month, providing ongoing access to essential podiatric services for community members.

The cost is $15.00 per visit.

Foot Care Clinic
Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Jefferson Township Public Health Center
Address: 57 Minnisink Road, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849
Fee: $15.00
Appointments: Required
Information and Scheduling: (973) 663-0700

The clinic offers a convenient opportunity for residents to maintain healthy feet and address routine foot care needs under the supervision of a qualified podiatrist.

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Morris Focus was founded in 2017 and is published in print and online formats. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate news coverage to Morris County residents and promote community engagement and involvement. The newspaper covers various topics, including local government, education, business, and sports. We can be reached by calling (973) 559-6000—a member of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce.

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