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Mountain Lakes Police Officer Files Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Lawsuit Against Borough

By
Frank Cahill
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Melanie Aguilar, with her parents during her 2022 installation. File Photo

MOUNTAIN LAKES — A Mountain Lakes police officer has filed a civil lawsuit against the Borough of Mountain Lakes, alleging years of sexual harassment, gender and ancestry discrimination, and the creation of a hostile work environment by senior municipal officials.

The complaint, filed January 12 in Superior Court of New Jersey, Morris County, was brought by Melanie Aguilar, a police officer who has been employed by the Mountain Lakes Police Department since 2022. Aguilar alleges violations of the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) and is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, attorneys’ fees, and other relief.

According to the lawsuit, Aguilar is the only female police officer currently employed by the department and the first Latina hired. The complaint alleges that from the beginning of her employment, she was subjected to repeated inappropriate comments, sexual remarks, and conduct by then-Police Chief Shawn Bennett, who served as her direct supervisor.

The filing details multiple alleged incidents, including claims that Bennett made sexualized comments about Aguilar’s appearance, showed her explicit images on his phone while on duty, suggested she share a hotel room with him during a police-related event, and sent text messages containing sexual references. Aguilar also alleges that Bennett repeatedly told her she “had the job because of him,” which she claims contributed to an atmosphere of intimidation and fear of retaliation.

The complaint further alleges that Mountain Lakes Borough Manager Mitchell Stern also engaged in inappropriate and sexualized comments toward Aguilar, including remarks about her body and pregnancy. Aguilar claims Stern similarly reminded her that he was responsible for her employment, reinforcing her fear of reporting the alleged conduct.

According to the lawsuit, Aguilar avoided spending time inside police headquarters whenever possible due to the alleged behavior, completing reports

Hackettstown Woman Taken into Custody on $4,000 Denville Warrant

By
Frank Cahill
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The Morris County Correctional Facility, located at 43 John Street in Morris Township, serves as the primary detention center operated by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

DENVILLE — A 45-year-old Hackettstown resident was taken into custody Monday evening on an outstanding warrant from Denville Municipal Court, according to the Denville Police Department.

Jessica Kleban was apprehended by authorities at the Warren County Correctional Facility and turned over to Denville police officers at approximately 6:51 p.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026. She was wanted on an active ATS warrant issued by the Township of Denville, with bail set at $4,000.

Officers transported Kleban to the Morris County Correctional Facility, where she is currently being held pending a court appearance in Denville Municipal Court.

No additional charges were announced in connection with the arrest.

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.

Dover Man Arrested During Route 10 Traffic Stop in Denville

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

DENVILLE — A Dover man was arrested Saturday evening, January 11, following a motor vehicle stop on Route 10 westbound, according to the Denville Police Department.

Police said officers conducted the traffic stop at approximately 7:30 p.m. due to an equipment violation. During the course of the investigation, officers determined that the driver, identified as Arley Ruiz, 21, of Dover, was operating the vehicle while his driver’s license was suspended.

Further investigation revealed that Ruiz also had an active ATS warrant issued by the Denville Municipal Court in the amount of $1,500.

As a result, Ruiz was placed under arrest and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. He was later released after posting bail and is pending a future court date.

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 Man Arrested on Outstanding Washington Township Warrant

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

DENVILLE — Denville Police arrested a township resident on Tuesday, January 6, after being notified by Washington Township Police of an outstanding warrant.

According to police, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Washington Township Police contacted the Denville Police Department to report that Allan E. Pineda-Romero, 37, of Denville, had an active ACS warrant issued out of Washington Township.

Denville officers responded to Pineda-Romero’s residence, where they served the warrant and placed him under arrest. He was then transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. A short time later, officers from the Washington Township Police Department arrived at headquarters and took custody of Pineda-Romero.

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.

Kutztown University Announces Fall 2025 Dean’s List Honorees from Oak Ridge

By
Frank Cahill
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Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

JEFFERSON — Kutztown University of Pennsylvania has announced that 2,261 students were named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List. To earn this academic honor, undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least 12 credits and achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.60.

The following students were recognized:

  • Joe Luggiero
  • Kaitlyn Majury
  • Emily Mylod
  • Taylor Senatore

Founded in 1866, Kutztown University is a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and offers more than 130 areas of study across four colleges. The university is also home to a robust student life, including NCAA Division II athletics and more than 160 student clubs and organizations, providing students with diverse opportunities for academic, cultural, and personal growth.

Turn Caring Into Action—Join the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township

By
Frank Cahill
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Grace Rhinesmith, Director of Recreation for Jefferson Township, accepts winter jackets and bags of toys for children in need from Bryan Lance, a charter member of the new Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township, and Frank Cahill, New Jersey District Governor of Kiwanis International. The donation reflects the club’s early commitment to serving local families—demonstrating that even before its official start, the spirit of Kiwanis is already making a meaningful impact in the community.

JEFFERSON — A new chapter of community spirit is beginning in Jefferson Township—and it’s already off to a joyful and inspiring start.

The Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township will officially begin its journey with organizational meetings on Thursday, January 15, at 6:30 p.m., held at Camp Jefferson, 81 Weldon Road, Lake Hopatcong. The meetings mark an exciting milestone as neighbors come together to lay the foundation for a club dedicated to service, friendship, and making a meaningful difference close to home.

What makes this story especially heartwarming is that the spirit of Kiwanis is already alive and well—even before the club’s official start. Members and supporters have jumped right into action, participating in community outreach efforts such as donating winter jackets and toys for local families, ensuring warmth, comfort, and smiles during the colder months. It’s a powerful reminder that service doesn’t have to wait for a charter—it starts with caring.

Rooted in the mission of improving the world one child and one community at a time, the new Jefferson Township club is bringing together residents from all walks of life who share a desire to give back. Conversations are filled with ideas for future service projects, youth programs, and family-focused initiatives that will strengthen the entire community.

With enthusiasm building and kindness already in motion, the Kiwanis Club of Jefferson Township is poised to become a positive force for years to come. Residents interested in learning more or getting involved are encouraged to click here or call (973) 559-6000.

Sometimes the happiest stories are the ones that begin with neighbors simply deciding to help—and Jefferson Township is proving just how powerful that choice can be.

Lake Hopatcong’s Emily Schorr Earns Spot on Shenandoah University Dean’s List for Fall 2025

By
Frank Cahill
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Shenandoah University, a private institution founded in 1875, is headquartered in Winchester, Virginia, and serves more than 4,400 students across over 200 areas of study.

LAKE HOPATCONG — Emily Schorr, of Lake Hopatcong, is one of 1,195 students who earned a spot on Shenandoah University’s Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester.

To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must be enrolled full-time in baccalaureate degree programs and earn a semester GPA of 3.50 or higher. Dean’s List students who achieve a semester GPA of 3.90 or higher also qualify for the university’s President’s List.

Shenandoah University was established in 1875, and is headquartered at the top of Virginia, in Winchester, Virginia, with additional educational sites in Clarke and Loudoun counties, and online offerings. Shenandoah is a private, nationally recognized university that blends professional career experiences with wide-ranging education. With over 4,400 students in more than 200 areas of study in six different schools, Shenandoah promotes a close-knit community rich in creative energy and intellectual challenge. Shenandoah students collaborate with accomplished professors who provide focused, individual attention, all the while leading several programs to be highly nationally ranked. Through innovative partnerships and programs at both the local and global level, there are exceptional opportunities for students to learn in and out of the classroom. Shenandoah empowers its students to improve the human condition and to be principled professionals and leaders wherever they go. For more information, visit su.edu.

Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Announces Open Positions in Mayor’s Office

By
Frank Cahill
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PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills is accepting applications to fill two Keyboard Clerk I positions within the Mayor’s Office.

The full-time positions are scheduled Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with hours subject to change based on departmental and township needs. The positions are classified as white-collar non-exempt, with a salary range established by ordinance of $27,550 to $80,700.

According to the township, the Keyboard Clerk I role involves a wide range of clerical and administrative responsibilities in support of the Mayor’s Office. Duties include answering phones, managing files, scheduling meetings, drafting correspondence, handling incoming and outgoing mail, maintaining and archiving records, and assisting with various administrative and project-related tasks. The position requires the ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Candidates must possess strong organizational and time-management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required. Experience with Edmunds municipal accounting software and Paychex is preferred, though training will be provided.

The position requires frequent interaction with residents and visitors, making customer service excellence essential. Responsibilities also include processing paperwork, ordering and distributing office supplies, preparing payment requisitions and vouchers, and following up on payment processing. Applicants must be comfortable handling a high volume of inquiries both by phone and in person while demonstrating patience, sound judgment, and professionalism.

Applicants must have a valid New Jersey driver’s license and a high school diploma or GED. The positions are subject to pre-employment drug testing.

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to Interim Business Administrator Khaled Madin at [email protected], with a copy sent to Personnel Director Hank Sunyak at [email protected].

Morris Plains Woman Arrested for Alleged DWI in Denville

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

MORRIS COUNTY — A Morris Plains woman was arrested on multiple motor vehicle charges after police responded to a report of an erratic driver in Denville, authorities said.

Denville Township Police Department officers were dispatched on Saturday, January 4, at approximately 10:19 a.m. to the area of 123 East Main Street after a witness reported a vehicle nearly crashing multiple times while traveling on Route 53 before pulling into the parking lot.

Police located the vehicle and conducted an investigation, during which officers determined the driver, identified as Jennifer Dudak, 59, of Morris Plains, was allegedly operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. An open container of alcohol was also found inside the vehicle, police said.

Dudak was taken into custody and transported to Denville Police Headquarters for processing. She was later issued multiple motor vehicle summonses, including driving while under the influence, careless driving, reckless driving, failure to observe a traffic control device, failure to maintain lane, failure to possess an insurance card, and open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. She was released pending a future court date in Denville Municipal Court.

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.

Motor Vehicle Crash in Denville Leads to DWI Arrest

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

DENVILLE — A West Orange woman was arrested on multiple motor vehicle charges, including driving while intoxicated, following a late-night crash in Denville, police said.

Denville Township Police Department officers responded on Saturday, January 4, at approximately 10:57 p.m. to the area of Diamond Spring Road, near the center of town, following a report of a motor vehicle accident.

During the investigation, officers determined that the driver, identified as Grietje Wijbenga, 72, of West Orange, was allegedly operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Wijbenga was taken into custody and transported to Denville Township Police Headquarters for processing.

Police said Wijbenga was issued multiple motor vehicle summonses, including operating under the influence of liquor or drugs, open container of alcohol, delaying traffic, traffic on marked lanes, reckless driving, and careless driving. She was later released pending a future court date in Denville Municipal Court.

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.

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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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