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Wharton Man Sentenced to Prison for Conspiring to Create and Distribute Videos Depicting Monkey Torture and Mutilation

By
Frank Cahill
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A baby monkey sits inside a small cage — an image that serves as a somber reminder of the cruelty exposed in recent federal cases involving the creation and distribution of “animal crush” videos. File Photo

MORRIS COUNTY — A Wharton man was sentenced to prison on September 30 in connection with his involvement with online groups dedicated to creating and distributing videos depicting acts of extreme violence and sexual abuse against monkeys.

Giancarlo Morelli, of Wharton, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for conspiring to create and distribute animal crush videos.

“Those making or sharing animal crush videos have reason to fear capture and swift justice in the form of sentences like today’s,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “Congress has said clearly that this conduct has no place in our society. Beyond dark corners of the web, it is reviled. Anyone who sees it should turn in perpetrators to federal law enforcement. We will prosecute everyone we can, as we did with this chat group. If you’re involved in these groups, get out and get help.”

“If you pay others to torture animals or to share images of that horrific abuse, you can expect to be held accountable as if you committed the torture firsthand,” said U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II for the Southern District of Ohio. “Today’s sentence shows our resolve to punish everyone who participates in these despicable and sadistic conspiracies.”  

“The acts of torture and abuse of young monkeys in this case are beyond disturbing,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Adam Lawson of FBI’s Cincinnati Field Office. “As a result of the work of the FBI, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and our Department of Justice partners, those involved in the creation and distribution of these repulsive animal torture videos are being held accountable for their criminal actions.”

“Those who produce or distribute animal crush videos should know that federal law enforcement is fully committed to identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting these offenders,” said Assistant Director Doug Ault of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Office of Law Enforcement. “Such acts are universally condemned, and we commend vigilant members of the public who report these crimes when they are discovered. As demonstrated by this successful prosecution, we will aggressively pursue all who participate in these abhorrent acts.”

According to court documents, Morelli paid another individual 19 times for videos depicting the torture and abuse of monkeys. Morelli also kept up an extensive correspondence with the individual supplying him with the videos, providing feedback on the content of the videos, and offering suggestions for future videos. 

According to statements of facts signed by Morelli, the videos included depictions of baby and adolescent monkeys being tortured in a multitude of ways, including having their genitals burned and cut off.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FBI investigated the case.

Dover Mayor James P. Dodd Addresses Property Tax Increase, Citing School Budget as Main Driver

By
Frank Cahill
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Dover Board of Education, 21 Belmont Avenue

DOVER — Mayor James P. Dodd issued a letter to residents this week explaining the reasons behind this year’s property tax increase, emphasizing transparency and outlining steps his administration is taking to maintain fiscal discipline.

According to Mayor Dodd, the largest portion of the increase stems from the Dover Board of Education, which approved a 15.68 percent rise in the school tax levy. For the average homeowner, that translates to approximately $50.81 more per month. In comparison, Dodd noted that the municipal portion under his administration increased by only 4.5 percent.

The mayor attributed much of the spike to Governor Phil Murphy’s removal of the former 2 percent cap on school tax increases, which now allows Boards of Education to raise taxes without limits. Dodd stated that while the Dover Board cited increased costs for salaries, benefits, and utilities, a major factor was its decision to purchase property and build a new school, despite voters previously rejecting that plan in a referendum.

“Rather than financing through a bond, which would have spread costs over time, the Board raised school taxes by $4 million in one year,” Dodd said. He added that he met with the Superintendent and Business Administrator to urge them to use a bond, but his recommendation “was not accepted.”

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Municipal Finances and Police Overtime

On the municipal side, Mayor Dodd said Dover continues to face challenges from the previous administration, including “unsustainable salary hikes and uncontrolled police overtime.”

In 2023, police overtime reportedly cost taxpayers $795,000, with an additional $407,504 in Extra Duty. For 2024, overtime expenses totaled $640,000, plus another $490,596 in Extra Duty.

“Meanwhile, our Chief of Police has refused directives from the Appropriate Authority,” Dodd stated, adding firmly, “This stops now.”

The mayor announced plans to replace the Chief with a Public Safety Director to ensure “controlled spending, efficiency, and accountability.”

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Fiscal Responsibility and Looking Ahead

Despite ongoing challenges, Dodd highlighted his administration’s success in reducing municipal spending. The town’s budget was cut by $1.5 million in 2023 and another $2.7 million in 2024, without layoffs or reductions in services.

“We remain committed to protecting taxpayers, restoring fiscal responsibility, and ensuring Dover remains a strong and vibrant community,” said Dodd. “As always, I remain honored and humbled to serve as your mayor.”

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The information above was provided by the Town of Dover.

Public Meeting on East Hanover Avenue Bridge Rail Clearance Project

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER — Morris County, in partnership with the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), will host a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, October. 14 regarding  the “East Hanover Avenue Bridge Catenary Rail Clearance Project.”

The meeting will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with presentations scheduled at 6:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.

The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of the NJTPA Freight Concept Development Study, which is exploring options to eliminate height restrictions on the NJ Transit Morristown Line between Denville and Morristown. These restrictions currently prevent Plate “F” railcars, which is the standard size freight railcar, from moving freely between the Washington Secondary Line and the Whippany Line.

“This study is an important step in improving freight mobility in Morris County. We encourage residents, business owners, and local officials to participate in the meeting to learn about the project and contribute input,” said Stephen Shaw, Morris County commissioner deputy director and secretary of the NJTPA.

The NJTPA is conducting this study in partnership with Morris County. For more information, including links to join the virtual meeting, visit: morristownlinerailclearance.com

About the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority

The NJTPA is the metropolitan planning organization (MPO) for 13 northern New Jersey counties. Under federal legislation, MPOs provide a forum where local officials, public transportation providers and state agency representatives can come together and cooperatively plan to meet the region’s current and future transportation needs. It establishes the region’s eligibility to receive federal tax dollars for transportation projects.

The NJTPA Board consists of one local elected official from each of the 13 counties in the region (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren), and the cities of Newark and Jersey City. The board also includes a governor’s representative, the commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation, the executive director of NJ Transit, the deputy executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and a citizen’s representative appointed by the governor.

State and Federal Leaders Urged to Shut Down Illegal GLP-1 Compounders

By
Press Release
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April Milevski, MS, RDN

Earlier this month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that they were creating a “green list” import alert to prevent illicit GLP-1 active ingredients (API) from entering the country. The move comes following months of calls from state attorneys general, including New Jersey’s Attorney General Matthew Platkin and members of Congress, including New Jersey Congressman Herb Conaway, to stop the flow of these ingredients from South and East Asia.

While this enforcement will help stem the flow of illicit API from entering our ports at locations like JFK Airport and Philadelphia, it cannot stop compounders that are continuing to skirt the law. To do that requires more aggressive action, including shutting down the compounders making illegal GLP-1s and stopping the sale of them by telehealth companies.

These compounding pharmacies are utilizing the same illicit API that the FDA has sought to eliminate from the ecosystem. And with enough illegal semaglutide and tirzepatide coming from China for at least 78 million doses last year alone, many of these compounding pharmacies can continue to make and sell illegally compounded GLP-1s to telehealth companies for the foreseeable future.

As a registered dietitian, I know these illicit GLP-1 products present a pharmaceutical danger, and given the nature of these products, those dangers can often go undetected until they cause irreversible harm. It only underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement to shut down this dangerous underground market.
The way we shut this down requires state and federal actors working hand-in-hand. Beyond increasing enforcement to stop the flow of new illicit API, the FDA, Attorney General Matthew Platkin, and Governor Phil Murphy must take enforcement actions against illegal compounders and telehealth companies selling illegally compounded products.
It’s clear that bolder action is needed to truly stop this knockoff market from growing.

April Milevski, MS, RDN, is the Owner and Functional Dietitian at Fed by Strength LLC

Bee Meadow PTA Thanksgiving Pie Fundraiser Is Back

By
Frank Cahill
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HANOVER— The Bee Meadow School PTA is once again hosting its popular Thanksgiving Pie Fundraiser, featuring fresh, homemade pies from Delicious Orchards — and this year, the entire community is invited to take part!

Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, visiting family, or just want to skip the baking while still serving a classic dessert, this is the perfect solution.

Available Pies:

  • Apple
  • Cherry
  • Pumpkin
  • Pecan

Why order?
•Skip the stress, not the flavor
•Impress your guests or hosts
•Support local students and school programs at Bee Meadow School

Order Dates: October 6–24
Pickup Location: Local pickup in Whippany the week of Thanksgiving

All proceeds directly benefit Bee Meadow students and school initiatives.

Order your pies now — before the October 24 deadline!

Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic Scheduled

By
Frank Cahill
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Annual Rabies Immunization Clinic

HANOVER — The Hanover Township Health Department will host a free rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, November 1, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Whippany Fire Station, located at 10 Troy Hills Road.

No appointment is required. Pet owners are reminded that dogs must be on a leash and cats must be in a secure carrier. Vaccinations will be administered at no cost.

For more information, residents are encouraged to read the flyer by clicking here or contact the Hanover Township Health Department at (973) 428-2485.

Morris County Courthouse, Administration Building Partial Closure

By
Frank Cahill
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The complex, situated along Washington Street between Court Street and Western Avenue

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Courthouse Complex and the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown will be partially closed on Thursday, October 9, 2025 for a planned security exercise.

The Morris County Administration and Records Building will be closed to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The building will reopen at 1:30 p.m. for county business only.

The Morris County Courthouse will be closed to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Court staff will remain available by phone from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (862) 397-5700. All court matters scheduled after 1:30 p.m. will be heard virtually. Emergent matters will be heard before 11:00 a.m. or virtually after 1:30 p.m.

Anyone seeking a temporary domestic violence restraining order between 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on October 9 should apply through the Morristown Police Department or their local police department.

Pennacchio Blasts Absurd Democrat Suggestion to Seize Trump’s Golf Course for Housing

By
Frank Cahill
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Senator Joe Pennachio

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) issued the following statement in response to a foolish suggestion by a New Jersey Democrat to use eminent domain to seize President Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster and convert it into affordable housing:
“Democrats continue to show their true colors when it comes to their high-density housing scheme. They have weaponized the development of low-income housing, using it as a political threat instead of helping solve a basic human need. This latest stunt—targeting open space simply because they don’t like the President—is absurd, vindictive, and completely unserious.

“If Democrats truly cared about making homeownership more affordable in New Jersey, they wouldn’t need to play political games. They’ve controlled the Statehouse for over two decades. Instead of weaponizing affordable housing mandates, they should stop nickel-and-diming our residents to death with higher taxes, fees, tolls, and insurance premiums. 
“The real crisis is the cost of living in New Jersey—and it’s a direct result of years of failed Democrat leadership. Going after political opponents’ property and business is a new low, even for them.”

Senator Pennacchio has long criticized Democrats’ overreaching housing mandates, calling for more local control and practical reforms that focus on affordability through tax relief, economic development, and responsible planning.

Free Rabies Clinic Offered in Boonton

By
Frank Cahill
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0
Annual Rabies Immunization Clinic

BOONTON — The Town of Boonton Board of Health will sponsor a Free Rabies Clinic on Saturday, November 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The clinic will be held at a new location, 100 Monroe Street, Boonton, NJ.

The clinic is open to all New Jersey residents. Pet owners are reminded that dogs must be on a leash and cats must be in a secure carrier. No appointments are necessary, and services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Rabies vaccinations are an important way to protect both pets and the community. The Boonton Board of Health encourages all residents to take advantage of this opportunity to keep their pets up-to-date on their rabies protection.

For more information, contact the Town of Boonton Board of Health.

School of Rock Strikes a Chord in Parsippany with High-Energy Grand Opening

By
Frank Cahill
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Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James R. Barberio joined School of Rock Parsippany Owner Rob Corbi in officially cutting the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening. The ceremony marked the school’s exciting debut in the community, symbolizing new opportunities for students and families to experience the power of music.

PARSIPPANY — A new beat is pulsing through Parsippany as School of Rock Parsippany officially opened its doors on Sunday, September 7, welcoming families, young musicians, and community leaders for a full day of music, tours, and hands-on demos.

The celebration kicked off with a ribbon cutting attended by Mayor James R. Barberio, Council Vice President Frank Neglia, Frank Cahill, Chairman of the Parsippany Economic Development Committee, members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Economic Development Team, and representatives of the Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce. Guests packed the lobby as instructors and students and Mayor Barberio traded riffs on stage, showcasing the performance-based music program that has made School of Rock a nationwide favorite.

“Today isn’t just about opening a business—it’s about opening opportunities,” said Rob Corbi. “We’re here to help kids and adults build confidence, find their voice, and experience the joy of performing live music together.”

Frank Cahill emphasized the importance of the school’s arrival in the community. “Parsippany continues to thrive when we welcome businesses that inspire creativity and provide opportunities for our youth,” said Cahill. “School of Rock is more than a music school—it’s an investment in the next generation and a boost to our local economy.”

Throughout the day, visitors toured the rehearsal rooms, vocal and drum studios, and performance space while staff explained how students progress from one-on-one instruction to full band rehearsals and live gigs. Attendees sampled mini-lessons on guitar, bass, drums, piano, and vocals, and signed up for trial sessions and fall enrollment.

First Jam: Instructors and students trade riffs during an afternoon showcase in the school’s performance space.

Mayor Barberio praised the new addition to Parsippany’s small-business and arts community. “School of Rock brings energy, creativity, and opportunity for our young people,” he said. “It’s a perfect fit for Parsippany and a great sign of our town’s continued growth.”

Parents said they were impressed by the school’s structured curriculum and emphasis on real-stage experience. “My daughter has practiced at home for years,” one parent shared. “Seeing her jump on stage with a band—and light up—that’s priceless.”

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio shares a moment with a School of Rock student after joining in on a jam session.

What the Program Offers

  • All ages & levels. From beginners to advanced players, with tracks for youth and adults.
  • Performance-based learning. Private lessons plus weekly group rehearsals that lead to live shows at local venues.
  • Pro-level coaching. Experienced instructors guide students through classic rock, pop, indie, and more.
  • Gear & safety. Modern rehearsal rooms, stage-ready equipment, and a supportive, inclusive environment.

Community Notes

The School of Rock team plans to partner with local schools, nonprofits, and community events, offering student performances, workshops, and scholarship opportunities. “We’re excited to plug into Parsippany’s vibrant community—on stage and off,” said Rob Corbi. “Expect to see School of Rock students out performing and volunteering all year long.”

How to Get Involved

Families can schedule a tour, book a trial lesson, or enroll in fall programs by contacting School of Rock Parsippany. Limited spots are available for beginner “Rock 101” bands, performance groups, and adult programs.

Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio with School of Rock Parsippany owner Rob Corbi during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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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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