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Dover High School Students Beautify Bridge in Civic Pride Project

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Dover High School students participating in the Dover College Promise program work together to design and plant flower boxes as part of a beautification project on the bridge by Town Hall. The initiative, led by Ed Lopez, showcases the students’ commitment to enhancing their community through creativity and teamwork.

DOVER — Mayor James P. Dodd and the Dover Town Council extended their gratitude to the Dover College Promise program and a group of hardworking Dover High School students for a recent beautification project that brought color and vibrancy to the heart of town.

Led by Dover College Promise Program Director Ed Lopez, the students designed and installed bright flower boxes along the bridge by Town Hall. The project, which combined creativity and teamwork, serves as a shining example of civic engagement by the next generation of community leaders.

“The energy and pride these students brought to this project is inspiring,” said Mayor Dodd. “They’ve made a real impact, and it’s a reminder of what can be achieved when young people invest in their community.”

The initiative was made possible through generous support and collaboration with the County College of Morris, Alexander’s Landscaping & Tree Care, Cutters Tree Service Inc., and the Dover Department of Public Works.

“This was truly a team effort,” said Lopez. “Our students gained hands-on experience in planning and beautification, while also giving something lasting to the community.”

The flower boxes now greet residents and visitors with a splash of color, reinforcing the message that when the community comes together, lasting change can bloom.

Dover Town Council Takes Action After Offensive Behavior Disrupts Meetings

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Town of Dover Mayor and Council

DOVER – In response to escalating safety concerns and increasingly disruptive behavior during recent in-person Town Council meetings, the Mayor and Town Council of Dover have announced that all future meetings will be held virtually. This decision, made in accordance with the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A. 10:4-6 et seq.), is intended to preserve public access while restoring safety, order, and decorum in local governance.

“Over the past several weeks, our meetings have been marred by behavior that has no place in public service,” said Mayor James P. Dodd. “We have witnessed individuals wearing full facial coverings, altering their voices, and delivering crude, vulgar remarks—including sexually explicit references and disturbing comments. These actions have turned our council chambers into a spectacle that undermines the dignity of public discourse.”

One particularly offensive incident involved a man disguised as a Muslim woman, who went as far as to speak in a woman’s voice while making derogatory comments about the Muslim faith—including a disturbing reference to being “stoned” if the burka he was inappropriately wearing were removed. This deliberate impersonation caused significant distress to a resident of Iranian descent who practices Islam and was left in tears after witnessing such a blatant mockery of her faith and culture.

“When a respected local pastor felt compelled to leave a meeting for his own safety, and a Muslim resident was moved to tears by a display of religious mockery, it was clear we had to act,” said Mayor Dodd. “We are committed to providing a space where everyone feels safe, heard, and respected.”

The shift to a virtual meeting format is a proactive measure that aligns with N.J.S.A. 10:4-9(b), which permits electronic meetings as long as the public retains full access and the opportunity to provide comment. “This move is not a retreat from public input—it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to protecting it,” Mayor Dodd emphasized. “Our virtual meetings will allow all voices to be heard in a civil, secure environment—without the circus.”

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged and attend upcoming virtual council meetings. Instructions for accessing and participating in the meetings will be made available on the Town website at www.dover.nj.us.

“This decision wasn’t made lightly,” said Mayor Dodd. “But we cannot allow a small group to hijack the democratic process and create a toxic atmosphere that discourages community participation. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and—above all—civility in government.”

Jefferson Fireworks Rescheduled

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File Photo

JEFFERSON — Due to the weather forecast, the fireworks originally scheduled for Saturday night, May 31, have been canceled. The event has been rescheduled for the rain date: Sunday, June 1, at 9:30 p.m.

The field will open at 6:00 p.m., and attendees will enjoy a DJ and a selection of food trucks before the show.

For updates and additional details, please follow the official social media pages of Jefferson Township, Jefferson Police, and Jefferson Fire Companies 1 and 2.

Morris County Leaders Celebrate Opening of The Forum at Madison

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Deputy Director Stephen Shaw addresses the crowd during the grand opening ceremony of The Forum at Madison, highlighting the county’s commitment to sustainable and affordable housing solutions.

MADISON — Morris County Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen and Deputy Director Stephen Shaw joined Madison Mayor Robert H. Conley, Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, and other local, state, and federal officials on Wednesday, October 4, to celebrate the official grand opening of The Forum at Madison. This 44-unit affordable housing development is setting a new benchmark for sustainable living in New Jersey.

The development, designed with Passive House certification and Net Zero energy standards, combines affordability with cutting-edge environmental design.

“This development is groundbreaking not just for its Passive House certification and Net Zero design, but for fulfilling a fundamental human need: shelter,” said Commissioner Director Selen, who serves as the Morris County liaison to the Housing Authority. “What makes this development truly exceptional is that, beyond providing much-needed housing, it meets an entirely new set of scientific standards for being energy efficient, providing those who will live here not just a place of comfort, but an environment that is both healthy for them as well as our environment.”

Morris County contributed $425,000 in federal HOME funds through the Office of Community Development toward the project. These funds help ensure the affordability of the units for at least the next 30 years.

The Forum at Madison represents a collaborative effort to address housing insecurity and climate impact. It offers residents a high-quality, energy-efficient place to live while advancing long-term sustainability goals across the region.

Dover Officials Welcome Mexican Consulate Leadership to Town Hall

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DOVER — Mayor James P. Dodd, Councilman Marcos Tapia, Police Captain Bill Newton, local business owner Francisco Rizo, and members of the municipal staff welcomed Mariana Díaz Nagore, Principal Consul of the Mexican Consulate of New Jersey, to the Town of Dover. Deputy Consul Alan Hubbard and Political Affairs Aide Xuna Cruz accompanied her.

The visit highlights Dover’s ongoing commitment to serving its diverse population and fostering strong community partnerships. The Mexican Consulate, officially opened in August 2023 in New Brunswick, was established to assist better the estimated 230,000 Mexican nationals residing in New Jersey, many of whom previously had to seek consular services out of state.

With a team of 27 professionals, the Consulate offers essential services such as passports, birth certificates, official IDs, and a range of community support programs focusing on health, cultural affairs, civic engagement, and financial education.

As part of its community outreach efforts, the Consulate opens one Saturday a month for walk-in services and also provides mobile consular units, which Dover officials hope to welcome soon.

Appointments can be scheduled online or via WhatsApp, making access to services more convenient for residents. Dover leadership expressed enthusiasm about building a lasting partnership with the Consulate to ensure the community remains welcoming, informed, and well-supported.

MCVSD Opens Career Training Center on CCM Campus

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Officials cut the ribbon on the Morris County Career Training Center.

MORRIS COUNTY — More than 100 people gathered this morning at the County College of Morris (CCM) to celebrate the official opening of the Morris County Career Training Center, a new facility of the Morris County Vocational School District (MCVSD) on the college campus in Randolph.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of a 46,350-square-foot, two-story building that will expand MCVSD’s capacity by hundreds of high school students, starting with about 150 in the fall 2025 semester. The center will offer share-time programs focused on career and college readiness in fields ranging from medical and dental assisting to artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and supply chain management.

Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen H. Shaw speaks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Morris County Career Training Center.

“This is more than just a career center — it’s truly a life training center. Graduates from Votech are already entering the workforce, earning competitive salaries and entering fulfilling careers. Programs like this are essential to our evolving economy,” said Deputy Commissioner Director Stephen Shaw, who shared a personal story about his father’s success through vocational education.

Commissioners Douglas Cabana, John Krickus, Thomas Mastrangelo, Christine Myers, and Deborah Smith, State Sen. Anthony M. Bucco, Asw. Aura Dunn, Asm. Christian Barranco and Asm. Brian Bergen, along with members of the Randolph Township Council, the MCVSD Board of Education, and the CCM Board of Trustees, was also in attendance.

“It seems like just yesterday we were here with shovels breaking ground for this magnificent facility. It is amazing when you pull onto this campus and see what’s happening with education in Morris County. The students here give us a sense of hope for the future,” said Sen. Bucco, who presented a Joint Senate-Assembly Resolution alongside Assemblymembers Dunn, Bergen, and Barranco.

The $26.8 million project was funded through $18.6 million from the Securing Our Children’s Future Bond Act and $8.2 million in county support. The building is currently under construction adjacent to CCM’s Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Center and the future Entrepreneurship and Culinary Science Center. Together, they will form a career and technical education hub in the county.

“When I became president of CCM in 2016, initial conversations began with Paul Licitra and Barbara Dawson. Around the same time, the Morris County Commissioners — Tom Mastrangelo, Doug Cabana, Christine Myers, Deborah Smith, and John Krickus — approached me about the potential to expand our excellent vocational school district. Many conversations and hard work led to the building we’re celebrating today — and it’s all for our students,” said CCM President Dr. Anthony J. Iacono.

Students who will benefit from the Morris County Career Training Center gather during the ceremony.

At that point, he invited CCM’s culinary students who catered the event to join him.

“This kind of collaboration isn’t happening anywhere else in New Jersey — or the country — but here in Morris County,” Iacono added.

The center’s programs will provide students with hands-on experience, industry-recognized credentials, and the opportunity to earn up to 18 college credits. The share-time model allows students to attend specialized technical training for half the school day as part of their junior and senior year high school programs.

“This building does not feel like a high school. It feels like a high-tech, innovative space, and I know students will love learning here. They will know they are in a special space,” said MCVSD Acting Superintendent Shari Castelli, who emceed the event.

“This event is not just about the opening of a new building. It’s about opening the doors to our students, where they can cultivate their dreams, hopes, and aspirations. They will have a safe and inspiring environment to explore the many possibilities and opportunities available to them to discover their talents,” said MCVSD Board of Education President Barbara Dawson.

Exterior of the finished building, the Morris County Career Training Center.

“The Morris County Vocational School District Career Training Center results from a unique and innovative partnership. It’s a shining example of what can be achieved when educators, with the support of county and state leaders, come together with a shared mission to empower the next generation of young people, and ultimately strengthen our community,” said Paul Licitra, chair of the CCM Board of Trustees.

The project was made possible through collaboration among CCM and its Trustees, MCVSD and its Board of Education members, federal and state legislators, Morris County and the Board of County Commissioners, and the Township of Randolph and Councilmembers. During the event, the contributions of former MCVSD Superintendent Scott Moffitt were also recognized.

Audrey Pagan Tackles Stormwater Issues in Global Research Project at WPI

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Worcester Polytechnic nstitute

MORRIS PLAINS — Audrey Pagan, a member of the class of 2026 majoring in Environmental Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), was a member of a student team that recently completed a professional-level research-driven project titled “Stormwater Utility Creation and Maintenance.”

Known as the Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP), this project is a core part of the innovative undergraduate experience at WPI. Centered around project-based learning, this hands-on approach offers students opportunities to help develop thoughtful solutions to open-ended problems. These real-world problems affect the quality of life for people in the communities where students work, giving students a chance to make a difference in the world before graduation. All WPI undergraduates must complete an IQP, usually in their junior year, through which they apply science and technology to address a critical societal need or issue. About two-thirds of WPI students complete their IQP at one of the university’s 50+ off-campus project centers in more than 30 countries worldwide.

“The WPI project-based curriculum’s focus on global studies brings students out of the classroom and their comfort zones and into the global community to apply their knowledge and to solve problems,” said Professor Kent Rissmiller, professor of International & Global Studies and associate dean of The Global School. “Students are immersed in all aspects of a different culture-from the way people live and work to the values they hold to the foods they eat, all valuable perspectives for surviving and thriving in today’s global marketplace. They also learn the meaning and magic of teamwork; make a real and meaningful difference in their host community; and gain a competitive edge for any resume, or graduate or professional school application.”

About Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is a top-tier STEM-focused research university and a recognized pioneer and global leader in project-based learning. Founded in 1865 on the principle that students learn most effectively by applying the theory learned in the classroom to the practice of solving real-world problems, WPI’s continued mission is to transform lives, turn knowledge into action to confront global challenges, and revolutionize STEM through distinctive and inclusive education, projects, and research. WPI’s project-based curriculum engages undergraduates in solving significant scientific, technological, and societal problems throughout their education and at more than 50 project centers worldwide. Today, WPI offers more than 70 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across 18 academic departments in science, engineering, technology, business, the social sciences, and the humanities and arts. To help address ongoing challenges, improve lives, and help create a more sustainable world, WPI faculty and students pursue groundbreaking research in the life sciences, innovative technologies, materials and manufacturing, and global initiatives.

Dunn Named Legislator of the Year by The Arc of Morris

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Assemblywoman Aura Dunn

MORRIS COUNTY — The Arc of Morris named Assemblywoman Aura Dunn Legislator of the Year at Wednesday’s annual awards gala.

Dunn, cofounder and co-chair of the bipartisan New Jersey Legislative Disability Caucus, has made it her mission to address challenges facing those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Since becoming Assemblywoman, one of her proudest achievements was signing her bill (S761/A2369) that requires an autism or communication disorder to be notated on driver’s licenses and state-issued ID cards. In addition, she has worked to address New Jersey’s special education teacher shortage (A3244) and create a centralized information hub of state resources for those with disabilities (A3779).

“There has been much done, and there remains so much more to do, on behalf of those with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their families in New Jersey, to ensure they are afforded not only the resources, but the dignity and opportunities to thrive and succeed in the broader community,” Dunn (R-Morris) said. “Working with The Arc to further these most noble causes has been my honor.”

Beyond her legislative work, Dunn participates every March in Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, established by proclamation in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan. The Arc of New Jersey hosts numerous community awareness campaigns, workshops and fundraisers during this month. The Morris chapter praised Dunn’s tireless advocacy for policies that promote inclusivity and independence for its clients each March and all year round.

“This is a mission I hold close, not just as a lawmaker, but as someone who has stood with loved ones navigating this system, an experience that deepens my resolve every single day,” Dunn said. “I have seen the cracks in the system—the long waitlists, the underfunded programs, the exhausting fight for basic support—and I refuse to give up.”

According to the state Division of Developmental Disabilities, in 2024, 1,622 people ranging in age from 10 to 99 received services in Morris County.

For over 70 years, the county chapter has advocated for people with intellectual or development disabilities for families in Morris County.

Bucco Named Legislator of the Year by New Jersey Conference of Mayors

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Senator Anthony M. Bucco (R-25)

MORRIS COUNTY — Senate Republican Leader Anthony M. Bucco, R-Morris, was named Legislator of the Year by the New Jersey Conference of Mayors for his leadership in government at their 60th Annual Spring Conference, held from Tuesday, May 20 to Thursday, May 22 in Atlantic City.

“I’m incredibly honored to be named Legislator of the Year by the New Jersey Conference of Mayors,” said Bucco.

“Our mayors are on the front lines of government, working every day to improve the lives of fellow New Jerseyans, and this award is a reflection of the strong partnerships that we’ve built across all levels of government to deliver real, meaningful results to residents of the Garden State.”

Dunellen Mayor Jason F. Cilento thanked Bucco, the new conference president, whom Bucco swore in for the 2025-26 term.

“I congratulate him on his well-deserved recognition as Legislator of the Year, and I look forward to continuing our work with his office to bring about positive change throughout the State of New Jersey,” said Cilento.

Bucco, with Assembly members Aura Dunn (R-Morris) of Mendham and Christian Barranco (R-Morris) of Jefferson Township, serve the 25th Legislative District, which includes the Morris County towns of  Boonton Township, Butler, Dover, Harding Township, Jefferson, Kinnelon, Madison, Mendham Borough, Mendham Township, Mine Hill Township, Morris Township, Morristown, Mount Arlington, Randolph Township, Rockaway Borough, Rockaway Township, Victory Gardens, and Wharton; and the Passaic County municipality of West Milford.

Leadership Strengthened as Six Officers Advance in Morris County Sheriff’s Office

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Sgt. Steven Chiarella, Det. Sgt. Michael Vanarelli, Det. Capt. Laura Flynn, Sheriff James M. Gannon, Det. Capt. Michael Turkot, Det. Lt. Craig Brooks, Det. Lt. Michael Abate

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon recently presided over a ceremony promoting six Sheriff’s Officers in the Historic Courtroom at the Morris County Courthouse. The ceremony marked a significant and positive impact on the management team of the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement. Chief Kelley Zienowicz remarked on how important this day was for the leadership of the Office and how their collective influence will be present for years to come. Sheriff Gannon said how proud and confident he was of all those promoted. He challenged them to seek ways to improve the operations of the Office and thanked family members for their support of the promoted officers. The following received commissions:

Detective Captain Laura Flynn
Detective Captain Laura Flynn attended Morris Knolls High School and obtained a degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Delaware. After her graduation, she had several jobs, including a position as an investigator with the New Jersey State Division of Consumer Affairs.

During her college years, Laura interned with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Scene Investigation Section. She enjoyed it and applied for a job with the agency. Captain Flynn was hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement on December 11, 2000, and began the Basic Police Training Academy in January 2001. Her first assignment was in the Protective Services Division. In December 2001, Captain Flynn was transferred to the Crime Scene Investigation Section, earning the title of Detective. The Crime Scene Investigation Section responds to over 1,000 cases per year and is responsible for assisting the 39 municipalities within Morris County and other county, state, and federal agencies. The section processes scenes about all types of crime, from criminal mischief to homicide. Captain Flynn has attended nearly 50 schools and conferences to hone her investigation skills, including advanced fingerprinting, bloodstain pattern analysis, digital photography, and shooting incident reconstruction. Captain Flynn has testified in several high-profile trials and qualifies as a fingerprint expert.

Captain Flynn was certified as a firearms instructor in July of 2007 and was appointed the Supervising Firearms Instructor in 2015. Captain Flynn was trained as an AFIS operator, and assisted with all latent print reports, submissions, and identifications. She became a Corporal in April of 2014, then was promoted to a Sergeant in February of 2015, where she remained in the Crime Scene Investigation Section. Captain Flynn was promoted to Detective Lieutenant in the Criminal Investigations Division in September 2019. She also served as a Lieutenant in the Community Outreach and Planning Section for one year. Captain Flynn is a member of the New Jersey State Division of the International Association for Identification. She recently completed the FBI LEEDA Executive Leadership Institute course.

Detective Captain Michael Turkot
Detective Captain Turkot is in his 20th year with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. He has served in different roles throughout his career, but most recently, before this promotion, he served as Detective Lieutenant of the Legal Services Division. Throughout his tenure in Legal Services, Captain Turkot has modernized the division’s business practices. He is the Civil Process Committee chairperson for the Sheriff’s Association of NJ, requiring communication with the other 20 NJ Sheriff’s Offices. Captain Turkot is one of the legislative representatives for the Sheriff’s Association and routinely works with state legislators on bills and policies affecting the state’s Sheriff’s Offices. In addition to maintaining these roles and responsibilities, Captain Turkot continues to excel, by attending training courses and obtaining certifications, such as the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) Command and Leadership Academy.

Detective Lieutenant Craig Brooks
Detective Lieutenant Craig Brooks graduated from Boonton High School and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served honorably for seven years, achieving the rank of Corporal. Lieutenant Brooks was stationed in Camp LeJeune, NC, and Picatinny Arsenal during his military time. He traveled the world and served two deployments in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and one in Kosovo. Following his military service, he worked at ADP assisting with payroll operations and later joined Deutsche Bank as a Security Supervisor.

Lieutenant Brooks began his career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in 2005. After graduating from the academy, he was assigned to the Protective Services Division at the Morris County Courthouse. In 2010, Lieutenant Brooks transferred to the Special Services Division, Criminal Scene Investigation Section (CSI), where he obtained the rank of Detective. His responsibilities included assisting municipal and external law enforcement agencies with crime scene photography, processing, and evidence collection. He also supported the Ballistics Unit within CSI and was qualified as a Ballistics expert in the Superior Court.

In March 2016, Lieutenant Brooks was promoted to Detective Sergeant and transferred to the Evidence Unit, where he oversaw the daily operations of over 35,000 pieces of evidence. His responsibilities included evidence intake and distribution, training staff on the Barcoded Evidence Analysis Statistical Tracking (BEAST) system, and assisting with inquiries related to its use. He also played a key role in coordinating prescription medication disposal programs throughout Morris County. A few years later, Lieutenant Brooks assumed supervisory responsibility for the Evidence Unit and the Crime Scene Investigation Section. Throughout his career, Lieutenant Brooks has attended countless training courses and obtained various certifications that have assisted him in excelling in each assignment. Most recently, in March 2025, he completed the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) Course.

Detective Lieutenant Michael Abate
Detective Lieutenant Michael Abate graduated from The Citadel and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. After graduating, he entered the United States Army and served in the Military Police Corps in various stateside and overseas assignments. After separating from the Army, Lieutenant Abate worked in finance at UBS, an investment banking company, and at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

Lieutenant Abate joined the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in July 2012. After graduating from the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy’s 79th Basic Police Class, he served in a variety of assignments, including the Protective Services Division, Crime Scene Investigations, and the Evidence Section. His most recent position was as the Legal Services Sergeant of the Process section.

Lieutenant Abate continuously pursues knowledge and received his MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2017. He has completed the U.S. Army’s Military Police Advanced Course, the Combined Arms Services Staff School, Physical Security Course, and Anti-Terrorism Course. Throughout his career, Lieutenant Abate has received extensive training in crime scene investigations, including photography, bloodstain analysis, and accident investigations. His knowledge and expertise have qualified him as an expert witness in fingerprints and shooting reconstruction with the New Jersey Superior Court.

Sergeant Stephen Chiarella
Sergeant Stephen Chiarella graduated from County College of Morris, Summa Cum Laude, with an associate’s degree in finance. After a successful career in finance, his true passion was in public service. Sergeant Chiarella pursued his dream and began his law enforcement career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in July of 2013, where, upon graduation from the police academy, he was assigned to the Court Services Division.

Over the past 12 years, Sergeant Chiarella has served in various specialized roles, including assignments with the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Narcotics Task Force. As a K-9 Handler, he obtained the title of Detective, where he completed rigorous training in both Patrol and Explosive Detection, training with the New Jersey State Police and the New Jersey Render Safe Task Force.

Sergeant Chiarella is a certified Firearms Instructor, a Field Training Officer, and a member of the New Jersey Judiciary Security Management Response Team, where he helps ensure safety and readiness across the NJ State court system.

Beyond his law enforcement duties, Sergeant Chiarella has shown commitment to his fellow officers through more than a decade of service on the New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association Local 151 Executive Board. He has held numerous leadership positions, including President, Vice President, and New Jersey State Delegate, where he advocated for his peers’ rights, safety, and welfare.

Detective Sergeant Michael Vanarelli
Sergeant Michael Vanarelli attended Montville Township High School and earned an associate’s degree in management information systems from the County College of Morris. The Morris County Sheriff’s Office hired him in July 2013. Since then, he has been assigned to the Evidence Section under the Criminal Investigations Division and the Court Services Division, Protective Services Section.

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