DOVER — The Town of Dover will hold a special meeting of the Mayor and Town Council on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., with proceedings accessible via Zoom. The virtual session reflects the town’s continued commitment to transparency and accessibility, allowing residents to observe and participate remotely.
Mayor James P. Dodd will preside over the meeting and open with a reading of the Sunshine Statement, affirming the meeting’s compliance with the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. The agenda includes the Pledge of Allegiance, an invocation, and a roll call conducted by the Municipal Clerk.
The Zoom meeting credentials are:
Meeting ID: 892 0483 2597
Passcode: 962295
ORDINANCES FOR FIRST READING: •Ordinance 20-2025 An Ordinance to Exceed the Municipal Budget Appropriation Limits and to Establish a Cap Bank
RESOLUTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AND CONSIDERATION: a. Resolution 169-2025 Introduction of the 2025 Municipal Budget
The Town of Dover encourages residents to attend virtually and make their voices heard on matters of local importance.
DOVER — The Town of Dover, in partnership with the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs, will host a special evening for its senior residents with the return of the highly anticipated Senior Prom on Friday, August 8, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Parish Center, located at 37 North Essex Street.
This year’s theme, “The Time of My Life: Enchanted,” promises an elegant and memorable evening filled with music, dancing, and celebration. The prom is exclusively for Dover senior residents, and attendees are reminded to bring valid identification.
Providing the evening’s entertainment will be DJ Fercho, who is set to bring energy and excitement to the dance floor with a variety of tunes.
Registration is required to attend this free event. Interested seniors can register by clicking here or by calling (973) 366-2200 ext. 8014.
The event reflects the town’s continued commitment to celebrating and supporting its senior community, with Mayor James P. Dodd and the Town Council playing an active role in ensuring local seniors feel appreciated and connected.
Davon Fields, 46, of Newark, was sentenced to eight years in New Jersey State Prison for his role in a November 2024 arson and copper theft at a Boonton commercial warehouse.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Boonton Police Officer-In-Charge Captain Chris Petonak confirmed that Davon Fields, 46, has been sentenced in connection with a commercial warehouse fire that occurred in November 2024 in the Town of Boonton, in which copper products were stolen.
On June 2, 2025, Fields pled guilty before Judge Ralph E. Amirata, J.S.C. to second-degree Aggravated Arson, third-degree Burglary, third-degree Theft, and third-degree Criminal Mischief.
On July 11, Judge Amirata sentenced Fields to an aggregate sentence of eight years in New Jersey State Prison, with a four-year parole ineligibility period.
At approximately 8:13 p.m. on November 3, 2024, the Boonton Police and Boonton Fire Departments responded to a commercial warehouse fire at 95 Fulton Street. A fire was observed in the warehouse area, as well as in a separately secured area leased by a pharmaceutical supply company. The Boonton Fire Department extinguished the two-alarm blaze with the mutual aid companies from surrounding jurisdictions.
A subsequent investigation identified multiple points of origin, a heavy odor of petroleum, and other signs that the fire had been intentionally set. Investigators recovered a gasoline-type canister nozzle and obtained video surveillance depicting two masked individuals entering the warehouse shortly before the fire. During the investigation, law enforcement discovered that approximately $233,000 worth of copper materials had gone missing from the interiors of equipment belonging to another company that used the warehouse.
Further investigation placed the warehouse manager, Davon Fields, in the area of the warehouse late at night on November 1 and again on November 3, 2024, at the time of the arson. The investigation determined Fields visited a scrapyard on November 1 and November 2, 2024, and sold significant quantities of copper on both occasions.
Fields was subsequently arrested and charged on January 13, 2025.
Prosecutor Carroll recognized and commended the extensive investigative efforts that went into this case, including by members of the Town of Boonton Police Department, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Arson and Environmental Crimes Unit with assistance from the Special Operations Division, in particular, the High Tech Crimes Unit.
Prosecutor Carroll said, “This case involved a considerable amount of forensic evidence, both physical and digital, for investigators to review and analyze. I applaud the solid, collaborative efforts of members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office and our partners in the Boonton Police and Morris County Sheriff’s Office, which brought to light the multi-faceted criminal activity at work. This case went far beyond a straightforward fire, and I want to recognize how their due diligence and teamwork ensured this defendant was prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
MOUNTAIN LAKES — Clover 427 Security Group LLC, a local security firm based in Mountain Lakes, has been added to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s (NJDOL) Workplace Accountability in Labor List (The WALL), according to a recent announcement from the department. Clover 427 Security Group is located at 333 Route 46, Suite 200.
The firm reportedly owes $91,569.57 in unpaid wages, penalties, and related liabilities. As a result, Clover 427 Security Group is now prohibited from entering into any public contracts with state, county, or municipal governments until all debts are settled in full.
The WALL was established in 2020 through bipartisan legislation and is part of the state’s broader effort to combat wage theft, worker misclassification, and other labor law violations. Businesses added to the list face significant consequences, including being barred from public contracting opportunities.
“The WALL is a powerful enforcement tool that enables the department to publicly name companies that shortchange their workers and skip required contributions to programs such as unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation,” NJDOL said in a statement.
Before being listed, companies are given a 20-day warning period to resolve any outstanding issues. Since the program launched in September 2023, the department has recovered more than $650,000 from employers either placed on or warned about inclusion on The WALL.
As of July 2025, a total of 280 businesses have been listed, collectively owing more than $26 million. The complete list, along with an improved online search tool, is available by clicking here.
JEFFERSON — The Jefferson Township Police Department has confirmed the arrest of Oxana A. Prokofyeva, 44, of Lake Hopatcong, in connection with a hit-and-run incident on June 28, where two pedestrians were struck on Brady Road.
Following an extensive investigation involving surveillance footage and fieldwork, Prokofyeva was charged with: • Leaving the Scene of a Motor Vehicle Accident resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (3rd Degree) • Tampering with Evidence (4th Degree) • Hindering Apprehension (4th Degree) • Multiple Motor Vehicle Offenses
She was arrested on Thursday, July 10, processed, and transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility.
Authorities commended the dedication of Jefferson Police Officers, the Detective Bureau, Services Division, and local businesses and residents for providing critical video footage. Special thanks were also extended to the Morris County Sheriff’s Department and Prosecutor’s Office for their assistance.
If you have information about crimes or fugitives, contact Morris County Crime Stoppers at (973) COP-CALL. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for rewards.
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.
Wayne Police officers responded to Macy’s at Willowbrook Mall after Orlando Ocampo Gallo, 50, of Dover, was detained by store security for allegedly shoplifting and brandishing a knife during a struggle with loss prevention personnel.
DOVER — On Saturday, July 5, 2025, at approximately 12:33 p.m., Wayne Police Officers Daniel McLaughlin, Skyler Gomez, and James Jurewicz responded to a report of a shoplifting incident at Macy’s in Willowbrook Mall involving a suspect who had allegedly brandished a knife and assaulted store employees.
Upon arrival, officers found that Macy’s loss prevention personnel had already detained the suspect, identified as Orlando Ocampo Gallo, 50, of Dover. Store staff reported witnessing Gallo place fragrance merchandise into a backpack and attempt to leave the store without paying.
When confronted by loss prevention officers, Gallo allegedly bit and headbutted them before reaching into his pants pocket and producing a knife. Despite the confrontation, security personnel were able to subdue and restrain him until police arrived.
Gallo was taken into custody by Wayne Police for processing. During a subsequent search, officers discovered two fictitious Social Security cards and a counterfeit United States Permanent Resident Card in his possession. The documents were seized as evidence.
Gallo was charged with Robbery, Shoplifting, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of False Government Documents. He was processed and lodged in the Passaic County Jail Intake Hub on a complaint warrant, pending a detention hearing.
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.
ChatGPT said:
A happy pup soaks up the love during a belly rub session—tail wags guaranteed!
MORRIS COUNTY — Eleventh Hour Rescue (EHR), a Morris County-based no-kill dog and cat rescue, has once again been selected as one of a select few tri-state area shelters to host a live, on-site fundraising event in partnership with national nonprofit Jordan’s Way. The high-energy event will be broadcast live on Facebook on Saturday, July 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at EHR’s Roxbury Mall Adoption Center.
In 2023, EHR raised over $50,000 in a single evening through this very fundraiser—and they’re aiming even higher this year.
Founded by New Jersey native Kris Rotonda in memory of his beloved rescue dog Jordan, Jordan’s Way has traveled to over 300 shelters across all 50 states, raising more than $12 million for animal rescues through interactive livestreams. A recent event in Wisconsin raised $137,000—an amount EHR hopes to surpass to lead the 50-State Tour and earn a bonus $25,000 for their animals.
During the three-hour livestream on www.Facebook.com/EleventhHourRescue, Rotonda will spotlight many of EHR’s long-term, senior, and special needs pets available for adoption. Volunteers and guests will take part in a variety of fun and spontaneous challenges to drive donations—from ice bucket and pie-in-the-face antics to sit-up contests, physical challenges, and “bail-out” games involving time in the puppy pen.
The evening promises excitement and surprise with the core question being: What are people willing to do to help the animals—and what will others pay to see it?
Supporters can participate by watching, sharing, and—most importantly—donating during the livestream. Local businesses are encouraged to commit to donation matches and may appear live on-air for special recognition. Community influencers are also invited to sign up for a half-hour “guest spot” to engage their followers in real time while participating in activities on camera.
“We’re thrilled to be chosen again—this event shines a spotlight on our long-term cats and dogs in a way that’s both meaningful and fun,” said Kennel Manager Alex Galdi. “Our Enrichment Coordinator, Nicole, and I have already committed to spending the night in a dog run if we hit $50,000. If we reach $75,000, some of our team members may even get tattoos!”
Expect surprise appearances, ice buckets, hair dye, head shaves, and plenty of laughs as the community rallies behind a cause that saves lives.
JEFFERSON — The Morris County Mosquito Commission will be conducting mosquito control operations along Weldon Road near Camp Jefferson on the evening of Wednesday, July 9, weather permitting.
Spraying is scheduled to take place between 9:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. using a truck-mounted sprayer.
The commission will apply either Anvil 2+2 (active ingredient: Sumithrin, EPA Registration #1021-1687-8329) or Zenivex E4 (active ingredient: Etofenprox, EPA Registration #2724-807). Applications will be performed under Pesticide Applicator License Number 20262B.
Residents in the area are advised to remain indoors and keep windows closed during the treatment period.
Det. Captain Micheal Turkot, Chief Warrant Officer Jack Ambrose, Undersheriff Richard Rose, Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron Tomasini, Sheriff James Gannon, Undersheriff Mark Spitzer and Det. Captain Walter Rawa.
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon officially swore in Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron D. Tomasini to lead the bureau of law enforcement during a ceremony held in the commissioners’ public meeting room at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, where officials, law enforcement colleagues, family and friends gathered to honor his distinguished career and leadership.
“The county of Morris is fortunate to have a leader like Aaron, whose integrity, expertise and leadership skills are certain to propel the Morris County Sheriff’s Office to new heights. His role as Chief Sheriff’s Officer will undoubtedly enhance community relations and promote a safer environment for all residents and the Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Gannon.
Chief Tomasini began his law enforcement career with the Morris County Sheriff’s Office in July 2005 after graduating from the Morris County Basic Police Academy, Class #66. He was initially assigned to the Protective Services Division before transferring to the K-9 Unit, where he spent the majority of his career.
Chief Sheriff’s Officer Aaron D. Tomasini
Within the special services division, Chief Tomasini served as a K-9 handler and trainer, bomb technician, and tactical operator with the Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team. Over the years, he worked with several K-9 partners, including Jax, Hydro, Sig, Kiara and Po. He has also served with the New Jersey State Police’s Detect and Render Safe Task Force, where he has worked as both an explosives detection specialist and a bomb technician.
In addition to his tactical and training experience, Chief Tomasini has supervised units across the agency, including crime scene investigation, patrol, the newly formed emergency services unit,4 and the marine police unit.
“One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that words mean little without action. When I think about the kind of chief I’d want, it’s someone who has my back. Someone who supports me, who empowers me, who sees and hears me, and who invests in my development because I matter. With that in mind, I pledge my full support to you; my time, my energy, and my focus, to meet your expectations and help you thrive,” said Chief Tomasini, who addressed attendees following the oath of office.
“To my fellow chiefs, law enforcement partners and community stakeholders, if there’s one universal truth about leadership, it’s that it cannot exist without relationships. The partnerships we form and sustain are the foundation of our collective success. I’m reminded of the African proverb: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ I pledge to build strong bonds and meaningful collaborations.”
Chief Tomasini is a veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan, having served more than two decades in the New Jersey Army National Guard, where he currently holds the rank of major. He is the Infantry Branch Chief for the Observer Coach/Trainer Group, also known as the “OPS Group Devil.” His extensive military education includes Ranger School, airborne and air assault courses, senior service, and Command and General Staff College courses, and multiple leadership programs.
Academically, Chief Tomasini holds an associate degree in criminal justice from the County College of Morris, two bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology and a master’s in management from Thomas Edison State University, an MBA in human resources from William Paterson University, and a doctor of education in organizational leadership from Stockton University. He is also a member of multiple international honor societies and volunteers with several community organizations.
Sheriff Gannon closed the ceremony by thanking all for attending the event and wishing Chief Tomasini all the best as he embarks in this new role and continues his service to the people of Morris County.
During Dover Art Week 2024, the Richards Building hosted a handful of community art events and we were lucky enough to emerge with a collection of wonderful art.
DOVER — Art lovers, families, and curious newcomers are invited to immerse themselves in creativity as Dover Art Week 2025 kicks off on Sunday, July 27, and runs through Saturday, August 2—featuring a colorful lineup of free events hosted at popular downtown venues.
This year’s theme, “Art for Everyone,” delivers on its promise with vibrant programming each day, spotlighting regional artists, hands-on activities, and exclusive food and drink specials at partner locations.
Full Event Schedule
Sunday, July 27 • 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Colors of My Village Art Market at Casa Puerto Rico Presented by Yucca Market, this outdoor art market highlights diverse creators and celebrates the vibrancy of the community.
Monday, July 28 • 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Photography Night at Las Brisaz (Patio) Featuring: Fresco, Walter F. Rodriguez, Madison Lillman Enjoy 20% off Pupusa Pizza, Picada Salvadoreña, and soft drinks while viewing local photography under the stars.
Tuesday, July 29 • 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Comics and Graphic Novel Night at El Patrón Featuring staff and alumni from the Joe Kubert School of Cartoon and Graphic Art. Copy paper, erasers, and pencils will be provided.
Wednesday, July 30 • 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sculpture Night at The Bassett Pub Featuring: Mark Megaro, Yuri Yurov Guests can sculpt their own mini creations with air-dry clay provided on-site.
Thursday, July 31 • 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Painting Night at Tequilas 55 Featuring: Jay Gargia, Ashley Cook, Margaret Grzymkowski, Vivian Reyes, Kat Clark, Katie Pedersen $5 Margarita specials and watercolor supplies included.
Friday, August 1 • 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Student Artist Night at Sabor Latino (Patio) Featuring: Nicole Rodriguez, Michaelangelo Constanzo, Elijah Brumfield, Madison Lillman Enjoy 50% off house drinks and 20% off appetizers while supporting emerging youth talent.
Saturday, August 2 • 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Art in the Park at JFK Park Sponsored by the Partnership for Maternal and Child Health A family-friendly event with free painting supplies and canvases for open-air creation.
Saturday, August 2 • 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Closing Night Basement Bash at The Richards Building Sponsored by West Morris Capital Featuring appetizers, cash bar, live DJ set, community mural-painting, artists at work, and a kids’ art station.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or simply looking to explore, Dover Art Week promises an inclusive celebration filled with imagination, culture, and connection. For full details, visit www.doverartweek.com.
