Man Sentenced to Possession of CSAM and Criminal Sexual Contact

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert M. McNally, and Morris Township Chief Robert Shearer confirmed the sentencing of Michael Rave, 54, formerly of Morris Township, now residing in Pennsville Township.

On January 31, Rave pled guilty to one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Possession of CSAM), a third-degree crime, and one count of Criminal Sexual Contact, a fourth-degree crime.

The investigation began with a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), referencing video files depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor. The investigation revealed that the defendant also possessed numerous videos of himself engaged in an online chat website called “Omegle,” wherein he exposed himself to several 14-year-old victims. The victims in these instances have been identified by law enforcement.

Rave was sentenced on May 19 by the Honorable Noah Franzblau J.S.C. to a two-year period of probation, continued sex offender therapy, and community notification under Megan’s Law.

Prosecutor Carroll would like to thank the Morris Township Police Department, Department of Homeland Security, Morris County Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT), New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force for their efforts in the investigation, arrest, and conviction of this defendant.

Commissioner Tayfun Selen Receives Strong and Enthusiastic Endorsement from Commissioner Colleagues

MORRIS COUNTY — Five Morris County Commissioners publicly announced their strong and enthusiastic endorsement for their colleague Commissioner Tayfun Selen in his re-election campaign to be elected to the Morris County Board of Commissioners.

Commissioner Director John Krickus, Commissioner Christine Myers, Commissioner Doug Cabana, Commissioner Stephen Shaw, and Commissioner Deborah Smith unanimously boasted about Selen’s accomplishments and leadership.

“With the help of Tayfun’s leadership, Morris County has not only had four years of zero tax increases, but we also have the second lowest county property taxes in the state.” Commissioner Director John Krickus.

“There is only one conservative choice in this race and a proven Republican winner – Tayfun Selen. Selen is part of the Republican team delivering budget after budget without tax hikes. It is cited by experts as one of the best-run counties in America at managing tax dollars through our AAA bond rating. We need to keep Tayfun working for Morris County. His aptitude for finance, private sector success, and professional background as a CPA and MBA make him an invaluable resource for the County. I am proud to serve with him!” stated Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers.

Morris County has a lot to be proud of, which is the direct result of having an all-Republican Commissioner Board. For example, Morris County has the following:

  • #1 County College
  • #1 Vocation School
  • #1 Park System
  • #1 Safest County
  • Best Roads, Bridges, and Infrastructure
  • Highest Income with the lowest unemployment rate
  • Leadership in delivering services such as the Sheriff’s Hope One

“From stopping tax hikes to increasing law enforcement funding to record levels and using the power of the office to stand up against woke mobs, I’m proud of the record I’ve built. I’m humbled by my colleagues’ support and the entire Republican Party’s endorsement, and look forward to being a true conservative champion on the Board of Commissioners.” Selen gratefully stated.

Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Junior Squad Hosted Pancake Fundraiser

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance Junior Squad hosted a pancake breakfast fundraiser at Applebee’s, 1057 Rouete 46, on Saturday, May 20. The breakfast consists of Coffee, Tea, Milk or Juice, Pancakes, Scrambled Eggs, and Sausage.

The Pancake Fundraiser was hosted by the Junior Squad of the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance.

The junior squad is for individuals that aren’t 18 years of age yet. PVAS maintains a Junior Squad for anyone interested in riding that is at least 16 years of age. They will ride with a crew of at least two Senior member EMTs on a regular shift once a week: (Monday through Friday, 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. or  Saturday or Sunday: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. They will assist Senior EMT members on calls and squad-related business. After a firm commitment, Junior members may also be eligible to become certified Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs).

For volunteering opportunities, click here.

Senator Joe Pennacchio and Parsippany-Troy Hills Councilman Justin Musella
Abbey Thurkauf is taking care of a table.
 

Letter to the Editor: Do Not Send Councilman Carifi Back to Town Hall

parsippany focusDear Editor,

My name is Sam Labkovsky, and I have been a resident of Parsippany since the year 2000.

I am writing to raise a red flag surrounding the wrong direction the GOP in Parsippany is headed and what I believe we can do about it. I was born in and fled Soviet Russia to escape extreme policies and wrong-headed governmental decisions. I would like to draw the attention of voters to a concerning issue that should be considered before casting their ballots in the upcoming election on June 6th. 

What got me paying attention to politics again was the PLA disaster when I saw the Mayor and a now bobble-headed Councilman, Carifi, sell out the Town to special interest groups despite the bad reaction against it from us that live here! Maybe Councilman Carifi wanted to do this because he got something from PLA we don’t know about. Maybe he wanted good press, as the Unions sent to the town thanking the Council and Mayor for passing the PLA shortly after. Maybe he knows something he’s not sharing. Still, it feels very similar to when I grew up watching Soviet bureaucrats do things they knew were wrong simply because they personally or politically profited from such decisions.

Another negative was in a 4/18/23 article from the Parsippany Focus about the Mayor being unwilling to have a public discussion about his budget. To me, it seemed like Mayor Barberio and the others on Council tried not to share information and plans with residents. We should have people on our Council that want transparency and don’t have anything to hide as it can lead to problems for our Town.

Over the past two years, Parsippany has experienced a staggering 15 – 20% increase in taxes under the leadership of Councilman Carifi and a compliant Council.

I voted for the Republicans against Soriano, but Councilman Musella is the only one living up to his campaign promises. Republicans in town should be more like him, who are supposed to support lower taxes, good policies, and reduced government spending. Still, under pressure from the Mayor–Councilman Carifi did the opposite.

On June 6th, I believe it is time we send a message that the GOP is headed in the wrong direction and do not send back to Town Hall people like Councilman Carifi that support big tax increases and PLAs.

Thank You,

Sam Labkovsky
Long-time American Republican & Parsippany Resident

Letter to the Editor: Elect Desai and Martin

parsippany focusDear Editor:

Danny Desai and Gary Martin must be elected to the Town Council, not Paul Carifi. Paul Carifi and Mayor Barberio are not Republicans because they continue to increase spending and tax increases. Danny Desai and Gary Martin want to cut spending and cut taxes and want a town government that is responsive to its citizens/residents. It is time to message that we want REAL Republicans in our town government, not Phil Murphy/Joe Biden Democrats dressed up as Republicans.

Enough with the Barberio/Carifi Bloated Budget and the Barberio/Carifi support for the Joe Biden Project Labor Agreement.

Sincerely,

Ray Gallup
41-year resident residing in Lake Hiawatha
Vietnam-era Veteran

Hailey Budney Was Named to Dean’s List at Cumberlands

PARSIPPANY — We are delighted to announce that Hailey Budney has been named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2023 semester by the Office of Academic Affairs at the University of the Cumberlands. This recognition is a testament to Hailey’s exceptional academic performance.

Hailey was a graduate of Parsippany High School, Class of 2019.

To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours (a full course load), maintain a minimum term GPA of 3.50, and have a good academic standing.

The University of the Cumberlands, located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, is known for being one of the largest and most affordable private universities in the state. It is an esteemed institution offering various quality undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and online degree programs. For more information click here.

Buddies Pitch in to Help at Parsippany’s Little League West Challenger Games

PARSIPPANY — The involvement of buddies in the Little League West Challenger Games shows a great sense of community and inclusiveness. The Challenger Division of Little League West provides children with physical and intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in organized baseball games.

Parsippany Hills High School Girls Softball team volunteers as buddies! Their involvement in such a role demonstrates their commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and community engagement.

The Challenger League has been holding this event since 1999, providing special-needs children with the opportunity to play baseball. More than 100 volunteers, called “buddies,” assisted the children in playing before taking them to the fields against each other.

When buddies volunteer at the Challenger Games, they offer support and companionship to the young athletes. Buddies can assist the players with various tasks, such as helping them bat, run the bases, or field the ball. Their presence and assistance not only enhance the players’ experience but also promote a sense of teamwork and camaraderie.

Volunteering as a buddy at the Challenger Games is a fulfilling experience and an opportunity to create lasting memories and positively impact the lives of young athletes. It’s heartwarming to see the community coming together to support and uplift children with disabilities, enabling them to participate in sports and enjoy the benefits of teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical activity.

The Challenger Division was established in 1989 as a separate division of Little League to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4-18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide. Today, more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide.

Teams are set up according to abilities rather than age and can include as many as 15-20 players. Challenger games can be tee ball games, coach pitches, player pitches, or a combination.

In a Challenger game, each player gets a chance to bat. The side is retired when the offense has batted through the roster, when a pre-determined number of runs have been scored, or when three outs are recorded. Little League recommends that no score be kept during Challenger games. The Challenger players wear the same uniforms, shoulder patches and safety equipment as other Little League players.

The involvement of buddies in events like the Challenger Games fosters a more inclusive society, breaking down barriers and promoting understanding and acceptance. It’s an excellent initiative showcasing sports’ power to unite people and celebrate diversity.

Kudos to all the buddies who pitch in to help at the Parsippany Little League Challenger Games! Their contributions undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of young athletes and inspire others to support inclusive programs and initiatives.

Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair Held in Central Park

MORRIS COUNTY — It’s fantastic that the Kiwanis Aktion Club of Morris County actively participated in the “Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair” at Central Park on Sunday, May 21. Events like these provide valuable opportunities for community engagement, support, and resource sharing.

The club’s involvement in such events demonstrates their commitment to creating inclusive and enjoyable experiences for everyone. Well done to the Kiwanis Aktion Club of Morris County for their meaningful contribution to the event!

Aktion Club is the only service club for adults with disabilities, with over 10,000 members worldwide. Club members become competent, capable, caring leaders through the vehicle of service.

The DAWN Center serves as the host for Morris County Aktion Club

The DAWN Center hosts Morris County Aktion Club, a valuable platform for youth aged 18 and over to foster leadership skills, engage in community service, and participate in social activities. This collaboration not only empowers the youth but also positively impacts the community. Kudos to the DAWN Center for Independent Living and the Kiwanis Club of Morris County for their dedication to promoting leadership development and community involvement among young individuals.

During the event, visitors explored and learned about various disability service agencies, engaging in valuable interactions and gaining awareness about the available resources. The wheelchair baseball games added an element of excitement and inclusivity, showcasing the talents and skills of athletes with disabilities. Additionally, attendees enjoyed a variety of food options and participated in games with the chance to win prizes. This combination of educational opportunities, inclusive sports, and enjoyable activities made the event a memorable and enriching experience for all involved.

Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair aimed to cater to a diverse range of attendees, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether individuals sought family-friendly activities, access to disability-related resources, or a fun day out, the event covered it. The organizers put in efforts to provide various attractions and services, ensuring that people of all ages and abilities could participate and have a great time. This inclusive approach made the event a true celebration of community and accessibility.
 
It’s wonderful to hear that Carol G. Simon Cancer Center members were present at the Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair. Their participation demonstrates their commitment to supporting and engaging with the community. Having cancer center representatives at the event likely provided valuable information, resources, and support to attendees who may have been seeking information about cancer-related services or support networks. Their presence undoubtedly contributed to the overall success and inclusivity of the fair, offering assistance to individuals and families affected by cancer.
Employment Horizons actively participated in the Family Fun Day and Disability Resource Fair. Their presence at the event showcases their commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and other employment barriers in the greater Morris County area. Employment Horizons plays a crucial role in providing innovative programs and employment opportunities that empower and assist these individuals in overcoming obstacles to employment.
The Morris County Department of Health Services’ involvement in the event facilitated increased awareness and accessibility to important health-related information. Their participation demonstrates a dedication to serving the community and ensuring that individuals have the necessary resources to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Bergen Calls on DeCroce-Peluso to Debate Before Primary Election

 

 

 

MORRIS COUNTY — As the 2023 primary campaign enters its final two weeks, the Republican candidates vying for the state legislature in District 26, which covers areas of Morris and Passaic counties, have yet to engage in a debate.

It’s the fault of challengers Tom Mastrangelo, BettyLou DeCroce, and Robert Peluso in this case.  They are running against state Sen. Joe Pennacchio and Assemblymen Brian Bergen and Jay Webber.

“How can we expect BettyLou DeCroce to stand up for people in the Assembly if she refuses to debate on stage?” said Bergen, a combat veteran who served in the Army for eight years before returning to New Jersey to operate two businesses.

DeCroce was a no-show at the first debate hosted by the Montville Township Republican Club in April.

In general, challenger candidates are eager to participate in debates, and incumbents refuse to square off against one another.  In this particular instance, the roles are reversed.

Bergen has a theory on why DeCroce won’t debate. He says she has made several unsubstantiated claims about his record that she cannot defend.

“It’s easy to hide behind your mail and press releases,” Bergen noted.  “It’s much more difficult to back them up when it’s untrue.”

Other Republican primaries have had debates, including in Districts 4 and 24.

“I am ready,” Bergen concluded.  “Let’s get this debate scheduled.”

Parsippany Home Care Worker Arrested For Abusing Patient

PARSIPPANY — Dilshod Umarkhanov, 60, Parsippany, was arrested and charged with aggravated sexual contact after allegedly abusing a man who suffers from dementia and for whom he cared as an aide Thursday, May 11.

Hanover Township Police Officer Robert Miele arrested Umarkhanov after the victim’s daughter caught Umarkhanov on camera, striking the victim in his genitals and face.

The victim’s daughter told Officer Miele that her father is non-verbal because of dementia and has two home health aides who help him throughout the day and night. She told Miele that her father had recently been pointing to his groin and face area but didn’t understand what he was trying to tell her. It appeared as if he was in pain, but no bruises or cuts were observed.

The victim’s daughter told Officer Miele that she had received a phone call from the recently hired aide who told her that on Tuesday, May 9, he heard the victim yelling from another room, but when he got to the room, he didn’t witness anything.

This aide again heard screaming and witnessed Umarkhanov, hired four months ago, pushing and punching the victim while restraining him on Wednesday, May 10.

The victim’s daughter, after hearing this, purchased a camera and hid it in the house. She then provided police with the video, which showed Umarkhanov striking the victim in his genitals and face.

Miele responded to the victim’s residence and arrested Umarkhanov as he arrived for work. Umarhkhanov was charged with aggravated sexual contact, endangering an injured victim, and simple assault.

Umarkhanov was transported to the Morris County Correctional Facility pending his court date.

Editors Note: A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, the juveniles are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.