Dramatic Police Pursuit: Boonton Vehicle Escape Ends with Suspect Arrests in Parsippany

Frank L. Cahill
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Dramatic Police Pursuit: Boonton Vehicle Escape Ends with Suspect Arrests in Parsippany

BOONTON — A police officer from the Town of Boonton Police Department attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop with a 2015 White Honda that was observed to be failing to maintain lane discipline on Morris Avenue. (Click here to read the original story)

The vehicle then dangerously failed to stop at a red light from a residential road onto Main Street. When the officer activated the patrol vehicle emergency lights, the suspect vehicle continued without stopping, eluding the law enforcement officer onto Interstate 287 southbound.

The suspect vehicle quickly accelerated away from the officer and turned off all its lights. At this point, the officer lost visual sight of the suspect vehicle. The officer terminated the motor vehicle pursuit. The officer believed the suspect vehicle entered Interstate 80 westbound.

Shortly thereafter, the New Jersey State Police came across a single-vehicle motor vehicle crash where a vehicle had collided with the center lane barrier for the westbound lane of Interstate 80, adjacent to the ramp for Interstate 287 southbound at the entrance for Interstate 80 westbound.

This vehicle was determined to be the same vehicle that eluded the Town of Boonton Police. The Town of Boonton Police Department and surrounding towns were notified.

A subsequent search for the driver ensued as it was reported that the driver had fled the scene. Two 16-year-old juveniles were located in the vehicle with significant bodily injuries from the motor vehicle crash. Mountain Lakes Police Department then located the driver on Parsippany Boulevard, who also had bodily injuries. He was apprehended and taken into custody.

All three were transported to Morristown Medical Center for treatment and evaluation.

During the investigation, the vehicle’s owner reported the vehicle missing and that the occupants did not have permission to take the vehicle.

A firearm was recovered from the vehicle, and a juvenile passenger was charged.

All three were charged with theft through conveyance “joyriding.”

The adult driver, Nathaniel Arocho, 18, Bloomfield, was charged on a warrant complaint with Eluding and Aggravated Assault. Arocho was also charged with eight motor vehicle offenses, including driving without a license, speeding, and reckless driving.

The juveniles were released to their parents with a notice to appear for processing at the Boonton Police Department. The adult was committed to the Morris County Jail pursuant to Criminal Justice Reform.

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite this accusation, this Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Acts of Kindness in Action: Kiwanis Club Supports Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter

Frank L. Cahill
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Acts of Kindness in Action: Kiwanis Club Supports Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany actively engages in “Random Acts of Kindness Day.” Club members have generously donated essential items to the Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, demonstrating their solidarity and support for the cause.

Lorri Caffrey, Executive Director of Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter, recently visited the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany. In her presentation, she showcased the various volunteering opportunities available at the shelter and shared accomplishments attained in 2023.

#njkiwanisfoundation

CFO Accused of Embezzling Funds and Tax Evasion

Frank L. Cahill
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CFO Accused of Embezzling Funds and Tax Evasion

MORRIS COUNTY — John Dunlea, formerly the Chief Financial Officer of McElroy, Deutsch, Mulvaney & Carpenter, LLP, a national law firm with offices in Morristown and throughout New Jersey and other states, faces charges of embezzling over $1.5 million from the firm and evading payment of state income tax. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) confirmed.

According to a criminal complaint, Dunlea, 61, of Westfield, is accused of theft by deception (2nd degree) and five counts of failure to pay tax (3rd degree) concerning the alleged fraud.

The charges stem from an investigation by DCJ’s Office of Securities Fraud and Financial Crimes Prosecutions, with assistance from the New Jersey Division of Taxation Office of Criminal Investigations.

Allegations suggest that between 2017 and 2022, Dunlea diverted funds from the McElroy Law Firm, including unauthorized compensation totaling $1,182,965, and falsely claimed $355,256 in credit card expenses as business costs. These expenses purportedly covered personal expenditures such as flights, hotels, and dining for Dunlea and his family. Additionally, Dunlea is accused of evading state income tax for tax years 2018 to 2022 related to income from the credit card scheme.

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the state’s commitment to prosecuting fraud and tax evasion, ensuring accountability for those who exploit New Jersey businesses and evading taxes owed to the state.

Deputy Attorney General Janet Bosi is leading the prosecution for the Office of Securities Fraud and Financial Crimes Prosecutions under the supervision of Deputy Chief Adam Heck and Legal Chief Pablo Quiñones.

While the charges are allegations, and Dunlea is presumed innocent until proven guilty, second-degree crimes carry a maximum sentence of ten years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000, while third-degree crimes carry a maximum sentence of five years in state prison and a fine of up to $15,000. The potential sentences are provided for informational purposes, as determined by a judge.

Traffic Mishap in Parsippany: Vehicles Collide, No Injuries Sustained

Frank L. Cahill
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Traffic Mishap in Parsippany: Vehicles Collide, No Injuries Sustained

PARSIPPANY — On Friday, February 9, at 11:15 p.m., Mr. Robert Hays, aged 61, was traveling north on Parsippany Road (near Freneau Road) with Mr. Adrian Louis, aged 26, directly behind him. Mr. Hays suddenly applied his brakes as a vehicle ahead of him immediately stopped. Mr. Louis, who was following too closely, attempted to stop but collided with the rear of Mr. Hays’ 2014 Toyota Corolla.

Mr. Louis was driving a 2021 Jeep Cherokee. Both vehicles were subsequently towed from the scene by Eagle Towing.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and as of this report, no summonses had been issued.

Celebrating Community Impact: Bedding Shoppe Named GOAT in Parsippany by Derek Jeter Contest

Frank L. Cahill
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Celebrating Community Impact: Bedding Shoppe Named GOAT in Parsippany by Derek Jeter Contest

PARSIPPANY — Bedding Shoppe and its owner, Mike Hatler, have been honored by Optimum and Derek Jeter as the epitome of community service, earning them the title GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in their community.

With 36 years of dedicated service, Bedding Shoppe has significantly contributed to the local community through its anniversary food drive, which has amassed over 6,000 pounds of food for the Community Foodbank of NJ and the Interfaith Food Pantry of Morris County. Additionally, Bedding Shoppe supports various local organizations, churches, and schools.

Among the ten winners selected by Optimum, Bedding Shoppe had the privilege of being flown to Miami to meet Derek Jeter, renowned for his Turn 2 Foundation, established in 1996 to promote healthy lifestyles among youth and prevent substance abuse. During the event, Mr. Jeter graciously engaged with the winners, addressing questions and capturing memorable moments through photographs.

As part of the recognition, Optimum is generously donating $1000 in the name of each winner. Bedding Shoppe has chosen the Interfaith Food Pantry of Morris County as the recipient, an organization dedicated to improving the well-being of Morris County residents in need for over 25 years by providing essential resources, including food and education.

Expressing gratitude for the unexpected recognition, Mike Hatler remarked, “I never expected this recognition for something we do under the radar. We’ve been a part of the community for a long time and enjoy giving back. Derek Jeter is a humble, gracious human being, and shaking his hand and listening to him was an honor. Thank you, Optimum.”

Bedding Shoppe was further honored by Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, who presented a proclamation declaring December 5th, 2023, as Bedding Shoppe Day in Parsippany.

Established in 1988, Bedding Shoppe is a family-owned retail mattress and furniture store located at 811 US Highway 46 in Parsippany. For more information, contact Bedding Shoppe at (973) 334-9000 or at beddingshoppe@optonline.net. Visit the website by clicking here.

Elevate Your Spirituality: The Wellness Gala Invites You to “A Day Like Never Before”

Frank L. Cahill
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Elevate Your Spirituality: The Wellness Gala Invites You to “A Day Like Never Before”

MORRIS COUNTY — The Wellness Gala is thrilled to present “A Day Like Never Before” on Sunday, March 3, at Calandra’s Best Western in Fairfield, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Join The Wellness Gala for an enlightening event where a panel of World-Renowned Intuitives and healers will gather to share insights on various pertinent topics. Their expert panel will cover everything from heart matters to career choices, spiritual growth, and communicating with departed loved ones. After their discussions, the floor will be open to the audience for Q&A sessions.

They are honored to have Concetta Bertoldi, a NY Times best-selling author and world-renowned psychic medium, as part of our esteemed panel.

In addition to the enlightening discussions, attendees can enjoy coffee, dessert, readings, healing sessions, and explore unique vendor offerings.

For tickets and more information, call (973) 713-6811 or click here. Join them for a day of insight, healing, and connection.

Spreading Valentine’s Cheer to Parsippany’s Hometown Heroes

Frank L. Cahill
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Spreading Valentine’s Cheer to Parsippany’s Hometown Heroes

PARSIPPANY — In a heartwarming Valentine’s Day tradition, students from Hubotics, a non-profit organization co-founded by Parsippany High School teenager Aarjun Bodade, dedicated their time to creating over 450 personalized cards for the town’s first responders this year. Joined by fourth-grade volunteers Raayan Bodade, Arjun Jadhav, William Bonfanti, Rishith Bhoopathi, Tvisha Singh, and Varun Shankar, they set out to express gratitude to the community’s police, fire departments, EMS, and rescue teams with heartfelt tokens of appreciation.

Continuing Hubotics’ tradition of honoring local heroes each Valentine’s Day, the students thanked Parsippany teachers last year. This year, their mission was to show appreciation for the tireless service of first responders who work diligently to keep Parsippany safe.

HuBotics members distribute Valentine’s Day cards to the volunteers of Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance.

In total, the students crafted 450 cards for various departments, including the Parsippany Police Department, Office of Emergency Management, Emergency Medical Services such as the Parsippany Volunteer Ambulance and Rockaway Neck Volunteer Ambulance, as well as the Parsippany Rescue Squad and all six fire stations across different districts including Mt. Tabor, Rainbow Lakes, Lake Parsippany, Lake Hiawatha, Old Bloomfield Ave, and Littleton Road. As they distributed their handmade creations across town, they were met with touching reactions from the surprised recipients.

Parsippany Rescue and Recovery Team Deputy Chief Andrew Ludwig demonstrates using the “Jaws of Life.”
A highlight for the students was an insightful tour of the Parsippany Rescue and Recovery team.

A highlight for the students was an insightful tour of the Parsippany Rescue and Recovery team. Deputy Chief Andrew Ludwig and Lieutenant Nick Limanov led an engaging tour that gave the children a firsthand understanding of the technology and science behind the emergency response. Chief Paul Anderson’s thoughtful gesture and eagerness to learn about service deeply moved his team.

Through their annual Valentine’s Day tradition, the Hubotics students experienced the power of community and the importance of showing appreciation. Their cards and lessons on selflessness brought extra love to Parsippany’s heroes this February 14th.

To participate in future service projects or volunteer opportunities, visit Hubotics by clicking here.

HuBotics members distribute Valentine’s Day cards to the volunteers of the Lake Hiawatha Fire Department.

Parsippany Diesel Spill Incident: New Jersey State Police Provide Details

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Diesel Spill Incident: New Jersey State Police Provide Details

PARSIPPANY — According to New Jersey State Police spokesperson Trooper Troy McNair, a diesel fuel spill occurred on Monday, February 12.

McNair reported that the incident occurred around 1:21 p.m. on Interstate 80 eastbound at milepost 46.2 in Parsippany-Troy Hills.

Preliminary findings indicate that a Honda SUV and a Freightliner box truck traveled eastbound on I-80. The collision between the two vehicles caused the box truck to veer off the roadway to the right and collide with the guardrail, leading to a spill of diesel fluid, as stated by McNair.

The driver and passenger of the box truck sustained minor injuries and were subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for treatment, McNair confirmed.

The crash remains under investigation, and further details are not yet available.

Safety Recall: Fratelli Beretta USA Recalls RTE Meat Products Over Salmonella

Frank L. Cahill
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Safety Recall: Fratelli Beretta USA Recalls RTE Meat Products Over Salmonella

MORRIS COUNTY — Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc., based in Mount Olive Township, has initiated a recall of various ready-to-eat (RTE) meat charcuterie products containing Coppa due to potential under-processing, posing a risk of foodborne pathogen contamination, according to an announcement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) on Monday.

The RTE Coppa products feature a range of best-by dates. Consumers can access information regarding the recalled products and their corresponding labels online.

Identified products bear establishment numbers “EST. M47967 or M7543B” within the USDA mark of inspection or in inkjet print on the front packaging. These items were distributed to distributors and retail locations nationwide.

FSIS, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state public health partners, is actively investigating a multistate outbreak of Salmonella. While unopened RTE Coppa products collected during the investigation tested positive for salmonella, they had not been released into commerce. Following further inquiry, FSIS determined potential under-processing in the recalled product.

Ongoing testing is underway to ascertain the link between the positive product sample for salmonella and the outbreak. Fratelli Beretta USA previously conducted a recall of charcuterie products on January 3, 2024, due to potential Salmonella contamination, with FSIS issuing a public health alert on January 18, 2024, concerning additional charcuterie products. Individuals experiencing illness symptoms are advised to seek medical attention promptly.

Consumption of Salmonella-contaminated food can lead to salmonellosis, a common bacterial foodborne illness characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 6 hours to 6 days post-consumption. The illness typically ranges from 4 to 7 days, with most individuals recovering without medical intervention. However, severe cases may necessitate hospitalization, particularly among older adults, infants, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Concerned consumers are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.

FSIS cautions that recalled products may be present in retailers’ and consumers’ refrigerators. Consumers who have purchased these items are urged not to consume them and should discard or return them to the place of purchase.

The FSIS regularly conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify that recalling firms notify customers of the recall and take necessary measures to remove the product from consumer access. Retail distribution lists will be made available on the FSIS website when accessible.

Consumers may contact Marco Lastrico, Public Relations, Busseto Foods, at (917) 634-1685 or m.lastrico@barabinousa.com for inquiries regarding the recall. Additionally, consumers can contact the Busseto Recall Hotline at (866) 552-4916.

For food safety concerns, consumers can contact the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or submit inquiries via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. Consumers may access the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System click here to report issues with meat, poultry, or egg products.

Parsippany Fire District Two Honors Outstanding Service at Annual Recognition Ceremony

Frank L. Cahill
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Parsippany Fire District Two Honors Outstanding Service at Annual Recognition Ceremony

PARSIPPANY — The Board of Commissioners of Parsippany Fire District Two hosted its annual dinner dance and recognition ceremony on Saturday evening, February 10th, at The Meadow Wood.

The event commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a Moment of Silence in honor of departed members, fallen firefighters, and military personnel serving domestically and abroad. President Frank DeRienzo thanked the Board of Commissioners for organizing the dinner, while Board Chair Donald Denise introduced fellow members Pete Deegan, Chuck Iantosca, Jim Murphy, and Matt Miller. The President welcomed Honored guests, who also introduced Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, acknowledging the volunteers for their invaluable service to the town.

Chief Russ Grueter presented the 2024 officers

  • Deputy Chief: Jeff Pikor
  • Captains: Josh Lefferts and Nolan Keena
  • Lieutenants: Joe Reeber Sr., Alex Phostole, and Joey Reeber. He also recognized Keith Lefferts, who served as Captain in 2023, by presenting flowers to each officer’s spouse.

President Frank DeRienzo proceeded to introduce the 2024 business officers

  • Vice President: Maria Lysak
  • Treasurer: Mark Rabson
  • Secretary: Jim Murphy

Vice President Maria Lysak acknowledged Chief Russell Grueter for his 45 years of service, Firefighter Greg Robinson for 30 years, Todd Barna for 25 years, Firefighter Frank DeRienzo for 15 years, and Lt. Joey Reeber for five years of service.

The highlight of the evening culminated in the presentation of Fire Fighter of the Year to Deputy Chief Jeff Pikor.

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