MORRIS COUNTY — The Annual Law Enforcement Night, jointly hosted by the 200 Club of Morris County, Morris County Sheriff’s Department, and the New Jersey Coalition 4 Education & Positive Choices, proved to be an outstanding success, drawing a crowd that filled the Mennan Arena.

With over 100 attendees, the event provided an opportunity to hear from and honor law enforcement representatives from local towns. Attendees had the chance to explore state-of-the-art vehicles, equipment, and an array of captivating merchandise. Both children and parents alike reveled in the festivities.

The NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices has gained recognition in Morris County for its numerous initiatives and the valuable information it provides to combat drug and alcohol abuse. The Coalition advocates for introducing children to new activities and promoting substance-free events to boost their self-esteem. Comprising elected officials, law enforcement personnel, educational leaders, and concerned citizens, the Coalition stays current with the latest trends and challenges affecting our children.

Law Enforcement Night brings together officers and police departments from across the state. It offered youngsters a firsthand look at how law enforcement officers positively impact our community.

The array of equipment on display at this event never fails to impress, even adults. Attendees can explore the Morris County Hope One Van, examine various ambulances and emergency vehicles, try on riot gear, handle handcuffs, and engage with the law enforcement community in a fun and engaging atmosphere.”

Morris County Sheriff Jim Gannon and his team were present, engaging with attendees to discuss safety and heroism. Participating towns included Morristown, Madison, Parsippany, Hanover, Morris Plains, East Hanover, Florham Park, and many others. Displays from organizations such as Hope One, Morris County Prosecutors Office, and JBWS added to the event’s richness and diversity.

This event has a history of fostering relationships and often opens up career possibilities for teenagers who may not have previously considered such a path. Typically, people only encounter law enforcement officers and first responders on their worst days, but this event provides a unique opportunity to interact with them on a very positive note.

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany recently completed the collective bargaining agreement with the Parsippany Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Local 131. This significant achievement, finalized on February 16th, reflects a harmonious collaboration between the Township Administration, led by Mayor James Barberio, and representatives from the PBA, including President John Kieling, along with the Superior Officers Association (SOA), represented by George Tsimpedes.

The recently approved contract underscores the mutual commitment of both parties to safeguarding the welfare of the Township’s law enforcement officers while also upholding fiscal responsibility and community accountability. Details of the contract were not released.

Mayor James Barberio expressed gratitude for the professionalism and dedication exhibited by the PBA and SOA throughout the negotiation process, remarking, “The signing of the PBA 131 contract reaffirms our collective dedication to the safety and prosperity of our community. I commend the diligence of all involved in reaching this agreement, which reflects our ongoing support for our diligent police force.”

John Kieling, President of PBA Local 131, highlighted the contract’s role in nurturing a positive rapport between the Township and its police department. “This agreement signifies a just and balanced outcome for our officers and the people of Parsippany,” stated Kieling. “We eagerly anticipate continuing our service to the community with professionalism and integrity.”

George Tsimpedes, representing the Superior Officers Association, echoed these sentiments, affirming, “The contract’s signing underscores the collaborative ethos between the Township and its law enforcement entities. We remain steadfast in upholding the highest service standards and professionalism as we collaborate to ensure Parsippany’s safety and security.”

The Township of Parsippany extends sincere appreciation to all parties involved in negotiating and ratifying the PBA 131 contract, acknowledging their dedication to fostering a secure and thriving community for all residents.

MORRIS COUNTY — On Wednesday, March 13, The Mansion at Mountain Lakes hosted “Sheriff Gannon’s Annual Saint Patrick’s & Saint Joseph’s Day Celebration” an unforgettable gathering, drawing attendees from across Morris and neighboring counties, as well as many State, County, and local dignitaries.

The venue buzzed with excitement as guests poured in, immersing themselves in the lively and joyous atmosphere. Step dancers energized the crowd, while the Morris County Pipes and Drums captivated with their powerful melodies. Live music echoed throughout the event, keeping spirits high.

The culinary team at The Mansion impressed with a delectable spread of both Irish and Italian delicacies, featuring classics like corned beef & cabbage, fish & chips, and sausage with peppers, onions, and meatballs. Dessert was a highlight, with Zeppole di San Giuseppe (St. Joseph’s Day Traditional Italian Pastries) stealing the show.

Congratulations to Sheriff Gannon for orchestrating yet another remarkable event. It’s no wonder why this celebration remains one of the most anticipated occasions in Morris County.

PARSIPPANY — A troubling event occurred on Interstate 287 in Parsippany, where a road rage altercation on Monday, March 11, resulted in one man biting another’s ear, leading to the arrest of both drivers.

The incident occurred shortly before 3:30 p.m. on the southbound side near milepost 41.8.

After the altercation, a 55-year-old Bridgewater resident had to be hospitalized as a result of a 23-year-old Boonton man allegedly biting his ear during the altercation. Both individuals have been charged with simple assault and are set to appear in Parsippany Municipal Court on March 26, as per official documentation.

According to reports, the conflict arose amidst heavy traffic, with the older driver reportedly exiting his vehicle wielding a hammer. A prompt response from a New Jersey State Police officer at the scene helped resolve the situation. The injured parties were treated at Saint Clare’s Hospital in Denville before their release.

PARSIPPANY — On March 10 at approximately 6:35 p.m., Parsippany Fire District 6, Sgt. McGinnis, Patrolmen Ross, Abrusci, Harvey, and Kurz responded to 130 Troy Road on the report of a vehicle fire communicated to Police Headquarters via 9-1-1 activation.

The caller informed police headquarters of a vehicle situated on the grass beside a driveway, seemingly engulfed in flames, while a potentially intoxicated driver was observed attempting to re-enter the vehicle.

Upon arrival, Parsippany-Troy Hills Patrolman Steven Kurza located the vehicle, a 2008 Nissan Sentra, which appeared to have flames originating from underneath the vehicle and smoke exiting the engine compartment.

There were deep tread marks in the yard that led to the vehicle which appeared moist. The accused, later identified as Nelson Cabrera, 45, was standing near the vehicle.

Cabrera displayed shoes covered in mud which surrounded the vehicle. The officer instructed Cabrera to proceed towards him and assisted him in remaining standing by grabbing his arm.

Cabrera was unsteady on his feet and the officer detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage. Fire personnel arrived on scene and the officer remained with Cabrera while they addressed the engulfed vehicle. It did not appear that Cabrera was able to speak English and he was then asked preliminary questions by Patrolman Harvey. It appeared that some sort of heat source from the vehicle had ignited the foliage due to its proximity to the ground given the ruts it was in.

Mr. Cabrera claimed to not speak English, therefore the majority of my communication with him was in Spanish. Mr. Cabrera continuously asked me “what happened?” I asked him to explain to me what happened prior to the police’s arrival. The officer received a multitude of different stories from Mr. Cabrera. Initially, he stated he was not driving the vehicle in question and he did not know how the fire started. Then Mr. Cabrera stated he worked earlier today, left work at 5:00 p.m., and then drove back to his residence on Troy Road. Mr. Cabrera then recanted this statement and told me he did not know what happened. Originally, Mr. Cabrera stated he did not drink any alcoholic beverages.

Afterward, he acknowledged consuming one beer. The officer proceeded to administer field sobriety tests to Mr. Cabrera, all of which he subsequently failed.

Cabrera was placed under arrest and then transported to Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Headquarters.

Mr. Cabrera was charged with Operating under the influence of liquor or drugs (39:4-50), Reckless Driving (39:4-96), Consent to take samples of breath (39:4-50.2), and Refusal to Submit to Chemical Test (Penalties) (39:4-50.4A).

Mr. Cabrera was released to his son, who signed a potential liability form.

The vehicle was removed from the property by Eagle Towing.

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.

PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department is warning residents about a new scam.

The Morris County Sheriff’s Office recently had several concerning calls from residents who were targeted in a phone scam. Callers posing as Sheriff’s Officers tell the would-be victim that they need to deliver money, or they will face immediate arrest. The scammers use actual Morris County Sheriff’s Officer names and the victim’s caller I.D. is manipulated to appear to be coming from the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

Chief Richard Pantina and Sheriff James M. Gannon want to remind you NEVER to provide sensitive personal information, money, or access to your assets to any unknown individual. Also, please discuss this scam with family members who may be vulnerable to this type of crime.

Please contact the Morris County Sheriff’s Office at (973) 285-6600, or the Parsippany Police Department at (973) 263-4300 with any questions.