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The Morris County Sheriff’s Swore in Two New Officers

MORRIS COUNTY — Nicole Levendusky and Mark Slinger were sworn in as Sheriff’s Officers for the Bureau of Law Enforcement. These officers were previously employed at the Sheriff’s Office for the Bureau of Corrections.

Officer Slinger hails from Roxbury. He attended the County College of Morris and York College, receiving his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Officer Slinger has been assigned to the K-9 unit since March of 2020 and currently works with a search and rescue and explosives detection black lab named Odie and a Dutch Shepard named Zara, who is trained in patrol and narcotics.

While working in corrections, Officer Slinger has received employee of the month twice at the Morris County Correctional Facility and a few awards while assigned to the MCSO Canine Unit. He and Canine Zara have received top dog at USPCA PD1 Trials twice and have completed at USPCA PD1 Nationals in Georgia.

Officer Levendusky is originally from Butler. Much of her experience before the Morris County Sheriff’s Office was focused on sports, coaching, and working/training dogs. Officer Levendusky was initially hired by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections. She has worked in various positions within the jail, including intake.

Most recently, she has been assigned to the Canine Unit and works with Canine Ollie in narcotics.

“We wish them good luck as their careers with the Sheriff’s Office continue to evolve,” officials said.

Mayor Barberio Proclaims National Gun Violence Awareness Day

PARSIPPANY — Mayor James Barberio issued a Proclamation designating June 2, 2023, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day in the township. The Mayor presented the Proclamation to Jeanmarie Embler, Morris County Chapter Lead of Moms Demand Action, acknowledging the importance of raising awareness about gun violence.

The chosen date holds significance as it would have marked the 26th birthday of Hadiya Pendleton, a young victim who tragically lost her life at the age of 15. Inspired by her memory, Hadiya’s classmates initiated a campaign urging people to wear orange on June 2. Orange is the color hunters wear to ensure visibility and prevent accidents in wooded areas.

Mayor Barberio expressed his support for preventing the devastating impact of gun violence and emphasized the value of every human life. He encouraged all citizens of Parsippany to join the efforts in combating gun violence and promoting a safer community.

Parsippany High School Graduates Engage in Project Graduation Celebrations

PARSIPPANY — After the Parsippany High School graduation, 140 students participated in a memorable event held at Branchburg Sports Complex. The event featured a wide range of activities and attractions that ensured an enjoyable and safe experience for the graduates:

Sports Activities:

  • Turf fields were available for football, soccer, and ultimate frisbee, providing opportunities for friendly competition and team play.
  • Basketball and volleyball courts allowed students to engage in their favorite sports and enjoy some friendly matches.

Entertainment:

  • A four-story laser tag arena offered an exciting and immersive gaming experience.
  • An arcade provided various games for students to enjoy.
  • A gaga pit was available for a unique dodgeball-style game, adding an element of fun and competition.
  • An inflatable obstacle course provided a thrilling and adventurous challenge.
  • A climbing structure offered an opportunity for physical activity and adventure.

Additional Attractions:

  • Karaoke allowed students to showcase their singing talents and enjoy a musical experience.
  • A fortune teller added a touch of mysticism and intrigue to the event.
  • A caricaturist provided personalized drawings, creating unique keepsakes for the graduates.
  • Airbrush tattoos offered temporary body art for students to express themselves.
  • A station where students could take photos with friends and have them transferred onto t-shirts provided a fun and memorable way to capture the moment.

The event aimed to create a safe and enjoyable environment for the graduates, highlighting the importance of celebrating without the influence of drugs or alcohol. Project Graduation events like this have become a popular tradition across the country, promoting awareness of the dangers of substance abuse and reducing the number of youth involved in drug-related accidents.

By organizing such chemical-free celebrations, Project Graduation aimed to ensure a memorable and responsible experience for graduating seniors, establishing a tradition that prioritizes their safety and well-being.

PHS Seniors Enjoyed Brunch After Graduation Practice

PARSIPPANY — After their graduation practice, seniors from Parsippany High School (PHS) had the opportunity to enjoy a delightful brunch. It served as a celebration of their achievements and a chance to come together before their graduation ceremony. The brunch was a special occasion for the students to relax, socialize, and reflect on their high school journey.

The brunch was made possible through the efforts of various individuals and organizations.

Thanks to the generous contributions from various organizations and businesses:

  • Pomptonian Food Service: Donated pancakes, French toast sticks, hash browns, and a selection of orange juice and milk.
  • Applebee’s: Generously provided 30 pounds of bacon and egg beaters.
  • IHOP: Donated an additional 30 pounds of bacon.
  • Foodtown: Contributed a refreshing fruit salad.
  • Baldwin, Howards, and Anthony and Sons: Donated a variety of delicious bagels.
  • Anthony and Sons: Generously provided donuts for everyone to enjoy.
  • Dunkin’ in Lake Hiawatha: Donated additional donuts to enhance the brunch experience.

In addition to the food donations, Target and ShopRite contributed to the event by generously offering $100 gift cards. The organizers also purchased water to ensure everyone stayed hydrated during the brunch and before Project Graduation, an event held after graduation.

This post-graduation practice brunch was a memorable experience for the PHS seniors, allowing them to bond with their classmates one last time before embarking on their future endeavors. It served as a wonderful way to commemorate their accomplishments and bid farewell to their high school years.

This collective support from local businesses and organizations made the brunch a memorable experience for the graduating students of Parsippany High School.

Key Club Lt. Governor Visits Parsippany Kiwanis

PARSIPPANY — Montville High School Senior Shashank Karra visited the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany.

Karra is a dedicated individual who serves as the Key Club Division 17 Lieutenant Governor. In this influential position within the Key Club organization, he takes on the responsibility of overseeing the Key Clubs at Parsippany High School, Parsippany Hills High School, Morristown High School, Mountain Lakes High School, and Montville High School.

Shashank Karra’s commitment to both academics and community service is evident as he continues to excel as a rising senior at Montville. Additionally, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany has been sponsoring Parsippany High School and Parsippany Hills High School, further strengthening the connection between the Key Club and these institutions.

Key Club itself is a student-led organization that operates within high schools. Its primary focus is to make a positive impact on the world through various service projects. By actively engaging in service, Key Club members not only contribute to their communities but also develop their leadership skills and cultivate a compassionate heart for serving others.

For more information on the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany contact President Nicolas Limanov at (917) 499-7299 or visit parsippanykiwanis.org.

They meet weekly at the Parsippany IHOP, 792 Route 46 on Thursdays.  The first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. all others meet at 7:15 a.m.

Governor Murphy Approves Package of Bills to Boost Housing Affordability

MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy, in a landmark decision recently signed a three-bill package aimed at promoting housing affordability in New Jersey. This package aligns with the Murphy Administration’s sustained commitment to invest in housing initiatives and make New Jersey a more affordable place to live, work, and start a family.

Governor Murphy commented, “As we strive to make New Jersey more affordable for all, we must ensure we remove barriers that prevent people from becoming homeowners… I am proud to sign legislation that will not only expand opportunities for first-time homebuyers and those seeking affordable housing, but will further advance our state as the best place in the nation to raise a family.”

The three bills sanctioned today encompass:

1. A-5596/S-3991, which establishes the Urban Preservation Program within the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA). This program, backed by an $80 million investment from federal American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds allocated in the FY2024 budget, supports investments in rehabilitation and reconstruction projects aimed at preserving affordable housing in urban areas.

2. A-5595/S-4026, which expands specific State programmatic interventions related to residential foreclosures. Backed by a $15 million investment from ARP funds in the FY2024 budget, this bill endows the NJHMFA with an extended set of tools to intervene in foreclosures, keeping New Jerseyans in their homes and rehabilitating and reselling vacant properties.

3. A-5415/S-3780, which codifies and expands NJHMFA’s successful down payment assistance program, reflecting the Governor’s Wealth Disparity Task Force’s efforts to provide tangible benefits specifically for first-generation homebuyers. This bill also introduces the Resilient Home Construction Pilot Program in the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to fund developers to rehabilitate existing homes and construct new affordable houses for sale.

The signed bill package fortifies the Murphy Administration’s dedication to housing affordability, evident in its investment of over $1.3 billion in the Affordable Rescue Plan (ARP) State Fiscal Recovery Fund (SFRF) dollars for housing in the past three years.

Earlier in the day, Governor Murphy endorsed the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, incorporating over $300 million for affordable housing initiatives, including those promoted by the newly signed housing bills. The funding will back the programs outlined in the affordable housing bill package.

“The three housing bills signedprovide breakthrough opportunities for citizens to establish roots and enrich communities in the great state of New Jersey,” stated Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, who also serves as Commissioner of the Department of Community Affairs.

She emphasized the impact of affordable housing on community enrichment, family stability, and economic vitality, recognizing its importance in the nation’s most densely populated state.

Kiwanis Club Honors Empire Diner and Mourns Closure: A Thirty-Year Partnership Comes to an End

PARSIPPANY — The Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, a long-standing community organization, recently presented Frank Shizas, owner of Empire Diner, with a heartfelt plaque as a token of appreciation. For over three decades, Empire Diner has been the cherished meeting place for the Kiwanis Club, making the diner’s closure a poignant moment for the entire membership.

The Empire Diner closed on July 1, 2023.

Mayor Barberio Swears in Five New Officers to Strengthen Parsippany Police Department

PARSIPPANY — On Wednesday, June 28, Mayor James Barberio had the honor of swearing in five new officers to the Parsippany Police Department. Patrolman Michael Bettelli, Patrolman Alex Cavaluzzo, Patrolman Angelo Macera, Patrolman Sean Golden, and Patrolman. Justin Gosden will attend the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy before joining the ranks of Parsippany’s finest protecting the Parsippany-Troy Hills community.

Reprinted from Parsippany Focus Magazine, July 2023. Click here to read the magazine.

Fireworks Celebration Begins with a Rock Show

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany’s Fourth of July celebration will be held on Tuesday, July 4 at Parsippany Hills High School.

The area will open at 5:00 p.m. and a Rock Show will begin at 7:30 p.m.  Fireworks will commence at dark.

There are no pets permitted.  The rain date is Wednesday, July 5.

Plan alternate travel routes if you are not attending the event. There will be traffic delays in the area of Route 53, Park Road., Brooklawn Drive and Route 202 during this time. Everyone in attendance will proceed through a Police checkpoint prior to entry. Intoxicated persons will be DENIED entry. All BAGS & CONTAINERS are subject to inspection.
*THE FOLLOWING IS PROHIBITED:
– GLASS CONTAINERS
– ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
– PETS
– PERSONAL FIREWORKS (Even the Legal ones)
– DRONES (or other types of Aircraft)
*PARKING FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (Proper Placards Must Be Possessed) – Limited Parking at the Tennis Courts. Access can be gained via Glencove Road. Golf carts will be present to assist with transporting people needing assistance on the hill.
*O.E.M. PERSONNEL AVAILABLE FOR ASSISTANCE:
Volunteer members of the Parsippany Office of Emergency Management wearing Hi-Visibility Lime/Green Shirts at the event available for directions & guidance.

Letter to the Editor: Thank You Musella

parsippany focusDear Editor:

As if the smoke in the air was not enough to deal with, now Parsippany residents must deal with the stench of another one of Mayor Jamie Barberio’s self-serving political power plays. 

Never one to play by or even care about the rules, the blundering and blubbering Barberio apparently coerced County Clerk Ann Grossi and Dee dePierro into doing his bidding by selecting pro-Barberio, but illegal appointments, to fill vacant seats on the Parsippany Republican Municipal Committee. Apparently, Barberio hoped, that by doing so, he could secure enough committee votes to become the Chairperson of the Parsippany Republican Municipal Committee.

Fortunately, Councilman Justin Musella once again had the guts to stand up to Barberio and challenge the Mayor’s illegal power grab. By doing so, Musella successfully secured a ruling from Judge Minkowitz that invalidated Barberio Grossi, and dePierro’s illegal efforts       

Bob Crawford

Musella Victorious: Judge Rules to Remove Illegal Appointments

PARSIPPANY — Morris County Superior Court Judge Stuart Minkowitz ruled to remove the illegal appointments made by Parsippany Republican Municipal Committee Chairwoman Delores (Dee) dePierro from the official roster maintained by the Morris County Clerk.

During the primary election of June 6, 63 of the 78 seats were successfully filled by the voters of Parsippany. These candidates will serve from 2023-2025. 

On June 15, prior to the votes being certified by the Morrris County Elections, and without the necessary meeting, quorum, or vote by the county committee members, (as per the organization’s bylaws) current Chairwoman dePierro submitted to the office of Morris County Elections thirteen appointments to fill vacant seats on the Parsippany Municipal Committee. The Morris County Clerk’s Office then entered those names into the official roster of County Committee members. 

The judge ordered the twelve illegal names to be removed from the official roster, maintained by the Morris County Clerk.

The Parsippany Republican Municipal Committee will be holding a re-organization on Thursday, July 6.

After the re-organization meeting, the committee then elects to fill the vacant fourteen seats.

According to the complaint, the following were the illegally appointed members:

1. BettyLou DeCroce
2. Amanda McGrath
3. Jennifer Nazziola
4. Antonio Piccininni
5. Tina Piccininni
6. Annmarie Ferrara
7. David Kaplan
8. Loretta Gragnani
9. Kenneth Lambert
10. Joanne Krevis
11. Amanda Terpstra
12. Frank Neglia

Parsippany Republican Municipal Committee Chair Dee (Delores) dePierro and Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi were named in a lawsuit that they arranged for illegal appointments to vacant local County Committee seats ahead of the 2023 municipal reorganization meeting to obstruct the newly elected County Committee from conducting its operational tasks.

The Plaintiffs in the suit were Justin Musella, a member of the Parsippany Municipal Committee, and the Morris County Republican Committee.

 

Morris County Democrats Re-elect Leadership Team

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Democrats unanimously re-elected their leadership team during the biennial reorganization meeting held at County College of Morris in Randolph on Saturday, June 24.

Re-elected were Chair Amalia Duarte of Mendham Township, Vice Chair Mike DeLamater of Morristown, Treasurer Michael Thompson of Mendham Township, Secretary Dary Draeger of Chester, and Sergeant at Arma Cara Parmigiani of Morris Plains.

Morris Plains Mayor Jason Karr swore in the team.

County Committee representatives from nearly every town in the county participated in the meeting, held every two years.

In her remarks, Duarte thanked the municipal chairs, county committee members, and elected officials for their work to continue winning seats and expanding the party in Morris County.

She also reviewed last year’s progress, including building a greater social media presence; funding every campaign last year; offering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training; reducing overhead; recruiting candidates; and organizing successful rallies, fundraisers, and candidate training events.

The updated bylaws were approved during the meeting, incorporating the organization’s Constitution. Notably, the bylaws now permit modifications during special meetings instead of waiting for the biennial reorganization, offering increased flexibility to enhance the bylaws when necessary.

After Closing Due to Aggressive Black Bears, Tourne Park Has Reopened

MORRIS COUNTY — Tourne County Park and trails reopened on Thursday, June 28.

“We ask that dog owners respect their fellow park patrons and the wildlife that call the park home and follow park commission rules and regulations by keeping dogs on a leash,” said park officials.

The park closed after a report of a black bear displaying aggressive behavior towards park patrons, announced park officials. A bear came within a few feet of patrons in two cases. There was also an incident between a park patron and a bear protecting its three cubs, said authorities.

For more information on what to do when encountering a bear, visit the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife website by clicking here.

Tourne County Park is at McCaffrey Lane and Old Boonton Road in Denville.

Search Continues for Missing Morristown Teacher Lara Emanuele

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Roxbury Police Chief Dean Adone offers an update on the search for Lara Emanuele, 46.

Emanuele is 5 feet and 6 inches tall, has red hair, and weighs about 125 pounds.

She worked at the Alexander Hamilton Elementary School in Morristown.

Her car was found in a hotel parking lot near a wildlife preserve about five miles from her home on June 8

Emanuele was reported missing on June 7 after not returning home from work. The ongoing, coordinated search effort includes officers, K-9s, and technical assistance from Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit, Roxbury Police Department, Morris County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit, New Jersey State Police K9 Unit, New Jersey Search and Rescue (comprised of law enforcement and trained civilians), Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office K9, Bergen County Sheriff’s Office K9, Pennsylvania Search and Rescue, and the Conservation Police. Operations are weather-permitting.

The search includes officers, multiple K-9s, trained civilians, and technical assistance, such as drones.

Operations have been centered on the Berkshire Valley State Wildlife Management Area and surrounding areas, as Emanuele’s vehicle was found on June 8 in the nearby parking lot of a hotel on Howard Boulevard. The search includes officers, multiple K-9s, trained civilians, and technical assistance, such as drones.

The search is in addition to a comprehensive investigation by the MCPO Missing Persons Unit, Roxbury Police Department, and assisting agencies.

The search is in addition to a comprehensive investigation by the MCPO Missing Persons Unit, Roxbury Police Department, and assisting agencies. The investigation so far has included a review of video surveillance from multiple sources, a review of digital communications, canvassing in several locations, interviews, and other standard procedures. Emanuele’s cell phone was found in her abandoned vehicle. Authorities observed Emanuele exit her vehicle in the parking lot alone and depart of her own free will.

Emanuele’s disappearance is not considered suspicious, but there is concern for her well-being. As Emanuele has not been located, the investigation remains open.

Emanuele’s disappearance is not considered suspicious, but there is concern for her well-being. As Emanuele has not been located, the investigation remains open.

This remains a Missing Persons investigation. The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is the lead law enforcement agency and will notify the public if the status of the investigation changes.

The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office ordinarily does not share details regarding ongoing investigations. While the investigation has not yet concluded, these details are being shared in the interest of transparency as there has been much inquiry related to this case.

Prosecutor Carroll said, “This is a difficult time for Ms. Emanuele’s family and the Roxbury and Alexander Hamilton School communities. Law enforcement has been working diligently to locate Ms. Emanuele, carried out by many law enforcement professionals and trained civilians, so far over a grueling 21 days, in challenging conditions. The officers and volunteers who work tirelessly to find Ms. Emanuele deserve our gratitude.

We know Ms. Emanuele is a special person, evident by the outpouring of support and offers to help this case has generated. Regrettably, her disappearance has also spawned rumors and speculation on social media, spread by people falsely claiming to represent law enforcement.

Out of respect and consideration for Emanuele’s family, there will be no further comment on the details of this investigation.”
Out of respect and consideration for Emanuele’s family, there will be no further comment on the details of this investigation.”

Anyone with information regarding Emanuele’s whereabouts or this investigation is encouraged to make contact with the Roxbury Police Department at (973) 448-2100 or the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Missing Persons Unit On-Call Detective through the Morris County Communications Center at (973) 285-2900.

Parsippany Celebrates “St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church” 85th Anniversary

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio issued a Proclamation to St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church is celebrating its 85th Anniversary. Mayor Barberio said, “I hereby recognize the significant role St. Peter the Apostle Church has played in the lives of so many here in the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills on the momentous occasion of their 85th Anniversary.”

Mayor James Barberio of Parsippany-Troy Hills proudly presents a Proclamation to commemorate the 85th Anniversary of St. Peter the Apostle Roman Catholic Church.

Morris County Narcotics Task Force and Roxbury Police Make Arrests, Seize Currency and Drugs

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Roxbury Police Chief Dean Adone confirmed the seizure of over $256,000 US Currency, approximately 250 Alprazolam pills, 7 pounds of marijuana, 100 LSD tabs, ½ ounce of methamphetamine, 5 grams of cocaine, 70 grams of marijuana wax, drug distribution materials, and the arrest of two individuals after an investigation by the Morris County Narcotics Task Force, Roxbury Police Department and United States Postal Inspection Service.

Nelly Solano, 59, of Kenvil, was charged with:
• Possession of LSD with Intent to Distribute, a crime of the first degree.
• Conspiracy to Distribute LSD, a crime of the Second Degree.
• Distribution of LSD, a crime of the first degree.
• Possession of LSD, a crime of the third degree.
• Possession of Methamphetamine, a crime of the third degree.
• Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, a crime of the third degree.
• Distribution of Methamphetamine, a crime of the third degree.
• Money Laundering, a crime of the second degree.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Drug Paraphernalia, a crime of the fourth degree.

Eldridge Cruzado, 21, of Kenvil, was charged with:
• Possession of LSD with Intent to Distribute, a crime of the first degree.
• Conspiracy to Distribute LSD, a crime of the Second Degree.
• Distribution of LSD, a crime of the first degree.
• Possession of LSD, a crime of the third degree.
• Possession of Methamphetamine, a crime of the third degree.
• Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, a crime of the third degree.
• Distribution of Methamphetamine, a crime of the third degree.
• Money Laundering, a crime of the second degree.
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Drug Paraphernalia, a crime of the fourth degree.
The seizure occurred on June 21, the same day the two defendants were charged.

Cruzado is lodged at the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing. Solano was released on pretrial monitoring.

First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood stated, “This investigation was the direct result of collaborative partnerships with our municipal, county, state, and federal partners. The success of our Narcotics Task Force thrives on these partnerships and the Task Force Officers provided by our Sheriff and Municipal Police Chiefs.”

Chief Adone added, “This case was a great example of teamwork between all agencies involved. I thank my detectives for their diligent, proactive police work on this case. I also want to thank the Morris County Prosecutors Office Narcotics Task Force and the United States Postal Inspection Service for their assistance. We will continue aggressively pursuing cases against individuals distributing narcotics in Roxbury.”

First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood thanks the following agencies for their assistance and commitment to the Narcotics Task Force and this investigation: Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Special Operations Division, Morris County Sheriff’s Office and K9 Unit, Roxbury Police Department, Dover Police Department, Town of Boonton Police Department, US Postal Inspectors, and New Jersey State Parole Detectives.

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.

Fire Engulfs Parsippany Restaurant Following Roof Leak Repair, Arson Investigation Underway

PARSIPPANY — On June 27, 2023, at 8:09 p.m., a team consisting of Parsippany Fire Districts 4, 5, and 6, EMS Car 65, Captain Dowd, Lt. Carrozzino, Sgt. Lesiak, S.O Ruggier, Ptl. Baker, and Ptl. Christopher Yi, responded to a report of an active structure fire at 1561 Route 46 East, specifically at Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine.

Blaze Breaks Out at Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine on Route 46 East

The first responders quickly arrived at the scene with lights and sirens activated. Upon arrival, they observed thick black smoke and flames emanating from the restaurant’s roof.

This section vividly describes the sudden eruption of flames from the roof of Elma’s Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine.

The fire units wasted no time and immediately commenced efforts to control the blaze by opening the roof and initiating extinguishing procedures. While the firefighting operations were ongoing, officers present had a conversation with the business owner, Syed Abdulhai.

Mr. Abdulhai informed Ptl. Christopher Yi that he had recently spoken to the landlord, Joseph Minelli, after discovering a roof leak the day before. Apparently, an unidentified company had been hired to fix the leak earlier that day around 3;00 p.m. Unfortunately, the area where the flames originated coincided with the repaired spot.

In light of the circumstances, Ptl. Cavaliere was assigned to conduct an arson investigation and was already present at the scene, alongside District 5. Additionally, the Morris County Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.) team was dispatched to provide further assistance with the investigation. Dispatch was responsible for notifying all relevant construction and township officials, who promptly arrived to support the ongoing investigation and facilitate the cleanup process.

Blaze Breaks Out at Elmas Turkish & Mediterranean Cuisine on Route 46 East

Ptl. Baker and Ptl.Yi remained at the scene until all units had concluded their duties and the scene was officially handed over to Ptl. Cavaliere. There is no additional information to report at this time.

There were no injuries reported.

Unveiling the Extraordinary: When a Car Finds the Net on a Soccer Field

PARSIPPANY — Ms. Nayana Patel, 53, Little Falls, was driving a 2011 Black Ford Edge south on Baldwin Road and attempting to turn left onto Route 46 East. She traveled through the traffic signal and struck the curb. She continued striking and driving through the New Jersey Transit Bus stop. Then she traveled onto the property of Smith Field, striking and going through a metal fence that surrounds Smith Field. The vehicle went airborne, dropped approximately 10 feet onto Smith Field, struck a soccer goal net, and stopped in the middle. This incident occurred on Monday, June 26, at 1:12 p.m.

Patrolman Robert Lenahan, Jr. investigating the scene on Smith Field

The unfortunate incident damaged various structures and areas, including the New Jersey Park and Ride, the surrounding fence of Smith Field, the turf of the soccer field, and the soccer goal net.

Officer Robert Lenahan Jr., from the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, charged Ms. Patel with Careless Driving. Subsequently, Eagle Towing was called to the scene to tow the vehicle away.

The vehicle rested at a soccer goal net.
This is the area of Route 46 where the car jumped the curb, went airborne and dropped approximately 10 feet onto Smith Field.

Former Parsippany Resident Sentenced 29 Years for Sex with an 8-Year Old

PARSIPPANY — Morris County First Assistant Prosecutor Maggie Calderwood, Chief of Detectives Robert McNally, and Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Chief of Police Richard Pantina confirmed that Amit Bhatt, 43, formerly of Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, was sentenced in relation to an Aggravated Sexual Assault that occurred on October 28, 2017, in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township.

On June 23, 2023, the Honorable Ralph Amirata, J.S.C. sentenced Bhatt to 29 years in New Jersey State Prison on a first degree Aggravated Sexual Assault, with 25 years of parole ineligibility. Judge Amirata also imposed six years in New Jersey State Prison on a second degree Sexual Assault, subject to the No Early Release Act (NERA). A third degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child count merged into the Sexual Assault count. The sentences were ordered to run concurrently to each other. Upon release, Bhatt is subject to Megan’s Law notification and Parole Supervision for Life. Bhatt is also ordered to have no contact with the victim. Pursuant to the Jessica Lunsford Act, the defendant was required to receive a sentence between 25 years and life imprisonment, with a mandatory 25 years of parole ineligibility, on the first degree Aggravated Sexual Assault charge.

A jury returned a guilty verdict on the three charges on January 27, 2023 following a three-day trial. The State was represented at trial by Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Sharofsky and former-Assistant Prosecutor Vanessa Craveiro, and at sentencing by Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Reema Kareer. The charges arose from an incident that occurred on October 28, 2017 in Parsippany-Troy Hills Township, wherein the defendant performed sex acts on and touched the inner thigh of an eight year-old child. Members of the Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit conducted an investigation into the incident after being notified of the victim’s disclosure by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office on January 11, 2022.

First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood would like to thank and acknowledge the agencies that participated in the investigation which led to this successful outcome, including the Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Police Department, the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes / Child Endangerment Unit. First Assistant Prosecutor Calderwood commended the Trial Team: Former Assistant Prosecutor Vanessa Craivero, Assistant Prosecutor Taylor Sharofsky, Detective Supervisor Lydia Negron, Detective Lamar Hagans and Victim Witness Advocate Amanda Holloway for their professional and dedicated service and whose contributions secured the successful conviction and sentence in this matter.

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