Prosecutor Press Releases

Prosecutor's Office offering three-day gang awareness training

2009-06-05T18:58:00.006-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force Unit will be offering a three-day training program to provide both law enforcement and non-law enforcement professionals with valuable training on gang activity and awareness.

The Gang Recognition and Awareness Seminar as well as the Gang Prevention and Intervention class will be held at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Dreyfuss Building, 285 Madison Ave., Madison, NJ.

The seminar will be divided up with the first day, June 15, geared to non-law enforcement professionals and day two and three on June 16 and 17 will strictly be limited to law enforcement.

The training will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on each of the scheduled days at the campus and attendance is by R.S.V.P. only.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said, "I am pleased to partner with the New Jersey Gang Investigators Association and Fairleigh Dickinson University's Florham Park-Madison campus to offer this free training program. It is important to reach out beyond our law enforcement community and open the doors to those professionals in education, the private sector, public safety, security, and our mental health counselors and medical care providers to provide this important training. The curriculum will include the most up-to-date information about street gangs operating throughout New Jersey with our prime focus on Morris County.

"Our goal is to stop gang involvement and provide a lesson plan to help civilians identify gang activity and show other professionals how to identify gang involvement in order to report and prevent such activity in our area.

"This is both an educational and preventive forum. We are aggressively educating all levels of government and the public -- our eyes and ears in the community -- so that Morris County can proactively stay ahead of the curve to ensure the county remains a safe place to live and so that our children do not fall prey to the underbelly of gang life."

Anyone who may have an interest may contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Intelligence Crime Task Force for screening at (973) 631-5335. Law Enforcement Identification is required for the 6/16 and 6/17 program and you must be previously registered for the 6/15/09 program. Seating is limited.

Prosecutor's Office staff receive recognition

2009-06-05T16:14:00.014-04:00

NEW BRUNSWICK: On Wednesday, June 3, 2009, two members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office were honored at Rutgers University in New Brunswick for their work with New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement (NJWLE).

Chief of Investigations William Schievella and Detective Keisha Higgs of the Community Affairs Unit received the awards.

Pictured above from left to right: Chief William Schievella, Detective Keisha Higgs, Major Wendy Galloway of the New Jersey State Police and Chief Karen Sullivan of the Interlaken Police Department.

Media Contact: Agent William Swayze, 973-285-6200

Child safety the focus of program Saturday at Rockaway Townsquare mall

2009-06-04T15:05:00.005-04:00

Morristown: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., Chief William Schievella and the prosecutor's Community Affairs Unit will be offering an all-day program designed to keep our children safe.

The program will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rockaway Townsquare mall in Rockaway Township.

The prosecutor's office has partnered with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the National Office of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and Amber Ready to sponsor the event.

Parents will be able to have their children fingerprinted and photographed -- a key tool to assist law enforcement officers in the tragic event of an abduction. There will also be a hands-on demonstration of self defense techniques. Educational handouts will be available.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. said, "Nothing is more important than the safety and security of our children. This community affairs project will bring together experts in the field of child and infant abduction as well as experts on sexual predator behavior.

"It is our common goal to provide education and awareness to parents, guardians, care providers and children so that we together as a community can keep our children safe.

"This is one of many programs the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, in conjunction with our partners, has created to protect our youth from persons intent on harming them. By working together we are stronger and better able to protect our community.

"I am in heartened by our continued partnership with Jiles Ship, president of NOBLE's Northern Jersey Chapter. He consistently demonstrates the best that law enforcement has to provide, always attending and supporting our law enforcement endeavors, especially those that focus on the safety of our children."

"Also joining us will be Alan J. Robinson, the Project ALERT representative for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. He is the Director of Protection and Security Services for Atlantic Health.

"He has trained over 2,000 parents and law enforcement officers in child and infant abduction and sexual predator behavior. He is a national speaker for the Federal Bureau of Investigation on child abduction, kidnapping and sexual exploitation prevention. He has taught throughout New Jersey in police academies as well as the United States Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey.

Detective Keisha Higgs, from the prosecutor's community affairs unit, is coordinating the program that goes hand-in-hand with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Take 25 National Child Safety Campaign, which encourages parents and guardians to talk to their children about safety. There are an estimated 2,200 children reported missing every day. One in about six missing children is recovered because someone recognized the child's photograph on a publication produced by the national center."

For more information, please call Detective Keisha Higgs at (973) 285-6200.

Kerry Rhodes

2009-05-25T20:08:00.001-04:00

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi stated:

This statement is to correct misleading media reports that Jets player Kerry Rhodes is the target of a criminal investigation, specifically rape, by Morris County law enforcement authorities. Mr. Rhodes is not the target of any criminal investigation. Rumors and media reports to the contrary are untrue. Information which is being reported through the media that Mr. Rhodes is the subject of a rape investigation is factually untrue and wholly inaccurate and has the capacity to unfairly damage the reputation of Mr. Rhodes.

Wellness Expo draws prosecutor to Kinnelon

2009-04-24T17:14:00.007-04:00

KINNELON: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office joined nearly three dozen healthcare specialists and civic, educational and other organizations on April 21 for the Kinnelon Wellness Expo at Kinnelon High School. Pictured here: Captain Jeff Paul, Margaret Sokolowski and Nicole Gonzalez of the prosecutor's office and Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi.

Prosecutor readies for Crime Victims' Rights week

2009-04-24T14:42:00.007-04:00

On Wednesday, April 22, the Morris County Freeholders handed off a proclamation for Crime Victims' Rights week to Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi. Freeholder Director Gene Feyl presented the prosecutor with the award. Looking on: Trish Stewart, director of the county's victim-witness services; Detective Keisha Higgs with the prosecutor's office; Donna Pasquariello, victim-witness supervisor; Amanda Frey and Linda Ward, both victim-witness advocates.

Career day at Roberto Clemente School big draw

2009-04-23T18:59:00.005-04:00

NEWARK: Career day at the Roberto Clemente Public School in Newark attracted a team of volunteers with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. Pictured here in the crowd: Detective Keisha Higgs, Assistant Prosecutor Julian Hill, Detective Keyla Dent, Lt. Denise Arseneault and Nicole Gonzalez.

Prosecutor's Office on hand for cultural event

2009-04-23T16:05:00.006-04:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Community Affairs Unit staff were on hand for an event sponsored by the Morris County Human Relations Commission and the Morris County Historical Society. The event included the arts, food, music and traditions of the different people who live in Morris County.

The four-hour event, "Many Lands, One Country: The celebration of cultural heritage," was held at the County College of Morris in Randolph. Pictured here: First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, Marshall Wang and Nicole Gonzalez.

Governor signs law named after local crash victim

2009-04-23T00:47:00.012-04:00

WASHINGTON TWP.: Governor John Corzine signs Kyleigh's Law, which is named after Kyleigh D'Alessio, a 16-year-old honor student from West Morris Central High School who was killed in a December 2006 crash. The teen behind the wheel also was killed. The new rules require drivers under the age of 21 to display identifying markers on their vehicles. The decals will help police identify new drivers and make sure they follow regulations.
Pictured here: Washington Twp. Police Sgt. Doug Compton, the Morris County Prosecutor's Chief of Investigations William Schievella, Governor John Corzine, Washington Twp. Police Chief Michael Bailey, Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante.

Prosecutor honors outstanding women

2009-03-30T23:23:00.004-04:00

MORRISTOWN: Margaret Nordstrom and her husband just bought their home in the Middle Valley section of Washington Township and wanted to see what plans, if any, were in store for the road in front of their house built in the 1700s.

The couple learned Morris County had plans to expand that road from two to four lanes. That would accommodate heavy traffic and ultimately ruin the neighborhood.

They mobilized the homeowners, researching ways to stop those plans. When all was said and done, the group had their roadblock: They had their neighborhood listed on the state and national registers of historic places. That move was a checkmate against road changes.

That was 1987. A couple of years later, Nordstrom was elected to the local township committee and served as mayor. Voters later gave her a promotion, electing her to the Morris County freeholder board, where she has served for a decade.

Monday night, she was one of six women honored by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement, which teamed up to celebrate Women's History Month. Some 100 people attended the event from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Morris County Records and Administration Building on Court Street in Morristown.

Nordstrom said the celebration is important, providing clear examples of true leaders to young women. She hopes she can help and inspire the next generation of female leaders. "I honored the women whose shoulders I stood on. I certainly didn't get here on my own. Public service needs more women."

Also honored: Patty Sly, the executive director of the Jersey Battered Women's Services; Twannah Ellington, assistant director of Drew University's Educational Opportunity Scholars Program; Chief Carol Ackerman of the Morris County Sheriff's Office; Gloria Sullivan, captain of the Morris County Park Police; and Chief Karen Sullivan of the Interlaken Police Department and president of the New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement.

The keynote address was provided by Minister Carol Paterson of the Calvary Baptist Church.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said the office takes great pride in recognizing the honorees. "As the nation celebrates Woman's History Month, we at the Morris County Prosecutor's Office are proud to honor these phenomenal woman who make Morris County a better place to live. These woman have been of great assistance to this office and are recognized for their contributions to the law enforcement community as a whole."

Chief of Investigations William Schievella agreed, noting the honorees have forged their own paths in their chosen careers. "A lot of glass ceilings have been broken by all of the honorees and that is significant and something that should be celebrated."

(This report was filed by Agent Bill Swayze, who can be reached at (973) 285-6200.)

Prosecutor honors Irish-American leaders

2009-03-18T17:11:00.006-04:00

MORRISTOWN: It doesn't get more Irish than wearing a kilt and playing bagpipes.

Except maybe wearing a kilt, playing bagpipes and chasing down a mugger who robbed a street vender during a Saint Patrick's Day parade in Morristown.

Bob McDermott did that a couple of years ago. He has been putting on the kilt and playing bagpipes in a band for a dozen years. And, in traditional Irish fashion, he chose a career in law enforcement. He's a sergeant in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, overseeing the Major Crimes and Homeland Security units.

This Friday, the 48-year-old investigator known for his work ethic and professionalism will be honored by Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., during a two-hour gathering being organized by the prosecutor's Community Affairs Unit. The event starts at 2:30 p.m. in the Morris County Freeholders Fifth Floor meeting room.

Six others of Irish descent will be sharing the spotlight with him, including from the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Deputy First Assistant Prosecutor Joseph Connor, Esq., Director of Administration and Policy Sheila Leary and Senior Trial Counsel John McNamara, Jr., Esq., as well as Mary Jo Buchanan, the director of the county human services department, Hanover Police Chief Stephen Gallagher and Morris Township Police Chief Tim Quinn.

Freeholder and former gubernatorial candidate John Murphy will be the keynote speaker. "I was thrilled and honored to be asked," said Murphy, who grew up in the Little Dublin section of Morristown in the vicinity of The Assumption Church on Maple Avenue.

Prosecutor Bianchi noted, "The Irish-American contributions to their country and the law enforcement community in particular are extraordinary. I am proud to honor and recognize these awardees whose lifetime commitment to public service has vastly improved the lives of so many."

Sgt. McDermott agreed, "There is a sense of pride, being Irish and in law enforcement."

There's also a sense of humor, being Irish, notes Senior Trial Counsel McNamara.

"We fought a war for four hours and we've been singing about it for 400 years," McNamara said. "And we are the people who decided to boil meat."

This report was filed March 18, 2009. Media Agent Bill Swayze may be reached at 973 285 6200.

Prosecutor vows to help domestic violence victims

2009-03-09T23:34:00.016-04:00

DOVER: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. led a forum last night in Dover at Casa Puerto Rico on Blackwell Street attracting 120 people who came to hear a message of hope for victims of domestic violence.

"We are here tonight to reach out and calm fears while reporting crime, especially the crime of domestic violence," Bianchi said.

To help Hispanic victims of domestic violence, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Jersey Battered Women's Service, the Morris County Office of Hispanic Affairs, the Morris County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Department of Human Services have partnered to expand, improve and make accessible programs by offering help in Spanish.

Officials last night noted police have the authority to safeguard a victim from further abuse, arrest the abuser and help a victim seek and obtain a restraining order. Domestic violence victims are not questioned about their immigration status.

"Bottom line: Break the silence," said Detective Keisha Higgs, of the prosecutor's office. "The role of law enforcement is to help, not harm. We realize that there are many factors that prevent women from getting help. But please end the silence. Domestic violence in your community is a growing epidemic."

The speakers Monday night included representatives from Legal Services of New Jersey, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Jersey Center for Non-Violence and the Jersey Battered Women's Service.

Those familiar with domestic violence trends said many cases involving Hispanics go unreported. There are many reasons why: Language barriers and a lack of faith in law enforcement based on experiences in their native country. There also is a lot of fear - of deportation, of losing the family's breadwinner and of threats and reprisals.

This story was filed March 9, 2009. Media agent Bill Swayze may be reached at (973) 285-6200.

Press conference set for domestic violence program

2009-03-04T19:48:00.006-05:00

MORRISTOWN: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the Jersey Battered Women's Service in collaboration with three key government and civic agencies and organizations are reaching out to the county's Spanish-speaking population with a program that will focus on domestic violence in the Hispanic community.

Partnering with the Prosecutor's office and Jersey Battered Women's Service are the Morris County Office of Hispanic Affairs, the Morris County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County Department of Human Services.

The event is two fold, with the groups involved holding a press conference Saturday to spread the message about the Monday night program, and give the Jersey Battered Women's Service a center stage to unveil its year-long focus on getting the word out in Spanish about its services. It will also provide vital information from the Prosecutor's office to ensure that victims of domestic violence are aware of their rights and remedies under the law.

The Saturday press conference to promote the Monday night event will begin at 9:15 a.m. at Saint Margaret's Church, 6 Sussex Ave. in Morristown. Following the press conference, members of these organizations will walk in Hispanic neighborhoods in Morristown and Dover to hand out flyers to notify people about the free two-hour program, between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. at the Casa Puerto Rico, 50 West Blackwell Street in Dover.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq. said, "Domestic violence is a very serious social and legal issue and we, as the leaders of the community, have a responsibility to educate our citizens so that we can try to combat this problem with resolve. In this operation we are reaching out to the Spanish speaking populace. We want to make sure that all persons, regardless of the language they speak, are aware of one simple reality. We will not relent in the arrest and prosecution of persons who commit these cowardly and destructive acts. We are educating the public in all languages to get this simple message out."

The speakers Monday night include representatives from Legal Services of New Jersey, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, the Jersey Center for Non-Violence and the Jersey Battered Women's Service.

Those familiar with domestic violence trends said many cases involving Hispanics go unreported. There are many reasons why.

"Domestic violence transcends all economic, religious and cultural boundaries," said Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Tia Manochio, who oversees the prosecution of domestic violence defendants on behalf of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office.

"The issues Hispanic domestic violence victims deal with include language barriers and a lack of faith in law enforcement based on experiences in their native country. There also is a lot of fear of deportation, of losing the family's breadwinner and of threats and reprisals," Manochio said.

Patty Sly, executive director of the Jersey Battered Women's Service, agrees, noting, "In 2008, the number of Spanish speaking clients approached 20 percent up from the single digits in 2000."

"It is one of the most widely unreported crimes in our community. We have seen a growth in the numbers of Hispanic domestic violence victims. That's due to the growing Latino population as well as the agency's move to offer services in Spanish so we can reach more clients," she said.

The Hispanic community has grown 41.4 percent since 2000 while the county's total population has increased 8.9 percent. There are some 51,792 Hispanics in the county, according to the county planning department.

By the numbers between 1998 and 2007, Morris County reached a high point in 2004 with 2,644 domestic violence incidents, and a low in 1999, when there were 2,424 incidents, according to state statistics. In 2007, there were 2,473 incidents.

Sly said the events will make a difference. "This will allow people to come forward for services knowing that their confidentiality will be respected and they'll receive services in Spanish. This is going to reach many more people."

Bianchi added, "The Morris County Prosecutor's Office is dedicated to protecting victims of domestic violence and will hold defendants accountable for their conduct by prosecuting these cases. We hope this program helps victims know that there are services available to protect them from their abusers."

(This report was filed March 4, 2009 by Agent Bill Swayze, who can be reached at 973-285-6200)

Morristown Neighborhood House honors detective

2009-02-26T16:13:00.004-05:00

MORRISTOWN: The Morristown Neighborhood House honored Keisha Higgs, a detective in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, during the organization's annual Black History Month celebration Thursday night.

The honorees also included Morristown Neighborhood House Executive Director David Walker, former town council members Constance Montgomery and William Barber Jr. and community leader and mentor Lou Bullock.

Higgs has spent nearly a decade quietly earning the respect of her peers and people who cross paths with her, they said.

"She has a good heart and she's a very helpful person," said Perla Moran, community outreach coordinator for the Morristown Neighborhood House.

Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi and William Schievella, Chief of Investigations at the Prosecutor's Office, agreed. They nominated her for the award.

"Detective Higgs is a real class act. She is highly intelligent, friendly, tireless, has vision, is organized and is extremely capable. She is a tremendous asset to the Morris County Prosecutor's Office and the citizens of Morris County," Bianchi said.

"She is an excellent tenacious detective with great interpersonal skills," Schievella said. "She is a great ambassador not only for the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, but for law enforcement in general."

Higgs has a couple of firsts to her credit.

-First Morris County law enforcement officer to serve on the executive board of the Northern New Jersey Chapter of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. She serves as the treasurer.

-Supervisor of the first Community Affairs Unit in the history of the prosecutor's office.

-First officer to start a recruitment unit for the prosecutor's office, clearing the way for a diverse group of candidates.

Schievella noted, "Detective Higgs has been employed by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for close to nine years, and has proven to be a dedicated, hard-working, sincere investigator who tirelessly promotes diversity in law enforcement as well as the tenants of the office - fairness, dignity and the pursuit of justice for victims of crime."

She served as a victim witness advocate before she was appointed as a detective and assigned to the General Investigation Unit in July 2004. Before moving on to the Community Affairs Unit, she was assigned to the Missing Persons/Juvenile Unit.

Assistant Prosecutor LaJuan Tucker has been friends with her for six years. "She is modest, loyal and giving. She always goes above and beyond and out of her way for people."

Higgs said law enforcement work is her calling. "I do this because I know I can make a difference. It's about reciprocity. People have helped me in the past so I have to give back, lift people up and help people along the way."

This story was filed Feb. 26, 2009. Media Agent Bill Swayze may be reached at 973-285-6200.

Black History Month celebration honors leaders

2009-02-11T09:31:00.008-05:00

MORRISTOWN: Praised for their commitment to improving the lives of their fellow African Americans, several community leaders were honored for their inspiration and achievement during the Morris County prosecutor's second annual Black History Month celebration.

Some 200 people attended the two-hour event sponsored by the prosecutor's office and the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) at the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown.

Keynote speaker, Special Agent in Charge for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Matthew W. Horace, told listeners to be inspired not only by civil rights icons, but by their every day contemporaries who "stand for something."

"As much as we are all different, we are very much the same. To the right and to the left of us there is a person who shares a common denominator. If we look hard enough or talk long enough, there is always something that binds us and connects us all," Horace said.

Senior Deputy New Jersey Attorney General Hester Agudosi and Jiles Ship, president of the northern New Jersey chapter of the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives, William Primus, chief executive officer of the Morris County Urban League, and Della Crews, a news anchor for News 12 NJ thanked the prosecutor and Detective Keisha Higgs with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for organizing the event.

"It is an extreme honor for NOBLE to be recognized by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office for achievement in a variety of communities," Ship said.

The effort to recognize leaders in the community makes good sense. "This is about building relationships," Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi said. "We reach out to all ethnic groups and give credit where credit is due and recognize the great accomplishments of Americans such as those being honored tonight."

Since taking office in June 2007, one of the prosecutor's top priorities has been to improve relationships with communities and their leaders. The driving force is the prosecutor's First Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Zelante, Chief William Schievella and the office's community affairs unit , the first such unit in the history of the prosecutor's office.

Initiatives to reach the roots of the various enclaves is paying off. "We have started to build relationships with the people who are the leaders of their communities. We are everywhere, whether it's a briefing on the high holy days for the Jewish community or going to a soup kitchen or going to the African American community during Christmas time and wrapping gifts, or going into the Hispanic community or the Asian community to talk about issues relevant to their neighborhoods.

"Whether it is to talk about guns, gangs and drugs, or internet safety, we have been out there pounding the street so that we could give something to the community and the community could give something to us.

That has led to help from the communities. Tips from the community sparked three successful operations "and the seizure of more guns, drugs and assault firearms from the streets of Morris County than in the last five to 10 years combined," Bianchi said, calling the people who help police tackle crime "the eyes and ears of the communities."

He said Italians have suffered intolerance, negative stereotypes and inaccurate portrayals and "whether it's Italian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, or any other American, it makes no difference. Prejudice in any form is unacceptable."

Black History Month celebration set for Feb. 9

2009-02-01T09:32:00.012-05:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office will honor several distinguished African-American government, law enforcement and community leaders Monday, Feb. 9, when the prosecutor's office holds its second annual Black History Month celebration.

The prosecutor's office has partnered with the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) to put on the event. "This is a significant event. NOBLE is a distinguished organization and it is an honor for us to partner with them and recognize the achievements of these dignitaries," said Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq.

With 47 chapters and about 3,000 members in the United States, NOBLE was founded in 1976 in Washington D.C. during a three-day symposium to address crime in urban low-income areas.

Bianchi is no stranger to promoting the causes of minorities. After he was in private practice in 1996, he later founded and served as president of the Association of Civil Rights Attorneys of New Jersey. That move grew out of an outrage by the violation of a minority client's civil rights. A six-year legal battle followed, gaining him attention as a talented and aggressive civil rights litigator. He went on to represent many African-American and Hispanic citizens and police officers who were subjected to civil rights violations, illegal employment practices and discrimination.

Since taking office in June 2007, one of the prosecutor's top priorities has been to improve relationships with the faith-based leaders and their communities, including the African-American churches. That prompted him to create the first community affairs unit in the history of the prosecutor's office.

The Feb. 9 event will be held at the Morris County Administration and Records Building, on the 5th Floor, 10 Court St., Morristown, from 7 to 9 p.m.

The honorees include Senior Deputy New Jersey Attorney General Hester Agudosi and Jiles Ship, president of the northern New Jersey chapter of the National Organization for Black Law Enforcement Executives.

William Primus, chief executive officer of the Morris County Urban League, and Della Crews, a news anchor for News 12 NJ, also are in line to be honored that night. The keynote speaker will be Matthew W. Horace, special agent in charge for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.

Detective Keisha Higgs with the Morris County Prosecutor's Office is the first Morris County law enforcement officer to serve on NOBLE's executive board. The people being recognized deserve the spotlight, she said, noting, "It is important to salute the achievements of African Americans in our community and I am proud to be a part of this important event."

To view the invitation to this event, please click on the link below.
2009 Black History Month Invitation (.pdf)

(This story was filed Feb. 1, 2009. Media agent Bill Swayze can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Hannah B. Gilbert, 84 Years Young

2009-01-15T16:24:00.004-05:00

MORRISTOWN: Hannah B. Gilbert is a fixture in the Morris County Prosecutor's Office. A fixture with a simple modus operandi.

Keep it positive.

"I'm not grouchy. I like to make people laugh. Walking around all day with a glum face, that brings people down," she said. "What's that saying? Smile and the world smiles with you."

By the numbers, she has two grown children and two great-grandchildren. She has worked for five different prosecutors, has nearly 20 years under her belt in the prosecutor's office and has officially been smiling 84 years as of today, which happens to be her birthday. For that, the office is recognizing her with a certificate from Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi.

"She typifies the type of character and professionalism we should all strive for," Bianchi said.

Her co-workers said she deserves the spotlight.

"Hannah Gilbert is a special and unique woman with an inspiring, positive attitude and an 'old world' work ethic deserving of gratitude and recognition. Hannah's life is an amazing story of events and experiences which illustrate the human spirit at its finest hour," said Sheila Leary, the office's director of Administration and Policy.

Hannah Gilbert has dealt with tragedy in a unique way. In high school, she was known for her fantastic sense of humor. The only daughter of a Clifton candy store owner has survived the deaths of two of three brothers as well as her husband of 54 years, Sy. "She's faced loss with character and a belief," Leary said. "She believes that whatever comes her way, she can handle it."

Co-worker Peggy Volker agrees. "In the journey that life has given her, she has taken the high road and has faces whatever comes her way with perseverance."

Charlene Pampalone, who sits next to Hannah, said, "She has a great outlook on life. A lot of people are pessimistic. She isn't."

Hannah started working for the prosecutor's office as a temp when Lee Trumbull was prosecutor. Mike Murphy, John Dangler and Michael M. Rubbinaccio followed as her clerk duties changed.

"It's a fantastic place to work and a wonderful career," she said. "What they do here is very noble."

Wharton woman indicted on fraud charges

2008-12-18T17:37:00.005-05:00

Morristown: A 34-year-old Wharton woman who allegedly posed as a doctor to fool pharmacists and get her hands on prescription painkillers in Mount Olive, Dover and the Rockaway area was indicted on multiple fraud charges.

The charges include multiple counts of obtaining narcotics by fraud; possession of prescription painkillers; possession of a controlled dangerous substance; and practicing medicine without a license. The drugs included Amoxicillin, Hydrocodone, Xanax, Diflucan, Vicodin.

Shannon Rolph was caught more than once between October 2007 and this past October after pharmacists called police. Rolph would allegedly pose as a doctor and call in prescriptions, then go to the pharmacy and tell them she was picking up the drugs for that person. She remains free from the Morris County Jail.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

(This story was filed Dec. 18, 2008. Media agent Bill Swayze can be reached at 973-285-6200.)

Holiday Open House Postponed

2008-12-18T14:13:00.004-05:00

December 18, 2008: Due to the expected inclement weather, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Holiday Open House will be postponed until Monday, December 22, 2008, from 2-4pm. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may incur, but your safety is our top priority as we know many of you have a long distance of travel. We hope you are able to join us and we look forward to seeing you there. Please RSVP at RSVP@co.morris.nj.us to reconfirm your attendance for Monday.

Media Contact: Agent Bill Swayze

Plans unveiled to bolster school security

2008-12-05T18:27:00.008-05:00

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office unveiled the second phase of a county-wide project today to bolster security on campuses throughout the county.

Captain Jeffrey Paul; Dr. Kathleen Serrafino; Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq; Alfonse Imperiale; First Assistant Prosecutor Tom Zelante, Esq

The reason: The potential for school violence, the prosecutor and members of his office told a crowd of 200 police officers and school administrative officials at the Morris County Public Safety Training Academy.

From aerial photographs and the workings of security systems to the cell phone number of the night custodian, the prosecutor's office is compiling information to better prepare police, educators and all other emergency workers for a number of emergencies such as an armed intruder, active shooter, kidnapper and others.

Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., said his office is doing all it can to equip school officials and law enforcement with the know-how necessary in a crisis.

"We have made the protection of our children the highest priority," Bianchi said. "Morris County should be proud that this planning is unique and is becoming the model for other counties throughout the state."

First Assistant Prosecutor Tom Zelante, Captain Jeff Paul, Alfonse Imperiale, the county's risk mitigation planner, Sgt. Robert McDermott -- all from the county prosecutor's office; Kinnelon police Chief John Finkle, who heads the county police chiefs association, and local police chiefs worked on the project for several months.

School building floor plans, doorways, gas pipes and a multitude of photographs and information fill the 1/4-inch-thick document.

Phase one presented to law enforcement and educators earlier this year, focused on explaining how law enforcement functions during an emergency. The second and third phases focus on the practical nuts-and-bolts gathering of information and instruction on how to actually handle an unfolding crisis.

"Whether it's an active shooter, a chemical spill or a natural disaster, we are making sure we are ready. This is hazard planning for the schools," Finkle said.

"It's not a question of when it will happen, but rather where it will happen," Captain Jeff Paul added.

Morris School District Superintendent Thomas Ficarra said educators are welcoming this initiative. "The prosecutor is upping the level of cooperation and communication and that's important. A crisis is no time to be bumping around for information."

Bianchi, during the seminars, especially thanked Morris County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kathleen Serrafino, who was instrumental for bringing the school districts and law enforcement community together.

"The added benefit to this extraordinary worth-while program are the relationships and the communication developing between the law enforcement and education communities," Bianchi said.

"After this project, we have already agreed to continuing this partnership in addressing drugs, gangs, bullying, cybercrime and other areas of concern that affect the well being of our children," Bianchi said.

Assistant prosecutor added to office roster

2008-11-21T18:02:00.003-05:00

November 21, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has added an assistant prosecutor to the ranks to focus on family court matters.

Joy B. Tolliver, 26, was officially sworn in today. Superior Court Judge John Dangler, under whom she served as a law clerk, presided over the swearing-in ceremonies with her mother, Barbara, standing next to her.

"I am honored and very excited," she said. "I count this as a great privilege to serve Morris County as an assistant prosecutor," Tolliver said.

Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said, "She went through an extremely competitive process to work here. Her work and dedication to the office was evident. She represents the best of the future of this prosecutor's office."

Tolliver is the oldest of two children. Her mother is a registered nurse at Hackensack University Medical Center. Her father, Eugene, is a county sheriff's officer. Her brother, Eugene Phillip, is a junior at Kean University.

Tolliver served as law clerk to Judge Dangler from 2007 to 2008. She joined the prosecutor's office in September.

She's a member of the prosecutor's office Community Affairs Unit and when she is not at her desk or in court, she spends time in church and with her family. She's also involved in a teen mentoring program.

Office Contact: Agent Bill Swayze

Jimenez Murder Conviction Makes Four Since March

2008-10-30T16:58:00.006-04:00

Morris County Prosecutors Ready for Zarate Trial

October 30, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has secured four murder convictions since March and is seeking a fifth as the Jonathan Zarate case goes to trial in just two weeks after their last homicide win.

On Monday, prosecutors landed their fourth conviction as a jury of five men and seven women convicted 43-year-old Porfirio Saravia Jimenez for the May 2001 murder of 10-year-old Walter Enrique Contreras Valenzuela in Morristown. The verdict was announced after nine hours and 35 minutes of deliberations following nine days of testimony and one day of closings before Superior Court Judge Salem Vincent Ahto.

The counts include first degree murder, felony murder, kidnapping, attempted aggravated sexual assault and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. When he is sentenced on Nov. 21, he is facing life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Following the verdict, Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said, "This guilty verdict was a long time coming - some seven years, five months and five days since the body of 10-year-old Walter was discovered on the banks of the Whippany River.

"Now Porfirio Jimenez faces life in prison for a senseless, unimaginable and violent crime that devastated a hardworking family and the Morris County community.

"I want to add a special thanks to Morristown Police Chief Peter Demnitz, the Morristown Police Department, the county sheriff's staff, members of the my office's general investigations and major crimes units and my office's victim witness unit for working tirelessly to help the family cope with the death of their little boy."

The case began when Walter failed to return home on May 20, 2001. Two days later, his body was discovered in a wooded area off Cory Road in Morristown. After an intensive investigation, the defendant was linked to the crime through DNA evidence located at the crime scene.

"This verdict was the end result of skillful police work and evidence gathering and a thorough and moving presentation of the case to a jury by Supervising Assistant Prosecutors John McNamara and Maggie Calderwood. McNamara and Calderwood performed phenomenally and with the highest degree of professional excellence," he said.

In March, a jury listened to Executive Assistant Prosecutor Robert Lane try the James Howard Vaughan case before convicting Vaughan, 56, for the murder of Maxine McCaden in Morristown. He was later sentenced by Ahto to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

In April, McNamara and Assistant Prosecutor Tia Manochio secured the conviction of George Melendez in the October 2003 death of his estranged wife, Barbara, who was found shot to death in her minivan at the Rockaway Townsquare Mall. Melendez was sentenced in May to life in prison and must serve 85 percent of his sentence before he is eligible for parole.

Three months later, McNamara and Assistant Prosecutor Peter Foy listened to a jury convict Omar Shaheer Thomas in the double homicide that took place at the FuncoLand video game store in Roxbury in December of 2002. He was later sentenced to life in prison.

Next up is the Zarate case. Jonathan Zarate is accused of killing and dismembering a 16-year-old Randolph girl in July 2005, next door neighbor Jennifer Parks. Zarate's younger brother, James, joined in the attack and assisted in the aftermath. The brothers will be tried separately, with the older brother's trial set for Nov. 10.

Bianchi noted, "This office will not slow down from our commitment to the community and victims' families to treat every case as aggressively as we can within the parameters of the law. We will move on to our next one, as our staff is constantly preparing for these serious cases, so that we can hopefully sustain convictions as quickly as the system will allow. When the bell rings, we are there to answer the call, prepared to do what is legally required to prevail for our victims."

Wharton Resident Indicted on Arson, Burglary Charges

2008-10-28T12:15:00.004-04:00

October 28, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a seven count indictment charging Wharton resident Charles Wallace, age 51, with:

One Count of Second Degree Aggravated Arson
One Count of Second Degree Attempt to Commit Aggravated Arson
One Count of Second Degree Burglary
One Count of Third Degree Criminal Mischief
One Count of Fourth Degree Criminal Mischief
One Count of Third Degree Possession of a Weapon for Unlawful Purposes
One Count of Fourth Degree Unlawful Possession of a Weapon

The charges stem from an incident which occurred on June 25, 2008. At approximately 1:08 am, Denville Township Police responded to a residence on Corey Road on a report of a suspicious male that had damaged the property of the homeowner. Upon arrival, Denville Police discovered a vehicle with a front passenger tire punctured and an odor of gasoline. A further investigation revealed numerous items of evidentiary value that were gathered from the scene.

This matter was jointly investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Arson Unit, the Morris County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Section and the Denville Township Police Department.

If convicted of all charges, Wallace faces a maximum potential custodial sentence of approximately 25 years in New Jersey State Prison.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor Bradford Seabury, Esq.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio

Assistant Prosecutor Promotion

2008-10-27T18:42:00.003-04:00

October 27, 2008: The Morris County Prosecutor's Office has added an assistant prosecutor to the roster, hiring a 30-year-old Somerset County native for the job.

Amy Knutsen, who has been working as a law clerk in the office since July, was promoted to her new post Friday, when Superior Court Judge Thomas Manahan presided over the swearing-in ceremony and noted Knutsen's work ethic in his courtroom.

Knutsen, who is married, noted she has long wanted to work for the prosecutor's office, "I was bit by the bug a couple of years ago, when I was a law clerk in Orange County, California and actually had the opportunity to argue cases in court. I knew that this is what I wanted to do."

Prosecutor Robert Bianchi said Knutsen is "intelligent, extremely pleasant and hardworking. She sacrificed a career in private practice to take a chance that she'd get promoted from a law clerk to an assistant prosecutor. That tells me she has a lot of heart."

Media Contact: Agent William Swayze

Riverdale Resident Indicted on Sexual Assault Charges

2008-10-21T11:28:00.005-04:00

October 21, 2008: A Morris County Grand Jury returned a forty count indictment charging James Nalbone, age 42, of Riverdale, with:

Eight counts of First Degree Aggravated Sexual Assault
Eight counts of Second Degree Sexual Assault
Eight counts of Third Degree Aggravated Criminal Sexual Contact
Eight counts of Fourth Degree Criminal Sexual Contact
Eight Counts of Third Degree Endangering the Welfare of a Child

The charges stem from separate incidents that were sexual in nature which allegedly occurred at various locations in Morris County between July 1, 2007 and October 31, 2007.

This matter was jointly investigated by the Morris County Prosecutor's Office, Morris County Sheriff's Office, Riverdale Police Department, and the Sussex County Prosecutor's Office.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated "This office continues to aggressively arrest and prosecute cases where persons abuse and harm our children. This indictment is an expression of that philosophy and we shall continue to prosecute this matter with vigor, until its conclusion."

If convicted of the above charges, the defendant faces a potential custodial sentence of approximately 30 years in New Jersey State Prison with 85% to be served before he is eligible for parole. The defendant would also be subject to Parole Supervision for Life and Megan's Law.

Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.

This case is being handled by Assistant Prosecutor LaJuan Tucker, Esq. The defendant is represented by Gary Thompson, Esq.

The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Morris County Prosecutor's Office at 973-285-6200 or the Morris County Sheriff's Office CrimeStoppers Program at 973-COP-CALL (973-267-2255).

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio