Atlantic City Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for the Strangling Death of Atlantic City Woman

MAYS LANDING — An Atlantic City man has been sentenced to 25 years in state prison for strangling a 23-year-old mother of two in May of 2012, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Friday, Jan. 31, David J. Williams, 49, was sentenced in accordance with a plea agreement to 25 years in New Jersey State Prison for causing the death of Siddiqah Bryant, of Atlantic City.

In May of 2012, family members reported Bryant missing after she failed to show up for work. Atlantic City Police began investigating Bryant’s disappearance when they discovered her dead inside of a parked van behind the Atlantic City Bus Terminal on the 1800 block of Arctic Avenue on May 17, 2012.

Former Mayors now Permitted to Solemnize Marriages and Civil Unions After New Law Signed by Governor Christie

According to the State of New Jersey Office of the Governor on January 17, 2014, Governor Chris Christie signed into law Bill A-2128, a law which includes permitting any former Mayor, who is not currently serving on the municipal governing body to solemnize marriages and civil unions. Bill language provides for the act to take effect immediately.

Previously only Mayors, Deputy Mayors when authorized by the Mayor or Chairman of a Township Committee were permitted to solemnize marriages and civil unions. Now former Mayors will be in the same classification as the current Mayor of a municipality. 

Galloway Township Police Blotter January 19 - 25, 2014

Galloway Township Police responded to 786 calls for service during January 19, 2014 through January 25, 2014. 

Additional statistics include: 6 Burglaries, 24 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 16 Tickets issued, 0 Driving While Intoxicated, 13 Arrests, 12 Domestic Violence, n/a Fire Calls, n/a EMS Calls and 1 Juvenile call.

BURGLARIES : 

January 19, 2014 at S. Spruce Ave. 

January 20, 2014 at E. Spencer Lane 

January 20, 2014 at Buchanan Ave. 

January 20, 2014 at W. White Horse Pike 

January 22, 2014 at S. New York Rd. 

January 23, 2014 at S. Cape May Ave. 

Suspects Arrested in Multiple Residential Burglaries in Galloway, Hamilton and Mullica Township

Two arrests have been made over the past two days, as a result of a joint investigation regarding multiple residential burglaries and thefts between the Township of Hamilton, Mullica Township and Galloway Township Police Departments. 

Galloway Township Temporarily Retains Arch Liston as Acting Township Manager

Arch Liston, Credit: Press of AC

Galloway Township Council unanimously voted to retain current Township Manager Arch Liston as now their Acting Township Manager.  

Liston stated to Council that his resignation as Township Manager was effective as of January 28, 2014. As of January 20, 2014, Liston has been working for the City of Atlantic City as their City Administrator. 

Liston will now serve as Acting Township Manager in Galloway for a period not to exceed sixty (60) days. Mayor Don Purdy stated that Liston will also serve as the "Appropriate Authority" and will be paid $150.00 per week as compensation.

Atlantic City Teens Plead Guilty to Attempted Homicide and Weapon Offenses

MAYS LANDING – Two Atlantic City teens have pleaded guilty to attempted homicide in connection with wounding a 16-year-old boy while firing multiple shots into a group of teens outside of an Atlantic City apartment complex, acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Friday, Jan. 24, Luis Carmargo, now 19, and Keanan Butcher, now 18, both pleaded guilty to attempted homicide and weapons offenses.

Driver Charged with Careless Driving After Colliding with School Bus

On January 27, 2014 at 3:51 p.m., Galloway Township Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on US Route 9 that involved a school bus. 

According to Police, a 1999 Chevy pickup driven by Julie Staley, struck a school bus driven by Nofa Charles. 

The school bus was waiting at a red traffic signal located on US Route 9 intersecting with Smithville Boulevard. The pickup was traveling south at the time of impact.

Discovery & Deposition of Township Employee Ordered by Court in Lawsuit Filed Against Galloway

On January 10, 2014 Atlantic County Superior Court Judge Nelson C. Johnson ordered depositions of any witness including Township employee Eric McCarthy to be taken on or before April 10, 2014. McCarthy is the Township's IT / Network Technician. 

The order was issued in relation to a lawsuit filed by Walter M. Luers Esq., on behalf of John Paff. The lawsuit filed in Atlantic County Superior Court on August 19, 2013, alleged the Township refused to provide Paff with "copies of emails logs that they are capable of producing and have produced in the past." 

Galloway Township Police Blotter January 12 - 18, 2014

Galloway Township Police responded to 893 calls for service during January 12, 2014 through January 18, 2014. 

Additional statistics include: 3 Burglaries, 14 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 29 Tickets issued, 1 Driving While Intoxicated, 14 Arrests, 8 Domestic Violence, 13 Fire Calls, 83 EMS Calls and 0 Juvenile call.

BURGLARIES: 

January 12, 2014 at S. Pitney Rd 

January 15, 2014 at Old New York Rd 

January 15, 2014 at E. Mourning Dove Way 

Atlantic City Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Shaking Baby to Death

MAYS LANDING – An Atlantic City man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for causing the death of a 6-month-old baby in September 2012, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced today.

On Friday, Jan. 24, Daquan Davis, 20, received a 12-year New Jersey State Prison sentence for the fatal shaking of 6-month-old Yusuf E’Miy Stewart-Ali Jr.

Galloway Police Announce the Passing of K-9 Officer Chase

The Galloway Township Police Department announces the passing of retired Police K-9 Chase.  

K-9 Chase began his career in 2005 along with K-9 Sabre when the K-9 Unit was re-introduced to The Galloway Township Police Department.  

K-9 Chase was assigned to K-9 Officer Hiram Melendez and worked for 9 years before retiring on December 31, 2013.

K-9 Chase had a decorated career with The Galloway Township Police Department as he located several missing people and assisted with the arrest of multiple suspects.  

D’Arcy Johnson Day Files Lawsuit Regarding April Kauffman Murder

Today, the Law Firm of D’Arcy Johnson Day in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey filed documents in federal court involving the April Kauffman murder case on behalf of DJD’s client, Kimberly Pack, the daughter of April.  

The lawsuit was initiated by April’s husband, Dr. James Kauffman, against a life insurance company seeking the monetary proceeds of April’s life insurance policies.

“Kimberly Pack, and the entire D’Arcy Johnson Day Law Firm, are committed to protecting Kimberly’s rights in this matter after she has been brought into the lawsuit through no fault of her own.  While we continue to undertake a massive investigation on our own, we ask that members of the Linwood community, and particularly those that knew April Kauffman, who have relevant information about the murder, to please contact us through a toll free hotline we have set up at 844-DJD-TIPS,” said D’Arcy Johnson Day Lawyer Patrick D’Arcy.

Atlantic County Updates Its Emergency Notification System; Sign-up Today!

Atlantic County has recently updated its Emergency Notification System and is now using CodeRED to deliver messages within minutes to residents, businesses and registered participants in the event of an emergency or time-sensitive issue. 

Information can be sent to targeted areas or throughout the county. 

The system includes all landline phones in the Verizon database. Cell and VoIP (voice over Internet protocols) numbers must be individually registered. Those who previously registered do NOT need to do so again.

Pedestrian Struck by Vehicle in Walmart Parking Lot Causing Injuries

On January 21, 2014 at approximately 12:56 pm, the Township of Hamilton Police Department responded to a Pedestrian Motor Vehicle Crash in the Walmart parking lot. 

Rocco Policarpo, a 78 year old male from Mays Landing, was walking out to the parking lot of Walmart when a 2012 Lexus driven by Andrea Fogg, a 41 year old female from EHT, struck him causing injuries. 

Galloway Police Charge Teenager with Burglary, Theft and Possession of Drugs After Catching Him in the Act

On January 20, 2014 at 12:16 p.m., Galloway Township Police responded to the 300 block of Spencer Lane after a subject called 9-1-1 and reported an unknown male walking into the rear of a neighbor’s residence. Upon arrival, patrol officers observed a subject exiting the garage door carrying electronics. 

Upon seeing police, he dropped the items and began to run. After a short foot chase, the subject was apprehended. The subject later identified as a 16 year old male from Atlantic City had kicked in a basement window and entered the residence. 

Galloway Man Killed After Being Struck by Vehicle Near Route 9

On January 20, 2014 at approximately 1:37 a.m. Galloway Township Police responded to the intersection of Route 9 and Lilly Lake Road in reference to a motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian.

The initial investigation by police indicates that Gloria Carmona, 52, of Little Egg Harbor, NJ was operating a 1996 Toyota Camry and traveling north bound on Route 9.  

Township Hires Accountant Earning $14,000 Higher Than Starting Salary for that Position

Galloway Township has hired a new Accountant after possibly leaving the position vacant since March 2012. 

According to payroll records the position was previously held by long term employee Kristen Manning from February 2005 till March 2012. On December 10, 2013 the Township hired Nelie R. Yee with a salary of $49,000. 

Yee was hired making $14,000 more than the starting salary for that position. According to Yee's resume and application obtained by an Open Public Records Request, Yee previously worked for Swartz & Co., LLC in Mays Landing as a Staff Accountant for over seven (7) years. Yee was hired by Galloway with a salary that is also $2,000 more than former employee Manning.

Galloway Police Assist in Narcotics Investigation Resulting in Drugs and Weapon Charges

PLEASANTVILLE – An ongoing joint narcotics investigation resulted in the arrest of two Pleasantville men in connection with the possession and distribution of large quantities of narcotics, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced today.

On Wednesday, Jan. 15, a joint narcotics investigation conducted by the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Unit, the Galloway Township Police Department and the Pleasantville Police Department resulted in the arrests of Matthew A. Bradley, 34, and Kirk Eason, Jr., 29, on drugs and weapons charges.

Police Identify Atlantic City Man Who Died After Suffering from Multiple Gunshot Wounds

ATLANTIC CITY – An Atlantic City man who police discovered suffering from multiple gunshot wounds yesterday evening has died, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Friday, Jan. 17, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Atlantic City Police were alerted of shots fired by the City’s Shot Spotter gunfire detection software. Police responded to the scene near the intersection of Texas and Arctic Avenues and discovered a male victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The victim has been positively identified as 32- year-old Nelson Viera.

Absecon Police Investigating Stabbing at Oyster Bay Condominiums

The Absecon Police are investigating a stabbing that occurred at the entrance of Oyster Bay Condominiums complex just off California Ave. at approximately 10:28 PM, Friday night. 

The victim, Eugene Woods, age 28 of Absecon was walking home when he advised the police that two males jumped him and tried to rob him. When Woods tried to get away he was stabbed in his left hand. The suspects did not get any money from the victim. 

Woods injuries were not life threatening and he was transported to Atlantic Care Regional Medical Center, Mainland Campus by Galloway Twp. Ambulance Service.

Hamilton Township Police Investigating Assault at Hamilton Mall

On January 17, 2014 at approximately 6:30 p.m., the Township of Hamilton Police responded to the Hamilton Mall parking lot area for an assault. Investigation revealed that a man and woman had just pulled into the parking area to go shopping.

Another man and woman in a light colored Buick pulled in behind them. The unidentified black female of the Buick exited her vehicle and approached the male of the first vehicle. She began striking him with an unknown object. Thats when the driver of the Buick, an unidentified black male, exited his vehicle, brandished another weapon and made threats. The unidentified couple then fled the scene. 

Narcotics Unit Arrests Egg Harbor City Man and Juvenile; Seizing Cocaine and Guns

EGG HARBOR CITY – An ongoing joint narcotics investigation resulted in the arrests of an Egg Harbor City man and juvenile and the seizure of cocaine and guns, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced today.

On Thursday, Jan. 16, the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Offices Gangs, Guns and Narcotics Unit in conjunction with the Egg Harbor City Police Department and the Egg Harbor Township Police K-9 Unit executed a search warrant at a unit in the Philadelphia Village Apartments located at 1000 Buffalo Avenue in Egg Harbor City.

Stockton College Seeks Service Providers for Veteran Resource and Employment Fair April 4

Galloway Township, NJ- The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey’s Office of Veteran Affairs is recruiting veteran service providers to take part in a Veteran Resource and Employment Fair on the college’s campus this April.

The fair, co-sponsored by the American Legion and the New Jersey State Parole Board, is set for Friday, April 4, 2014 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Stockton’s main Galloway campus in the Campus Center Event Room.

All employers and veteran service providers who assist veterans and homeless veterans with employment, education, counseling, veteran benefits, medical and legal issues are invited to participate.

Galloway Township Police Blotter January 5 - 11, 2014

Galloway Township Police responded to 815 calls for service during January 5, 2014 through January 11, 2014. 

Additional statistics include: 2 Burglaries, 20 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 55 Tickets issued, 2 Driving While Intoxicated, 16 Arrests, 12 Domestic Violence, 27 Fire Calls, 94 EMS Calls and 1 Juvenile call.

BURGLARIES: 

January 10, 2014 at S. 8th Ave 

January 11, 2014 at Solitude Place 

State Police & Ventnor City Police Still Searching for Kennedy Rios Missing from Ventnor City

The Ventnor City Police Department and the New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit are seeking assistance from the public locating 21 year old Kennedy Rios.

Kennedy Rios is 5'4", 160 pounds. He has black hair, brown eyes and a light, brown complexion. In addition, he has a tattoo of a flame with a Roman numeral located on his left arm.

He was last seen at his residence in Ventnor City. He was scheduled to work at the Borgata Casino, in Atlantic City, NJ on January 7, 2014. He did not show up for his shift or call out sick. Mr. Rios may have been seen in Atlantic City on the evening of January 11, 2014 in the area of El Patron Bar. 

Atlantic City Electric Warns Customers of Fake Invoices

MAYS LANDING, NJ — Atlantic City Electric has recently been advised by the NJ Board of Public Utilities (BPU) that scammers posing as third party energy suppliers are sending fake utility bills via email to some NJ utility customers. The email asks that customers click on a link contained within the email. It is suspected that, by clicking the link, the customer’s computer could become infected with a virus or malware.

Atlantic City Electric asks customers to only pay their utility bill by visiting atlanticcityelectric.com or by sending the hard copy of the remittance portion of the invoice through the mail. Customers should not open any email asking that payment be made on their utility bill unless sent by Atlantic City Electric or by the customers’ respective third party energy supplier.

Galloway Township Police Blotter December 29th through January 4, 2014

Galloway Township Police responded to 757 calls for service during December 29, 2013 through January 4, 2014. 

Additional statistics include: 4 Burglaries, 19 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 49 Tickets issued, 1 Driving While Intoxicated, 16 Arrests, 9 Domestic Violence, 19 Fire Calls, 100 EMS Calls and 1 Juvenile call.

BURGLARIES:

January 1, 2014 at Thoreau Terrace

January 2, 2014 at Mattix Run

January 2, 2014 at Greenwich Drive

January 3, 2014 at E. Cos Cob Drive

Galloway Police Seek Information on Identity of Driver Involved in Motor Vehicle Accident

On January 13, 2014 Galloway Township Police responded to a motor vehicle accident on Race Track Road and Aloe Street. 

A 2012 Chrysler 200 driven by Josephine Demarco was traveling north on Racetrack Road and collided with a 2005 Chrysler Crossover, which was traveling east on Aloe Street and ran the stop sign on Aloe Street.  

The driver and passenger of the Chrysler 200 sustained moderate injuries. They were transported to Atlantic City Medical Center Mainland Division and Atlantic City Medical Center City Division. 

Gas Leak Caused Small Explosion Inside Galloway Residence on Mattix Run

Photo Courtesy of Galloway Now

Daniel Crum at 285 Mattix Run reported an explosion from under his kitchen sink. Nothing caught fire, no damage was reported and no injury was reported. 

Ultimately, South Jersey Gas responded to investigate and located a leak under the roadway in front of 285.  

Natural gas had leaked and saturated the ground and seeped through the wall/foundation of 285 Mattix into a bathroom and under the kitchen sink–both at the front of the house. Activating the garbage disposal ignited fumes causing the small explosion.  

New Jersey State Police Seek Assistance on Couple Missing from North Jersey

The Wayne Township Police Department, Garfield City Police Department and the New Jersey State Police Missing Persons Unit are seeking the public's assistance in locating 24 year old Jorge Rodriguez and 25 year old Melissa Pereira.

Jorge Rodriguez is 5'10, 181 pounds with brown eyes, and black hair. Melissa Pereira is 5'07, 141 pounds with brown eyes and black hair.

They were last seen on Friday, December 27 in Wayne, N.J. driving a White Honda, with tinted windows and a New York Giant's decal on the rear of the car. That vehicle has a NJ license plate of E77-AYX. 

Galloway Township Now Seeks Resumes for the Township Manager Position

On January 9, 2014, Galloway Township advertised for a new Township Manager on the New Jersey League of Municipalities website. 

Township Manager Arch Liston joined Galloway in February 2012 after former manager Stephen Bonanni retired. Liston now heads to Atlantic City as their City Administrator. Liston's departure leaves Galloway Township to search for their fourth Manager since 2010. 

Galloway Officials confirmed in December 2013 that they were shocked to learn of Liston's decision to leave Galloway Township. Officials learned through the Media of Liston's nomination by Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian to become City Administrator for Atlantic City. 

Atlantic City Boardwalk Ambassador Sentenced to 6 years in Prison for Selling Heroin to Undercover Police Officer

MAYS LANDING – An Atlantic City man was sentenced today to six years in prison for selling heroin to an undercover police officer, while employed and in the uniform of an Atlantic City Boardwalk Ambassador, Acting First Assistant Atlantic County Prosecutor Diane Ruberton announced today.

Kevin B. Wright, 55, of Atlantic City, pleaded guilty to Possession/Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substances (heroin) Within 500 Feet of a Public Housing Facility—a 2nd degree crime—on November 22, 2013, as part of a plea agreement.

Atlantic City Man Convicted of Theft will be Sentenced After Failing to Comply with PTI Program

MAYS LANDING – An Atlantic City man was convicted of theft in connection with stealing hundreds of dollars of electronics from a Pleasantville residence, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain stated.

On Thursday, Jan. 9, an Atlantic County jury convicted Carlos Yentes, 21, of theft.

On Aug. 5, 2011, Yentes entered the Collins Avenue home of his father and step-mother, where he did not reside, and stole a laptop, three electronic game consoles and an iPhone from the family.

Brigantine Police Launch Alarm Reduction Program to Reduce Alarm Calls

Alarm Registration and False Alarm Education/Reduction Program

The Brigantine Police Department recognizes the value and peace of mind that an alarm system can provide to a resident and business owner and assist them with safeguarding themselves and their property. Since the safety of the City’s residents and merchants continues to be of the upmost concern for the Police Department, it encourages all property owners to use their alarm system to its fullest. 

Atlantic City Man Found Fatally Stabbed in Atlantic City Motel

ATLANTIC CITY – An Atlantic City man who was discovered fatally stabbed in a motel room yesterday afternoon has been identified, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Wednesday, Jan. 8, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Atlantic City Police were notified of a male found dead inside a room at the Sea Breeze Motel located on Pacific Avenue.

Atlantic City Teenager Charged with Murder in Fatal Shooting of Teenage Boy in Atlantic City

MAYS LANDING – A 14-year-old Atlantic City juvenile male has been charged with the murder of a 13-year-old Atlantic City boy, Acting First Assistant Prosecutor Diane Ruberton announced today.

On Friday, January 10, 2014, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office charged the 14-year-old with murder, aggravated assault and weapons offenses in connection with the fatal shooting of Angel Mercado-Santiago, 13, of Atlantic City. The juvenile complaint was issued by Judge James L. Jackson. The arrest has not yet been made.

Atlantic City Teen Fatally Shot, Another Wounded After Altercation

ATLANTIC CITY – An Atlantic City teen was fatally shot during an altercation yesterday afternoon, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Wednesday, Jan. 8, at approximately 3 p.m. Atlantic City Police responded to the scene of a shooting near the intersection of Route 30 and Virginia Avenue.

Upon arrival, two teen males, ages 13 and 15, were discovered to have sustained gunshot wounds. One victim was shot in the chest and the second victim was shot in the leg.

Super Bowl Trophy to Be in Galloway at Special Olympics ‘Join the Huddle’ Tour at Stockton

Who:  Children and adults will participate in Special Olympics New Jersey events; other members of the public are invited to cheer them on and later, to view the Vince Lombardi Trophy. President Herman Saatkamp of The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey will welcome participants, while Mrs. Dot Saatkamp will join the 3K run/walk.

What: Special Olympics New Jersey will hold fund-raising events including the “Jingle All the Way” 3K Fun Run/Walk and a floor hockey tournament at Stockton. Participants and later the public will have access to the “Join the Huddle” tour’s “Huddle Shuttle” containing the Lombardi Trophy awarded to Super Bowl champions. The 18-wheeler also contains a locker room filled with sports memorabilia, including lockers belonging to Giants quarterback Eli Manning and former running back Curtis Martin, who played for the Patriots and Jets. Families can also participate in fun drills such as a “snowflake toss” and play video games.

Pleasantville Man Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Manslaughter in 2011 Murder

MAYS LANDING – A Pleasantville man has pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of a Somers Point man on Christmas Eve in 2011, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Tuesday, Jan. 7, Lenny R. Ross, Jr., 31, entered a guilty plea to the charge of aggravated manslaughter for the murder of Steven Gurss, Jr., 28.

On Dec. 24, 2011, Gurss was discovered shot in the head inside of a vehicle outside of the Marina Del Ray Apartments located on Atlantic Avenue in Pleasantville. Gurss was transported to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, City Campus, where he was pronounced dead the next morning.

Galloway Township Police Blotter December 22 - 28, 2013

Galloway Township Police responded to 761 calls for service during December 22nd to December 28th, 2013. 

Additional statistics include: 3 Burglaries, 12 Motor Vehicle Accidents, 42 Tickets issued, 3 Driving While Intoxicated, 19 Arrests, 0 Domestic Violence, 11 Fire Calls, 86 EMS Calls and 0 Juvenile call.

BURGLARIES : 

December 23 at W. White Horse Pike 

December 24 at Balboa Ave. 

December 28 at Old Port Republic Road 

Police Identify Female Body Found in Woods; Cause of Death Ruled as Homicide

EGG HARBOR TWP. – The remains of a woman found in the woods in Egg Harbor Township have been identified and the death has been ruled a homicide, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

The victim, who was found by a hunter on Sunday, Jan. 5, in the woods near Broadway Avenue, has been identified as Tara Rogers Alicea, 30, of Monroeville, New Jersey.

The victim was initially identified from photographs of tattoos released to the public. Detectives subsequently confirmed the identity based on finger print analysis. A DNA analysis is also in progress.

Police Seek Information in Early Morning Strong-Arm Robbery of Absecon Gas Station

The Absecon Police Department is investigating a strong-arm robbery that occurred on January 07, 2014 at approximately 3:10 a.m. at the Sun Petro Gas Station located at 101 Absecon Boulevard. 

Surveillance footage captured a white male wearing dark colored pants, a black jacket, black ski mask style face covering, black gloves, and a dark colored back pack with yellow straps enter the Sun Petro convenience store without the attendant’s knowledge. 

UPDATED: Female Human Remains Discovered in Wooded Area in Egg Harbor Township; ACPO Requesting Public Assistance in Identification

UPDATED (Jan 7th): Female Body has been identified by Police and cause of death has been ruled a homicide. Click HERE for Updated Story.

EGG HARBOR TWP. – The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office and the Egg Harbor Township Police Department are investigating the discovery of human remains found by a hunter in a wooded area, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

*Be advised, photographs released by the ACPO may be disturbing*

On Sunday, Jan. 5, at approximately 1:30 p.m., a hunter came across human remains in the woods behind the Shore Mall site near Broadway Avenue in Egg Harbor Township. The hunter, who is a local police officer, immediately contacted authorities and reported the discovery.

Department of Law & Public Safety Releases Latest Crime Data; Murder and Rape Cases on the Rise

TRENTON – The Department of Law & Public Safety today released the 2012 Uniform Crime Report (UCR), which shows that the overall crime rate and violent crime dropped four percent compared to 2011.

Robberies decreased six percent from 12,128 to 11,382, and aggravated assaults decreased four percent from 13,489 to 12,938.  While overall the news is positive, the murder rate edged up slightly, from 375 reported incidents to 387, and rape increased from 917 to 969.

“While the latest crime data shows a decrease in the overall crime rate in New Jersey, there is still considerable room for improvement.” said Acting Attorney General Hoffman.  “Reducing the number of shootings and murders in our urban areas continues to be a priority for the Attorney General’s Office and the New Jersey State Police.  The State Police will continue to support our cities in reducing senseless shootings and murders.”  

Atlantic City Man Charged with Murder and Weapons Offenses for 2012 Shooting

MAYS LANDING – An Atlantic City man has been charged with the murder of a man who was caught in the crossfire of Stanley Holmes Village shooting in 2012, Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced.

On Jan. 2, 2014, Rodney Smiley, 24, was charged with murder, conspiracy and weapons offenses for his involvement in the shooting which claimed the life of Jose Oritz, 59, of Atlantic City.

UPDATED: Who will be Galloway's next Mayor & Deputy Mayor?

UPDATED: Don Purdy has been re-elected as Mayor with a 4-2 vote. Gargione and Maldonado cast the dissenting votes. Tony Coppola was unanimously re-elected as Deputy Mayor. 

Who would you pick as Galloway's next Mayor or Deputy Mayor?  Purdy, Coppola, Tyrrell, Gargione, Maldonado, Meadows or Gorman?

Galloway Township Council is scheduled to have their annual re-organization meeting tonight (Jan 2nd) at 6:30 p.m. located at the Municipal Complex.  Council-elect Frank Gargione, Robert Maldonado, Timothy Meadows and incumbent-elect Don Purdy will all be sworn in to start their four year (4) term on Galloway Council.

Absecon Man Arrested for Attempted Car Jacking; Simple Assault at Hamilton Mall

On December 31, 2013 at approximately 5:45 p.m., the Township of Hamilton Police responded to the Hamilton Mall parking lot area for a report of a man that was attempting to push a victim into a van and had also entered the van himself. 

While responding, police units were updated that a witness had interceded and was now chasing the suspect on foot. Another witness updated police over the phone where the suspect was running and gave a description. 

Regulation in Galloway May Prohibit Chief of Police Patrick Moran to Serve in Dual Capacity as Township Manager

Chief Patrick Moran, Credit GTPD.org

Galloway Township will be losing another Township Manager leaving that four (4) Managers is just three (3) years that would have worked for Galloway Township. 

Township Manager Arch Liston has been nominated by Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian to serve as their City Administrator. If Liston's nomination is confirmed by Atlantic City Council, Liston will serve in that capacity and move to Atlantic City, according to the Press of Atlantic City. 

The vacancy will leave Galloway Township Officials to immediately search for a replacement. Mayor Don Purdy publicly announced to Galloway Patch that Galloway Chief of Police Patrick Moran will serve as Township Manager and Chief of Police while it transitions to a new Manager.