July 9, 2007 

On Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at 2:05 pm, Ptl. Michael Nelson arrested and charged Stacy N. McDonald, 40, of Plainfield with a motor vehicle violation.  McDonald was the operator of a 1993 Nissan and was stopped when a random license plate check revealed that her driving privileges were suspended.  McDonald also held and outstanding warrant in the amount of $979.00 out of Watchung.  McDonald was brought to police headquarters, processed and released into the custody of the Watchung Police Department. 

On Thursday, July 5, 2007 Ptl. Daniel Gara and Det. Michael Delia investigated a burglary of a Springfield Avenue business.  The investigation revealed that an unknown individual or individuals entered the business by breaking a window during the overnight hours.  The subject then removed $150.00 from the office area of the business.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Thursday, July 5, 2007, Ptl. Michael Nelson investigated a report of Criminal Mischief which occurred at a Lincoln Street address.  The victim reported that his 2007 Acura had been parked in his driveway overnight.  Upon entering the vehicle in the morning, he observed a large dent in the passenger side door which appeared to be caused by someone who had kicked the door.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

June 25, 2007 

On Tuesday, June 19, 2007 Ptl. Michael Nelson investigated a reported theft which occurred at a Springfield Avenue business.  The victim reported that while at a graduation party on Monday, June 18, 2007, her Nikon digital camera, valued at $247.00 was stolen from a table.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at 11:00 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Lance C. McNeil Jr., 22, of Whippany with motor vehicle charges.  McNeil was the operator of a 1994 Honda that was found to be unregistered after Sgt. Deitch conducted a random license plate check.  McNeil was also found to hold an outstanding warrant in the amount of $389.00 out of South Plainfield.  McNeil was brought to police headquarters and charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle. McNeil was then released into the custody of the South Plainfield Police Department.

June 11, 2007 

On Friday, June 8, 2007, Ptl. William Ives investigated a burglary at an Emerson Lane residence that is under construction.  The resident reported that during the overnight hours of June 8^th, an aluminum break and a Weber grill valued at $2,200.00 were taken from the property.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division.  

On Saturday, June 9, 2007 at 12:15 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged David Doby, 28, of South Plainfield and Melissa McCoy, 42, of Plainfield with motor vehicle and criminal charges.  Doby was the operator of a 1989 Chevrolet that was stopped after a computer check revealed that the registered owner’s driving privileges were suspended.  Doby was stopped on Diamond Hill Road and during the course of the investigation he was found to be in possession of a small amount of cocaine. McCoy was found to be holding an outstanding warrant out of Essex County and both individuals were placed under arrest.  At police headquarters, Doby was charged with possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, possession of CDS in a motor vehicle and failure to exhibit a registration card.  He was released with a court date to appear in Union County Superior Court.  McCoy was processed and turned over to the Essex County Sheriffs Department. 

On Saturday, June 9, 2007 at 8:37 pm, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci responded to a Lenape Lane address to investigate a reported theft from a motor vehicle.  Witnesses advised officers that an individual was seen entering the victim’s motor vehicle and removing a laptop, valued at $2,700.00, from the rear seat.  The suspect is described as a white  male, 5’10” – 6’00”, with blond hair and wearing shorts and a t-shirt.  The suspect left in a silver 2 door Acura being driven by a white female with red hair.  The Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Investigations Division at 908-464-1111. 

On Sunday, June 10, 2007 at 4:32 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested Taylor M. Morris, 38, of Plainfield on outstanding warrants.  Morris was the operator of a 2005 Honda and was stopped after a computer check revealed that he held a no bail warrant out of Essex County and two traffic warrants out of Hillside totaling $130.00.  Morris was brought to police headquarters, processed and released into the custody of the Essex County Sheriffs Department.

June 1, 2007

On Friday, June 1, 2007 at 6:54 pm, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci arrested and charged Jill E. Rauscher, 60, of Berkeley Heights with motor vehicle violations.  Rauscher was the operator of a 1994 Buick and was involved in a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Plainfield and Sherman Avenues.  Upon investigation, Ptl. Cuocci determined that Rauscher was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage and placed her under arrest.  Rauscher was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while intoxicated, refusal to submit breath samples and careless driving and was released into the custody of a friend. 

May 14, 2007 

On Tuesday, May 8, 2007 at 1:45 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Noreen A. Lewis, 44, and Robert K. Kobialka, 41, both of Berkeley Heights, with criminal and motor vehicle charges.  Lewis was the operator of a 1998 Chevrolet that was stopped when a random computer check revealed that registered owner held an outstanding warrant and a suspended license. Both individuals were extremely nervous and a subsequent search of Kobialka revealed two glass crack pipes in his pocket.  Lewis was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Bound Brook in the amount of $155.00.  Both subjects were brought to police headquarters and processed.  Kobialka was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and released after being processed.  Lewis was charged driving while suspended, driving with a suspended registration and operating a vehicle without liability insurance.  Lewis was released after posting bail. 

The Berkeley Heights Police Department received two reports of theft which occurred between May 4^th and May 9, 2007 at Governor Livingston High School.  The first report was on May 9, 2007, in which the victim reported various articles of clothing valued at approximately $170.00 were stolen from a gym locker.  The second report was on May 10, 2007 in which the victim reported a cell phone valued at $250.00 was stolen from a backpack while at a school track meet.  Both incidents have been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Wednesday, May 9, 2007 at 7:14 pm, Ptl. Donato Minicozzi arrested and charged Mark Leopold, 30, of Hartsdale, NY with motor vehicle charges.  Leopold was the operator of a 2006 Acura that became disabled with a flat tire.  Officers responded to the scene after receiving a report of the disabled motor vehicle.  A subsequent investigation by Ptl. Minicozzi revealed that Leopold was intoxicated at which time he was placed under arrest.  Leopold was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while intoxicated, refusal to submit breath samples and failure to exhibit documents.  Leopold was given a court date of May 17, 2007 to appear in Berkeley heights Municipal Court and was released into the custody of a family member. 

On Thursday, May 10, 2007 at 2:37 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro responded to a Runnymeade Road address to investigate an attempted motor vehicle theft.   The investigation revealed that a suspect entered a 1999 Volkswagen Passat by “punching” the drivers side door lock and ignition.  The suspect was scared off when he was discovered by the homeowner.  The suspect fled on foot and entered a small black vehicle with two occupants that were parked directly behind the Volkswagen, leaving at a high rate of speed.  The suspect is described as a heavy-set black male wearing a white T-shirt.  The Police department is asking anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Investigation Division at 908-464-1111.

May 4, 2007 

On Friday, May 04, 2007 at 11:16 am, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt and Ptl. Ron DeSimoni arrested and charged a 17 year old male juvenile from Dover with criminal and motor vehicle charges.  The juvenile was the operator of a 2002 Audi that was fleeing from Madison Police due to a report of an attempted abduction involving the juvenile driver and his 20 year old girlfriend.  The suspect exited onto Diamond Hill Road and struck two Berkeley Heights Police cars.  A short pursuit continued north on Diamond Hill Road and West on Mountain Avenue.  The vehicle then became disabled at which time the suspect fled on foot in the Sycamore Avenue area and was apprehended by Ptl. Schmidt.  The suspect’s 20 year old girlfriend was taken to Overlook Hospital by the Berkeley Heights Rescue Squad for evaluation.  The juvenile was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with 2 counts of aggravated assault on a police officer, eluding police, hindering apprehension and multiple motor vehicle violations.  The Parsippany Police Department is continuing it’s investigation into the alleged abduction. 

April 30, 2007 

On Monday, April 23, 2007 at 9:45 pm, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci arrested and charged Robert W. Morse, 46, of Short Hills with driving while intoxicated.  Ptl. Cuocci responded to 1 Diamond Hill Road after security contacted Police Headquarters reporting a suspicious vehicle.  Morse was the operator of a 1989 Mitsubishi and was found to be intoxicated at the scene.  Morse was brought to Police Headquarters, processed and released into the custody of a family member.  Morse was given a court date of May 3, 2007 to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court. 

On Sunday, April 29, 2007 at 5:28 pm, Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan responded to an Emerson Lane address to investigate a reported burglary.  The investigation revealed that a suspect entered an area of the garage that was under construction by removing a board that was blocking a window.  The suspect then stole 2 five gallon containers of gasoline and a remote control car.  Debris was also found consisting of a garage door and miscellaneous items in a dumpster located on the property.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division.

April 4, 2007 

On Thursday, March 29, 2007 members of the Berkeley Heights Police Department responded to Lucent Technologies, 600 Mountain Avenue to investigate a report of criminal mischief and auto theft.  Upon arrival, a witness reported observing a white or Hispanic male with a ponytail and in his mid twenties break into and enter a motor vehicle. The suspect then exited the area in a 1997 Plymouth minivan that was later determined to have been stolen out of the Lucent Technologies parking lot.  A portable GPS unit, an iPOD and sunglasses with a total value of $1,000.00 were taken from the motor vehicle that was entered.  The Plymouth minivan was entered by Police Headquarters as a stolen vehicle in NCIC. The Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Investigations Division at (908) 464-1111.  

On Thursday, March 29, 2007 at 3:44 pm, Ptl. Jason Massimino arrested and charged Michael Cataldo, 19 and Ashley Magalhes, 18, both of Hillside with motor vehicle and drug charges.  Cataldo was the operator of a 1995 Saturn that was stopped for an inspection violation on Plainfield Avenue.  Ptl. Massimino then detected an odor of burnt marijuana emanating from the vehicle.  A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a marijuana “roach” and a clear plastic bag of marijuana in the rear of the vehicle.  Both individuals were brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana.  Cataldo was also charged with failure to make repairs on a motor vehicle and possession of CDS in a motor vehicle.  Both parties were then given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and released. 

On Saturday, March 31, 2007 at 5:27 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Keith C. West, 42, of Plainfield with motor vehicle violations.  Ptl. Gallaro conducted a random license plate check on his mobile data computer and West, the operator of a 1998 Dodge, was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Elmwood Park in the amount of $200.00.  West was brought to police headquarters and charged with operating a motor vehicle without liability insurance and was released after posting bail.

March 28, 2007 

On Friday, March 23, 2007 at 9:06 am, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Chante N. Leak, 29, of Irvington with motor vehicle and criminal charges.  Leak was the operator of a 1998 Chrysler and was stopped for a motor vehicle violation.  Leak provided another persons drivers license at the time of the stop and was found to hold two outstanding warrants out of Millburn and Irvington totaling $792.00.  Leak was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while suspended and hindering apprehension.  Leak was given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and released after posting bail. 

On Monday, March 26, 2006 at 9:30 pm, Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan and Ptl. Jeanne Marie Mocarski responded to a Whitney Drive residence to investigate a reported burglary to the residence.  The investigation revealed that an unknown person or persons gain entry to the residence by forcing entry to the front door.  The individual(s) then removed a 42 inch LCD television valued at $1,700.00 and $200.00 in currency.  The incident occurred between the hours of 7:00 am and 9:00 pm.  The Police Department’s Investigations Division is asking anyone with information regarding this burglary to call (908) 464-1111. 

On Tuesday, March 27, 2007 at 9:22 am, Ptl. William Ives arrested and charged Gustavo Perez, 24, of Newark with motor vehicle violations.  Perez was the operator of a 1992 Toyota and was stopped when Ptl. Ives observed him not wearing a seatbelt.  Perez was then found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Summit in the amount of $114.00.  Perez was brought to police headquarters and charged with failure to wear a seatbelt and was released after posting bail.

March 19, 2007 

On Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at 7:00 am, Ptl. Michael Nelson arrested and charged Thomas Hopwood, 56, of Irvington with shoplifting.  Hopwood was arrested after Stop and Shop security contacted police headquarters reporting the theft of $38.00 worth of merchandise that included cat food, cotton balls, a DVD and an XBox game.  Hopwood was also found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Union in the amount of $1,000.00.  Hopwood was brought to police headquarters, processed and eventually released into the custody of the Union Police Department. 

On Friday, March 16, 2007 at 11:35 pm, four Berkeley Heights adults and one Berkeley Heights juvenile were arrested and charged after breaking into a High Oaks home and assaulting the resident.  Ptl. Daniel Gara responded to the location and was able to broadcast a description of the vehicle that the suspects had left the scene in.  Ptl. Donato Minicozzi was able to locate the vehicle on Hamilton Avenue and conduct a motor vehicle stop.  Taken into custody were the following individuals:  Gerald Andrew, 18, Oliver Blanco, 18, Scott Richie, 18 and Joseph Vizcaya, 18.  A 17 year old juvenile was also taken into custody.  All five suspects were brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with criminal mischief, burglary and simple assault.  Bail was set on the adult suspects by Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian at $50,000.00.  The juvenile suspect was transferred to the Union County Juvenile Detention Facility.  The adult suspects were released after posting bail.

March 13, 2007 

On Friday, March 9, 2007 at 11:37 pm, Ptl. Andrew Glaydura arrested and charged William D. O’Neal, 44, of Bloomfield with motor vehicle charges.  O’Neil was the operator of a 1993 Saturn and was stopped after a computer check revealed that the registered owner of the vehicle held an outstanding no bail warrant out of Essex County.  O’Neil was also found to be operating an unregistered vehicle and operating with a suspended driver’s license. O’Neil was brought to police headquarters and charged with operating an unregistered vehicle and driving with a suspended license.  O’Neil was then released into the custody of the Essex County Sheriffs Department.  

On Monday, March 12, 2007 at 9:36 pm, Ptl. Andrew Glaydura arrested and charged two Westfield residents, Alexander J. Denny, 20 and Ryan S. Quatrevingt, 28, with drug and motor vehicle charges.  Quatrevingt was the operator of a 1997 Chrysler that was stopped after Ptl. Glaydura observed a lit cigarette being thrown from the vehicle.  Upon further investigation Ptl. Glaydura detected an odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle and also discovered that Denny held an outstanding warrant in the amount of $120.00 out of North Plainfield.  Denny was placed under arrest and a subsequent search revealed rolling papers in his possession.  A glass jar containing suspected marijuana and an electronic scale were then found under the passenger seat.  Quatrevingt was also placed under arrest and both individuals were brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of CDS in a motor vehicle.  Quatrevignt was released pending a court appearance in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  Denny was also charged with throwing debris from a motor vehicle and was released after posting bail.    

March 7, 2007 

On Monday, March 5, 2007 at 8:30 am, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Waajid M. Branch, 25, of East Orange with motor vehicle violations.  Branch was the operator of a 2001 Lincoln that was stopped after a computer check revealed that the registered owner held outstanding warrants out of Irvington and Union in the amount of $369.00.  Branch was subsequently brought to police headquarters, processed and released after posting bail. 

On Monday, March 5, 2007 at 8:58 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Jeffrey L. Kruse, 22, of Clifton with motor vehicle charges.  Kruse was the operator of a 1994 Chevrolet that was stopped after a computer check revealed that the registered owner held outstanding warrants.  Kruse was found to be unlicensed and operating the vehicle without insurance.  He was found to hold outstanding warrants out of Clifton in the amount of $4,316.00 for drug and traffic offenses.  Kruse was brought to police headquarters and charged with being an unlicensed driver and having no insurance.  Kruse was subsequently released into the custody of the Clifton Police Department. 

On Tuesday, March 6, 2007 at 3:06 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Dexter Furlongue, 38, of North Plainfield with weapons and motor vehicle offenses.  Furlongue was the operator of a 2002 GMC that was stopped for motor vehicle violations and after a computer check revealed that the registered owner’s driver’s license was suspended.  During the course of the stop, Ptl. Gallaro observed a large axe-like metal knife with steel knuckles in the driver’s side door pocket.  A further search of the vehicle recovered a triple bladed “Chinese star” in the center console.  Furlongue was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with possession of prohibited weapons, driving while suspended and improper maintenance of lamps.  Furlongue was then released on his own recognizance pending appearance in Union County Superior Court.

March 1, 2007 

On Sunday, February 25, 2007 at 12:50 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Michael Gomez, 18, of Middlesex, with alcohol related offenses.  Gomez was the operator of a 1995 Ford that was stopped for equipment violations.  Once stopped, Sgt. Deitch observed two separate containers of alcoholic beverages on the driver side floorboard.  Gomez was placed under arrest, brought to police headquarters and charged with underage possession of alcohol, improper maintenance of lamps and open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle.  Gomez was then released and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court on March 14, 2007. 

On Monday, February 25, 2007 at 10:00 pm, Ptl. Donato Minicozzi arrested George L. Grimstead III, 38, and Christopher McMurrian, 37, both of Plainfield.  Grimstead was the operator of a 1998 Dodge that was stopped after a computer check revealed that the vehicle was unregistered.  Further investigation revealed that the vehicle did not have motor vehicle insurance and that Grimstead held outstanding warrants in the amount of $194.00 out of Scotch Plains and Raritan.  McMurrian, the passenger, was found the hold a no bail warrant for civil contempt out of Union County.  Both individuals were brought to police headquarters and processed.  Grimstead was charged with operating an unregistered vehicle and operating a motor vehicle without liability insurance and was released after posting bail.  McMurrian was then turned over to the Union County Sheriffs Department and lodged in the Union County Jail.

February 21, 2007 

On Sunday, February 18, 2007 at 11:15 am, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Gaitan A. Yader, 21, of Plainfield with motor vehicle and criminal charges.  Yader was the operator of a 1990 Nissan that was stopped for an improper display of a license plate and an equipment violation.  Yader then provided false information to Ptl. Gallaro regarding his identity and was subsequently identified through a computer check.  Yader was found to be holding a $3,000.00 outstanding warrant out of South Plainfield and a no bail warrant out of Union County.  Yader was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with hindering apprehension, improper display of rear license plate, improper maintenance of lamps and driving while suspended.  Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $2,500.00 pending a March 1^st court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  Yader was then turned over to the Union County Sheriffs Department and lodged in the Union County Jail. 

On Sunday, February 18, 2007 at 4:18 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged two Somerville residents, Shana Hermans, 21, and Jasmine Holloway, 21, with drug charges.  Herman was the operator of a 2003 Hyundai that was initially stopped for speeding on Plainfield Avenue.  During the course of the traffic stop, Sgt. Deitch detected an odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and determined that Hermans’ driver’s license was suspended.  A subsequent search of Hermans turned up 52 ecstasy pills in her front pocket and approximately one ounce of marijuana in the front passenger compartment of the vehicle, at which time Holloway was also placed under arrest.  Both suspects were brought to police headquarters and processed.  Hermans was charged with possession of ecstasy, possession of ecstasy with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and motor vehicle offenses.  Holloway was charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.  Both parties were then released on their own recognizance pending a court appearance in Union County Superior Court on February 26, 2007. 

On Sunday, February 18, 2007 Berkeley Heights Police responded to  Hillcrest Avenue and Ridge Drive addresses to investigate two separate attempted motor vehicle thefts.  At 10:22 pm, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci responded to Hillcrest Avenue on a report of a car alarm sounding.  The investigation revealed that a 2001 Cadillac front driver’s side door had been tampered with, leaving the door partially open.  The resident reported looking out of his window and observing a dark colored SUV leaving the area at the time of the alarm.  At 10:59 pm, Ptl. Donato Minicozzi responded to a Ridge Drive address to investigate a second attempted motor vehicle theft.  The investigation revealed that unknown suspects had attempted to steal a 2001 Audi by entering the vehicle and punching out the vehicle’s ignition, but were unable to start the Audi.  Anyone with information regarding these incidents contact the Police department at 464-1111.

February 7, 2007 

On Friday, February 2, 2007 at 2:02 pm, Det. Michael Delia investigated a report of criminal mischief that occurred at Governor Livingston High School.  The investigation revealed that an unknown person or persons “keyed” the victim’s 2006 Infinity.  The entire length of the motor vehicle’s passenger side had been scratched from the rear fender to the front fender.  The incident occurred between 8:00 am and 2:00 pm. 

On Friday, February 2, 2007 at 2:51 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested a 17 year old Berkeley Heights juvenile on outstanding juvenile delinquency complaints for terroristic threats.  The juvenile was the operator of a 2002 Audi and was observed to be in violation of the provisional driver’s license and was subsequently stopped and brought to police headquarters for processing.  The juvenile was issued a warning for the motor vehicle violation, was processed and then released into the custody of a parent. 

On Friday, February 2, 20007 at 4:32 pm, members of the Berkeley Heights Police Department responded to Commerce Bank on Springfield Avenue on a report of a robbery.  The investigation revealed that a subject entered the bank and produced a note demanding money.  After receiving cash from the teller, the suspect left the scene without further incident.  The suspect is described as a white male in his 50’s wearing a dark sports jacket, khaki shirt and pants and a dark baseball hat.  The suspect then left the bank and fled on foot in a westerly direction.  The suspect has been linked to numerous banks robberies in Union and Morris counties.  The Police Department is requesting that anyone with information about the robbery contact Det. Sgt. Stephen Stamler at (908) 464-1111 or the FBI. 

On Monday, February 5, 2007 at 4:30 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Nicole E. Crincoli, 19, of Kenilworth with criminal charges.  Crincoli was a passenger of a motor vehicle that Ptl. Gallaro observed in a commercial area.  Crincoli was then observed by Ptl. Gallaro to be in possession of a marijuana cigarette in plain view.  Crincoli was then removed from the vehicle and when advised that she was under arrest, began to struggle and pull away from officers as she was being placed in handcuffs.  Crincoli was subsequently brought to police headquarters and processed.  Crincoli was charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and resisting arrest.  Crincoli was released on her own recognizance and was given a court date of February 14, 2007 to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court. 

On Tuesday, February 6, 2007 at 1:46 pm, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt arrested and charged Christopher R. Arminio, 20, of Berkeley Heights with criminal and motor vehicle charges.  Arminio was the operator of a 2005 Lexus that was stopped on Holly Glen Lane North after it had been reported to be taken without the owner’s consent.  Arminio was placed under arrest and was subsequently found to be in possession of five crack cocaine rocks.  Arminio was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with possession of crack cocaine, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and possession of CDS in a motor vehicle.  Arminio was then released on his own recognizance.

January 25, 2007 

On Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at 3:51 pm, Sgt. John DiPasquale, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni and Ptl. William Ives responded to the Berkeley Heights train station on a report of disorderly juveniles on a NJ Transit train.  Upon arrival of the westbound train, six juvenile males were removed from the train and brought to police headquarters.  Two 16 year olds from Basking Ridge, one 16 year old from Bernardsville, one 17 year old from Gladstone, and a 16 year old and a 17 year old from Mendham were processed at police headquarters and released into the custody of their parents.  The matter has been referred to the Juvenile Division. 

On Tuesday, January 23, 2006 at 11:10 pm, Ptl. Andrew Glaydura arrested and charged Ronald Crump, 42, of Newark with motor vehicle charges.  Crump was the operator of a 1994 Mazda that was stopped for speeding.  A computer check revealed that Crump held outstanding warrants out of Newark and Jersey City in the amount of $233.00.  Crump was brought to police headquarters and charged with speeding and driving while suspended.  He was later released on his own recognizance. 

On Wednesday, January 24, 2007 at 3:09 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Travis Gartner, 26, of Somerville and Sophia Benningfield, 19, of Basking Ridge with motor vehicle and criminal charges.  Gartner was the operator of 1996 Dodge that was stopped for an equipment and speeding violations.  Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrived on scene as backup and observed unusual furtive movement by Gartner as if he was attempting to hide something in his jacket.  A search of Gartner revealed 9 wax folds of suspected heroin in his jacket, 2 glass vials containing suspected crack cocaine, 1 crack pipe and 1 folded matchbook containing suspected heroin residue.  The passenger, Benningfield was found to be in possession of 8 wax folds of heroin, 2 crack pipes, 8 wax folds containing suspected heroin residue and 1 folded matchbook containing suspected heroin residue. Both individuals were brought to police headquarters and processed.  Bennington was charged with possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to deliver CDS to a law enforcement officer.  Bennington was then released on her own recognizance.  Gartner was charged with speeding, improper maintenance of lamps, possession of CDS in a motor vehicle, possession of cocaine, possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to deliver CDS to a law enforcement officer.  Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $7,500.00 and Gartner was lodged in the Union County Jail.  

January 4, 2007 

On Saturday, December 23, 2006 at 1:20 am, Ptl. Daniel Gara arrested and charged Anthony E. Nadeau, 19, of Watchung with drug charges.  Nadeau was found to be in possession of a small plastic bag of suspected marijuana and a glass smoking pipe after Ptl. Gara responded to an Industrial Road location while checking on a suspicious vehicle.  Nadeau was brought to police headquarters and charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia and was released on his own recognizance. 

On Monday, January 1, 2007 at 7:58 pm, Ptl. Ed Gaffney arrested and charged Andre Vargas, 25, of Berkeley Heights with criminal charges.  Officers responded to a Springfield Avenue restaurant after receiving a complaint of an intoxicated individual.  Upon contact with officers, Vargas refused to leave the restaurant and was placed under arrest after arguing and cursing at the officers.  Subsequent to a search, Vargas was found with a small amount of marijuana and rolling papers.  Vargas was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with disorderly conduct, obstruction of justice, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.  Vargas was held and eventually released on his own recognizance. 

On Wednesday, January 3, 2007 at 2:06 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged James M. Orosz, 29, of New Brunswick with motor vehicle and criminal charges.  Orosz was the operator of a 2002 Hyundai that was stopped after Sgt. Deitch conducted a random license plate check that revealed that the registration and driving privileges of the owner were suspended.  A subsequent investigation revealed that Orosz had a small amount of marijuana and a glass pipe in his possession located in the center console of the vehicle.  Orosz was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while suspended, driving with a suspended registration, unregistered vehicle, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

December 22, 2006 

On Friday, December 15, 2006, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci investigated a theft at Governor Livingston High School.  The victim reported that his pants were stolen from a bench in a locker room.  Inside the pants was a wallet containing $100.00 and a cell phone.  The total value of all item stolen was $338.00.  The matter has been turned over to the juvenile officer for further investigation. 

On Monday, December 18, 2006 at 1:15 am, Ptl. Ernie Schmidt arrested and charged Guy DeFazio, 26, of Warren with motor vehicle charges.  DeFazio was the operator of a 1998 Toyota and was approached by Ptl. Schmidt after the Police Department received a report of an individual sleeping in the vehicle at a Springfield Avenue business.  Upon waking DeFazio, Ptl. Schmidt determined that he was under the influence of alcohol and transported him to police headquarters.  DeFazio was processed and charged with reckless driving, driving while intoxicated and refusal to submit to breath tests.  DeFazio was then released into the custody of a family member. 

On Tuesday, December 19, 2006 at 8:15 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Tapril J. Greene, 23, of South Orange with criminal and motor vehicle charges.  Greene was the operator of a 2006 Chevy Cobalt that was stopped as she tried to avoid a traffic signal on Springfield Avenue by utilizing a business’ parking lot.  As Sgt. Deitch investigated, he detected an odor of burnt marijuana and also observed a plastic bag in the rear of the vehicle containing a small amount of marijuana.  Greene was placed under arrest and was also found to hold outstanding warrants out of Newark, Ridgefield and Hillside in the amount of $860.00.  Greene was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with criminal offenses; possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and failure to deliver CDS to law enforcement.  She also charged with the following motor vehicle offenses:  Operating a motor vehicle on private property to avoid a traffic signal, driving while suspended, no insurance, and failure to exhibit an insurance card.  Greene was then released after posting bail.

December 15, 2006 

On Tuesday, December 12, 2006 at 2:55 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Wendy F. Williams, 36, of Plainfield with failure to stop at a stop sign.  Williams was the operator of a 1998 Ford and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Plainfield in the amount of $250.00.  Williams was brought to police headquarters, processed and released into the custody of the Plainfield Police Department. 

On Wednesday, December 13, 2006 at 5:18 pm, Ptl. Andrew Glaydura responded to a motor vehicle accident and charged Jennifer Rosa, 33, of Gillete with motor vehicle violations.  Rosa was the operator of a 2005 Dodge and was involved in a one car motor vehicle accident on Springfield Ave.  Rosa was transported to Overlook Hospital for minor injuries where blood was drawn to be sent to the New Jersey State Police laboratory.  Rosa was charged with careless driving and driving while intoxicated.

December 8, 2006 

On Wednesday, November 29, 2006 at 2:40 pm, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci arrested and charged David M. Olsen, 40, of Waukesha WI, with motor vehicle charges.  Olsen was the operator of a 2004 Chrysler that was involved in a motor vehicle accident on Diamond Hill Road.  Olsen then fled the scene on foot and was later located on the property of Summit Medical Group by officers.  Olsen was found to be intoxicated and was brought to police headquarters for processing.  Olsen was charged with careless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, driving while intoxicated and refusal to submit to breath tests.  Olsen was later released into the custody of a family member. 

On Sunday, December 3, 2006 at 2:44 am, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Erik P. Ferreira, 24, of Berkeley Heights with motor vehicle charges.  Ferreira was the operator of a 2002 Honda that was stopped for speeding on Plainfield Avenue and was subsequently found to be operating the motor vehicle while intoxicated.  Ferreira was brought to police headquarters and processed and charged with speeding, care lees driving, driving while intoxicated and refusal to submit to breath tests.  Ferreira was then released into the custody of a friend.

November 13, 2006 

On Tuesday, November 7, 2006 at 3:03 pm, Ptl. William Ives arrested and charged a 17 year Berkeley Heights juvenile with drug charges.  The juvenile was the operator of a 1996 Audi that was stopped when he traveled through a stop sign without stopping.  A check on the juvenile revealed that he held an outstanding traffic warrant out of Berkeley Heights in the amount of $89.00.  The juvenile was placed under arrest and a subsequent search revealed under 50 grams of marijuana in his possession.  He was brought to police headquarters, processed and released after posting bail. 

On Thursday, November 9, 2006 at 3:08 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Howard Nealy Jr., 46, of Jersey City with motor vehicle charges.  Nealy was the operator of a 1990 Lexus and was found to hold outstanding warrants out of South Plainfield and Newark in the amount of $1008.00.  Nealy was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while suspended, operating an unregistered vehicle and operating an uninsured vehicle.  Nealy was then released into the custody of the South Plainfield Police Department. 

On Friday, November 10, 2006 at 2:20 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Karen B. Hager, 29, of Somerville with drug and motor vehicle charges.  Hager was the operator of a 1992 Buick and when stopped, Sgt. Deitch observed a clear plastic bag containing two prescription oxycodone pills in the ashtray. Hager was also found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Mount Laurel in the amount of $114.00.  Hager was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with possession of prescription drugs, no seatbelt, operating an unregistered vehicle and operating a motor vehicle without insurance.  Hager was then released with after posting bail. 

On Saturday, November 11, 2006 at 9:20 pm Ptl. Donato Minicozzi arrested and charged Scott A. Roth, 26, of Ironia with motor a vehicle charge.  Roth was the operator of a 1994 Jeep and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of West Paterson in the amount of $750.00.  Roth was brought to police headquarters, processed, charged with improper maintenance of lamps and released after posting bail.

November 6, 2006 

On Monday, October 30, 2006, at 2:27 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged David Harris, 52, of Morristown with shoplifting.  Harris was placed under arrest after he attempted to leave Walgreens without paying for 6 rolls of Polaroid film and 2 rolls of spectra film valued at $154.00.  Harris was detained by store personnel until police arrival and was subsequently brought to police headquarters and processed.  Harris was then released on his own recognizance and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  

On Friday, November 3, 2006, at 9:19 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Tarrenze M. Mobley, 42, of Morristown with motor vehicle charges.  Mobley was the operator of a 2002 Pontiac and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant in the amount of $500.00 out of Randolph.  Mobley was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while suspended and driving without insurance.  Mobley was then released after posting bail. 

On Friday, November 3, 2006, at 10:16 AM, Ptl. Michael Delia investigated a reported theft at Governor Livingston High School.  The victim reported that his Apple Ipod, valued at $150.00, was stolen while in the school cafeteria.

October 26, 2006 

On Thursday, October 19, 2006 at 12:27 am, Ptl. Daniel Gara arrested and charged Philip P. Rozewski, 50, of Cranford with driving while intoxicated.  Rozewski was the operator of a 2001 Ford that was stopped after Ptl. Gara observed the vehicle being operated on the wrong side of the roadway.  Upon stopping Rozewski, Ptl. Gara determined that he was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, brought him to police headquarters and processed him.  Rozewski was charged with careless driving and driving while intoxicated and was release into the custody of a family member. 

On Saturday, October 21, 2006 at 9:24 pm, Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan arrested and charged Christina M. Schwartz, 37, of Basking Ridge with driving while intoxicated.  Schwartz was the operator of a 2006 BMW that was involved in a motor vehicle accident.  Upon further investigation, Ptl. Ammerlaan determined that Schwartz was under the influence of an alcoholic beverage and arrested Schwartz.  She was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with careless driving, driving while intoxicated and refusal to submit to a breath test.  Schwartz was later released with a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court. 

On Tuesday, October 24, 2006 at 9:13 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Juan Zhinin, 31, of Orange with motor vehicle and criminal offenses.  Zhinin was the operator of a 2000 Ford truck that was stopped after Sgt. Deitch conducted a motor vehicle computer check revealing that the registration was expired and the owner’s driver’s license was suspended.  Zhinin then provided false information regarding his identity and upon discovery of his true identity, Sgt. Deitch placed Zhinin under arrest.  Zhinin was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with hindering apprehension, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, driving while suspended, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, tinted windows and failure to surrender a suspended driver’s license.  Zhinin was then released with a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court. 

On Tuesday, October 24, 2006 at 3:32 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Adham El-Sherbeini, 20, of Plainfield with motor vehicle charges.  El-Sherbeini was the operator of a 1998 GMC Van and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Westfield in the amount of $200.00.  He was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with failure to wear a seatbelt, driving while suspended, failure to exhibit documents and failure to inspect a motor vehicle.  El-Sherbeini was then released into the custody of the Westfield Police Department.

October 17, 2006 

On Monday, October 16, 2006 at 10:45 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Justin P. Girgis, 21, of Hillside and Jonathan W. Hill, 21, of Bellville on drug and motor vehicle charges.  Girgis was the operator of a 2002 BMW that was found to be unregistered when Sgt. Deitch conducted a computer check on the license plate.  Upon stopping the vehicle, the passenger, Jonathan Hill, was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Bloomfield in the amount of $300.00.  Sgt. Deitch then detected an odor of burnt marijuana emanating from the vehicle and a subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a small amount of marijuana in the ashtray and passenger side door panel of the vehicle.  Both individuals were brought to police headquarters and processed.  Hill was charged with failure to wear a seatbelt and was released after posting bail.  Girgis was charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana, failure to deliver CDS to law enforcement, unregistered vehicle and failure to wear a seatbelt.  Girgis was then released on his own recognizance with a court date to appear in Berkeley heights Municipal Court.

October 9, 2006 

On Monday, October 2, 2006 Ptl. Ernest Schmidt responded to Lucent Technologies, 600 Mountain Ave, to investigate a reported theft from a motor vehicle.  The investigation revealed that the passenger side window of a 2006 Honda had been smashed and an Ipod Nano and an Ipod FM transmitter had been stolen from the vehicle between the hours of 9:00 am and 2:00 pm.  The total value of items stolen was $267.00. 

On Tuesday, October 3, 2006 at 10:00 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Patricia Wagner, 46, of Middlesex with driving while intoxicated.  Wagner was operating a 2006 GMC and involved in a motor vehicle accident in the parking lot of 1 Connell Drive.  The on scene investigation revealed that Wagner had struck a parked vehicle and left the area.  She was then located by Sgt. John Dipasquale.  Wagner was brought to police headquarters, processed and charged with driving while intoxicated, careless driving and leaving the scene of an accident.  Wagner was given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and was later released. 

On Friday, October 6, 2006 at 11:17 am, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni arrested and charged Clifford Lutter Jr., 23, of Easton PA, with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.  Lutter was the operator of a 1985 Chevrolet that was stopped after a motorist contacted police headquarters reporting that his vehicle was being operated in an erratic manner.  Ptl. DeSimoni’s investigation revealed possible drug usage and consent to search the vehicle was granted by Lutter.  Ptl. DeSimoni then discovered nine (9) glassine packets of suspected heroin and a hypodermic needle.  Luttter was brought to police headquarters, processed and released with a court date to appear in Union County Superior Court. 

On Sunday, October 8, 2006 at 6:30 pm, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt arrested and charged Stephan Welhasch, 57, of Berkeley Heights with driving while intoxicated, refusal to submit to a breath test, careless driving and unsafe lane change.  Welhasch was the operator of a 1996 Jeep that was stopped after a witness reported an intoxicated individual at a local convenience store.  Ptl. Schmidt responded to the area and observed Welhasch operating the Jeep, subsequently stopping it in the Stop and Shop parking lot. Welhasch was brought to police headquarters, processed and then released to a family member with a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  

October 2, 2006 

On Tuesday, September 26, 2006, Sgt. John DiPasquale responded to Columbia School to investigate a report of criminal mischief.  The victim reported that while traveling south on Plainfield Avenue an object was thrown from a school bus that was traveling north on Plainfield Avenue.  The object struck the victims windshield causing a crack on the driver’s side.  The victim was able to obtain the ID number on the bus and provided it to Sgt. DiPasquale.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Wednesday, September 27, 2006, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci investigated a reported theft from a motor vehicle located at a Russo Place business.  The victim reported the theft from an unlocked Mack truck causing damage to the dashboard and interior. The theft included a mobile radio, vehicle climate control and hardware, climate control housing, climate control duct, air horn bracket and housing, both visors and air hoses and fittings.  The total value of items stolen was $2,000.00.  The theft occurred between the hours of 7:00 pm and 7:00 am overnight.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Friday, September 29, 2006, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci investigated two incidents of criminal mischief that occurred on Gallinson Drive and Summit Road.  The victims both reported that the rear windshields of their motor vehicles had been smashed by unknown objects.  The vehicles involved were a 2001 Honda Civic and a 2005 Honda Pilot and the incidents occurred between the hours of 8:00 pm and 6:00 am overnight.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Sunday, October 1, 2006 at 1:31 am, Ptl. Donato Minicozzi arrested and charged Michael R. McMorrow, 35, of Chatham.  McMorrow was the operator of a 1998 Harley Davidson and was stopped for speeding on Springfield Avenue.  During the course of the stop, McMorrow was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Berkeley Heights in the amount of $161.00.  McMorrow was brought to police headquarters and charged with driving while suspended, speeding and failure to exhibit documents.  McMorrow was released with a court date after posting bail.

September 25, 2006 

On Thursday, September 21, 2006 Ptl. Daniel Cuocci investigated a reported incident of criminal mischief at the Berkeley Heights Post Office.  The investigation revealed that between the hours of 6:00 pm on September 20^th and 7:30 am on September 21^st, an unknown individual smashed the window of a postal truck with an unknown object.  There was no attempted theft of the vehicle or of any items in it.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division and the United States Postal Inspectors. 

On Thursday, September 21, 2006, Sgt. Frank Fortunato investigated a reported theft at a Connell Drive office.  The investigation revealed that a theft of a Dell Latitude laptop computer occurred between July 31^st and September 6^th, 2006 after it was delivered to the location.  The laptop computer was valued at $2,000.00. 

On Friday, September 22, 2006 Ptl. Andrew Glaydura investigated a reported theft from a Snyder Avenue construction site.  The investigation revealed that 3 orange rectangular ground mounted construction signs were stolen on September 21^ST at or around 3:40 pm.  The signs was valued at approximately $480.00.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division.

August 28, 2006 

On Saturday, August 26, 2006 at 10:44 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested 4 individuals on drug and weapons offenses.  The following individuals were taken into custody: Keray Cousar, 20, of Boonton, Maurice Harper, 18, of North Plainfield, Raymond Johnson Jr., 21, of Plainfield and Jerome Webb, 20, of Plainfield.  Cousar was the operator of a 1997 Nissan that was stopped for speeding and a headlight malfunction.  Upon stopping the motor vehicle, Sgt. Deitch detected an odor of burnt marijuana coming from the vehicle.  Cousar then provided Sgt. Deitch with false information regarding his identity.  A search of the motor vehicle produced a small bag of marijuana in the rear seat and a .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun under the front passenger seat.  The subjects were brought to police headquarters and processed and all four were charged with possession of a handgun, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana and failure to deliver CDS to a law enforcement officer.  Additionally, Cousar was charged with hindering apprehension, speeding, driving with a suspended license, improper maintenance of lamps and possession of CDS in a motor vehicle.  Cousar was found to hold outstanding warrants out of North Plainfield, Plainfield and Roselle in the amount of $1299.00.  Webb was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Roselle in the amount of $239.00.  Bail was set by Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian in the amount of $12,000.00 for Cousar and Webb.  They were remanded to the Union County Jail.

August 18, 2006 

As the beginning of the school year approaches, the Berkeley Heights Police Department will continue to implement a traffic plan designed to address various safety concerns and traffic issues at Columbia School during the morning rush hour and in the afternoon when students are picked up.  The Police Department has worked closely with school officials and the Township Engineering Department in developing the plan.  The following are the key elements of the plan: 

AUTHORIZED DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP AREAS 

• The west side of Plainfield Avenue (southbound) directly in front of Columbia School.

• Columbia Park parking lot (behind Columbia School.)

• Hamilton Avenue (both sides), but vehicles must be twenty five feet from the crosswalk (ie., intersection of Plainfield Avenue.)

• Roosevelt Avenue East (100 yards east of the intersection with Plainfield Avenue.)

• The Police Department prefers that parents use Hamilton Avenue for dropping off and picking up students (Crossing Guard is present)

PROHIBITED DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP AREAS 

• Library parking lot (Ordinance #10.48.030)

Large number of students congregating in parking lot waiting to be picked up causing traffic on Plainfield Avenue to back up and a hazardous situation for pedestrians.

• Circular driveway in front of Columbia School.

• Northbound side of Plainfield Avenue between Hamilton Avenue and Bolton Boulevard – signs posted.

• Roosevelt Avenue westbound – no sidewalk present for safe drop-of/pick-up (NJSA 39:4-65 Improper letting off of passengers.)

• The two crosswalks not controlled by Crossing Guards should not be used.  They are the ones directly in front of Columbia School and in front of Little Flower Church.

Once school starts, Berkeley Heights Police Officers will maintain an increased presence in the area to insure that parents are aware of the authorized areas for dropping off and picking up students and to insure compliance.  Additionally, letters will be sent to the parents of Columbia School students in the coming weeks to remind and educate them about the plan. 

In order for this plan to work, the Police Department is relying on the cooperation of parents and students.  Police Chief David Zager said, “By working together we can ensure the safety of the students, which is obviously our primary concern.”

August 17, 2006 

Impaired Driving Enforcement to be conducted locally as part of Statewide Crackdown 

From August 18 – September 4, 2006, law enforcement officers from the Berkeley Heights Police Department will be stepping up impaired driving enforcement as part of the You Drink and Drive, You Lose 2006 statewide crackdown. 

The end of the summer season is traditionally a time of social gatherings, which often include alcohol.  The goal of the program is to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving through high-visibility enforcement, and to arrest motorists who chose to drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol.  As part of the crackdown, the Berkeley Heights Police Department will be operating a DWI Sobriety Checkpoint on Saturday, September 2, 2006 on Plainfield Avenue during the hours of 9:30 pm to 2:30 am.  

Impaired drivers kill nearly 18,000 people on our nation’s roads each year.  In New Jersey, 31% of motor vehicle fatalities are alcohol-related.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 97 percent of Americans view drinking and driving by others as a threat to their families and themselves.  Indeed, Americans support tougher enforcement and rank drunk driving ahead of healthcare, poverty, the environment and gun control as important issues. 

The Berkeley Heights Police Department offers the following advice: 

• Be responsible and don’t risk it, you will be caught.

• If you plan to drink, choose a designated driver before going out.

• Take mass transit, a taxicab, or ask a sober friend to drive you home.

• Spend the night where the activity is held.

• Report impaired drivers to law enforcement.

• Always buckle up – it’s your best defense against an impaired driver.

“We have come a long way in the last 20 years in terms of drunk driving, but the work is clearly not finished,” said Roberto Rodriguez, Director of the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety.  “The law enforcement community of the state is committed to eradicating impaired driving from our roads once and for all.”

August 14, 2006 

On Tuesday, August 8, 2006, Sgt. Robert Deitch and Ptl. Michael Nelson arrested two individuals during the course of a NJ State Motor Vehicle Commission Inspection Checkpoint.  Taken into custody for outstanding warrants were the following individuals: Matthew C. Stoeckel, 37, of Wantage, holding a $343.00 warrant out of Jefferson Township and Christopher E. Lenox, 30, of Basking Ridge, holding a $175.00 warrant out of Franklin Township.  Stoeckel and Lenox were brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail.  A total of 31 motor vehicle summonses were issued as a result of the motor vehicle checkpoint. 

On Saturday, August 12, 2006 Sgt. John DiPasquale investigated a report of an attempted burglary to a Saw Mill Drive residence.  The investigation revealed that an unknown individual had attempted to gain entrance to the residence by forcing entry through the front door.  The attempted entry occurred between 8:00 am, Friday, August 11^th and 8:00 am, Saturday, August 12^th.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division.

August 3, 2006 

On Thursday, August 3, 2006 at 12:17 am, Patrolmen Ed Gaffney and Michael Gallaro arrested two individuals from Pennsylvania on drug charges.  Travis J. McCune, 23, of Doylestown and Lauren A. Soderberg, 22, of Quakertown, were stopped in a 2006 Kia wagon that was being operated without headlights.  Upon stopping the vehicle, McCune, the driver was visibly nervous and shaking.  McCune exited the vehicle and dropped 10 wax folds containing suspected heroin.  A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed another 130 wax folds of suspected heroin in the passenger compartment along with several hypodermic needles.  Both subjects were brought to police headquarters and processed.  McCune and Soderberg were then charged with possession of CDS with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance.  McCune was also charged with driving without headlights, possession of CDS in a motor vehicle and careless driving.  Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $25,000.00 for McCune and $15,000.00 for Soderberg.  Both individuals were given court dates to appear in Union County Superior Court and McCune was remanded to the Union County Jail.  Soderberg was released after a family member posted bail.   

July 31, 2006 

On Thursday, July 27, 2006 at 10:00 am, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci arrested and charged Abraham J. Salmon, 25, of Plainfield with driving while suspended, failure to wear a seatbelt and being an unlicensed driver.  Salmon was the operator of a 1987 BMW and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Berkeley Heights in the amount of $1000.00.  Salmon was brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail. 

On Friday, July 28, 2006 at 12:22 am, Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan investigated a reported theft of services.  The victim, a New York City taxi cab driver, reported that he drove an individual from Manhattan to Emerson Lane in Berkeley Heights.  Upon arrival the suspect, described as a middle aged white female, exited the taxi under the premise of getting the $150.00 fare out of her vehicle.  She then entered what was described as a newer model silver vehicle and fled the area without paying the fare.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Friday, July 28, 2006 at 5:00 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch investigated a reported theft from a Brookside Lane address.  The victim reported that a set of stainless steel ramps valued at $200.00 were stolen from the rear of the residence.  The theft occurred between July 14^th and July 28^th.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Saturday, July 29, 2006 at 11:53 am, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt arrested Shelly A. Simons, 41, of Morristown.  Simons was the passenger in a 1996 Chrysler that was stopped for motor vehicle violations.  Simons was found to hold two outstanding warrants out of North Plainfield and Berkeley Heights in the amount of $1473.00.  Simons was brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail.

On Sunday, July 30, 2006 at 12:24 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Robert E. Harrison Jr., 29, of Plainfield with failure to inspect a motor vehicle.  Harrison was the operator of a 1988 Dodge and when stopped was found to hold a no bail warrant out of Somerset County for conspiracy to purchase a controlled dangerous substance.  Harrison was brought to police headquarters and processed.  Harrison was then released into the custody of the Somerset County Sheriffs Department.

July 24, 2006 

On Tuesday, July 18, 2006 at 11:42 am, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni arrested James T. Baxter, 30, of Plainfield.  Baxter was the operator of a 2001 Kia Spectra that was stopped for a motor vehicle violation.  Baxter was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Essex County for failure to pay child support.  Baxter was brought to police headquarters and then processed and released into the custody of the Essex County Sheriffs Department. 

On Tuesday, July 18, 2006 between the hours of 7:21 pm and 11:05 pm, Berkeley Heights Police Officers responded to 37 separate storm related calls due to high winds and rain.  The calls are broken down as follows:  18 trees down, 12 wires down, 4 trees into residences, 1 tree on a motor vehicle, 1 telephone pole transformer fire and 1 incident of miscellaneous roof tile damage. 

On Thursday, July 20, 2006 at 10:07 am, Ptl. Dan Cuocci arrested Raymond J. Clark, 39, of Livingston.  Clark was arrested after appearing in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and was found to hold outstanding warrants out of Westwood and Montclair totaling $1129.00.  Clark was brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail.

July 13, 2006 

On Friday, July 7, 2006 at 6:33 am, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt and Detective Patrick Moran responded to an Industrial Road commercial property to investigate a report of criminal mischief.  The victim reported that 11 of his work truck’s windshields had been smashed on the driver’s side between the hours of 11:00 pm and 6:30 am.  The incident has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Friday, July 7, 2006 at 11:05 pm, Sgt. Bradley Countryman and the Berkeley Heights Fire Department responded to Woodruff School on a report of 2 bicycles on fire.  Sgt. Countryman was able to extinguish the fire prior to the Fire Departments arrival.  Both bicycles were removed and impounded for further investigation. 

On Saturday, July 8, 2006 at 9:29 pm, Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan and Ptl. Brian Jordan responded to a Ridge Drive residence on a report of an activated alarm.  Upon their arrival, the front door was found to be kicked in and door frame shattered in an apparent burglary attempt.  The interior of the residence was searched and appeared to be in order.  The Police Department is requesting residents to contact the Investigations Division at 908-464-1111 with any information regarding this case. 

On Sunday, July 9, 2006 at 12:29 am, Ptl. Brian Jordan responded to the area of Killarney Drive on a report of criminal mischief.  Upon his arrival he reported 4 separate mailboxes were damaged on Kilarney Drive and their posts were removed from the ground. 

On Sunday, July 9, 2006 at 10:30 am, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni responded a motorcycle accident on Plainfield Avenue near Interstate 78.  Upon arrival, his investigation revealed that the operator of the motorcycle, George J. Conroy, 56, of Colonia was traveling south on Plainfield Avenue, operating a 2006 Harley Davidson.  Conroy attempted to make a U-turn, making a wide turn, traveling over the curb and losing control of the motorcycle.  Conroy suffered a shoulder injury and was transported to Overlook Hospital by the Berkeley Heights Rescue Squad. 

On Tuesday, July 11, 2006 at 11:12 pm, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Alvin C. Reeves, 29, of Watchung with motor vehicle charges.  Reeves was the operator of a 2001 Chevrolet and was found have outstanding warrants out of Newark and Stafford Township totaling $833.00 and a suspended drivers license.  Reeves was brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail.

July 6, 2006 

On Friday, June 30, 2006 at 4:10 pm, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni arrested and charged Paul O. Tibby, 35, of Piscataway and Syrron L. Roach, 33, of Plainfield with criminal and motor vehicle charges.  Tibby was the operator of a 1997 Plymouth Neon that was stopped after Ptl. DeSimoni observed Roach, the passenger, not wearing a seatbelt.  Upon stopping the vehicle, Ptl. DeSimoni detected an odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle and observed a small plastic bag containing suspected marijuana on the floor of the vehicle in plain view.  Roach then provided false identification information to Ptl. DeSimoni.  A search of the motor vehicle revealed a small amount of marijuana in the plastic bag that had been observed by Ptl. DeSimoni.  A further search turned up approximately one half pound of marijuana in another plastic bag.  Both suspects were brought to police headquarters and processed where Roaches’ true identity was revealed.  Roach was found to hold outstanding warrants out Plainfield and Scotch Plains in the amount of $1000.00.  After further investigation Tibby was charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana.  Roach was charged with hindering apprehension and failure to wear a seatbelt.  Roach was able to post bail and both suspects were given a date to appear in Union County Superior Court and released. 

On Wednesday, July 5, 2006 at 4:53 pm, Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan arrested and charged Ryan Sellers, 29, of Vauxhall, with possession of marijuana and aggravated criminal sexual contact.  Police responded to the Stop and Shop Supermarket parking lot after receiving a call from the female victim that she had been assaulted.  Upon arrival, further investigation revealed that the suspect had engaged the victim in conversation about directions after she exited her motor vehicle.  The suspect then proceeded to grab the victim in the stomach and groin area and left the area as the victim fled into the store.  Ptl. Ed Ammerlaan was able to locate the suspect on Springfield Avenue after Police Headquarters received a description from the victim.  Sellers was found to have a small amount of marijuana in his possession and was subsequently brought to police headquarters and processed.  Sellers was also found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Flemington in the amount of $256.00. Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $2,500.00 and Sellers was lodged in the Union County Jail.  

June 29, 2006 

On Wednesday, June 28, 2006 at 3:56 pm, Berkeley Heights Police responded to an altercation involving several juveniles in the area of Springfield Avenue and Lawrence Drive.  Upon Ptl. Andrew Glaydura’s arrival, he was able to locate a 15 year old suspect.  Further investigation revealed that a 15 year old victim had been struck in the face with a metal bicycle peg, causing a laceration.  The victim was transported to Overlook Hospital by the Berkeley Heights Rescue Squad.  The juvenile suspect was brought to police headquarters and was charged with aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon and disorderly conduct.  The suspect was released into the custody of a parent and given a court date to appear in Union County Family Court.

June 28, 2006 

On Friday, June 23, 2006 at 5:47 pm, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci investigated a report of criminal mischief at Columbia Park.  The investigation revealed that an unknown individual or individuals damaged the women’s restroom facility by breaking a water pipe and placing a tennis racket in the toilet.  The criminal mischief occurred between 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm. 

On Monday, June 26, 2006 at 2:30 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Janusz S. Pachomow, 29, of Flemington and Anthony J. Pagan, 30, of Camden with possession of heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia.  Sgt. Deitch came upon the two subjects sleeping in a 1984 Datsun while parked in a Diamond Hill Road Church parking lot.  Upon investigation, Sgt. Deitch observed plastic vials containing suspected heroin along with paraphernalia used to “cook” the narcotic.  Both subjects were subsequently placed under arrest and brought to police headquarters and processed.  Pachomow was processed and released and given a court date to appear in Union County Superior Court.  Pagan was found to hold an outstanding Camden County warrant and was lodged in the Union County Jail pending transport to Camden County. 

On Monday, June 26, 2006 at 11:20 pm, Sgt. Bradley Countryman arrested and charged Timothy Drury, 18, of Berkeley Heights with disorderly conduct.  Officers responded to the Princeton Avenue area after receiving a report of a dispute.  Upon arrival, Sgt. Countryman found Drury visibly intoxicated and attempting to hide under a parked vehicle.  Drury was brought to police headquarters where he was processed, released and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.

June 8, 2006 

On Thursday, June 1, 2006 Ptl. Rom DeSimoni investigated a reported burglary of a motor vehicle that occurred at a Springfield Avenue business.  The victim reported that the incident occurred between the hours of 3:35 pm and 3:58 pm while she was inside the business.  Upon returning to the motor vehicle, the victim noticed that the passenger side window was smashed and two purses were stolen.  $400.00 in cash was in one of the purses along with credit cards, a cell phone and personal items.  The total value of all items stolen was $615.00.  The incident has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Thursday, June 1, 2006 Sgt. Frank Fortunato investigated a reported theft from a local Springfield Avenue office building.  The victim reported that between the hours of 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm, two individuals entered the office and began to fill out paperwork.  While in the office, both parties used the restroom facilities which are located near an area where the employees kept personal items.  After a short time, the suspects stated that they had to leave and would return before closing.  The victim was later notified by her bank that two unauthorized charges were made on her credit cards totaling $799.00.  The suspects are described as two neatly dressed black females in their mid twenties.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Friday, June 2, 2006 Ptl. Andrew Glaydura investigated a report of a theft at Governor Livingston High School.  The victim reported that that on June 1^st between the hours of 2:20 pm and 3:10 pm, an I-pod valued at $250.00 was stolen from her backpack.  The backpack was located in the school gymnasium.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division.

June 1, 2006 

On Saturday, May 24, 2006 Ptl. William Ives investigated a reported theft from a Springfield Avenue Auto body shop.  The victim reported that $840.00 worth of scrap metal was stolen from his rear auto yard between Monday, May 15^th and Wednesday May 24^th.  The scrap metal consisted of condensers, air conditioning compressors, aluminum wheels and aluminum bumper mounts.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at 5:21 pm, Ptl. William Ives arrested and charged Larry J. Decosey, 21, of Newark with possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana and motor vehicle violations.  Decosey was the operator of 1993 Toyota Camry that was stopped after Ptl. Ives observed multiple motor vehicle violations.  Upon checking the license plate in the patrol car computer, it was revealed that the license plates on the vehicle belonged on a Plymouth and were expired.  Ptl. Ives stopped the vehicle and observed marijuana and drug paraphernalia in plain view.  A subsequent search of the motor vehicle revealed 6 vials of cocaine and a small amount of marijuana.  Decosey was brought to police headquarters and processed and released on his own recognizance and given a court date of June 7, 2006 in Union County Superior Court.

May 23, 2006 

On Thursday, May 18, 2006 at 8:25 pm, Sgt. Brad Countryman arrested and charged Charles J. Roudebush, 29, of New Providence with possession of cocaine, aggravated assault on a police officer, obstruction, careless driving, and driving while suspended.  Roudebush was the operator of a 1992 Subaru that was stopped after Sgt. Countryman observed the vehicle being operated with a flat tire on Diamond Hill Road.  Further investigation revealed that Roudebush held outstanding warrants in the amount of $1,350.00. While placing Roudebush under arrest Sgt. Countryman was bit by Roudebush and a plastic bag containing suspected cocaine was found in Roudebush’s possession.  Roudebush was brought to police headquarters and processed and bail was set by Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian at $3,500.00.  Roudebush was then turned over to the Union County Sheriff’s Department and lodged in the Union County Jail. 

On Friday, May 19, 2006 at 11:48 pm, Sgt. Brad Countryman arrested and charged Lavar W. Graves, 28, of Plainfield with driving while suspended, improper turn and operating an unregistered vehicle.  Graves was the operator of a 1994 Hyundai and was found to hold outstanding warrants in the amount of $828.88 out of North Plainfield and West Deptford.  Graves was brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail. 

On Sunday, May 21, 2006 Ptl. Ron DeSimoni investigated a reported theft that had occurred at Governor Livingston High School.  The victim reported that the theft occurred on May 10, 2006 during a track meet.  The victim’s backpack was stolen which contained a cell phone and clothing valued at $260.00.  The empty backpack was later recovered. 

On Monday, May 22, 2006 at 8:20 pm, Ptl. Brian Jordan apprehended two individuals who minutes earlier were involved in an aggravated assault against police officers in Newark.  Ptl. Jordan had been advised of an incident in which the suspect vehicle had rammed a Newark Police vehicle at the scene of an investigation and fled the scene.  A short while later, Ptl. Jordan observed the vehicle with front end damage traveling north on Diamond Hill Road and eventually stopped it on Union Avenue in New Providence with the assistance of New Providence Police.  Taken into custody were Antonio Lima Jr, 32, of Linden and Emanuel Edwards, 39, of Newark.  Both suspects were held and then turned over to members of the Newark Police Department.

May 15, 2006 

On Monday, May 8, 2006, Ptl. Ed Gaffney investigated a theft from a motor vehicle at a Twin Falls address.  The victim reported that the theft occurred between 1:00 am and 5:30 am and that an I pod mini valued at $250.00 was taken from his motor vehicle.  The incident has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Thursday, May 11, 2006 Ptl. Daniel Gara investigated a report of Criminal Mischief at Woodruff School.  The investigation revealed that a playground bench had been damaged between the hours of 10:30 pm and 6:30 am the previous evening. 

On Friday, May 12, 2006 Ptl. Donato Minicozzi investigated a report of Criminal Mischief that occurred at a Springfield Ave. address.  The investigation revealed that 4 pellets from a pellets gun had struck and damaged a front window between the hours of 6:30 am and 7:30 pm.  The incident has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Saturday, May 13, 2006 at 12:35 pm, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni responded to  Kings Supermarket and arrested and charged the following individuals with shoplifting and hindering apprehension:  Louis Padilla, 27, of Somerville and Danielle Bell, 24, of Bridgewater.  Both individuals were found to have shoplifted pharmaceutical products valued at $250.00 on two separate occasions within the past month.  Both individuals also gave false information regarding Padilla’s identity which was subsequently discovered after further investigation at police headquarters.  Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $3,500.00 for Bell and $7,500.00 for Padilla.  Bell was transported to Union County Jail and Padilla was transported to Overlook Hospital after complaining of a medical condition.

May 8, 2006 

On Monday, May 1, 2006 at 4:14 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Israel Silva, 49, of East Orange with driving while suspended and improper maintenance of lamps.  Silva was the operator of a 1988 Chevy pickup and when stopped was found to hold outstanding warrants out of Kearney, Newark and East Orange totaling $953.00.  Silva was brought to police headquarters and processed and subsequently released to the Kearney Police Department. 

On Tuesday, May 2, 2006 at 12:07 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Edwin Jean-Baptiste, 26, of Montclair with hindering apprehension, speeding, consumption of an alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle and driving while suspended.  Jean-Baptiste was the operator of a 1998 Ford Tractor-Trailer and when stopped for speeding supplied Sgt. Deitch with false identifying information. Additionally, an opened 22 oz bottle of beer was found in his backpack.  During the stop, Baptiste stated that he had lied about his identity and gave Sgt. Deitch a second false name. Baptiste was placed under arrest and brought to police headquarters and processed and through additional investigation his true identity was discovered.  Baptiste was found to hold outstanding warrants out of Perth Amboy, Clifton, Newark, Bellville and Montclair totaling $7,334.00.  Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $1,000.00 and Baptiste was lodged in the Union County Jail. 

On Thursday, May 4, 2006 at 1:25 am, Sgt. Brad Countryman arrested and charged Anthony Moreira, 25, of South Plainfield with driving while intoxicated, speeding and failure to exhibit documents.  Moreira was the operator of a 2006 Toyota and when stopped, Sgt. Countryman detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage and eventually determined that Moreira was under the influence of alcohol.  Moreira was brought to police headquarters and processed and released into the custody of a friend after being given a court date to in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court. 

On Thursday, May 4, 2006 at 3:21 pm, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt investigated a reported theft at a Diamond Hill Road address.  The investigation revealed that an unknown individual smashed the passenger side window of the victim’s 2003 Ford.  The actor then removed the victim’s purse which contained her wallet, credit cards, a camera and other personal items with a total value of $630.00.  The theft was determined to have occurred between 2:20 pm and 3:20 pm with a description of a possible actor as follows:  A Hispanic or middle eastern male, 30 years old, approximately 5’10” with “slicked back hair” and clean shaven.  The incident has been referred to the Investigations Division.

May 1, 2006 

On Friday, April 28, 2006, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci investigated the fraudulent use of a credit card.  The victim reported that while viewing his account on line he observed multiple unauthorized charges that occurred between April 15^th and April 20^th.  The victim contacted his bank and cancelled his account.  The matter has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Friday, April 28, 2006 at 2:42 am, Ptl. Brian Jordan responded to a Shady Grove Lane area to investigate a report of criminal mischief.  Upon arrival it was determined that the residence had had numerous eggs thrown at it between the hours of 8:00 pm and 2:00 am that evening.  Ptl. Jordan checked the area with negative findings. 

On Saturday, April 30, 2006, while on patrol, Ptl. Brian Jordan investigated an incident of criminal mischief that occurred in Columbia Park.  Ptl. Jordan found a destroyed garbage can and several broken beer bottles near the park’s basketball courts.  The incident was determined to have occurred between the hours of 9:00 pm and 12:00 am. 

On Monday, May 01, 2006 at 8:52 am, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Jorge A. Bonilla, 58, of Morristown with no front plate on a motor vehicle and failure to exhibit documents.  Bonilla was the operator of a 2000 Ford pickup and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant out of Cedar Grove in the amount of $300.00.  Bonilla was brought to police headquarters and released after posting bail.

April 24, 2006 

On Friday, April 14, 2006 at 2:00 am, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni arrested and charged Michael S. Kaplan, 45, of Bernards Township with driving while intoxicated, reckless driving and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle.  Kaplan was the operator of a 2006 Lexus that was stopped after Ptl. DeSimoni observed the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and almost collided with a parked vehicle.  Kaplan was brought to police headquarters and processed and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  Kaplan was then released into the custody of a family member. 

On Monday, April 17, 2006 at 8:57 am, Ptl. Michael Nelson investigated a reported theft of construction material at a Diamond Hill Rd. construction site.  The investigation revealed that the theft took place between 3:30 pm, April 15^th and 8:30 am, April 17^th. Approximately $6,500.00 worth of copper tubing and fittings were found to be taken.  The matter has been turned over to the Investigations Division. 

On Saturday, April 22, 2006 at 9:42 pm, Officers responded to a River Rd. address to investigate a report of an altercation.  Upon arrival, Ptl. Ed Gaffney arrested and charged Jorge A. Ocampo, 20, of North Bergan.  The investigation revealed that Ocampo was intoxicated and had damaged a 2003 Toyota Camry by punching it.  Ocampo was brought to police headquarters and processed and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  He was then released into the custody of a friend. 

On Sunday, April 23, 2006 at 5:23 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Timothy McCullough, 44, of Glen Rock with driving while intoxicated, failure to inspect a motor vehicle and careless driving.   McCullough was the operator of 1995 Chevrolet truck that was initially stopped for an inspection violation.  Further investigation revealed that McCullough was intoxicated at which time he was brought to police headquarters and processed.  He was given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and was released into the custody of a friend.

April 6, 2006 

On Thursday, March 30, 2006 at 1:30 pm, Det. Patrick Moran arrested Malcolm J. Wade, 30, of Plainfield on several outstanding warrants.  Wade had been brought to police headquarters on an unrelated matter and was found to hold outstanding warrants out of Plainfield and Annandale in the amount of $1,929.00 along with a no bail warrant out of Plainfield.  Wade was processed and subsequently turned over to the Plainfield Police Department. 

On Friday, March 31, 2006 at 2:54 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Michael Schenck-Jones, 22, of Plainfield with driving while suspended and improper display of license plates as a result of a motor vehicle stop.  The passenger in the vehicle, Arthur L. Smith Jr., 21, of Plainfield, was arrested and charged with possession of under 50 grams of marijuana.  Schenck-Jones was the operator of a 1990 Chevrolet that was stopped because there was not a front license plate affixed to the vehicle.  Upon stopping the vehicle, Sgt. Deitch detected an odor of burnt marijuana in the vehicle and found that Schenck-Jones held an outstanding warrant out of Piscataway in the amount of $433.00.  Further investigation revealed that Smith Jr. possessed a small amount of marijuana.  Both individuals were brought to police headquarters and processed at which time Smith Jr. was released.  Schenck-Jones was later released after posting bail.  Both parties are scheduled to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court. 

On Sunday, April 2, 2006 at 4:35 pm, Ptl. Ernest Schmidt arrested and charged Darnere D. McDowell, 37, of East Orange with driving while suspended, operating a vehicle without liability insurance and improper maintenance of lamps.  McDowell was the operator of a 1989 Mercedes Benz and was found to hold an outstanding warrant in the amount of $280.00 out of Plainfield.  She was brought to police headquarters and processed and released after posting bail with a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.

March 20, 2006 

On Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at 7:30 pm, Ptl. Donato Minicozzi arrested Omar K. Boyd, 26, of Plainfield after responding to a report of a dispute at a local supermarket.  During the course of the investigation, Boyd was found to hold two outstanding warrants out of Springfield and Hillside totaling $1,250.00 and an open no bail warrant out of Plainfield.  He was brought to police headquarters and processed and released into the custody of Plainfield police department. 

On Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at 2:02 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged David S. Rottman with hindering apprehension and failure to surrender a suspended driver’s license.  Rottman was the passenger  in a 1996 Mercury that was stopped when it was determined by Sgt. Deitch that the registered owner’s driving privileges were suspended. Rottman provided Sgt. Deitch with false information regarding his identity and was subsequently found to hold a warrant out of Union County in the amount of $90,144.00.  He was also found to hold two additional warrants out of Springfield and North Plainfield in the amount of $1,500.00.  Rottman was brought to police headquarters and processed and released into the custody of the Union County Sheriffs Department. 

On Thursday, March 16, 2006 Sgt. Robert Deitch, Det. Patrick Moran and Det. Joseph Williams investigated a residential burglary that was reported by a Water Lane resident.  The investigation revealed that an unknown individual or individuals forcibly entered the residence while the residents were on vacation.  The burglary occurred between March 5-12, 2006.  Proceeds from the burglary were an unknown amount of jewelry.  The incident is being handled by the Investigations Division. 

On Monday, March 20, 2006 at 1:01 am, Ptl. Ron DeSimoni arrested and charged Terry Dozier Jr, 28, of Easton PA with possession and possession with intent to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of ecstasy, and receiving stolen property.  Dozier Jr. was the operator of a 1997 Chrysler that was stopped for a motor vehicle registration violation after Ptl DeSimoni ran a random motor vehicle license plate check on his Mobile Data Computer.  Upon approaching Dozier, Ptl. DeSimoni detected an odor of burnt marijuana and observed an open container of alcohol in the vehicle.  A subsequent search of Dozier revealed that he had 27 grams of crack cocaine and 50 folds of heroin in his possession.  Additionally a small amount of marijuana and 1 ecstasy pill was also found in his possession.  Dozier Jr. was brought to police headquarters and additional investigation revealed that the vehicle that he was operating had been stolen out of Phillipsburg, NJ, but had not yet been reported as such.  Berkeley Heights Municipal Court Judge Donald Bogosian set bail at $10,000.00 and Dozier was lodged in the Union County Jail.

March 1, 2006 

On Tuesday, February 28, 2006 at 3:31 am, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Annette DiPaolo, 46, of Berkeley Heights with resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, interfering with a law enforcement officer, driving while intoxicated, and refusal to submit to breath tests.  Officers responded to the area of Castle Dr. after receiving a report of a dispute. Upon investigation, it was determined the DiPaolo had operated a 1979 Chevrolet and refused to comply with Ptl. Gallaro’s instructions at which time she was subsequently placed under arrest after a brief altercation.  She was brought to police headquarters, processed and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  DiPaolo was then released into the custody of a friend.

February 27, 2006 

On Monday, February 20, 2006 at 5:09 pm members of the Berkeley Heights Police and Fire Departments responded to a Snyder Avenue Nursery on a report of a small fire. Upon arrival it was determined that a row of hedges had caught fire and was eventually extinguished by the Fire Department.  All responding units were able to clear the scene by 5:44 pm. 

On Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 1:06 am Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged James P. Miles-Rayford, 20, of Plainfield with driving while intoxicated, careless driving, underage consumption of alcohol and other motor vehicle violations.  Miles-Rayford was the operator of a 2000 Ford Taurus and when stopped was found to be intoxicated.  He was transported to police headquarters and processed.  Miles-Rayford was given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and released into the custody of a friend. 

On Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 11:17 am, Ptl. Daniel Cuocci arrested and charged Osvin A. Suazo, 34, of Hackensack with improper U-turn, driving while suspended, no insurance, unlicensed driving and failure to inspect.  Suazo was the operator of a 1998 Ford van and when stopped was found to hold an outstanding warrant in the amount of $246.00 out of Ridgefield Boro.  He was brought to police headquarters and processed.  Suazo was given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court and released after posting bail. 

On Sunday, February 26, 2006 at 1:26 am, Ptl. Brian Jordan arrested and charged Frances E. Smith, 45, of Berkeley Heights with driving while intoxicated, refusal to submit to breath tests, and failure to dim headlights.  Smith was the operator of a 2000 Volvo and when stopped was found to be intoxicated.  She was brought to police headquarters and processed at which time she refused to submit to  breath tests.  Smith was given a court date to appear in Berkeley Municipal Court and released into the custody of a family member. 

On Monday, February 27, 2006 at 1:56 am, Ptl. Michael Gallaro arrested and charged Michael Higgs, 34, of Linden with driving while suspended and failure to inspect.  Higgs was the operator of a 1998 BMW and when stopped was found to hold traffic warrants out of Elizabeth and New Providence totaling $1,784.00 and was also wanted in Woodbridge for simple assault with a warrant for $600.00.  Additionally, Higgs was found to be wanted on a no bail warrant out of Union County.  Higgs was brought to police headquarters and processed and later released into the custody of the Union County Sheriffs Department.

February 20, 2006 

On Monday, February 13, 2006, Ptl. Andrew Glaydura investigated a reported theft from a motor vehicle that occurred at approximately 10:00 am.  The victim reported that he had entered a Springfield Avenue convenience store and upon returning to his vehicle noticed that two cell phones were taken from his center console.  The cell phones were valued at approximately $250.00.  The incident has been referred to the Investigations Division. 

On Monday, February 13, 2006 at 2:23 pm, Sgt. Robert Deitch arrested and charged Vincent Lytle, 48, of Newark with careless driving, driving while suspended and failure to surrender a suspended driver’s license.  Lytle was the operator of a 1996 Lincoln Town Car and when stopped was found to hold a no bail warrant out of Essex County.  He was brought to police headquarters and processed and given a court date to appear in Berkeley Heights Municipal Court.  Lytle was then turned over to the Essex County Sheriffs Department. 

On Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 9:42 am, members of the Berkeley Heights Police Department arrested and charged two 15 year old juveniles from Plainfield with theft charges.  Detective Joseph Williams was on patrol in the area of Valley Road when he observed a 2000 Chevy Trailblazer, parked with one juvenile standing outside of it.  Upon checking the license plate, it was determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Plainfield the previous day.  The vehicle fled the scene with Detective Williams in pursuit, leaving the passenger on foot.  The vehicle then struck a pole on Valley Road at Diamond Hill Road, and after a short foot pursuit, Detective Williams placed the driver under arrest.  Detective Sgt. Stephen Stamler then apprehended the second juvenile who was still in the Valley Road area.  Numerous stolen credit cars were also found in the possession of the two juveniles.  The juveniles were brought to police headquarters and processed, with the driver being charged with eluding police, obstruction, and 2 counts of receiving stolen property.  The passenger was also charged with 2 counts of receiving stolen property.  One juvenile was released into the custody of his parents while the second juvenile was remanded to the Union County Juvenile Detention Center with court dates to appear in Union County Family Court. 

On Thursday, February 16, 2006 at 3:46 pm, Ptl. William Ives arrested and charged Christopher L. Stockwell, 24, of Warren with driving while suspended and failure to wear a seatbelt.  Stockwell was the operator of a 1993 Chevy pickup and when stopped was found to be holding outstanding warrants out of Flemington and Newark in the amount of $640.00.  He was transported to police headquarters and processed and g