The Verona Police Department logged a total of 290 assignments during the week of April 16–April 22, 2017. Responses included the following:

5 burglar alarms (4 residential, 1 commercial)
42 Rescue Squad dispatches
7 Fire Department dispatches
10 motor vehicle crash scenes
1 DWI (driving while intoxicated)
4 arrests
2 fraud incidents
71 motor vehicle stops resulting in 57 traffic summonses and 41 warnings issued.

April 16, 2017
7:49 AM: Officer Brian McMahon took a report of property damage from a Grove Avenue resident. The resident reported that sometime during the overnight hours, two decorative lawn lights were torn out of the ground in her front yard. The value of the damage is unknown at this time.
9:51 AM: Officer Brendan Huber responded along with the Verona Fire Department to a reported dumpster fire in the rear of a Bloomfield Avenue business. The officer utilized his fire extinguisher to put out most of the fire and the remainder was extinguished by the fire department.

April 17, 2017
8:24 AM: Officer Michael Barone impounded a vehicle that was illegally parked and causing a traffic problem on Park Avenue. The vehicle was towed from the area and the registered owner was issued a summons.
3:43 PM: Officer Stephanie Colon took a report of an attempted burglary at a Bloomfield Avenue business. The business owner reported that when she arrived at work today, she observed damage to the loading dock doors and that it appeared that someone might have attempted to pry the doors open. The officer observed the damage and also observed that it appeared to be old damage, as there is rust on the area. No fresh pry marks or paint shavings were observed.
5:09 PM: Officer Stephanie Colon took a report of a fraud from a Robert Court resident. The resident reported receiving a notice of an unpaid bill. The resident had previously mailed a check for this bill. The resident then contacted her bank and discovered that an unknown person and not the business that she had mailed the check to cashed the check. The resident was provided with identity theft information.
6:42 PM: Officer Steve Young responded to a motor vehicle accident on Bloomfield Avenue where a pedestrian was struck with the mirror of a passing vehicle, resulting in an arm injury. The vehicle then left the scene. The passenger side mirror housing was recovered at the scene, and investigation revealed that it was possibly from a Ford or Lincoln model vehicle that matched the description of the vehicle given by the pedestrian. Det. Tim Banta viewed video footage from several locations along Bloomfield Avenue, and was able to determine a description of the vehicle and driver. Further investigation revealed a previous incident with the same type of vehicle. Detectives responded to the home of the registered owner of the other incident and located the vehicle in the driveway. Damage was observed to the passenger side mirror and a new mirror was observed lying on the side of the house. The officers left the area as no one answered the door when they knocked. A short time later the homeowner contacted police headquarters to inquire why the police were at his house. The homeowner was asked to bring the operator of the vehicle to police headquarters to discuss the motor vehicle accident. The vehicle operator came to headquarters and gave a statement as to what occurred with the accident. The operator Dominick Zingale Jr. of North Caldwell was issued several motor vehicle summonses as well as a criminal complaint for assault by auto. Zingale Jr. was transported to the Essex County Jail in Newark.

April 19, 2017
4:01 PM: Officer Ed Ruff and Alyssa Kirby transported Luis Santiago-Pagan to the Essex County Jail in Newark. Santiago-Pagan had been sentenced by the Verona Municipal Court judge to 30 days in the Essex County Jail.
4:22 PM: Sgt. John Lecreux responded along with the Verona Rescue Squad to a report of an unresponsive person on the track behind the HB Whitehorne Middle School. Upon arrival, Sgt. Lecreux found the victim unresponsive and attached the AED to the victim. After two shocks were delivered with the AED, CPR was started. The Verona Rescue Squad arrived and continued treatment while transporting the victim to Mountainside Hospital.

April 20, 2017
6:57 PM: Officer Giovanni DeSomma responded to the area of Bloomfield Avenue and Park Avenue on a report of a 911 hang up. The officer observed three individuals involved in a verbal dispute. Upon speaking to the individuals, it was determined that the dispute was over a fare for a Lyft ride. The customer felt that the driver took a longer route than was necessary in order to inflate the bill. The passenger paid the fare and all parties were advised of complaint procedures.

April 21, 2017
8:19 AM: Officer Brian McMahon took a report of found property on Elk Road. The reporting person stated that numerous election signs were dumped in the parking lot. The signs were returned to the owners.
2:51 PM: Officer Alyssa Kirby took a report of a fraud from a Howell Drive resident. The resident reported receiving a call from Bloomingdales regarding a purchase that was made with her credit card. The resident advised the company that she did not make any purchases. Upon checking her credit card account, she discovered several more unauthorized purchases. The resident advised the credit card company and the account was closed.
10:36 PM: Officers Alyssa Kirby, Chris Scheper and Sgt. John Lecreux responded to a report of a pedestrian struck in the area of Grove Avenue and Bloomfield Avenue. The officers located the pedestrian, vehicle operator and a witness on Grove Avenue. Officers provided medical assistance to the pedestrian who had a head injury. Officer Scheper began to gather information from the operator and while doing so detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from the operator. The operator was asked to perform several field sobriety tests. After completing the tests the operator, Edwin Torres of Verona was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Torres was issued several summonses and was released to a family member. He was also issued a criminal complaint for assault by auto.

The Verona Police Department logged a total of 336 assignments during the week of April 23– 29, 2017. Responses included the following:

8 burglar alarms (6 residential, 2 commercial)
29 Rescue Squad dispatches
8 Fire Department dispatches
11 motor vehicle crash scenes
4 frauds
5 arrests
47 motor vehicle stops that resulted in 92 traffic summonses being issued and 40 warning notices
being issued.

April 23, 2017
7:42 PM: Officer Chris Scheper conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue after an alert from the automatic License Plate Reader. Upon speaking with the operator, the officer detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Upon looking into the back seat of the vehicle, the officer observed a clear plastic bag containing marijuana lying on the seat. The operator, Harris Dawood and passenger Kenyahta Wellington both of Dix Hills, New York, were placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Dawood and Wellington were issued summonses and released.

April 24, 2017
7:58 AM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of harassment from a Cumberland Avenue resident. The resident reported that her daughter has been a victim of cyber harassment. She stated that her daughter’s boyfriend was contacted via Instagram requesting him to send nude photos of her daughter to them. The boyfriend denied the request and then was threatened by the requestor.
8:21 AM: Officer Michael Barone responded to a Bloomfield Avenue business on a report of a larceny. An employee reported that sometime over the weekend, four tires with rims were removed from a vehicle parked in the parking lot. The value of the tires and rims is between $7,000 and $10,000.
10:41 AM: Officer Michael Barone responded to a South Prospect Street residence on a report of two dogs fighting. The officer was able to separate the two dogs using his OC spray. Both dogs were injured and transported to the Animal Emergency clinic in Fairfield by Montclair Animal Control. The owner of the dogs was issued a summons for not having a license for the dogs.
3:38 PM: Lt. Paul Watkins took a report of an unwanted person at Verona High School. School employees reported that a former student arrived at the school to walk home with a friend. The staff believed her to be under the influence of marijuana and when questioned, she walked away from the school. Officers checked the area for the subject with negative results. The subject’s mother was advised of the incident.

April 25, 2017
11:29 AM: Officer Brendan Huber took a report of a larceny from a Bloomfield Avenue business. The business owner reported that a male entered the store and took two iPhone 7’s and left the store while he was busy helping another customer. The value of the phones is $1720.
1:23 PM: Officer Brendan Huber responded to the Verona Library along with the Verona Rescue Squad on a report of a person who fell. After treatment for a head injury, the victim was transported to Mountainside Hospital.
2:31 PM: Officer Ed Ruff was flagged down on Depot Street by a male who reported that several days before, when he had parked his vehicle on Depot Street, the owner of a Black Landrover accused him of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. The owner of the Land Rover became confrontational; however there was no damage to either vehicle and no action was taken. On the date the report was taken, the reporting person noticed his windshield wiper was bent and there was a dent in his driver side door. The value of the damage is unknown at this time.
4:52 PM: Officer Justin Nielsen conducted a motor vehicle stop on Grove Avenue for an observed violation. While checking the operators’ credentials, an active warrant was located from the Secaucus Municipal Court. The operator, Leonard Slater of West Orange, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Slater posted bail and was released.

April 26, 2017
5:58 AM: Officer Robert Maguire conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue after a random check of the license plate showed an active warrant for the vehicle owner. After checking the operators, identity active warrants were confirmed from the Newark and Verona Municipal Courts. The operator, Alex Bartusiavicius of Avenel, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Bartusiavicius posted bail and was
released.
10:58 AM: Officer Giovanni DeSomma took a report of a fraud that occurred at a Pompton Avenue business. The business owner reported that a former employee signed a patient’s check and deposited it into her own bank account.
11:57 AM: Officer Brendan Huber conducted a motor vehicle stop on Fairview Avenue after an alert from the Automatic License Plate reader revealed the vehicle had a suspended registration. After checking the operator credentials and confirming the suspended registration, the vehicle was impounded and towed from the scene. The operator was provided with transportation to her destination.
6:33 PM: Officer Brian McMahon took a report of a dispute at a Claremont Avenue residence. The dispute was between the homeowner and a sub-contractor. The homeowner was unaware that any sub-contractors had been hired, further advising that the subcontractor arrived today and was asking for payment. The homeowner then asked the subcontractor to leave the property. All parties were advised of complaint procedures.
7:43 PM: Officer Stephanie Colon assisted an elderly male who arrived at police headquarters asking for directions to Newark. The male appeared slightly confused but was able to provide his name, address and his daughter’s name. Upon checking with Newark Police, it was discovered that the male had recently been reported missing. Officers were able to make contact with his daughter and she arrived at police headquarters to pick him up.

April 27, 2017
9:40 AM: Officer Brendan Huber took a report of a fraud from a Bloomfield resident. The resident stated that she received a phone call from an unknown individual who stated that her brother was being held in the trunk of a car in Orange, and that she needed to go to Wells Fargo bank, withdraw $5000 and go to the nearest CVS and await further instruction. Officers were able to make contact with the brother and determine that he was at home and not in any danger.

April 28, 2017
11:52 AM: Officer Giovanni DeSomma took a report of a fraud from an Elmwood Road resident. The resident reported receiving a call from Apple regarding a purchase. The resident advised them he did not make a purchase and the order was canceled. The resident also canceled his credit card. He was provided with identity theft information.
12:08 PM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of a suspicious person from a Rockland Terrace resident. The resident stated that a black male approached her and stated he was there to do a home inspection. The resident advised him that she had no inspections scheduled, and he returned to his vehicle, which was a short distance down the street. A short time later, the same male returned and stated he was from a bank and mortgage company and had a work order. He then attempted to obtain information about the previous resident. The resident stated she was not interested in any services and the male left the area.
12:36 PM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of a fraud from a Linn Drive resident. The resident reported that two credit cards arrived today at his mother’s residence with a name that he was not familiar with. The resident was provided with identity theft information.
1:38 PM: Officer Giovanni DeSomma responded along with the Verona Rescue Squad to a report of an injured person on Cumberland Avenue. After treatment for a laceration to his hand, the victim was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital.
11:36 PM: Officer Heriberto Carattini responded to a report of trespassers at the Montclair Golf Club. Security personnel reported observing a large group of juveniles run from the golf course and onto Birdseye Glen. The juveniles left behind numerous empty alcoholic beverage containers. The area was checked for the juveniles with negative results.

April 29, 2017
3:56 PM: Officer Chris Scheper conducted a motor vehicle stop on Mt. Prospect Avenue for an observed violation. Upon checking the operator’s credentials, a warrant from the Jersey City Municipal Court was located. The operator, Najee Conley was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Conley posted bail and was released.
7:36 PM: Officer Chris Scheper responded along with the Verona Fire Department to a reported garbage can fire in the backyard of a Martin Road residence. A neighbor was able to extinguish the fire. The fire department confirmed that the fire was out, and there does not appear to be any damage to the residence from the fire.

A Hillcrest Terrace resident and her cat are safe after a fire damaged three floors of her home today.

The Verona Fire Department, Police Department and Rescue Squad responded to the scene just after noon on Tuesday. The fire did extensive damage to one side of home, which was being worked on by contractors.

The homeowner was safely evacuated to a neighbor’s house and the VFD treated her cat for smoke inhalation. There were no injuries to any of the first responders.

Verona Police Chief Mitchell Stern said the cause of the fire is under investigation.

(Top photo courtesy Verona Fire Department)

The Verona Police Department logged a total of 397 assignments during the week of April 30–May 6, 2017. Responses included the following:

9 burglar alarms (8 residential, 1 commercial)
33 rescue squad dispatches
12 fire department dispatches
10 motor vehicle crash scenes
1 DWI’s (driving while intoxicated)
7 Arrests
136 motor vehicle stops resulting in 73 traffic summonses and 71 warning notices being issued.

May 1, 2017
12:31 PM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of trespassing at a Pompton Avenue business. The business owner reported that he has been finding trash and other items left in the parking lot in the evenings and on weekends. He also stated that customers have told him that they observed vehicles from a neighboring business in his lot when the business is closed. The business owner was advised to post no trespassing signs on the property.
1:19 PM: Officer William Frazee took a report of property damage at a Pompton Avenue business. The business manager reported that water soaked ceiling tiles fell to the floor. It was determined that the water line to the hot water tank burst. The water was shut off to the building. The Verona Fire Department responded and turned off the electricity in the area. The value of the damage is unknown at this time.
9:10 PM Officer Alyssa Kirby took a report of a fraud from a Jersey City resident. The complainant reported that they found an advertisement for an apartment on Craigslist and the number in the ad directed them to a realty company in Montclair. The agent that they contacted stated she would handle the lease agreement, and the complainant paid a deposit to the landlord, as well as giving a check to the realtor. Upon contacting the realtor’s office, the complainant was advised that there was no apartment for rent at the location they gave, and that the realtor that they spoke to does not work for them. The complainant will meet with the realty company in an attempt to get their money back.

May 2, 2017
1:30 AM: Officer Heriberto Carattini observed two individuals in the rear parking lot of a Bloomfield Avenue business. When the individuals observed the patrol vehicle, they ran through the parking lot and climbed a fence. Officers were able to apprehend one of the subjects after he was observed running across Bloomfield Avenue and through a parking lot. The subject was identified as a 17-year-old juvenile. The area was searched for the second subject with negative results. The juvenile was transported to police headquarters and turned over to his mother.
11:59 AM: Officers Giovanni Desomma, Brendan Huber and Bill Frazee responded along with the Verona Fire Department to a report of a house fire on Hillcrest Terrace. Upon their arrival, they observed smoke and flames coming from the southwest side of the house. Officers were able to assist the resident in exiting the house. Officers also attempted to locate the resident’s cat in the home with negative results. The fire department extinguished the fire and was able to locate the cat and return it to the resident. The cause if the fire is under investigation by the Fire Inspector. The value of the damage is unknown at this time.
4:56 PM: Officer Brian McMahon conducted a motor vehicle stop after a random check of the vehicle registration showed that it was expired. While checking the operators’ credentials, the officer discovered a warrant from the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department. The operator, Nina Damavandi of Belleville, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Damavandi was turned over to the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department.
6 PM: D/Sgt Tim Banta interview a subject who was possibly involved in a fraud that occurred on April 26, 2017. During the interview, the individual admitted to taking a check from her employer and depositing it into her bank account. Taisha Webb of Paterson was placed under arrest and processed. Webb was charged with check fraud and released with a pending court
date.
10:28 PM Officer Brian McMahon conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue for an observed violation. While checking the operator’s credentials, warrants were found from the Bloomfield, Newark and Jersey City Municipal Courts. The operator, Kevin Coleman of
Montclair, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing,
Coleman was released with pending court dates.

May 3, 2017
10:42 AM: Officer Michael Barone took a report of a fraud from a Pease Avenue resident. The resident reported that her bank contacted her and advised her that her account had been fraudulently accessed. The resident reported she had ordered new checks but that the order was never delivered. The bank closed her account and reported that they are investigating the
incident. The resident was advised to contact the credit reporting agencies.
2:57 PM: Officer Brian McMahon took a report of a larceny at a Hillcrest Terrace residence. The resident reported placing a ring in a box on a dresser earlier in the day and later discovered it missing. The resident reported numerous people had been working in the house throughout the day. The value of the ring is approximately $1000-$2000.

May 4, 2017
5:32 PM: Officer Brian McMahon conducted a motor vehicle stop after a random check of the vehicle license plate showed that the registered owner’s license was suspended. Upon checking the operator’s credentials a warrant from the Northfield Municipal Court was located. While checking the passenger’s credentials, a warrant from the West Caldwell Municipal Court was located. The subjects, Jonathan Fitzick of Ocean City and Jesse Simunovich of North Caldwell, were placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. While securing the vehicle, officers observed a hypodermic syringe in plain sight on the driver’s door. A further search of the vehicle revealed additional paraphernalia and CDS. The operator was charged with charged with CDS and Paraphernalia. After processing, both were released with pending court dates.

May 5, 2017
10:41 PM: Officer Thomas Conroy, upon observing two vehicles turn onto Lakeside Avenue at a high rate of speed, turned around and attempted to follow the vehicles. With the vehicles continuing to accelerate at a high rate of speed, due to safety concerns, Officer Conroy discontinued his attempt to catch up to the vehicle. While still on Lakeside Ave, Officer Conroy observed an Essex County Sheriffs unit activate its lights, follow the vehicles and then stop on Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange. Officer Conroy then approached the area and observed that one of the vehicles had been involved in a motor vehicle accident. Officer Conroy stood by and assisted in securing the scene until West Orange officers arrived.

May 6, 2017
11:57 PM: Sgt. John Lecreux and Officer Robert Maguire responded to the area of Mt Prospect Avenue on a report of an off-duty police officer following a vehicle that was involved in a motor vehicle accident on Rt 280 in West Orange. Officer Maguire conducted a motor vehicle of the vehicle on Pompton Avenue. While speaking to the operator of the vehicle, the officer detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from the vehicle. The operator was then asked to step from the vehicle and perform field sobriety tests. After completion of the tests, Sanjiv Parikh of Cedar Grove was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Parikh was released to a friend.

Mitchell Stern, Verona’s chief of police, is retiring.[/caption]Verona Police Chief Mitchell Stern will be retiring, effective June 1. Township Manager Matt Cavallo will announce the change at tonight’s Town Council Meeting.

“It’s the right time for me,” Stern said this afternoon. “I’ve been in every position there is, from patrolman to town manager. It’s time to allow younger members of our department to bring up some new ideas.” Stern has been a Verona employee for a little more than 32 years. He was promoted to captain seven years ago, and served as Verona’s interim township manager after the resignation of Joe Martin in July 2015. Stern took over as chief of police in December 2015.

“We have a whole new generation of officers out there and we should start to allow their leader to be of their generation,” he said. “The institutional knowledge is critically important in the line of work we have, but we also need the knowledge of the generation that is coming in. They know how to communicate with people of their generation better than I do.”

Stern, who is 55, says he is looking at opportunities in public administration. He has a master’s in public administration from Rutger’s University and an advanced executive education certificate in state and local government leadership from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. Stern is also a certified public manager and is the president of the Certified Public Manager’s Society of New Jersey.

“I have the ability to retire and put this to use,” Stern added. “Our department is in great hands with up-and-coming leaders so I am confident turning the torch over to the next person.”

Cavallo said that Capt. Stephen DePoe has been appointed the officer in charge of the Verona Police Department, effective June 1. The selection process for new chief will occur over the next several months and either DePoe or fellow Capt. Christopher Kiernan could apply.

The Verona Police Department logged a total of 379 assignments during the week of May 7-13, 2017. Responses included the following:

• 14 burglar alarms (9 residential, 5 commercial)
• 32 Rescue Squad dispatches
• 12 Fire Department dispatches
• 10 motor vehicle crash scenes
• 6 arrests
• 2 frauds
• 105 motor vehicle stops that resulted in 100 traffic summonses and 54 warning notices being issued.

May 7, 2017
4:21 PM: Officer Justin Nielsen took a report of harassment from a Pine Street resident. The resident reported that her daughter had been receiving threatening messages via Snapchat from an unknown person. The resident stated she sent a picture of herself along with a message to the unknown person advising them to stop communicating with her daughter.

May 8, 2017
8:51 AM: Officer Giovanni Desomma took a report of a dispute on Fairview Avenue. A motorist flagged the officer down and reported that while on Orchard Street slowly moving towards the crosswalk to make a turn onto Fairview Avenue, a pedestrian trying to use the crosswalk began knocking on her window and yelling at her. The motorist was able to make her turn and left the area. The officer was able to locate the pedestrian who confirmed the verbal argument. All parties were advised of complaint procedures.
8:26 PM: Officer Steve Young took a report of a burglary to a motor vehicle from a Parkhurst Place resident. The resident reported that his Mac Book Pro was taken from his vehicle while it was parked in his driveway. The value of the computer is approximately $1000.

May 10, 2017
10:18 AM: During the weekly municipal court session, after finding him guilty of a probation violation, the judge allowed Robert Tucker to use his cell phone in the hallway. The judge also ordered Tucker not to leave the building. While monitoring Tucker, Officer McMahon, who was assigned to assist during the court session, observed him suddenly run down the stairs and out of the municipal building. Officer McMahon pursued the Tucker and was able to apprehend him on Park Place. Tucker, of North Caldwell, was transported back to police headquarters where he was charged with obstructing the administration of law, resisting arrest and escape. He was remanded to the Essex County Jail on $25,000 bail for the violation of probation. Tucker was transported to the Essex County Jail in Newark.
11:32 AM: Officer Giovanni DeSomma took a report of a dispute. A New York resident reported that he needed to retrieve his license plates from a local car dealer. The dealer reported that he had sent out the plates to be terminated as the vehicle they were on had been repossessed. A short time later, the dealer contacted the officer and reported that he was able to retrieve the plates and the owner could pick them up later in the afternoon.
4:27 PM: Officer Alyssa Kirby took a report of a burglary at a Fellswood Drive residence. The caretaker of the residence reported that he found the back door open when he arrived at the house. Nothing appears to be disturbed or missing from inside the house. The officer did observe pry marks on the doorframe.

May 11, 2017
2:32 AM: Officer Robert Juliano conducted a motor vehicle stop on Brookdale Avenue after a random check of the vehicle license plate showed an expired registration. While speaking with the vehicle operator, the officer detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Both occupants were asked to step from the vehicle, and due to the strong odor emanating from the occupants they were both searched. The passenger, Julian Infusino of Verona, was found to be in possession of CDS. Drug paraphernalia was also located in the vehicle. A warrant was located from the Cedar Grove Municipal Court for the operator. Michael Dollaway of Verona. Infusino and Dollaway were transported to police headquarters and processed. After processing, Dollaway was issued several motor vehicle summonses and released with a new court date for the Cedar grove warrant. Infusino was charged with possession of CDS and possession of drug
paraphernalia and released with a pending court date.
9:53 AM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of a fraud from a Lakeside Avenue resident. The resident reported that he received an alert from American Express advising him of several unauthorized purchases on his account. The resident also reported that his cell phone account had been transferred to another carrier without his authorization. The resident has been in touch with American Express as well as his cell phone carrier. He was provided with identity theft information.
5:49 PM: Officer Brian McMahon took a report of a shoplifting from a Pompton Avenue business. The store employee reported on the previous day a black female had entered the store and began asking her questions about items in the store. A short time later, a black male entered the store and began browsing the aisles. The male then made a purchase using cash, and both individuals then left the store. When closing the store, the employee noticed several items missing from the shelf but was unsure if another employee sold them. After checking with the other employees and checking the store video, it was determined that the male took the items. The value of the missing items is approximately $230.

The Verona Police Department logged a total of 415 assignments during the week of May 14-20, 2017. Responses included the following:

• 18 burglar alarms (13 residential, 5 commercial)
• 39 Rescue Squad dispatches
• 14 Fire Department dispatches
• 14 motor vehicle crash scenes
• 1 arrest
• 87 motor vehicle stops that resulted in 70 traffic summonses being issued and 46 warning notices being issued.

May 14, 2017
2:25 PM: Officer William Frazee took a report of a fraud from a Mountain Road resident. The resident reported that she attempted to use her debit card and was declined. Upon checking her account, she discovered numerous fraudulent checks written against her account. The resident reported that the check numbers were from a recently placed check order that she never received. She has been in touch with her bank and the account has been closed.
8:22 PM: Officer Brian McMahon responded to a Lakeside Avenue residence on a report of a dispute. The homeowner reported a dispute with a contractor that he had hired, and wants him to leave the property. The contractor stated that he has tools in the residence that he needed to retrieve. The resident stated that there are no tools in the residence. The contractor was advised of complaint procedures.

May 15, 2017
12:14 PM: Officer Justin Nielsen took a report of an unwanted person at a Bloomfield Avenue business. The business owner reported that a former business partner entered the business and began knocking on the office door. He also reported the former partner took several photos before leaving the area. Later in the day, the business owner responded to police headquarters and reported continued harassment from his former partner through Facebook messages that he received.
2:25 PM: Officer McMahon took a report of fraud from a Midwood Avenue resident. The resident reported that while checking his credit report, he discovered a credit card had been opened in his name without his knowledge. The resident contacted the credit card company who canceled the account.

May 16, 2017
12:39 PM: Officer Giovanni Desomma responded to a Woodland Avenue residence on a report of an unwanted person. The resident reported that the person in question was a former boyfriend who she had not had any contact with in over 5 years. The resident stated that over the past few weeks, she has been receiving emails from the former boyfriend, however, she advised him that she wanted nothing to do with him and for him to stop contacting her. The former boyfriend was advised to leave the area and stop contacting the resident. The resident was advised of complaint procedures.
1:36 PM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of a larceny from an Oak Lane resident. The resident reported that he received a letter from the City of New York stating that a license plate reader photographed his license plate committing a violation in December. The resident reported he had been stopped in November for not having a rear license plate. He turned the vehicle into the car dealer in late November but had never reported the plate as stolen. The license plate was entered as stolen in the state computer system.
2:43 PM: Officer Michael Barone took a report of a fraud from a Durrell Street resident. The resident reported receiving a call earlier in the day from a male who began to ask him to verify his personal information. When the resident refused to supply any information he was transferred to a female who again attempted to get him to verify his personal information. After several minutes of speaking to the female the resident hung up the phone.
6:47 PM: Officer Jordan Descafano responded to a report of a neighbor dispute on Fairway Avenue. The resident reported that his neighbor revved his engine loudly and drove past his residence almost striking his daughter. The resident reported there have been several other issues with the neighbor that he has not reported. All parties were advised of complaint
procedures.

May 18, 2017
7:06 PM: Officer Thomas Conroy took a report of a fraud from a Malvern Place resident. The resident reported speaking with a male regarding a vacation rental property in Point Pleasant. The male advised the resident to submit a deposit and provided her with a bank account number and routing information. When the resident submitted the deposit, the bank contacted her advising that the transaction was flagged and rejected as fraudulent. The resident lost no funds and no personal information was provided.

May 19, 2017
12:25 PM: Officer Brendan Huber took a report of a larceny from a Pompton Avenue business. The business owner reported that he had entered into an agreement with another business regarding a settlement from a lawsuit. The two parties made an agreement regarding payments from the settlement. To date no payments have been received.
3:28 PM: Sgt. John Lecreux took a report of fraud from a Lynwood Road resident. The resident reported that she discovered an online Photobucket account had been created using her personal information. She was provided with identity theft information.

May 20, 2017
7:43 PM: Officer Brian McMahon responded to a report of an individual trapped under a piece on construction equipment on Brookside Terrace. With assistance from Officer Steve Young, they were able to lift the equipment so the individual could get his foot out from under the equipment. The individual was uninjured.

The Verona Police Department sent out a Nixle alert this morning that a black bear has been seen on Crestmont Road in the area of Claremont Avenue.

The eastern ridge of Verona has been a favorite bear wandering area in recent years, both around Kip’s Castle and south of Bloomfield Avenue in the Afterglow neighborhood and near Eagle Rock Reservation. Four years ago, a cub took a nap in a tree on Afterglow Avenue after foraging at what was then the Subway sandwich shop on Bloomfield Avenue.

Bears have become more prevalent in New Jersey in the last decade, and there have been others that have wandered down from the Highlands into Essex County. The state Division of Fish and Wildlife advises that bears who are just being bears–wandering and foraging but not bothering humans, animals or property–should just be allowed to wander.

The Verona Police shared a link to bear safety tips from the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife. Among the common sense measures are a reminder to never feed or approach a bear, and to stay calm if you happen to run into one. It might also be a good idea to sing or make some noise if you are walking or biking around Kip’s or Eagle Rock, as that can scare a bear away.

If you do not already get the Verona Police Department’s Nixle alerts, you can sign up here.

UPDATE: This photo was taken in a Hamilton Road backyard on Sunday night.

The Verona Police Department logged a total of 370 assignments during the week of May 21– May 27, 2017. Responses included the following:

• 20 burglar alarms (14 residential, 6 commercial)
• 39 Rescue Squad dispatches
• 11 Fire Department dispatches
• 12 motor vehicle crash scenes
• 1 DWI (driving while intoxicated)
• 5 arrests
• 92 motor vehicle stops that resulted in 116 traffic summonses being issued and 48 warning notices being issued.

May 21, 2017
6:00 PM: Officers Thomas Conroy and Chris Scheper conducted a motor vehicle stop on Montrose Avenue for an observed violation. While speaking with the operator, the officer detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle, also observing several cigars scattered throughout the vehicle. The operator was asked to step from the vehicle and was advised that the vehicle was going to be searched. Upon searching the vehicle, officers located a bottle containing a green leafy substance as well as several open containers of alcohol. The operator, Erin Spain of New York, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Spain was issued several summons and released.
7:27 PM: Officer Stephanie Colon took a report of a dispute from a Brookside Terrace resident. The resident reported that while in the front of his residence speaking to a friend, a neighbor passed by and began to yell profanities regarding the way the friend was parked. The resident was concerned as there were several children in the area who heard the yelling. The resident also reported that there have been previous incidents with this neighbor.

May 22, 2017
3:48 PM: Officer Chris Scheper took a report of a fraud from a Burdett Court resident. The resident reported that her debit card was declined for a purchase and when she checked her account she discovered numerous fraudulent transactions. The resident further advised that she had ordered new checks but they were never delivered. The resident has been in touch with her bank and the account has been closed.
6:28 PM: Officer Alyssa Kirby took a report of a simple assault from a Pompton Avenue business. The manager reported that a message was received on the business voice male from a young male who threatened the business. The manager stated that she attempted to call the number, however, each time the phone was picked up the call ended. The officer attempted to call the number but there was no answer.
9:39 PM: Officer Brian McMahon conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue after a random check of the license plate indicated that the owner’s license was suspended. Upon speaking with the operator the officer detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The operator was asked to step from the vehicle and was advised that the vehicle was going to be searched. While searching the vehicle, the officer located CDS and drug paraphernalia. The operator, Xiang Chi of Montclair, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, he was issued several summonses and released.

May 23, 2017
12:58 PM: D/Sgt Tim Banta took a report of a larceny at Brookdale Avenue School. School personnel reported that several pieces of electronic equipment that was stored at the school were discovered missing. The value of the items is approximately $6000.

May 24, 2017
2:01 PM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of a fraud from a Bloomfield Avenue business. The accountant at the business reported that an employee had lost a paycheck in September of 2016. The employee was issued a new check and the lost check was cancelled. On May 22 the business was advised that the lost check was cashed at an unknown location. The check had the original employee’s signature as well as that of another individual. The accountant reported the second signature is that of an employee that had been fired two weeks ago.
3:12 PM: Officer Steve Young took a report of construction material falling onto a vehicle at the intersection of Grove Avenue and Bloomfield Avenue. The vehicle owner reported that there was no damage to her vehicle, which had been struck by a large piece of foam that fell onto her vehicle. The officer spoke to the construction foreman and advised him that the job was being shut down as he work site was not safe. The building inspector was notified and will follow up with the property owner.
6:10 PM: Officer Thomas Conroy took a report of a fraud from a Wedgewood Drive resident. The resident reported that her bank had previously notified her that an unknown person had made two purchases using her debit card. She stated that several days ago she received a letter from Chase Bank advising her that an application to open a checking account was made using her personal information. The account was flagged by the fraud department and was never opened.
7:31 PM: Officer Thomas Conroy responded to the area of Lakeside Avenue to assist the West Orange Police Department in locating a vehicle involved in a hit and run accident. The officer located the vehicle parked along the curb on Lakeside Avenue with heavy damage on the vehicle. Upon speaking with the operator, the officer observed that her eyes were bloodshot and watering and that her movements were very slow and clumsy. Her speech was also slow and slurred. The officer requested the operator step from the vehicle to perform field sobriety tests. After the tests, the operator, Eva Hakoun of West Orange, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, Hakoun was placed in the holding cell as she was unable to contact someone to pick her up.
10:05 PM: Officer Justin Nielsen conducted a check of a vehicle parked in a vacant parking lot on Fairview Avenue. Upon approaching the vehicle and speaking with the operator, the officer detected an odor of marijuana coming form the vehicle. The operator was asked to step from the vehicle and was advised that the vehicle was going to be searched. Upon searching the vehicle, the officer located CDS and drug paraphernalia. The operator, Olivia Feiger of Belleville, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing, she was issued several summonses and released.

May 25, 2017
9:42 PM: Officer Justin Nielsen took a report of a dispute at a Bloomfield Avenue business. The officer spoke to a female who reported her son had been suspended from school and had come to the prom to take pictures outside of the building with his friends. The student’s father had come to take him home as he felt he did not deserve to be at the prom due to the suspension. The son who is an adult, refused to leave with his father and an argument ensued. The student left the area with his mother. and all parties were advised to keep the peace.

May 26, 2017
4:28 PM: Officer Brian McMahon took a report of a fraud from a White Rock Road resident. The resident reported that there were several unauthorized charges made to her Citibank credit card. She stated she also received a notification from her Capital One Credit Card about a suspected fraudulent charge. Both accounts have been closed.
6:18 PM: Sgt John Lecreux took a report of a larceny from a Claridge Drive resident. The resident reported that her wallet was taken while she was in the checkout line at a Pilgrim Plaza business. Store video revealed a white female suspect with long blond hair wearing a pink baseball cap, navy shirt, blue pants carrying a large black purse. The resident was provided with identity theft information.

May 27, 2017
1:03 AM: Officer Robert Maguire conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue for an observed violation. Upon checking the operator’s credentials, active warrants from the Newark Municipal Court were located. The operator, Johnny Martinez of Bloomfield, was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing Martinez posted bail and was released.
8:55 PM: Officer Thomas Conroy responded to Derwent Avenue on a report of a possible house party. Upon arrival, numerous juveniles were observed running from the area. Upon checking the house for any additional juveniles, the officer observed numerous open and unopened alcoholic beverages throughout the house. The homeowners were contacted and responded to the scene. The homeowner was advised that the incident would be turned over to the juvenile detective for follow up.

Any individual named in these reports is presumed innocent until a decision is rendered by the courts.

A speeding black pickup truck with tinted windows hit a cyclist on Fairview Avenue in front of Verona High School this evening. 

Witnesses report that the truck was speeding and driving erratically in the south-bound lane when the accident occurred near Sampson Drive, at about 7 p.m. “He was going way too fast,” said Caroline Chivily. “He was passing drivers and going over the double yellow.” The cyclist was thrown and landed on the hood of a parked car.  Several witnesses stayed with the rider until the Verona Police Department and Rescue Squad arrived. The rider suffered possible head and back injuries.

According to Stephen Machnowski, who was in the area to ride home with Verona’s cyclists on the Essex Offroad Mountain Bike Team, a witness followed the truck from the scene of the accident. A member of the bike team took the photo below of the truck stopped on Pine Street. Verona’s officer in charge of the police department, Stephen DePoe, confirms that the driver and truck were apprehended a short time later. 

Fairview Avenue has been closed near scene of the accident.

Dean T. Locke

On Wednesday, May 31, 2017, at approximately 7:26 p.m., the Verona Police Department responded to Fairview Avenue at the intersection of Sampson Drive on a report of a motor vehicle collision involving a cyclist. Upon arrival, Gary Glebas, 51, of Cedar Grove, was found conscious in the roadway. He was suffering from a number of injuries and was transported to St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center in Paterson by the Verona Rescue Squad and paramedics from St. Joseph’s Mobile Intensive Care Unit. Glebas is listed in stable condition.

From evidence at the scene and witness statements, it was apparent that a Ford F-150 operated by Dean T. Locke, 49, of Shirley, New York was traveling southbound on Fairview Avenue when he struck a cyclist who was also traveling southbound on Fairview Avenue while operating a bicycle. The vehicle continued to travel south on Fairview Avenue.

Witnesses of the collision followed the fleeing vehicle to the area of Bloomfield Avenue where the operator parked the vehicle and fled on foot. Several moments later Locke was apprehended hiding behind a dumpster and taken into custody without incident.

Locke has been charged with a host of motor vehicle offenses including driving under the influence, leaving scene of accident, open alcohol container in motor vehicle, possession of a controlled dangerous substance in a motor vehicle and leaving the scene of an accident with injuries. Locke was processed at police headquarters and released.

The investigation is active and ongoing. Criminal charges may be pending.

Motor vehicle summonses and criminal complaints are merely an accusation. Despite these accusations, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Verona Police Department asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact Detective Sergeant Tim Banta at (973) 857-4764.

Capt. Stephen DePoe, the Verona Police Department’s officer in charge, promotes Lt. Michael Ruglio (right) to captain.

Captain Ruglio was hired by the department in January 1994, and rose from patrolman to the detective bureau by 2002 and then on to lieutenant in 2011. Capt. Stephen DePoe, who is the officer in charge of the VPD since the retirement of Chief Mitchell Stern, hailed Ruglio for his involvement of a successful homicide investigation, a successful kidnapping investigation and assisting improving departmental policies and procedures. As drug problems began to rise in New Jersey’s suburbs, Ruglio helped to establish a narcotics plan for the VPD. Ruglio, who is president of the Verona chapter of the Italian-American service organization UNICO, was also instrumental in creating the Verona PBA’s political action committee.

“Throughout Mike’s career he has always been capable of handling critical incidents and high stress calls,” DePoe said. “Mike has played leadership roles in chaotic situations such as armed barricaded subjects in domestic violence situations and armed emotionally disturbed individuals who have posed deadly threats to Mike and his squad. Mike has recently showed his leadership in a recent vehicular homicide tragedy where the suspect was apprehended quickly allowing the victim’s family to have closure. He has been honored with an award by the Essex County 200 Club, an organization that supports the dependents of fallen officers, for the role he played on a domestic violence call where a suspect charged at him with two large chef knives.”

Sgt. David Wardrope (right), who joined the VPD in 2005, was promoted to lieutenant.

“
Throughout his career, Dave has also assisted the Detective Bureau with numerous criminal and narcotics investigations,” DePoe said. “He has attended numerous training classes, and has received multiple commendations and awards.” DePoe also noted that Wardrope also helped coordinate the recent PBA Strongman Competition Fundraiser, which helped to raise money for the renovation of Verona High School’s fitness center.

A water main broke on Bloomfield Avenue on Sunday afternoon and traffic east and west through Verona–and south to West Orange–is going to be slowed by the repairs today.

The Verona Police Department sent out a Nixle alert at 4:09 p.m. on Sunday about the initial break, which occurred on the avenue near the key Lakeside Avenue intersection. Traffic was reduced to one lane in each direction east and west so that the Verona Department of Public Works could get started on repairs.

At 8:09 p.m., the police sent out an alert saying that water would be shut off on the avenue from Lakeside to Grove Avenue because of the ongoing repairs. Water was turned back on in the area this morning.

That work continues. The police sent out another alert just before 9 a.m. that traffic on Bloomfield Avenue would continue to be only one lane in either direction this morning.

The Bloomfield Avenue break wasn’t the only water main trouble in Verona. There was a water main break on Cypress Avenue last Tuesday and another on Ann Street on Friday. Both of those streets are on the F.N. Brown side of town.

You can sign up to get Nixle alerts sent to your phone here.

The Verona Police Department logged a total of 514 assignments during the week of May 28 to June 7, 2017.

Responses included the following:

• 31 burglar alarms (16 residential, 15 commercial)
• 38 Rescue Squad dispatches
• 15 Fire Department dispatches
• 22 motor vehicle crash scenes
• 2 DWIs (driving while intoxicated)
• 10 arrests
• 77 motor vehicle stops that resulted in 65 traffic summonses being issued and 28 warning notices being issued.

May 28, 2017

1:04 AM: Officer Robert Juliano conducted a motor vehicle stop on Pompton Avenue for an observed violation. While speaking with the operator the officer detected an odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The operator, Andy Flores of Clifton, turned over CDS [controlled dangerous substance] that was located in the center console. The operator was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing he was issued several motor vehicle summons as well as a summons for possession of CDS and drug paraphernalia. He was released with a pending court date.

4:19 PM: Officer Brian McMahon responded to a Personette Avenue residence on a welfare check of an elderly resident who had not been seen in several days. The officer spoke to the resident who appeared in good health at this time.

May 29, 2017

1:45 AM: while on patrol Officer Juliano observed a vehicle with an open door on Sunset Avenue. The officer checked the vehicle and reported that it appears to be an oversight and secured the vehicle.

7:22 PM: Officer Steve Young took a report of found property. An anonymous person turned in a debit card which was found in the ATM machine on Bloomfield Avenue. The owner was located and the card was returned.

May 30, 2017

8:22 AM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of a burglary to a motor vehicle from an Afterglow Avenue resident. The resident reported that during the overnight hours someone entered his vehicle and removed his Garmin GPS. The value of the missing item is approximately $400.

10:35 AM: Detective Joel Martin was dispatched along with the Verona Fire Department to a fire alarm activation on Fairway Avenue. The fire department determined that the alarm was set off due to burnt cooking.

4:35 PM: Officer Justin Nielsen took a fraud report at Chase Bank. The teller reported that a female came into the bank attempting to make a withdrawal. The identification that the female presented as well as the information she gave the teller did not match the account information. The bank contacted the account holder who reported that she was not at the bank attempting to make a transaction. The female asked for her identification back and when the teller stated she could not return it due to the discrepancies the female left the bank. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate the female. While at the bank the teller also advised the officer of a similar incident which took place a week ago that involved a male who attempted to make a withdrawal. During the similar incident, the information provided by the male did not match the account information and the male left the bank before any action could be taken by the teller.

11:40 PM: Officer Robert Maguire was dispatched along with the Verona Fire Department to fire alarm activation on Pompton Avenue. The fire department determined that the alarm was set off due to burnt cooking.

May 31, 2017

2:01 AM: Officer Maguire responded to Cedar Grove to assist them in searching for a vehicle which was observed leaving the area of a possible car burglary. The vehicle was described as an older model SUV. While checking the area the officer located a vehicle that matched the description and conducted a motor vehicle stop on East Bradford Avenue. Cedar Grove Police responded and the scene was turned over to them.

June 1, 2017

5:24 PM: Officer Brian McMahon conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue after a random check of the vehicle registration showed that it was suspended. After confirming that the registration was suspended and expired, the vehicle was impounded. The operator was issued several summonses.

7:30 PM: Officer Stephanie Colon took a report of a fraud from a White Rock Road resident. The resident reported that she observed unauthorized transactions on her credit card statement. The resident was in contact with her credit card company and advised them of the fraudulent charges.

11:42 PM: while on patrol Officer Maguire reported that he would be checking a suspicious vehicle on White Rock Road. The officer spoke to the occupants and they were sent on their way.

June 4, 2017

8:58 AM: Officer Giovanni DeSomma took a fraud report from a Wedgewood Drive resident. The resident reported that when she received her AT&T bill she observed that there were two lines added to her account without her permission. The resident contacted AT&T and advised them of the fraudulent activity.

June 5, 2017

4:25 PM: Officer Chris Scheper conducted a motor vehicle stop on Bloomfield Avenue for an observed violation. Upon checking the operator’s credentials an active warrant form the Fair Lawn Municipal Court was located. The operator, Jenney Ramos of Paterson was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing she was released with a new court date for the Fair Lawn Municipal Court.

5:50 PM: Officer Scheper and Lt Robert Shafer were dispatched to Derwent Avenue on a report of three suspicious females. Upon arrival, a resident reported that he had observed a black female in his garage. When the female became aware of being observed by the resident, she ran north on Derwent Avenue. Another resident then advised the officers that there were two black females hiding in the bushes adjacent to his house. The females were ordered from the bushes and handcuffed. The officers searched the bushes where the subjects had been hiding and found several items that were tagged with Walgreens’ labels. A short time later Detective Martin located the third female running through yards on Cumberland Avenue between Linden Ave and Edgemere Road. The female was stopped and taken into custody. All subjects were transported to police headquarters. The subjects were identified as Michelle Epps of Newark, Lakeisha Alexander of Irvington and Tahirah Washington of Newark. After processing all subjects were issued complaints for shoplifting and conspiracy. Epps was also charged with burglary and obstruction. All subjects were released with a pending court date.

June 6, 2017

7:59 PM: Officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle accident on Bloomfield Avenue. As the officers were speaking to the vehicle operator they detected an odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from the operator’s breath. The operator was evaluated for injuries by the Verona Rescue Squad and refused transportation to the hospital. The officers then administered field sobriety tests. After the tests, the operator Alan Zalkind of Montclair was placed under arrest and transported to police headquarters. After processing he was issued several summonses and released to a family member.

Any individual named in these reports is presumed innocent until a decision is rendered by the courts.
MyVeronaNJ.com updates police blotter reports with the disposition of the case upon request and with submission of documentary proof. We do not remove stories or delete names based on an expungement.

For those of you who spotted a bit of police activity in the center of Verona today, here’s what we know about what happened.

Around noon, a Verona Police Department officer was attempting to remove a person from a vehicle from behind a business on Bloomfield Avenue. Instead of complying, the as-yet unidentified male started his vehicle and tried to leave the area. The officer–also unidentified as of now–was dragged a short distance as the motorist fled.

The officer was taken to the hospital, treated for some minor leg injuries and released.

The motorist was later spotted in Clifton and pursued by the Clifton Police Department before being apprehended in Montclair.

We’ll bring you more details when we have them.

July 9, 2017

9:52 AM: Officers Giovanni Desomma and Robert Maguire responded along with the Verona Rescue Squad to a report of a person who fell and was having a seizure at a Pompton Avenue business. Upon arrival bystanders were preforming CPR and had utilized an AED giving one shock to the victim. The officers continued CPR until the patient regained a pulse. The patient was transported to St. Joseph’s hospital for further treatment.

8:43 PM: Officer Rob Juliano took a report of a suspicious person from a Gould Street resident. The resident reported he heard two males talking in a neighboring property and then they threw a firecracker into his yard. The resident then chased the males who left the area in a pickup truck. The resident was unable to obtain a license plate or a description of the males.

11:03 PM: Officer Heriberto Carattini responded to Randolph Place on a report of a tree across the road. Public works and a tree service were contacted to remove the tree. No damage was observed in the area.

July 10, 2017

1:29 PM: Officer William Frazee took a report of a fraud from a Brookside Terrace resident. The resident reported she received a call from a person claiming to be a representative of Apple Computer. The caller advised the resident that her computer had a virus and she could fix it remotely. The caller advised the resident to purchase $250 in Apple gift cards and forward images of the cards to an email address. After the resident sent the images she received a call from an unknown person who advised her that the images did not go through and she would need to purchase additional cards and send them again. After sending the second cards she received another call advising her that these images did not go through. At this point the resident became suspicious that this was a scam and contacted the police.

3:15 PM: Officer Juliano took a report of a suspicious person from a Sunset Avenue resident. The resident reported that earlier in the day he observed a Green Ford Explorer park on Douglas Place. A male exited the vehicle and walked through several back yards in the area. The resident also observed the male enter an open garage in the area. The male was then seen walking on Sunset Avenue. When the resident checked for the vehicle it was gone from the area. Officers checked with the homeowners in the area and advised them of the incident.

5:01 PM: Officer Juliano took a report of a missing package from a Hillcrest Terrace resident. The resident reported that he was expecting a package on July 8, 2017. When the package did not arrive he checked with the post office who reported that the package had been delivered at 10:47 a.m. on the 8th. The resident reported that the only mail he received that day belonged to his neighbor. He advised he would check with the neighbor to see if they had the package.

July 11, 2017

4:37 PM: Officer Steve Young took a report of a theft from a Claremont Avenue resident. The resident reported she had ordered checks on several occasions for different accounts that never arrived. The residents received a notification from the bank that there was suspicious activity on their account. The bank closed their accounts and the resident reports that they did not suffer any financial loss from this incident.

July 12, 2017

9:04 AM: Officer Ed Ruff took a report of property damage on Hillwood Terrace. The building Manager reported that when the waste management company picked up the garbage and placed the dumpster back on the ground the dumpster rolled downhill and struck a vehicle. Damage was observed on the passenger side of the vehicle. The value of the damage is unknwon at this time.

2:20 PM: Officer Ruff took a report of property damage at a Bloomfield Avenue business. The employee reported that a vehicle pulled away from the gas pump with the nozzle still attached, damaging the pump. The value of the damage to the gas pump is unknown at this time.

3:18 PM: Officer Alyssa Kirby took a report of a fraud from a Valleyview Road resident. The resident reported that checks were ordered for his account but he never received them. Several checks were written from these new checks by an unknown person. The bank closed the account and will investigate the incident.

July 17, 2017

12:31 AM: Officer McMahon conducted a motor vehicle stop on Sunset Avenue for an observed violation. While speaking to the operator the officer observed a partial case of beer in the rear passenger seat. The operator stated he was the designated driver for his two passengers who were returning from a party in Montclair. One of the passengers stated the alcohol was hers. Since no one in the vehicle was 21 years old the alcohol was seized, photographed and disposed of at police headquarters. The operator was issued a summons for careless driving.

Any individual named in these reports is presumed innocent until a decision is rendered by the courts. MyVeronaNJ.com updates police blotter reports with the disposition of the case upon request and with submission of documentary proof. We do not remove stories or delete names based on an expungement.

August 13, 2017

12:06 PM: Officer Giovanni Desomma took a report of an unwanted person at a Bloomfield Avenue business. Employees of the business stated a male came into the store asking for free food and coffee. The employee advised that male that he would give him food for the day. The employee then told the male he was not allowed to come back into the store unless he could pay for his purchases. The male became irate and began cursing at the customers in the store. The male was located and spoken to by the officer. The male refused to provide any identifying information to the officers, advised not to return to the store, and sent on his way.

August 14, 2017

12:44 AM: Officer Brian McMahon stopped a cyclist who was swerving throughout the marked traffic lanes on Bloomfield Avenue. Upon checking the cyclist’s credentials active warrants were located from the Toms River and North Bergen Municipal Courts. The subject, Luis Perez Jr. of Verona was placed under arrest. While searching the subject, officers found that the subject was in possession of CDS. The subject was transported to police headquarters for processing. After processing Perez was issued several summonses, provided with new court dates for the warrants, and released.

10:49 AM: D/Sgt Tim Banta took a report of attempted fraud from a Bloomfield Avenue business. The manager of the business reported that on Saturday a male entered the business and attempted to purchase a vehicle. The male only had a photocopy of a Texas driver’s license and wished to take immediate delivery of a vehicle. The manager did not complete the transaction at the time because he felt it was suspicious and wanted to speak to the police about the transaction. Upon further investigation it was discovered that the address the male provided did not match the Texas driver’s license and the picture of the male on the license did not match the individual at the business. The manager was advised to contact the police if the individual returns to the business.

August 15, 2017

4:59 PM: Officer Joe Pami took a report of a larceny from a Hillcrest Terrace resident. The resident reported he advertised an item on Craigslist for $2,600. The resident received a check for the item and deposited it at his bank. At the time he did not notice the check was for more than the agreed upon amount. The buyer than contacted him and stated he overpaid and requested the resident returns the overpayment to him via a “Walmart 2 Walmart” transfer. Once the resident completed the Walmart transfer, the buyer advised the resident that he no longer needed the item. The resident then checked his bank account and discovered that the check he deposited from the purchase was declined. The resident then found out that the funds were removed from his account. When he contacted the bank the resident was advised that the bank would not reimburse the lost funds.

August 16, 2017

12:32 PM: Officer Pami took custody of Thomas Tucci from Bloomfield Police Department on an outstanding warrant from the Verona Municipal Court. After processing, Tucci was transported to the Essex County Jail in Newark.

August 19, 2017

5:06 PM: Officer Pami responded to a report of a dispute on West Lincoln Street between a taxi driver and a passenger. Officers spoke to both the driver and the passenger. It was then determined that the dispute was over the amount that the driver was charging for a trip from JFK Airport to Verona. After speaking with both parties they agreed on an amount and went on their way.

August 20, 2017

1:41 AM: Officer McMahon conducted a check of an occupied motor vehicle in the parking lot of a business which was closed for the evening. Upon speaking to the operator of the vehicle, he appeared confused and could not explain how or why he arrived at the business. The Verona Rescue Squad was contacted and transported the individual to Mountainside Hospital for an evaluation.

August 21, 2017

7:39 PM: Officer Robert Juliano took a report of a suspicious incident from an Otis Place resident. The resident reported that he had an aide coming to his home to assist a family member. On today’s date a substitute aide arrived at the residence as the regular aide was off. The resident reported he has various video cameras set up in his home that stream to his computer. The resident reported he observed the aide going through papers in the dining room. He then observed her take out a cell phone and began tapping it as if taking pictures. The resident reported he had papers on the table which contain personal information including a social security number. The resident contacted the agency where the aide is from and advised them of the incident. The owner of the agency advised the resident that they would look into the incident and in the meantime advised the resident to file a police report.

Any individual named in these reports is presumed innocent until a decision is rendered by the courts. MyVeronaNJ.com updates police blotter reports with the disposition of the case upon request and with submission of documentary proof. We do not remove stories or delete names based on an expungement.

Runners rounding the corner at Lakeside were unaware of the drama unfolding in the park.

At about 10:15 a.m., Verona Fire Department Lieutenant Harvey Goodman heard someone in the crowd call out that someone had fallen near the finish line to his left. He moved in that direction and found a male runner face down on the ground. Goodman radioed for help from the VFD and the Verona Rescue Squad, which both had members near the finish line. Sue DeWitt and Sandy Bowman responded from the VRS and Ed Van Wagner from the VFD.

They were definitely the right people in the right place. Van Wagner is a paramedic and DeWitt is an EMT. Goodman and Van Wagner checked the man’s vital signs, and determined that he did not have a pulse and was not breathing. They rolled the man onto his back, lifted up his shirt and Van Wagner began CPR. DeWitt focused on preparing the automatic external defibrillator (AED) shock device kept in the VRS’ so-called jump bag.

“Ed stopped CPR and with the AED fully charged and placed onto the patient already, the AED was activated,” says Goodman. “The patient responded with breathing and a pulse so continuing CPR was not necessary. He regained consciousness but was unaware that he had fallen and his heart had stopped.”

Verona’s first responders let the man, who was believed to be in his late 60s, know that he would be going to the hospital. Paramedics had been called to the scene as well as additional VRS members, and the VFD members who were present assisted in controlling the area around the patient and provided support for the VRS.

Goodman says the teamwork among Verona’s first responders on Monday was nothing new. “Such cooperation and involvement is common between the VRS and the VFD,” he says. “Both departments offer assistance to each other when needed without hesitation.”

But Bruce Snogans, chairman of the Verona UNICO Labor Day Race, is very grateful for the skills these squads showed. “The Verona Chapter of UNICO,” he says, “would like to publicly acknowledge and thank the Verona Rescue Squad, Police and Fire Department for quickly and successfully responding to the fallen runner at the Labor Day race.”

The 2017 Labor Day Classic was won by Karl O’Reilly of Morristown in a time of 16:38.31. The top woman’s finisher was Nicole Falcaro of New York City at 18:57.75. The top Verona finishers were Michael Anello (17:50.44), Matthew Carroll (17:58.42), Jacqueline Murphy (22:59.38) and Rebecca McClain (23:08.14).

Verona Police Department Blotter: September 3-13, 2017

On September 3, 2017, Off. Mike Barone took a report from a Claremont Ave. resident who reported a suspicious van that had been seen traveling past his house on several occasions. According to the resident, he observed what he described as a newer white Sprinter type van with a male driver. The van had no markings on it, but the lower driver side did appear to be discolored due to previous damage. The operator of the van was described as being either a white or Hispanic male. The caller noticed this van driving slowly past his house approximately 4 times (all in the mid to late afternoon) since August 27th. He added that on one occasion he observed the male operator taking pictures of his house. A check of the area for the van was negative, and the resident was advised to contact the police should he see the van again.

On September 4, 2017, Lt. Robert Shafer was dispatched to the Verona Park on a report of a down runner. Upon arrival the Verona Rescue had already performed CPR on the victim who had gone into cardiac arrest after completing the UNICO Labor Day 5K run. Verona Rescue Squad member Susan DeWitt advised that one shock was administered and the victim had regained a pulse. The victim was transported to Mountainside Hospital by the Verona Rescue along with Atlantic Paramedic 7 for further care.

On September 5, 2017, Off. Alyssa Kirby took a report from a business owner who reported that an irate client grabbed a file from the business owner and ran out of the office with it. The client was last seen heading towards Municipal Lot #2. A search of the surrounding area and parking lot was negative. The business owner stated that he was speaking with his client about an upcoming case. The business owner stated as the conversation continued between the two over the case, the client began to get angry, at which point she grabbed the case file out of the caller’s hands and left the office. The client was eventually tracked down, and the files returned to the business owner who did not wish to pursue the matter any further.

On September 6, 2017, Off. Brian McMahon was assigned to the 2300-0700 hour tour of duty in unmarked patrol car #2. At approximately 0003 hours, he observed a vehicle facing west on Bloomfield Avenue at the intersection with Pompton Avenue. After running a random check of the vehicle’s registration through his MDT, an “NCIC Alert” appeared on the MDT screen for a No-Bail wanted person from Newark Municipal Court. The name and information on the NCIC Alert appeared to match that of the registered owner of the vehicle. While dispatch was running a check of the registered owner, Off. McMahon followed the vehicle west on Bloomfield Avenue, then eventually into Caldwell College where the vehicle stopped and parked. After passing the vehicle the operator matched the image provided on the NCIC Alert on the MDT. Off. McMahon then spoke with the operator of the vehicle. After approaching the vehicle, the operator, later identified as Joshua I. Christian provided a New Jersey driver’s license. The driver’s license matched that of the registered owner. After confirming Joshua was a correct match of the NCIC Wanted Person, he was advised of the warrant and placed under arrest. After processing he was turned over to Newark Police.

On September 7, 2017, Off. Robert Juliano responded to a local gas station for a report of a dispute between an employee and a patron. Upon arrival, Off Juliano spoke with the gas attendant who stated that a female customer requested he fill her gas tank. When the tank was filled with 15.969 gallons of gas for a total purchase amount of $41.98, the female stated that she only asked for ten dollars worth of gas and did not intend to pay for the remaining balance. Off Juliano then spoke with the female who reported that she only asked the attendant for ten dollars worth of gas. The female only had ten dollars on her at the time and could not pay for the gas. The ten dollars was given to the attendant and both parties were advised of complaint procedures, and were informed that a police report would be generated documenting the matter. The female then left the scene.

On September 8, 2017, Off. Steven Young took a report of stolen checks. The victim reported she ordered checks for her Wells Fargo Bank checking account several weeks ago and never received the checks. The victim then noticed 2 checks were written from the checks that were never delivered, one in the amount of $498.00, and the other for $399.99. The victim contacted her banks fraud department who cancelled the checking account and replaced it with a new account.

On September 9, 2017, Off. Joseph Pami received a call from the Cranford Police Department regarding a warrant arrest. Cranford Police Department had Ms. Joie Tortorello of Garwood, NJ, in custody on a Verona Warrant, and she was unable to post bail. Off. Pami and Off. Carattini then responded to the Cranford Police Department to take custody of Joie Tortorello and transport her to the Essex County Correctional Facility (ECCF). Upon arrival at the ECCF, Joie was turned over to intake services.

On September 10, 2017, Off. Brendan Huber took a report of stolen checks. The victims stated that on August 31 she ordered four boxes of personal checks, but only received two of the boxes. On September 6th the bank contacted the victim and informed her that two checks were cashed against her account that appeared to be fraudulent: one for $398.98 and another for for $399.99 The victims stated that the a bank representative flagged the checks as fraudulent due to the different handwriting. The bank closed the victim’ account and refunded her new account for the full amount of the fraudulent checks. A Victim Notification form was completed and the victim was provided with an identity theft pamphlet. She was also advised to monitor her accounts and contact headquarters if she noticed any suspicious activity.

On September 11, 2017, Off. Giovanni DeSomma was dispatched to an Elmwood Road residence to take a report of a missing person. Upon arrival, Off. DeSomma met the caller who states his father walked out of his home sometime this morning and did not return. The caller advised he last saw his father at approximately 0800 hours. The caller stated when he returned home from work at approximately 1115 hours his father was was not home. While on scene the caller was contacted by a family member stating they located his father in the area of Bloomfield Avenue and Malvern Place. Off. DeSomma and the caller responded to the intersection of Bloomfield Ave. and Malvern Pl. where they located the caller’s father.

On September 12, 2017, Off. Christopher Scheper took a harassment report. The victim stated she dialed a phone number in error and the person on the other end began to yell at her. After disconnecting, the victim received numerous unwanted text and email messages from the number that she incorrectly dialed. Off. Scheper assisted the victim in blocking incoming calls and text messages from the number the victim dialed by mistake.

On September 13, 2017, Off. Stephanie Colon and Off. Justin Nielsen responded to the East Orange Police Department to take custody of Ms. Tahirah Washington for an outstanding Verona Municipal Warrant. Ms. Washington was placed under arrest and transported directly to the Essex County Correctional Facility, and turned over to the Essex County Correctional Facility staff.

Any individual named in these reports is presumed innocent until a decision is rendered by the courts. MyVeronaNJ.com updates police blotter reports with the disposition of the case upon request and with submission of documentary proof. We do not remove stories or delete names based on an expungement.

Verona Police Department Blotter: September 15-30, 2017:

On September 16, 2017, Off. Joseph Pami took a report of stolen all-terrain vehicles from a Pompton Ave. business. The victim reported leaving three ATVs locked in his business overnight and when he arrived the next morning he noticed the garage door was ajar and the ATVs were gone.

On September 17, 2017, Off. Brian McMahon stopped a vehicle on Bloomfield Ave. near Sunset Ave. after observing a violation. As Off. McMahon exited his vehicle to speak with the driver, the operator placed the car in drive and fled into Montclair. Off. McMahon was able to positively identify the driver and issued the driver several summonses through the mail.

On September 18, 2017, Off. Giovanni DeSomma took a report of a missing elderly male. While investigating the matter, Off. DeSomma was informed that the missing person was possibly on a train heading to Belmar, N.J. Upon checking the train schedule, Off. DeSomma saw there was a stop in Long Branch, and notified Long Branch Police. The Long Branch Police sent an officer to the train station and found the missing person. The missing person was transported to the Long Branch Police station and picked up a short time later by a family member.

On September 19, 2017, Off. Justin Nielsen took a report of a stolen television from a Claremont Ave. resident. The resident reported that he left a television in the basement of his home sometime in mid-August and discovered it missing on 9/18/2017. The TV was described as a 48 inch Samsung Smart TV valued at $492.18.

On September 20, 2017, Off. Christopher Scheper took a report of a road rage incident. The victim stated while traveling north on Mt. Prospect Avenue in West Orange she observed a vehicle driving erratically. She further stated that while on Mt. Prospect Avenue near the intersection of Woodland Avenue in West Orange, the vehicle drove into oncoming traffic, over the double yellow lines and cut her off. After entering Verona, she stopped at the traffic light at the intersection of Pompton Avenue and Cambridge Road in the left lane. At that time, the vehicle pulled up next to her and the operator punched the front passenger side window or mirror of her vehicle. The vehicle then continued north on Pompton Avenue into Cedar Grove. There was no damage to the victim’s vehicle and the victim was advised of complaint procedures.

On September 21, 2017, Off. Michael Barone took a report of a stolen motor vehicle. The victim reported leaving her car parked in a lot on Pompton Avenue. When she returned to the lot she discovered her black BMW 7 series was missing. The vehicle was entered NCIC as stolen. The value of the vehicle is unknown at this time.

On September 22, 2017, Off. William Frazee took a report of a suspicious incident. A Cumberland Ave. resident reported that she was awakened between 2:30 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. by a utility service working on wires directly in front of her residence. The caller was not able to identify who was working outside of her home, and in the morning her cable service was no longer working. After checking with several cable companies, they reported that no work was conducted in the area.

On September 23, 2017, Off. Alyssa Kirby was dispatched to the area of 32 Lakeside Ave on a report of a male lying on the grass. Upon her arrival she discovered a male lying on the grass with his legs and bike in the shoulder of the roadway. The male had a laceration above his right eye and lacerations to his right knee. The injured male stated he was unaware of how he obtained the injuries, and stated he sat down to rest for a moment. The Verona Rescue Squad was dispatched to scene to evaluate his injuries. He was then transported to Mountainside Hospital for further treatment.

On September 25, 2017, Off. Michael Barone was dispatched to a Bloomfield Ave. business on a report of a dispute. Upon his arrival, Off. Barone was informed that a delivery vehicle was blocking a driveway to the business. When the business owner asked the delivery driver to move the vehicle a dispute ensued. The dispute escalated into a physical altercation between the delivery driver and the business owner. Both parties did not report being injured and both were advised of complaint procedures.

On September 26, 20177, at 1:11 AM Off. Stephanie Colon observed a suspicious person sleeping in Verona Park. After checking on the individual’s welfare, the person was advised that the park was closed for the evening and sent on their way.

On September 27, 2017, Det./Sgt. Timothy Banta met with a township resident to discuss recovered checks. On Friday September 22, 2017 Det./Sgt. Banta received an alert from the Newark Police Department reporting they had recovered a vehicle with several personal checks and debit cards all of which were presumed to be stolen. One of the checks displayed the account holder’s name of a Verona resident. Det./Sgt. Banta then spoke to the resident who reported that approximately 10-12 days ago a check order was placed and the checks were never received.

Any individual named in these reports is presumed innocent until a decision is rendered by the courts. MyVeronaNJ.com updates police blotter reports with the disposition of the case upon request and with submission of documentary proof. We do not remove stories or delete names based on an expungement.