"Get the Lead Out of Schools Act" would put a grant program in place to assist local schools with replacing antiquated piping and would require schools to be consistently monitored for lead levels under the nation's Lead and Copper Rule.

Cory Booker announced legislation Monday he planned on introducing to address lead in drinking water at Hackensack High School.
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By Sara Jerde

sjerde@njadvancemedia.com,

NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

HACKENSACK, NJ -- Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), alongside U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, environmentalists and other local elected officials announced Monday he would introduce legislation to ramp up efforts to get the lead out of the water in schools.

Booker's legislation, dubbed the "Get the Lead Out of Schools Act" would put a grant program in place to assist local schools with replacing antiquated piping and would require schools to be consistently monitored for lead levels under the nation's Lead and Copper Rule.

Resolving the lead issue is part of a larger, wasteful water crisis in the country, he said.

"We have work to do and this legislation is an important step in dealing with the larger crisis because it puts our children first," Booker said.

Gottheimer, (D-5th District), was also at the news conference on Monday. He introduced a bill, dubbed the "Lead Free Schools Act" in April. The bill's requirements would include funds for testing and improving infrastructure and would require schools to annually report the status of their lead tests.








A fatal shooting that left two dead was believed to be an "unfortunate culmination," to a long dispute between two residents of the same building, the Bergen County prosecutor said Sunday.

"Schools are meant to be a safe place, yet we're sending our children to quietly incur the wrath of lead in their drinking water," Gottheimer said.

The lawmakers' announcements come after higher than normal levels of lead have been detected in water fountains and faucets in schools throughout North Jersey.

The lawmakers were backed by environmentalists who agreed that there was work to be done, particularly in New Jersey.

"We need to stand up for our children, we need to stand up for our communities," Jeff Tittel, director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, said.

The legislation could face opposition in the charged D.C. climate, with a Republican-controlled Congress and White House.

CGM Const., Inc. v. Sydor, 42 N.Y.S.3d 407 (N.Y. App. Div. 2016): contractor was not liable for alleged inadequate work performed on the owner’s property, because the contractor followed the owner’s instructions when performing the work

NEW YORK APPELLATE COURT FINDS CONTRACTOR NOT LIABLE FOR DEFECTS WHEN FOLLOWING OWNER’S INSTRUCTIONS UNDER DESIGN SPECIFICATION CONTRACT

In CGM Const., Inc. v. Sydor, 42 N.Y.S.3d 407 (N.Y. App. Div. 2016), the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division for the Third Department, held a contractor was not liable for alleged inadequate work performed on the owner’s property, because the contractor followed the owner’s instructions when performing the work. The Court found the contract was a design specification contract, which allows a contractor not to be held liable for defects when the contractor follows the plans and specifications provided.


Plaintiff CGM Construction, Inc. (“CGM”) contracted with the owner of a historical building (“the Owner”) to perform renovations. The contract called for payment on “a time and material basis” and required a $13,500 retainer fee from the Owner. CGM began work and submitted invoices to the Owner after work was performed. The Owner, however, stopped paying the invoices in July 2009, at which time CGM stopped work on the renovations.


CGM filed an action to recover the unpaid balance and the Owner filed a counterclaim alleging damages for work not completed in a “workman-like manner.” The New York Supreme Court found that CGM was entitled to recover the balance owed for the labor performed and materials used during renovations, but the Court reduced CGM’s damages by the costs associated with the repair of the alleged inadequate work. Both CGM and the Owner appealed the court’s judgment.


The Appellate Division reversed. The Appellate Court determined the contract between CGM and the Owner was a design specification contract. In contrast, a performance specification contract allows a contractor the freedom to choose the materials and methods to achieve a specified result, but retains responsibility for defects in the materials and design.


The Appellate Court noted the contract did not expressly state it was a design specification contract, but evidence of specific contract requirements (such as written approval from the owner for all subcontractors, along with the abandonment by the owner of plans and specifications drawn by an architect) showed the contract was a design specification contract. The evidence also showed the Owner instructed CGM to use a specific material, even though CGM recommended using a different material. The Appellate Court found the contract was a design specification contract and CGM followed the Owner’s instructions.


The Court’s decision in this case limits a contractor’s liability for defective work performed under a design specification contract. Contractors need to fully understand whether a contract is a design specification or performance specification contract so they know who will bear responsibility for any defects in the materials, methods, and design.





=========================


Contractor Not Liable for Costs to Correct Wooden Decking that was installed per the Design Specifications but was Inappropriate for the Climate and Location


Contractor installed pine wood decking renovating the front porch of a historical building. The project owner, who was also an architect, insisted on the use of pine despite the contractor’s “repeated recommendations to use a different material” such as vinyl flooring because pine was not a suitable choice for decking the northeast. The owner’s insistence on pine constituted a design specification. The court concluded, “Although the contract did not expressly state whether the parties entered into a performance or design specification contract, it is abundantly clear that the parties were working pursuant to a design specification agreement.” Since a design specification contract requires a contractor to use the materials selected by the owner, the contractor does not bear any responsibility if the design proves to be inadequate to achieve the intended result. CGM Construction, Inc. v. Sydor, 144 A.D.3d 1434, 42 N.Y.S.3d 407 (2016). This decision applied the Spearin Doctrine.

In analyzing the facts of the case and the law that would be applied to those facts, the court stated:

“We thus turn to the question of whether plaintiff is liable to defendant for the alleged defects in its work. In contrast to a performance specification contract, which affords a contractor the freedom to choose the materials and methods employed to achieve a specified result, a design specification contract requires a contractor to use the materials, methods and design dictated by the owner, without bearing any “responsibility if the design proves inadequate to achieve the intended result [citations omitted].” In other words, when there is a design specification contract, a contractor follows the architectural plans and specifications provided by an owner, and the contractor will not be responsible for the consequences of defects in such plans and specifications or be prevented from recovering contractually-agreed upon payments for work completed in compliance with them [citations omitted].”

Whether a construction contract is one of performance or design specification turns on the language of the contract as a whole, with consideration given to factors such as “the nature and degree of the contractor’s involvement in the specification process, and the degree to which the contractor is allowed to exercise discretion in carrying out its performance” [citations omitted].”

The court found that the contractor’s work was completed according to the owner’s instructions and the owner was, therefore, responsible for any defects that resulted from his design and could not escape payment of the balance owed the contractor for the completed work.

At least 3 workers injured after a crane dropped its load of construction debris through the roof of a building under construction, causing an interior collapse in Astoria, Queens

 


ASTORIA, QUEENS -- Emergency crews were responding to an accident at a construction site in New York City Tuesday.

It happened on 28th Road by 33rd Street in Astoria, Queens, a little after 3:30 p.m. 

The FDNY reports that a crane dropped its load of construction debris through the roof of a building under construction, causing an interior collapse.

Two victims have been removed from the rubble and were rushed to the hospital in critical condition, and firefighters were working to extricate a third.

WE ARE IN DEEP TROUBLE: LAPD CADETS STOLE POLICE SUVS, GUNS, IMPERSONATE OFFICERS; 7 CADETS ARRESTED : three cadets led officers on car chases through the streets of South L.A.

Officers respond to the scene where one of three stolen Los Angeles police cruisers crashed in South L.A. Three teens were detained after crashing two of the vehicles following two separate, brief pursuits Wednesday night, officials said. (KTLA)

4 more LAPD cadets arrested after theft of police vehicles

Beck said investigators also uncovered "a couple of occasions" where the cadets involved are believed to have made traffic stops in the stolen cruisers.


LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck said four additional arrests have been made in the theft of LAPD cruisers by police cadets.

After conducting dozens of interviews over the weekend, investigators made the arrests in connection with the "taking, operating and joyriding" of police vehicles, according to Beck. The latest arrests bring the total to seven.


Beck said investigators also uncovered "a couple of occasions" where the cadets involved are believed to have made traffic stops in the stolen cruisers.



The previous arrests of three teenage LAPD cadets were sparked after the teens led officers on two separate chases and crashed two of the stolen vehicles in South LA.

Beck said since the initial arrests, investigators also uncovered "a couple of occasions" where the cadets involved are believed to have made traffic stops in the stolen cruisers. "There was no enforcement action that we have discerned," said Beck.


"We are pressing forward with this to make sure we find everybody involved and take the appropriate steps," said Beck.

Beck said the department is conducting an "absolutely top-to-bottom review of the program" as well as equipment check-out procedures.



We are in some deep trouble if these cadets are the future of our police force.




==============







One of the LAPD cruisers allegedly stolen by cadets was driven more than 1,000 miles, sources say




Richard Winton, Kate Mather and Meg Bernhard


The Los Angeles police cadets suspected of stealing three cruisers and leading officers on wild car chases this week had made themselves unauthorized police uniforms and had driven at least one of the stolen patrol cars more than 1,000 miles, according to police sources.

Investigators are trying to determine what the teens were doing with the vehicles as well as where they went. Police said one of the cars went missing in late May. Detectives want to figure out whether the vehicle was stolen once or repeatedly taken and returned without detection, which would raise even greater concerns about how the LAPD tracks its cars.


Detectives are checking various cameras that read license plates around the Los Angeles area to see if the cruisers might have been logged and want to know when and where the cars were gassed up, according to multiple police sources who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss details about the ongoing investigation.

Sources said police had checked the odometers of the cars and discovered that at least one had been driven a significant distance since it was last used for official business.
 
Department officials said the three cadets led officers on car chases through the streets of South L.A. on Wednesday in a pair of stolen police cruisers. The car chases ended in separate crashes.

The thefts and chases sparked an investigation that revealed some of the cadets may have also stolen a bulletproof vest, two stun guns and two police radios, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck told reporters this week.

Beck said the cadets may have been impersonating officers while driving the stolen cruisers, and he asked anyone living in Central and South Los Angeles or Inglewood who might have information to contact police.



Investigators also plan to examine the recovered stun guns. Data can be downloaded from the Tasers to show whether the devices were fired and if so, for how long. LAPD officials often look at such data when evaluating whether officers were justified in using force against someone.

Police, the sources said, already know the teens made several stops for gas, including at least one visit to a city-owned pump at City Hall East. The teens had cadet uniforms that had been altered to look more like real officers’ uniforms, one of the sources said.

Detectives are also interviewing other cadets to better understand the motives of the three teens, another source said.

The teens — a 15-year-old, 16-year-old and 17-year-old who were not identified because they are minors — were arrested in connection with the theft of the cruisers and other LAPD property, Beck said. He added that all three were involved in the vehicle thefts but that it was not immediately clear which of them may have been involved in taking the other equipment.

The department became aware that two LAPD cruisers had gone missing around 5 p.m. Wednesday, resulting in an investigation that Beck said “almost immediately” focused on a 16-year-old female cadet assigned to the 77th Street Division after officials found video of the teen fueling the car at a city gas pump. About 9:30 p.m., two stolen cruisers were spotted near the 77th Street station.

A chase began after the drivers ignored officers’ commands to pull over, Beck said. The stolen cars separated at some point, resulting in two chases that both ended in wrecks.

One cadet taken into custody was wearing a spare bulletproof vest used for training purposes, the chief said.

A third car had also been taken by the cadets, but it was quickly located near the 77th Street station, Beck said. Two Tasers and two police radios were also recovered during the investigation, he said.

Thousands of young people ages 13 to 20 have participated in the LAPD’s cadet program over the years, and about 2,300 are currently enrolled. The goal is to foster relationships between the city’s youth and police while helping participants develop skills that will aid them later in life.

Cadets participate in an 18-week academy training program, taking various classes while getting an introduction to police work. After completing their training, cadets can be assigned to one of the city’s police stations, where they may volunteer for a wide array of tasks, such as working community events or passing out fliers alerting residents about crime.

Current and former cadets expressed disappointment and frustration Friday over the week’s events, saying such behavior could damage the reputation of an important program.

“I think this is unfair — that the actions of a few cadets revolves around all of us,” said Nebby Vartanyan, a 17-year-old cadet.

Vartanyan said he often thinks back to his 2014 graduation from the cadet leadership academy, a pivotal moment for the teenager.

“We held our right hands up and we swore to do what we think is right — even when things are difficult,” he said. “Ever since then, I do everything that way.”

Before Alfred Segura joined the program in eighth grade, he said, he struggled in school. Now, the 17-year-old is poised to study criminal justice at Cal State L.A. He credited the cadet program with teaching him discipline and respect. Had he not joined, Segura said, he does not think he would be attending the college.

Though he no longer participates in the program, Segura glances at his uniform from time to time as a reminder of what he can accomplish. He said he wants his younger cousins to join the program, but he worries that it might be shut down over the thefts. He called the cadets’ actions “disrespectful to the cops.”

Anthony Zepeda, 17, began the program when he was in seventh grade because it was an alternative to staying at home. The program gave him confidence, he said, and taught him to “always think before you act upon something.”

Like others, Zepeda said he was surprised at the allegations against the cadets.

“That’s not what we do,” he said.

WHAT THE HAIL: Wind gusts of up to 72 miles per hour and hail as large as grapefruit struck the Midland/Odessa area

Grapefruit size Hail strikes Midland/Odessa Area

06/15/2017

Wind gusts of up to 72 miles per hour and hail as large as grapefruit struck the Midland/Odessa area on Wednesday. Thousands of West Texans were waking up to damaged roofs and automobiles with shattered windshields.

Insurance company catastrophe teams are arriving in both cities to handle the high volume of claims. Local insurance agencies are also trying to keep up with the number of reported claims.

“It’s been nuts,” said Andrea Hidalgo with the Tara Simmons Insurance Agency in Odessa. “We’ve been hit with large hail the last two days and last night was especially hard and we are supposed to get hit again tonight.”

Alex Lister, senior forecaster with the National Weather Service in Midland, said grapefruit size hail was reported one mile south of Midland while baseball size hail was reported in Odessa. “We’ve had hail as large as 4 and a quarter inches and wind gusts near 70 miles per hour reported in both Midland and Odessa and in adjoining counties,” said Lister.

Auto body shops in the area are expected to begin filling up quickly with damaged cars. Amanda Bell with the Davis Body Shop in Odessa said everybody is swamped from last night’s storm, especially the glass companies.

Both homeowners and vehicle owners are urged to assess the damage to their property and contact their insurance companies as soon as possible. Companies have declared the storm a catastrophe and are sending in additional adjusters to handle the claims.

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) has sent a team of fraud investigators to the area to deter any criminal element drawn to the scene after this week’s storms.

“Unfortunately, a big storm can also draw some bad contractors and scam artists to the area,” said TDI Fraud Chief Christopher Davis. “Our investigators will be visiting with local officials and talking to residents to help them recognize potential scams."

The Insurance Council of Texas (ICT) urges homeowners to avoid storm-chasing roofers who will be coming into the area searching for work. “Homeowners in Midland and Odessa should work with building contractors who have offices in the area,” said Mark Hanna, an ICT spokesperson. “Seek local roofers and building contractors who have built a good reputation in the community. They are the ones who will be around long after the storm has passed.”

ICT also offers these additional tips.

• Make temporary repairs, if you can prevent additional damage to your home.
• Assess and note the damage to your home. Take photos or video of your home to record the damage and show your insurance adjuster.
• Avoid outside solicitors who are only there to prey off your misfortune.
• Contact your insurance company/agent. The sooner you can contact your insurer, the sooner an insurance adjuster can arrive to begin assessing damage and start the recovery process.
• Make note of all communication, dates, phone calls, visits, receipts, repairs and paper work with your insurer and building contractor.
• If you disagree with the amount of damage found by your insurance adjuster, you have options. Ask to speak with the adjuster’s supervisor for a second opinion. Work with a reputable building contractor who can compare the cost of labor, materials and overall repair.
• Get more than one estimate when hiring a building contractor. Get everything in writing including costs, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules and other expectations. Never pay a contractor in full or sign a certificate of completion until the work is finished. Never let a contractor discourage you from contacting your insurance company.

DUST HELL KILLS 6 IN NEW MEXICO 25-VEHICLE PILEUP: sudden high winds caused limited visibility from blowing dust, causing 18 commercial trucks and seven passenger cars to crash on the westbound lanes of I-10.

6 killed in 25-vehicle pileup at New Mexico-Arizona line



An image from a traffic camera released by the Arizona Department of Transportation shows a dust storm rolling in over Interstate 10, near the New Mexico border, June 19, 2017.
ADOT/Handout



Last Updated Jun 20, 2017 6:51 AM EDT


LORDSBURG, N.M. -- Authorities in New Mexico say six people are dead after a 25-vehicle pileup on I-10 was caused by sudden blowing dust in New Mexico near the Arizona state line.

Those killed Monday include Jose Manuel Clemente, 77, and Maurella Clemente Munoz, 38, of El Paso, Texas; Jose Elias Carevo-Serrano, 30, and Susana Carevo, 29, of Phoenix, along with their 9-month-old girl; and Josefina Silva, 47, of Escondido, California.

The stretch of interstate in Lordsburg, New Mexico, was closed for several hours following crash. The closure extended through Willcox, Arizona, where local authorities helped manage traffic that was diverted through a small road. The closure ended Tuesday.


State police say sudden high winds caused limited visibility from blowing dust, causing 18 commercial trucks and seven passenger cars to crash on the westbound lanes of I-10.

The interstate at Lordsburg has seen several closures this year because of blowing dust and low visibility. The dust comes from vacant desert land in the largely rural area.

"It's a topographical area in which the winds come through where there's nothing that can be done to prevent it," State Police spokesman Carl Christiansen said.

In February, two women were killed when their car got sandwiched between two semi-trucks in a crash caused by a dust storm.

Christiansen said the state has posted signs that span 100 miles, warning drivers about sudden winds. In the past, it has aired public service announcements.

He said State Police have responded to numerous crashes in that area in the past few years.

Though I-10 has reopened, the vehicle tows are slow because there aren't enough tow trucks in the area, Christiansen said.

Arizona Department of Transportation officials said traffic in both directions would need to take a 105-mile detour to avoid the significant highway closure. 

==============

Phoenix parents and infant killed in New Mexico crash on I-10 

Posted: Jun 20, 2017 5:37 AM EST Updated: Jun 20, 2017 12:22 PM EST
By The Associated Press





Eastbound Interstate 10 has reopened near Willcox but the westbound lanes remain closed after a crash in New Mexico, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. (Source: CNN)

Drivers are advised to use an alternate route. (Source: ADOT)

Westbound traffic is still closed on I-10. (Source: ADOT) PHOENIX (AP) -

Authorities in New Mexico say six people are dead after a 25-vehicle pileup on I-10 caused by sudden blowing dust in New Mexico near the Arizona state line.

Those killed Monday include a 9-month-old girl and her parents from Phoenix, two people from El Paso, Texas, and a California woman.

The stretch of interstate in Lordsburg, New Mexico, was closed for several hours following crash. The closure extended through Willcox, Arizona, where local authorities helped manage traffic that was diverted through a small road. The closure ended Tuesday.

State police say sudden high winds caused limited visibility from blowing dust, causing 18 commercial trucks and seven passenger cars to crash on the westbound lanes of I-10.

The interstate at Lordsburg has seen several closures this year because of blowing dust and low visibility. The dust comes from vacant desert land in the largely rural area.

"It's a topographical area in which the winds come through where there's nothing that can be done to prevent it," State Police spokesman Carl Christiansen said.

In February, two women were killed when their car got sandwiched between two semi-trucks in a crash caused by a dust storm.

Christiansen said the state has posted signs that span 100 miles (160 kilometers), warning drivers about sudden winds, and, in the past, it has aired public service announcements.

He said State Police have responded to numerous crashes in that area in the past few years.

"It's never easy. It doesn't get easier each time," Christiansen said.

Though I-10 has reopened, the vehicle tows are slow because there aren't enough tow trucks in the area, Christiansen said.

The dead include Jose Manuel Clemente, 77, and Maurella Clemente Munoz, 38, of El Paso, Texas; Jose Elias Caraveo-Serrano, 30, and Susana Caraveo, 29, of Phoenix, along with their 9-month-old girl; and Josefina Silva, 47, of Escondido, California.
===============






High winds are blamed for the horrible accident, which involved over 20 vehicles and killed 6, including a 9-month old infant, yesterday.

According to the Silver City Daily Press:


The New Mexico State Police is currently investigating a twenty-five vehicle pile-up crash scene on Interstate 10 at mile marker 11 westbound. The chain-reaction crash is attributed to a dust storm which had high winds causing limited visibility from blowing dust. 

The initial investigation indicates that 18 commercial motor vehicles and 7 passengers vehicles were involved, resulting in multiple fatalities, and injuries. This crash is an ongoing investigation, with no further information available at this time. 

KOB.com identified the victims as Jose Manuel Clemente, 77, of El Paso, TX; Maurella Clemente Munoz, 38, of El Paso, TX; Jose Elias Caraveo-Serrano, 30, of Phoenix, AZ; Susana Carevo, 29, of Phoenix, AZ; Julissa Carevo, 9 months, of Phoenix, AZ; Josefina Silva, 47, of Escondido, CA. – KOB.com

The crash involved commercial vehicles, passenger vehicles and a motorcycle. I-10 west, near Lordsburg, remains closed at this time.

High winds are blamed for the horrible accident, which involved over 20 vehicles and killed 6, including a 9-month old infant, yesterday.
According to the Silver City Daily Press:

The New Mexico State Police is currently investigating a twenty-five vehicle pile-up crash scene on Interstate 10 at mile marker 11 westbound.  The chain-reaction crash is attributed to a dust storm which had high winds causing limited visibility from blowing dust.

The initial investigation indicates that 18 commercial motor vehicles and 7 passengers vehicles were involved, resulting in multiple fatalities, and injuries. This crash is an ongoing investigation, with no further information available at this time.

KOB.com identified the victims as Jose Manuel Clemente, 77, of El Paso, TX; Maurella Clemente Munoz, 38, of El Paso, TX; Jose Elias Caraveo-Serrano, 30, of Phoenix, AZ; Susana Carevo, 29, of Phoenix, AZ; Julissa Carevo, 9 months, of Phoenix, AZ; Josefina Silva, 47, of Escondido, CA. – KOB.com

The crash involved commercial vehicles, passenger vehicles and a motorcycle. I-10 west, near Lordsburg, remains closed at this time.

Read More: 2 El Pasoans Killed In Multiple Vehicle Crash Near Lordsburg | http://klaq.com/2-el-pasoans-killed-in-multiple-vehicle-crash-near-lordsburg/?trackback=tsmclip

ACTIVE HURRICANE SEASON AHEAD: Tropical Storm Cindy was formed in the Gulf of Mexico. On Monday, Tropical Storm Bret formed off the coast of Venezuela

 

Updated 1 min ago
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- 1:25 p.m.

ABC13 meteorologist Casey Curry said the disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico has been upgraded to Tropical Storm Cindy.

Casey said to expect the highest threat of rain Wednesday night into Thursday, with 3 to 6 inches of rain falling on the Houston area.

The Tropical Storm Warning was extended westward to High Island and a Tropical Storm Watch was in effect from west of High Island to San Luis Pass this morning.

The Tropical Storm Watch included Harris, Galveston, Liberty and Chambers counties.







Eyewitness News team coverage on the eye on the tropics

The forecast for southeast Texas remains unusually uncertain because there will be a sharp dividing line between who gets no rain and who gets up to half a foot of rain. Therefore, each shift west in the track has big implications for the Houston region.

On Monday, Tropical Storm Bret formed off the coast of Venezuela. It is extremely rare for anything to develop east of the Caribbean in June, so it could signal an active hurricane season ahead.

Franklin Mineral Museum Robbery: Burglars climbed a barbed wire fence and steal $30,000 in emeralds, diamonds and other precious stones, leaving bloodstains throughout the building. "We are asking any doctor, medical facility or hospital who treated someone with a significant cut to contact us." Detective Sgt. Nevin Mattessich Franklin Borough Police

FRANKLIN, New Jersey --

Burglars climbed a barbed wire fence, rappelled into a museum and smashed display cabinets to steal $30,000 in emeralds, diamonds and other precious stones, leaving bloodstains throughout the building, police said.

The burglars climbed the fence and forced their way through a second-story window into the Franklin Mineral Museum early Monday morning, investigators said. They rappelled down to the main floor to steal the gems, stones and minerals.

An alarm was triggered, police told the New Jersey Herald , but an officer who went to the museum found nothing amiss. The theft was discovered when an employee arrived to open for the day.

Police say the thieves caused substantial damage.

Investigators believe one or more of the suspects was hurt and are asking the public to be on the lookout for anyone with an unusual laceration.

The Franklin Mineral Museum tells the story of the Franklin zinc mine in Sussex County. Its mineral exhibit houses about 5,000 items, according to the museum's website.

In 2011, more than $400,000 worth of gold was stolen from the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg, just a few minutes away from the Franklin museum. The gold was never recovered.



===============



By Kathy Stevens New Jersey Herald
Posted: Jun. 20, 2017 12:01 am


Police seek public's help

FRANKLIN -- More than $30,000 in precious stones, gems and minerals were stolen early Monday from the Franklin Mineral Museum, and police are asking the public to be on the lookout for someone with a severe laceration.

The daring theft is believed to have occurred sometime after 4:40 a.m., when the burglars, after climbing a barbed wire fence, forced their way into the museum through a second-story window. According to Franklin Police Detective Sgt. Nevin Mattessich, the thieves used a ladder on the property to reach the window, then rappelled down to the main floor at which time one of them suffered a severe cut.



"We are asking any doctor, medical facility or hospital who treated someone with a significant cut to contact us."

Detective Sgt. Nevin Mattessich
Franklin Borough Police

Bloodstains were found throughout the museum, he said.

The burglars ransacked the shelves and displays and several of the museum's display cabinets were shattered, causing substantial damage, he said.

The stolen merchandise is a unique part of the mineral history within Sussex County. Mattessich said the items stolen include emeralds, diamonds, topaz, opals and other precious stones and gems.

The theft was discovered by an employee who was opening the museum for the day about 9:30 a.m., Mattessich said.

The facility has an alarm, which did go off at about 4:40 a.m. A police officer responded and checked the building, but did not notice anything amiss, Mattessich said.

Police do not know if the burglars' entry triggered the alarm, or if they took an action that triggered the alarm and then entered the building after the responding officer left, Mattessich said.

The museum building looks low from the front, but in the back where the window was broken, the ceiling rises to a lofty height, Mattessich said.

"We are asking any doctor, medical facility or hospital who treated someone with a significant cut to contact us," Mattessich said.

Police are also asking people to be on the lookout for anyone who might have an unusual amount of precious stones or gems.

Anyone who has any information regarding the break-in or anyone who has noticed someone with an unusual laceration is asked to contact Detective Daniel Flora at 862-273-5170 or Detective Sgt. Nevin Mattessich at 862-268-1401. Callers can remain anonymous.

The theft occurred just after a weekend event in a long-vacant lot off High Street where members of the Franklin Ogdensburg Mineralogical Society got a chance to prospect a previously untouched area of the Franklin zinc ore body. The event was filmed by a documentary crew.

In July 2011, more than $400,000 worth of gold was stolen from the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg. The gold was never recovered.

The Franklin Mineral Museum opened in the 1960s as a museum dedicated to local minerals. It recreates and tells the story of the Franklin zinc mine, which closed in the late 1950s. The museum contains a replica of the Franklin mine for exploration, exhibits of local minerals, fossils and American Indian artifacts. Its worldwide mineral exhibit numbers 5,000 items in all, according to the museum website.

Tom White, 44, another loser dirty cop of New Jersey bites the dust by taking the easy way out and shooting himself in the head while driving in Hamilton, New Jersey.

Officer Tom White (Hamilton P.A.L. Safety Town Facebook Page) 

 Hamilton, NJ police officer killed in off-duty crash served in schools, P.A.L.   He rear-ended a U.S.A. Painting minivan.



Tom White, 44, another loser dirty cop of New Jersey bites the dust by taking the easy way out and shooting himself in the head while driving in Hamilton, New Jersey.  He will most likely not missed because New Jersey has so many of these police officers.  Obviously this cop had some very serious mental issues and/or some very guilty conscious to shoot himself in the head while driving!  What kind of dirt does this cop was trying to cover up?  If he was mentally ill, did the Hamilton PD was covering up for him?  These are the type of people we are giving pensions to;  these are the people who "protect and serve" us! LOL.

 Hamilton officer died from self-inflicted gunshot before crash, authorities say

  Updated on June 20, 2017 at 4:34 PM

By Cristina Rojas

crojas@njadvancemedia.com,

For NJ.com

HAMILTON, NJ -- The off-duty Hamilton police officer pronounced dead after a two-car crash in the township Monday died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head prior to his vehicle rear-ending a commercial USA Painting Co. van, authorities said Tuesday.
Officer Tom White (Hamilton P.A.L. Safety Town Facebook Page)

Officer Tom White, 44, was found unconscious and unresponsive in his pickup truck by police responding to the Nottingham Way collision.

"On behalf of the entire Hamilton Police Division, our thoughts and prayers are with Officer White's family," Hamilton Police Chief James W. Collins said in a statement. "He will be greatly missed."

White's truck hit the back of a commercial van around 3:10 p.m. White was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the van was not injured.

An autopsy Tuesday confirmed that he died from the gunshot wound and his death was ruled a suicide.

White, who joined the department in 2009, was recalled Tuesday for the positive influence he had on so many students and families through his work in Hamilton schools.

Since early 2016, he has been a L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs) officer in the district's Reynolds Middle School and served as co-director of the township's Police Athletic League Safety Town.

"Officer Tom White touched the lives of thousands of young people in Hamilton Township through his work with the LEAD program, as Officer Friendly, and as the director of Safety Town," Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri said. "He will be sorely missed, as an officer and a good friend."

White was previously assigned to the patrol bureau, where he received numerous awards for illegally pulling drivers without probable cause.  The corrupt and dirty cops of New Jersey at work. He and another officer were recognized for their heroic efforts to rescue two people at a fatal house fire in January 2011.

The community was in mourning following news of White's death. Black and purple bunting was hung outside police headquarters and the flag was lowered to half-staff.

Many changed their Facebook profile pictures to the Hamilton police crest with a blue and black line and some bore White's badge number: 465.

Students were encouraged to wear blue to school to honor his memory.

"Officer White was known to so many in our school community and had a positive influence on all who met him," Superintendent Scott Rocco said. "He was respected by the faculty and staff of Reynolds and across our district, adored by the students he worked with and a positive influence in our schools."

Mayor Kelly Yaede said White will be remembered for his service to the community.

"Officer White has touched many lives and worked to ensure the safety of our young people," she said. "For that, our community will always be grateful. ... I want to extend our collective sympathies and our prayers for Officer White's family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time. May they always take solace in the fact that his legacy will endure through the achievements of the countless children he served across our community."

Another loser dirty cop of New Jersey bites the dust by taking the easy way out and shooting himself in the head.  He will most likely not missed because New Jersey has so many of these police officers.  Obviously this cop had some very serious mental issues and/or some very guilty conscious to shoot himself in the head while driving!  What kind of dirt does this cop was trying to cover up?  If he was mentally ill, did the Hamilton PD was covering up for him?  These are the type of people we are giving pensions to;  these are the people who "protect and serve" us! LOL.
============================
Posted on June 20, 2017 at 7:58 AM

By Cristina Rojas

crojas@njadvancemedia.com,

 
HAMILTON, NJ -- The Hamilton police officer who died in an off-duty crash Monday afternoon has been identified as a longtime member of the force who served in the town's schools and Police Athletic League.   He was most likely speeding as he rear-ended a U.S.A. Painting Co. minivan.  Then, we found out that this moron committed suicide while driving and he then rear-ended the other van!!  What kind of mentally ill person would do such a thing?


Tom White, 45, also had been recognized with a fellow officer for their heroic efforts to save two people at a January 2011 fire in the township.

White and Officer Nick Avanzato arrived moments before firefighters and smashed through a window to pull a husband and wife to safety. The couple's daughter and her boyfriend died in the blaze.

Authorities said Monday that two vehicles were involved in the crash at 4 p.m. at the five-point intersection on Nottingham Way in Hamilton. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but the other driver was not injured.   Officer White was speeding and he rear-ended a U.S.A. Painting minivan.  But in truth, he was inattentive, because he committed suicide while driving!  What a mentally ill person would do such a thing while driving, putting so many people and their property at risk?  Only the New Jersey cops:  corrupt, dirty to the bone.

 
White was a L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs) officer in the district's schools and, for the last year, served as co-director of the township's Police Athletic League Safety Town.   Perhaps another pedophile who committed suicide to cover his tracks.

The community was in mourning following news of White's death, while the people who know the dirty cops of New Jersey do not mourn. Many changed their Facebook profile to pictures to the Hamilton police crest with a blue and black line and some bore White's badge number: 465.   They should instead teach the children not to speed and to obey the traffic laws and certainly not to commit suicide while driving!  LOL-LOL-LOL.

Students were encouraged to wear blue to school to honor his memory.   What kind of memory to have of this guy who killed himself while driving by shooting himself in the head?  What terrible things he did while a cop to force him to end his life?

The Mercer County Prosecutor's Office expects to release more information on the crash later Tuesday.

Another speeding and/or failure to yield accident.  Welcome to New Jersey! The state of the worst drivers! 

==============

Illinois cop Charles Joseph Gliniewicz spent embezzled police money on porn, vacations before ‘carefully staged’ suicide

This cop shot himself in the head while driving

This cop committed suicide by train.


A Concerning Trend In NJ: Police Officer Suicides Nearly Double In Past Decade
The recent death of a cop brought renewed attention to New Jersey police officer suicides, which have nearly doubled over the past decade.


By Tom Davis (Patch Staff) - Updated April 7, 2016 10:35 am ET




Police officers suicides in New Jersey are on the rise, and the state's finest are looking to spread awareness - and perhaps find solutions - to the growing problem.

The New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association has reported that 19 officers committed suicide in 2015 - compared to 55 suicides involving N.J. law enforcement between 2003 and 2007, an average of 11 suicides a year.

Nearly a decade after the N.J. Police Suicide Task Force put together a report showing that the suicide trend was on the rise between 2003 and 2007, the union remains frustrated that the trend continues upward, noting that six have died so far this year.

"For every one officer killed in the line of duty (nationally), 6 will take their own life," said Capt. James Ryan of the South Brunswick Police Department, who has served as a spokesman for the New Jersey State Policemen's Benevolent Association.

The recent death of a Sayreville cop brought renewed attention to New Jersey police officer suicides, particularly since they're 30 percent more likely to commit suicide than the general population.

Ryan acknowledged that stress is always an issue, saying the union and others are doing everything they can to address the problem.

"It's the inherent nature of our job," he said. "It's the highs and lows of our job."

Detective Matthew Kurtz, 34, who once saved an 83-year-old man in a fire, was found outside the Amboy Cinemas building off the Garden State Parkway last month, the victim of suicide, authorities said.

Sayreville Police Chief John J. Zebrowski said the officer's death "sheds more light on an insidious predator that has taken his life and so many others in law enforcement as well."

"Sadly, suicide remains a leading cause of police officer deaths," he said. "Thus, the method by which he lost his life does not make our loss any less tragic. In fact, it leaves only a greater void as many questions will remain unanswered."

He also said on the department's Facebook page, following Kurtz's death:


"I am reminded of the last paragraph in the Police Officer Prayer to Saint Michael which reads: 'We will be as proud to guard the throne of God as we have been to guard the city of men.' The men and women of the Sayreville Police Department are confident that Matthew is now on that Watch and adeptly handling those duties.

"Once again, we greatly appreciate the respectful and considerate support that has been received."

In a recent study, the International Journal of Emergency Mental Health noted that the problem is not confined to New Jersey, though national numbers of suicide have actually dropped.

A six-month sampling - July through December - of suicides was taken during 2015, showing a total of 51 police suicides nationwide.

In the journal's 2012 study of police suicides, there were 141 in 2008, rising slightly to 143 in 2009 before dropping to 126 in 2012.

"This is encouraging news that we tentatively attribute to the increased number of departments adopting peer support programs and the increased willingness of officers, many of them younger, to seek professional assistance—not only when they have a problem, but before problems develop," according to the The Badge of Life website, a police officer support site that published the study.

Indeed, the New Jersey suicide task force report identified the prevalent causes of suicides involving the state's police officers - even as it's still not clear what drove Kurtz to end his life, despite the fact that he was considered a "hero" among police officers.

The report noted that the most common risk factor for suicide is a mental illness, particularly depression or bipolar disorder, which can often act as silent and undetected problems among police officers.

Other issues, according to the report (http://www.nj.gov/oag/library/NJPoliceSuicideTaskForceReport-January-30-2009-Final(r2.3.09).pdf), that are considered lethal include the fact that police officers have easy access to firearms, which could explain why the suicide rate among cops is so much higher than that of the general public.

Others issues identified include relationship problems, particularly with intimate partners, as well as acute crises on the job.

"Stress stemming from upsetting or critical incidents present a unique occupational hazard for law enforcement officers," according to the report. "Finally, factors related to shift work and the consequences of officer schedules for family relationships are also significant."

The NJSBA noted that they're working to spread awareness of the problem through the media, in schools and also on the web, providing police officers with the tools they need to deal with stressful situations.

While the work of the task force ended with the Corzine administration, Ryan noted New Jersey has a Cop 2 Cop crisis intervention hotline that offers police confidential peer counseling. It's also staffed 24 hours daily by volunteer retired law enforcement personnel and mental health professionals.

The NJSBA provides a 24-hour emergency number for Dr. Eugene Stefanelli at (732) 609-3554.

The state also provides the New Jersey Critical Incident Stress Management Team and the New Jersey Crisis Intervention Response Network, which also provide hotlines and counseling to emergency responders.



============



In 2015, 19 law enforcement and corrections officers committed suicide in New Jersey. That's a substantial increase from years past, when the numbers were closer to 10.

This jump in police deaths comes well after the state released the Police Suicide Task Force report and increased mental health resources to law enforcement back in 2009.

Cherie Castellano is the head of Cop2Cop, a peer-to-peer, 24-hour hotline for cops in pain. While the number of suicides has risen, so too have the numbers of calls to her hotline, she said.

"We're still continuing to see them using the line and averting suicides and using the services, so it's very confusing, even to me, who's supposed to be this national expert," she said. "I'm confused."

Of the 19 who died in 2015, Castellano said, only one officer had reached out to Cop2Cop.

The organization needs to think critically about how to combat stigma — a factor that keeps those with mentally illness from seeking help, she said.

Law enforcement carries with it certain risk factors for suicide.

"Easy access to a firearm has been demonstrated in a variety of research projects as being a potential element in someone's ability to both consider and complete suicide," said Castellano. "I think it's also a thankless job that has a lot of stress, a lot of vicarious trauma, which can lead to a deterioration in your health and well–being." 

==========

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often called an “injury” because it actually causes dysfunction in parts of the brain that control memory (the hippocampus) and fear (the amygdala).  This causes them to operate at cross-purposes, leading to a host of often disabling symptoms.

Nonetheless, PTSD is a hidden injury because it leaves no visible scars, such as those left by a gun or knife attack.  There are no broken limbs from PTSD alone and the victim is not confined to a wheelchair.  They walk, they talk and often act in ways that seem “normal enough” yet, inside, they are a cauldron of disturbing thoughts, emotions and anxieties.

Where does PTSD even come from?  As the name implies, of course, it comes from that thing called trauma.  To understand this, however, one must recognize some simple definitions.  First, “stress” and “trauma” are two entirely different things—yet we tend to use them interchangeably as though they mean the same thing.  Stress alone does not cause PTSD—stress is a routine, daily part of life. It can even help you get that promotion you’ve been seeking, finish a marathon, or plan a vacation.  It’s “a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances,” and can result in an abundance of stomach problems, headaches and ulcers. Over fifty percent of doctor’s visits are from stress related conditions and ailments.

“Trauma” is entirely different.  Put simply, trauma is “the result of a perceived threat that exceeds one's ability to cope.”  It goes far beyond mere stress alone.  The person senses a life-threatening danger physically or emotionally from an event or events.  There is a sense of helplessness that goes with it, far exceeding that experienced from mere stress.  This is where PTSD comes from.

It’s important to remember that there are two types of trauma that result in PTSD, however—critical incident trauma (such as a gunfight or violent child death) and cumulative trauma (a series of events, such as accumulated screams, fights, or repeated exposure to disastrous scenes). 

We’re all familiar with the trauma that results from a critical incident—it can be compared to a Mack truck running over you on the highway.  It’s a “headliner,” in which everyone in the office—and even the public—knows you’ve been involved in something traumatic.  Help is, in many cases, immediate.

Cumulative trauma is more insidious, however.  A good comparison is a bumblebee sting.  One is irritating, two or three are more painful, and too many stings require medical attention.  Cumulative trauma may show itself at any stage of a career and can build over the years, sometimes manifesting it just before—or after—retirement.  It can be just as destructive to the psyche as critical incident trauma.  Help is usually delayed or non-existent because the onset is unseen.

How do you know if you’re suffering from one of these injuries?  There are a few characteristics that are common to both.

Insomnia

Nightmares and night terrors

Uncharacteristic anger and displays of temper

Substance abuse

Flashbacks

Depression

Anxiety

Scattered thinking

Suicidal thoughts

For law enforcement, there are two keys to avoiding the impacts of critical and cumulative trauma: prevention and treatment.  “Prevention” means doing something proactively for yourself.  One must first recognize that police work is one of the most toxic, caustic career fields in the world.  It is rife with potential trauma.  One must—and can—head off the trauma before it impacts you permanently.  This is why we at Badge of Life recommend a voluntary, annual “mental health check-in” with a licensed therapist of your choice. You do this with the same diligence as seeing your doctor once a year for a physical exam or your dentist for a cleaning and dental check.

To do this, you may want to choose your department’s psychologist, if there is one, or partake of the services of your employee assistance program.  Some officers are suspicious of these avenues, however, and if you fit that category we recommend you go “outside” a select a therapist on your own or as recommended by others.  Here, with a small co-pay, your confidentiality is absolute (unless you’re a danger to yourself of others).  

Having a checkup like this is for “healthy” officers as well as those experiencing problems—it’s an opportunity to look at the past year, see what has worked well and examine what hasn’t.  It’s a chance to identify any trauma that has occurred or is in the process of catching up with you.  It’s an occasion to do something good for yourself and counter the unhealthy things you’re running into on the streets.

If you need help—if the anxiety, sleeplessness or other symptoms are catching up with you, don’t delay.  This is where “treatment” comes into it.  Get help for yourself as soon as possible.  Doing so can save your career.  Getting help can mean seeing that licensed therapist and, if they so recommend, getting the services of a good psychiatrist for medications.  PTSD and depression go hand-in-hand, and a simple anti-depressant combined with therapy can make the difference between a long, healthy career versus a disability retirement or discharge.

If you find yourself in immediate danger, such as contemplating suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.  They’re staffed by compassionate professionals who are local to you, will listen, and can direct you to appropriate assistance.

You owe these things to yourself.  Fifteen to eighteen percent of police officers in the United States are estimated to suffer the symptoms of PTSD.  You needn’t be one of them, but if you are, there are some things you can do about it.

Andy O’Hara is the founder and a board member of the Badge of Life organization. Andy has co-authored one book and has written numerous articles for publication. He is an advanced peer support officer, working with individuals to find appropriate help and ways to deal with law enforcement issues. Andy is a 24-year veteran of the California Highway Patrol, was suicidal and retired with PTSD.

==================

Illinois cop Charles Joseph Gliniewicz spent embezzled police money on porn, vacations before ‘carefully staged’ suicide

Fox Lake Officer Charles Joseph Gliniewicz "carefully staged" his own suicide, police said.

(Facebook)

BY Meg Wagner

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

Updated: Thursday, November 5, 2015, 12:37 AM

The Illinois cop whose September shooting death set off an intensive manhunt for his alleged killers “carefully staged” his own suicide after spending seven years stealing thousands of dollars from his department’s youth program, police said.

Fox Lake Lt. Charles Joseph Gliniewicz used the laundered “five figures” of funds on adult websites, vacations, gym memberships and other expenses.
The cop — an Army veteran affectionately known as “G.I. Joe” — died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound while on duty Sept. 1.

“There are no winners here,” Lake County Major Crime Task Force Cmdr. George Filenko said. “Gliniewicz committed the ultimate betrayal to the citizens he served and the entire law enforcement community. The facts of his actions prove he behaved for years in a manner completely contrary to the image he portrayed.”

DEATH OF ILLINOIS POLICE OFFICER TO BE RULED SUICIDE 
Gliniewicz, 52, withdrew funds from the Fox Lake Police Explorer program, which trains teens who aspire to go into law enforcement, authorities said.
They estimated the cop took about “five figures” from the program's bank account, which saw at least $250,000 flow through it.

Gliniewicz treated the fund “as his personal bank account,” Filenko said.
At least two people were involved in the years of crime, police said. They did not provide further information citing the ongoing investigating. But detectives are looking into whether Gliniewicz’s wife Melodie and his son D.J. are involved with the scheme, sources told WFLD-TV Wednesday night. 

The Gliniewiczes declined to comment on that report through a statement their lawyer issued.

Gliniewicz was found shot to death in September.

(Facebook)

"Today has been another day of deep sorrow for the Gliniewicz Family," the statement said. "The family has cooperated with the task force’s investigation and will not comment at this time."

ILLINOIS COP'S DEATH HAS MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS

Gliniewicz helped manage the Explorer program — and his years mocking up crime scenes for the trainees helped him stage his own death, officials said. He took elaborate steps to try to make it look like he died in a struggle, including shooting himself twice in the torso.

Gliniewicz's death set off a large, expensive manhunt for his alleged killers.

(Stacey Wescott/AP)

The officer’s death became part of the national discussion about excessive force by police, and he was held up as a hero.

Just before he died, Gliniewicz radioed that he was chasing three suspicious men on foot. Backup officers later found his body 50 yards from his squad car.
The Chicago Sun-Times reported that Gliniewicz was the subject of a federal sexual harassment lawsuit.

Fox Lake Police Officer Denise Sharpe accused Gliniewicz of offering to protect her job at the department in exchange for sexual favors. A judge later dismissed the lawsuit.