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< Back Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Hires Five New Officers Previous Next Sheriff Michael F. Strada is pleased to announce the hiring of five new Sheriff’s Officers in the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement. At a ceremony held at the Sheriff’s Emergency Operations Center earlier this week, Sheriff Strada administered the Oath of Office to the following new Sheriff’s Officers. Brian Gallagher A lifelong resident of Sussex County and a 2011 graduate of Wallkill Valley Regional High School, Sheriff’s Officer Gallagher attended both Sussex County Community College and Stockton University where he majored in Criminal Justice. An eight year veteran of the New Jersey Army National Guard where he continues to serve as a Combat Engineer, Officer Gallagher is also a graduate of the 96th Morris County Police Academy Basic Police Class and holds a Baccalaureate degree from Stockton University in Criminal Justice. Following a brief period of field training instruction, Officer Gallagher will be assigned to the Courthouse Security and Prisoner Transport Unit. Jesse Bambrick A 2008 graduate of Kittatinny Regional High School, Sheriff’s Officer Bambrick holds an Associates of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice from Sussex County Community College where he graduated from in 2011. A nine year veteran of the New Jersey Army National Guard where he continues to serve as a team leader of an Infantry Squad, Officer Bambrick is also a graduate of the 96th Morris County Police Academy Basic Police Class. While attending the Police Academy, Officer Bambrick placed 2nd in Marksmanship amongst his fellow recruits. Following a brief period of field training instruction, Officer Bambrick will be assigned to the Courthouse Security and Prisoner Transport Unit. Khanai Powell A lifelong resident of Sussex County and a 2014 graduate of the Sussex County Technical School, Sheriff’s Officer Powell attended Montclair University where he studied with a major concentration in Psychology and a minor concentration in Criminal Justice, ultimately earning a Baccalaureate Degree. A New Jersey Army National Guard veteran, Office Powell is also a graduate of the 96th Morris County Police Academy Basic Police Class. While attending the Police Academy, Officer Powell received the Physical Training Award for demonstrating athletic excellence amongst his peers. Following a brief period of field training instruction, Officer Powell will be assigned to the Courthouse Security and Prisoner Transport Unit. Mark Bollmann A 2012 graduate of the Sussex County Technical School, Sheriff’s Officer Bollmann also studied at Sussex County Community College. A nine year veteran of the New Jersey Army National Guard where he continues to serve as a Combat Engineer, Officer Bollmann is also a graduate of the 96th Morris County Police Academy Basic Police Class. Following a brief period of field training instruction, Officer Bollmann will be assigned to the Courthouse Security and Prisoner Transport Unit. Justin Bellis A lifelong resident of Sussex County and a 2011 graduate of High Point Regional High School, Sheriff’s Officer Bellis also studied at Sussex County Community College. A 10 year veteran of the Frankford Township Volunteer Fire Department where he continues to serve as a Firefighter, Officer Bellis has also previously served as a 911 Operator and Emergency Dispatcher in the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center. Officer Bellis is also a graduate of the 96th Morris County Police Academy Basic Police Class. Following a brief period of field training instruction, Officer Bellis will be assigned to the Courthouse Security and Prisoner Transport Unit. Immediately following swearing in the new hires, Sheriff Strada congratulated each of them, welcomed them all to the agency, and wished them success in their careers. Pictured left to right: Sheriff’s Officer Powell, Sheriff’s Officer Bellis, Sheriff Strada, Sheriff’s Officer Bambrick, Sheriff’s Officer Bollmann, Sheriff’s Officer Gallagher

< Back Crimestoppers is Offering a $500 Reward for Information that Leads to the Arrest of Individual(s) Responsible for the Abandonment of Multiple Dogs - Incidents Under Investigation in Sussex County Previous Next Press Release Contact: Sheriff Michael F. Strada For Immediate Release 973-579-0850 Crimestoppers is Offering a $500 Reward for Information that Leads to the Arrest of Individual(s) Responsible for the Abandonment of Multiple Dogs - Incidents Under Investigation in Sussex County Sussex County, NJ — The New Jersey State Police are currently investigating multiple incidents involving the abandonment of dogs in three separate locations throughout the county. On Monday, March 16, 2026 multiple dogs were abandoned in Stillwater , Lafayette , and Wantage . Authorities have confirmed that the animals involved are small breed dogs that were left behind under concerning circumstances. While some dogs have been located, rescue efforts are currently ongoing and officials are working diligently to ensure the safety, care, and proper placement of the animals. “These acts of abandonment are not only cruel but also illegal,” said Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada. “Law enforcement is committed to identifying those responsible and holding them accountable.” The Sussex County Sheriff’s Crimestoppers program is offering a $500 reward for information that leads to the arrest of the individual(s) responsible for these incidents. Anyone with information is urged to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling 973-300-CRIME (2746) or by visiting www.sussexcountysheriff.com to complete a Crimestoppers tip form. All tipsters will remain anonymous. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Sussex County Sheriff’s Office – 39 High Street, Newton, New Jersey 07860 973-579-0850

Four staff members from the Bureau of Corrections were recently promoted. < Back Sheriff Strada announces promotions Four staff members from the Bureau of Corrections were recently promoted. Previous Next Sheriff Michael F. Strada is pleased to announce the following promotions within the Bureau of Corrections: Sheriff’s Corrections Sergeant Chris Lynch has been promoted to interim lieutenant. A 12-year veteran of the Bureau of Corrections, Lt. Lynch began his law enforcement career as a corrections officer at the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility in 1999. He was promoted to sergeant in 2008 and was assigned to supervise the 3:00 to 11:00 p.m. shift before being transferred to oversee the Records and Classification sections. Lt. Lynch is graduate of the Passaic County Police Academy Basic Corrections Class and holds an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Sussex County Community College. Sheriff’s Corrections Officer Kelly Mizerek has been promoted to sergeant. A 10-year veteran of the Bureau of Corrections, Sgt. Mizerek began her career as a corrections officer at the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility in 2001. Sgt. Mizerek is a graduate of the Passaic County Police Academy Basic Corrections Class and holds an associate’s degree in criminal justice from the County College of Morris. She is currently assigned to supervise the 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. shift. Sheriff’s Corrections Officer Bennett Milnor has been promoted to sergeant. An 8-year veteran of the Bureau of Corrections, Sgt. Milnor began his career as a corrections officer at the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility in 2003. Since 2009, Sgt. Milnor has been supervised the work activities of inmates assigned to the Sheriff’s Work Assistance Program (SWAP) . Sgt. Milnor attended the Passaic County Police Academy Basic Corrections Class where he graduated in the top five of his class overall. He is currently assigned to supervise the 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. shift. Sheriff’s Corrections Officer Andrew Boden has been promoted to interim sergeant. A 14-year veteran of the Bureau of Corrections, Sgt. Boden began his career as a corrections officer at the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility in 1998. He is a former member of both the Sheriff’s Operations Group and the Sussex County Hazardous Materials Team (HAZMAT). Sgt. Boden, a certified hazardous materials technician, was deployed to Louisiana in 2005 as part of Operation LEAD (Louisiana Emergency Assistance Deployment), New Jersey’s statewide response to assist in the clean up of areas affected by Hurricane Katrina. Sgt. Boden is a graduate of the Passaic County Police Academy Basic Corrections Class. He is currently assigned to supervise the 3:00 to 11:00 p.m. shift. Sheriff Strada congratulates each of the recently promoted personnel and wishes them all continued success in their careers.

< Back SCSO K9 TEAM GRADUATES NJSP ACADEMY Previous Next Sheriff Michael F. Strada is pleased to announce the graduation of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office’s newest K-9 Team from the New Jersey State Police Canine Academy 38th Narcotics Scent Class. Sheriff’s Detective Michael Scott and K-9 “Ace” recently successfully completed an intensive 14-week training course in narcotics detection. Detective Scott is a 7 year veteran of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office and K-9 Ace is a 1 year old German Shepherd Dog. During their training, over approximately 450 hours, the K-9 team executed over 300 narcotics searches in various conditions and at numerous locations. Detective Scott and K-9 Ace are scheduled to begin the New Jersey State Police Canine Academy Patrol Class for tracking in September. The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit currently consists of three K-9 teams. Two narcotics detection teams and one tracking/trailing team. Sheriff Strada congratulates Detective Scott and Ace and wishes them great success in their careers. Said Sheriff Strada, “We are pleased to present the services of this great team and our other K-9 teams to the law enforcement agencies and citizens of Sussex County. I know they will prove to be a tremendous asset.”

Sergeant Erich Olsen was honored for his heroic actions. < Back Sheriff’s officer receives the Meritorious Service Award Sergeant Erich Olsen was honored for his heroic actions. Previous Next Sheriff Michael F. Strada was proud to present Sergeant Erich Olsen with the Meritorious Service Award for his heroic actions in coming to the aid of an individual who became trapped in his own burning vehicle beneath the trailer of a truck on Interstate Route 80. Working with bystanders, Sergeant Olsen worked to extinguish the flames and pull the vehicle from beneath the trailer enough to be able to extricate the driver. Sergeant Olsen procured additional fire extinguishers from passing motorists and used them to prevent the flames from engulfing the driver seat area. The driver was transported to a medical facility with serious life-threatening injuries. His actions, under adverse conditions with a high degree of hazard to his own personal safety, prevented the victim from suffering certain death at the scene and provided the best opportunity in surviving the serious injuries inflicted as a result of the accident. Sheriff Strada states, “Sergeant Olsen’s actions were heroic and contributed to saving the man’s life. He brings great credit to this agency and the law enforcement profession as a whole.” Sergeant Erich Olsen (left) and Sheriff Strada.

The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Crimestoppers Organization held its annual Spring Fundraiser Dinner on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the beautiful Farmstead Golf & Country Club. < Back Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Crimestoppers Organization held its annual Spring Fundraiser Dinner The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Crimestoppers Organization held its annual Spring Fundraiser Dinner on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the beautiful Farmstead Golf & Country Club. Previous Next May 7, 2026 Press Release Contact: Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada For Immediate Release 973-579-0850 The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Crimestoppers Organization held its annual Spring Fundraiser Dinner on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the beautiful Farmstead Golf & Country Club. Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada served as the emcee for the evening and addressed attendees regarding the continued success of the Crimestoppers program. Sheriff Strada discussed the numerous tips received throughout 2025 and how those tips have directly assisted law enforcement agencies in solving crimes and protecting the residents of Sussex County. He also thanked the many sponsors, supporters, attendees, and the dedicated Crimestoppers Commissioners for their continued hard work and commitment. Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Chief of Staff Hilary Manser addressed the attendees regarding the recent “Dog Abandonment” investigation involving approximately 50 dogs that were abandoned in four separate locations throughout Sussex County. She emphasized the critical role that the Crimestoppers program played in the investigation. She explained how one anonymous tip can truly make a difference. Sheriff Strada also presented awards recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Crimestoppers organization. Awards were presented to Sabine Watson, Dawn Flanders, Craig Thompson, and Jeffrey Parrott for their dedication, leadership, and continued support of our Crimestoppers Organization. “The success of Crimestoppers is directly tied to the support of our community,” Sheriff Strada stated. “Every anonymous tip has the potential to save lives, solve crimes, and make Sussex County a safer place for everyone. We are extremely grateful for the continued support from our residents, businesses, and community partners.” The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Crimestoppers Organization will pay up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and indictment of criminals. All tips remain completely anonymous, and tipsters are never asked to provide their name. Anyone wishing to provide information may call 973-300-CRIME (2746) or visit www.sussexcountysheriff.com to submit an anonymous tip online. Photo Credit Jennifer Dericks - TAPinto

Overview The Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility (KDCF) was opened in 1978. It was named in honor of Walter Keogh-Dwyer, a long-time Sussex County resident who served as a state assemblyman, freeholder and mayor of Vernon Township. The facility is used as the operations and command center for the Bureau of Corrections staff, who are responsible for supervising inmates during transports for admission to the Morris County Correctional Facility, court hearings and medical appointments. KDCF is a full-spectrum 24-hour operation professionally and efficiently operated by sworn corrections officers and administrative staff. The KDCF has consistently maintained compliance with the standards prescribed by the state for adult county correctional facilities.

Bureau of Corrections The Bureau of Corrections is responsible for the care, custody and control of all inmates who have been committed to incarceration on Sussex County matters. The Bureau of Corrections has maintained compliance with the standards prescribed by the state for adult county correctional facilities. In the fall of 2019, Sussex County and Morris County entered into a shared service agreement allowing for all Sussex County inmates to be housed at the Morris County Correctional Facility. The Sussex County Bureau of Corrections personnel supervise inmates during transports for admission at the Morris County Correctional Facility, court hearings and medical appointments. The Bureau of Corrections also oversees the SLAP Program, available to certain persons sentenced to a term of imprisonment in which the beneficiaries are local nonprofit organizations and government agencies. The Sheriff’s Labor Assistance Program (SLAP) provides a safe alternative to incarceration for individuals sentenced for non-violent offenses. In lieu of serving time in jail, SLAP program participants perform a wide range of community service throughout Sussex County under the supervision of sheriff’s officers on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Sergeant Krista Galante was named the 2018 New Jersey JSMART (Judicial Security Management Response Team) Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. < Back Sergeant named Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Sergeant Krista Galante was named the 2018 New Jersey JSMART (Judicial Security Management Response Team) Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Previous Next Recently, Sergeant Krista Galante was named the 2018 New Jersey JSMART (Judicial Security Management Response Team) Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. JSMART is a cooperative effort between the 21 sheriff’s offices of New Jersey, the United States Marshals Service, the New Jersey State Police, and the Court & Judicial Security Unit of the state judiciary which is responsible for the provision of a statewide task force to protect the judiciary and the maintenance of a statewide protective intelligence database. Sgt. Galante has been with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office since 2003, serving in both the Bureau of Corrections and the Bureau of Law Enforcement. Since JSMART’s inception in 2015, Sgt. Galante has been a core committee member, ultimately being named JSMART statewide communications coordinator in 2017, a role in which she still currently serves. Sheriff Strada congratulates Sgt. Galante on her well deserved recognition and wishes her continued success in her career. Sgt. Krista Galante pictured with Robin Morante, State of NJ Superior Court Chief of Court & Judicial Security.

Join the race against crime on September 17, 2016 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. < Back Crime Stoppers 5K/12K Run to be held September 17 Join the race against crime on September 17, 2016 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. Previous Next Sussex County Sheriff’s Crime Stoppers 5K/12K Saturday, September 17, 2016 Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, NJ Race Start Time: 9:30 a.m. Join hundreds of runner/walkers and supporters in the race against crime at the Sussex County Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 17, 2016. Pre-register by September 10 , and the fee is $27 for either the 5K Run/Walk or 12K Run. After September 10 through race day, the fee is $30 for either race. Goody bags will be provided to all 5K and 12K runners/walkers while supplies last. Awards will be given to the top three male and female winners overall, the top three teams and by age groups. Enjoy food, drinks and entertainment after the event. Race proceeds will benefit the Sussex County Sheriff’s Crime Stoppers, a nonprofit corporation funded by contributions from local businesses and citizens at no cost to the taxpayer. Individuals who have information relating to a crime or criminal activity in the Sussex County, New Jersey area can receive up to a $1,000.00 cash reward for information leading to the arrest and indictment of criminals. Tips may be submitted anonymously via the Crime Stoppers hotline at 973.300.CRIME or online anonymous tip form . Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Thorlabs as well as our other participating sponsors. Have questions or need more information about the event? Contact Hilary Manser at 973.579.0850, ext. 2114.

Arrested: Alfred E. Bremel, age 18, of Wantage, NJ. < Back Motor vehicle stop in Frankford results in passenger’s arrest for drugs Arrested: Alfred E. Bremel, age 18, of Wantage, NJ. Previous Next On Saturday, December 28, 2013, while assigned to countywide DWI enforcement as part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” statewide campaign, Sheriff’s Officer Scott Haggerty observed a silver colored Dodge sedan failing to maintain its lane while traveling along Haggerty Road in Frankford Township. Officer Haggerty pulled the vehicle over and approached to speak with the driver. Upon speaking with the driver, Officer Haggerty immediately detected the obvious odor of marijuana from within the vehicle. Further investigation revealed one of the vehicle’s passengers, Alfred E. Bremel, to be in possession of a quantity of marijuana. Additionally, Bremel claimed ownership of a quantity of alcohol which was also in the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was issued a summons for failure to maintain lane and Bremel was arrested, transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office for processing, and subsequently released. Alfred E. Bremel was charged with the following offenses: possession of alcohol under the legal age, possession of marijuana in an amount less than 50 grams and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bremel was given a future court date to appear in Frankford Township Municipal Court. Sheriff’s Officer Warren Slahor assisted in the arrest.

About Administration Under the leadership of Sheriff Michael Strada, the sheriff’s office provides numerous services to the citizens and local police agencies of Sussex County. Professional Standards It is the policy of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office to accept and investigate all complaints of alleged officer misconduct or wrongdoing from any citizen or agency employee. Bureau of Corrections The Bureau of Corrections is responsible for the custody and care of incarcerated persons. Bureau of Law Enforcement The Bureau of Law Enforcement represents the enforcement arm of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office. Its personnel are tasked with carrying out the statutory responsibilities of the sheriff as mandated by the state constitution. Communications Center The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center provides regular dispatch services for the sheriff’s office and serves as a PSAP for enhanced 911 calls. Emergency Management The Division of Emergency Management coordinates the efforts of police, fire, EMS, public works, public health and a myriad of volunteer organizations during emergencies. Fire Marshal The fire marshal supports and facilitates the safety of the general public through fire safety education, supporting fire safety legislation and fire prevention education programs to minimize the loss of property and life. Employment The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office hires employees based on the results of an open competitive law enforcement entry level examination given by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. Sheriff’s Office History The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office came into existence in 1753 and for well over 200 years now, has steadfastly remained committed to serving the residents of Sussex County. .