Search this site

With the cold weather upon us, Fire Marshal Joseph Inga provides timely information about staying safe. < Back Winter fire safety With the cold weather upon us, Fire Marshal Joseph Inga provides timely information about staying safe. Previous Next While households are encouraged to be diligent about fire safety year round, it becomes especially important now because home fires are more prevalent in winter than in any other season. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), an estimated 108,400 residential building fires occur during the winter months each year in the United States. Sheriff Michael F. Strada and the Sussex County Fire Marshal would like to pass along the following tips and suggestions to ensure the safety of county residents and their families. General Cold Weather Fire Safety If your pipes freeze, do not try to thaw them with a blowtorch or other open flame. The pipe could conduct heat and a fire could be started. Try a hand held dryer, hot water or a UL labeled device for thawing. Never use an oven or a range to heat your home. This is a safety hazard and could cause a build-up of carbon monoxide. Be certain that all windows that are used as emergency exits can still be opened in the winter. Practice your escape plan at this time of year. If there is a fire hydrant near your house, help keep it clear of snow and debris. We need to be able to access it in case of a fire. Generator safety information sheet from the National Fire Protection Association Fireplaces and Wood Stoves Never leave a fire unattended! Have your chimney and fireplace inspected annually by a certified chimney sweep. They will check for creosote build-up, cracks, crumbling bricks and obstructions. Make sure the fireplace opening is covered with a sturdy metal screen or heat tempered glass doors. To prevent fires in your flue, burn dry, well-seasoned wood. Never burn trash. Make sure your wood stove burns hot twice a day for 15-30 minutes to reduce the amount of creosote buildup. Never burn charcoal indoors—it can give off lethal amounts of carbon monoxide. Always be certain the fire in your fireplace is out before going to bed. It is extremely important to never close your damper while there are hot ashes in the fireplace. A closed damper could cause the fire to flare up again and this will cause toxic carbon monoxide to be released into the house. If you are using synthetic logs, always follow the directions on the package. Never break a synthetic log apart to quicken the fire or use more than one log at a time. Place ashes outdoors in a covered metal container at least three feet away from anything that could burn. Portable Heaters Make sure you have at least 36 inches of empty space between all heaters and everything else, like curtains, furniture, papers and people. Never leave children unattended in rooms with portable heaters. Be sure the heater has a tip-over shut off function. Never use an extension cord with portable electric heaters—it is a common cause of fires. Check the cord on your electric portable heater. If it is cracked, frayed or gets hot, have the heater serviced. Be sure to clean the dust from all heaters. If left to build up, dust and lint can ignite and cause a fire. Be sure to turn portable heaters off when leaving the house or sleeping. Avoid using portable heaters in the bathroom. Furnaces Leave furnace work to experts. Have a qualified technician check and clean your furnace every year. Be sure the emergency shut off and automatic controls are in good condition. Always keep trash, papers, paint, etc. away from the furnace area. Finally, make sure your smoke detectors are functioning properly and that there is one installed on each level of your home. Smoke detectors save lives! Have questions or need more information? Contact Sussex County Fire Marshal Joseph C. Inga at 973.579.0380.

Arrested: Robert Wilson, age 24, of Stanhope, NJ. < Back Stanhope man arrested in probation department Arrested: Robert Wilson, age 24, of Stanhope, NJ. Previous Next On Thursday, March 21, 2013, while assigned to the Sussex County Probation Department, sheriff’s officers John Freykar and Rob Jacoby were advised by probation staff that an arrest warrant had been issued for Robert Wilson for violation of probation. Additionally, they were advised that Wilson was currently in the office. Officers Freykar and Jacoby located Wilson and, after confirming the existence of the warrant, arrested and transported him to the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility where he was lodged without incident. Robert Wilson is currently lodged in the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility without bail.

< 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.”

In a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, Sheriff Strada laid out his opposition to Governor Phil Murphy’s sanctuary state scheme. < Back Sheriff Strada seeks guidance from attorney general on Gov. Murphy’s sanctuary state scheme In a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, Sheriff Strada laid out his opposition to Governor Phil Murphy’s sanctuary state scheme. Previous Next In a letter to U.S. Attorney General William Barr, Sussex County Sheriff Mike Strada laid out his opposition to Governor Phil Murphy’s sanctuary state scheme and to his administration’s attempt to deprive the voters of Sussex County with an opportunity to have a voice in the matter. Sheriff Strada wrote: In response to a growing outcry of concern from their constituents, on April 10, 2019, the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders—the legislative body that represents the people of Sussex County, New Jersey—passed a resolution to place a non-binding public question on the ballot in the county that asks voters to instruct their sheriff on the sanctuary state directive issued by Governor Murphy’s attorney general. The ballot question gives voters a choice to instruct their county sheriff to (1) obey the state directive or (2) follow the laws passed by the Congress of the United States of America, signed by successive presidents of both parties, and upheld by the United States Supreme Court. On May 17, 2019, the Murphy administration—through Attorney General Gurbir Grewal—sent notice to Sussex County Clerk Jeff Parrott that the public question “must not be included” on the ballot in November. It is my understanding that this violates the New Jersey Constitution, which specifically placed elected CONSTITUTIONAL officers (such as the sheriff and county clerk) outside the control of the executive. But more importantly, it is hypocritical to block American citizens from indicating their preference to have their elected officials follow the laws of the United States of America, in favor of compelling them to follow the directives of an appointed state official who is in violation of those laws. Sheriff Strada was clear in his determination to fight the Murphy administration on the sanctuary state issue: On behalf of myself and several members of the freeholder board, I am requesting your guidance in this matter. As the chief law enforcement officer of the United States of America, I believe that law enforcement in New Jersey should be following the federal government in matters of a federal nature. Protecting the borders of the United States, as well as immigration and citizenship (and the criminal laws governing same), are federal matters and not the purview of the states. After all, we are Americans first and foremost, and not the citizens of 50 individual nation-states. For my part, I will continue to fight the Murphy administration on its sanctuary state scheme. I believe it will lead to an expansion of modern slavery—human trafficking and the exploitation of women and children—and of the criminal importation of illegal firearms, narcotics, and opioids. The sanctuary state idea will lead to legal anarchy as well as aiding organized crime and terrorism. It is nothing more than a dangerous and illogical fashion statement. Sheriff Strada was joined by Assemblyman Parker Space (R-24), who lambasted Governor Murphy for his “bullying tactics.” Assemblyman Space said: “On the one hand, Murphy is extending the rights of illegals every week and going further by backing up those so-called rights with taxpayer money and new spending. On the other hand, he is taking away the right to vote from American citizens who live in Sussex County. It is ridiculous and I oppose it.” Freeholder Dawn Fantasia had this to say: “The immigration crisis has led to unprecedented abuse of women and children. The sheriff is right and the people should have the opportunity to vote to ignore a reckless state directive.” Earlier, Freeholder Josh Hertzberg, who began his career as a federal border officer, said the voter initiative was giving the voters the chance of “asking our politicians to follow the law.” Sheriff Mike Strada is in his third term as sheriff of Sussex County. He is a career law enforcement officer who served as a U.S. Army platoon leader in Iraq (Desert Storm). He is married with three children.

Arrested: Christina J. Woodruff, age 22, of Franklin Borough, NJ. < Back Woman arrested with marijuana in Woodbourne Park Arrested: Christina J. Woodruff, age 22, of Franklin Borough, NJ. Previous Next On Thursday, February 28, 2013, while assigned to traffic enforcement within Wantage Township, Sheriff’s Officer Scott Haggerty observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the rear section of Woodbourne Park. Officer Haggerty spoke with the driver of that vehicle, Ms. Christina Woodruff. Further investigation revealed Woodruff to be in possession of a small quantity of marijuana and a glass smoking device. Woodruff was taken into custody and transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office for processing whereupon she was issued summonses for possession of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was given a future date to appear in Wantage Township Municipal Court and released.

John Lindquist was promoted on Friday, March 21, 2014. < Back Sheriff’s detective promoted to sergeant John Lindquist was promoted on Friday, March 21, 2014. Previous Next Sheriff Michael F. Strada is pleased to announce the promotion of Sheriff’s Detective John Lindquist to sergeant. On Friday, March 21, 2014, in a ceremony conducted at the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office and attended by both family members and department employees, John Lindquist was officially sworn in as the newest sergeant in the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office. A 14-year veteran of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement, Sgt. Lindquist began his law enforcement career as a sheriff’s officer in 2000. A graduate of the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute, Sgt. Lindquist has held numerous positions within the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office throughout his career including courts & transports, traffic enforcement, department evidence officer, the Sheriff’s Tactical Response Unit (TRU) and the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). Since 2006, Sgt. Linquist has been assigned to the Sheriff’s detective bureau. A certified firearms instructor, Linquist continues to serve as the department’s armorer and rangemaster during weapons qualifications. Following his promotion, Sgt. Lindquist will be assigned to supervise the courthouse security and prisoner transportation unit. Sheriff Strada congratulates Sergeant Lindquist and wishes him continued success in his career.

David Korver and Andrea Wehrenberg were recently promoted. < Back Two promoted at Sussex County 911 Communication Center David Korver and Andrea Wehrenberg were recently promoted. Previous Next Sheriff Michael Strada announced the recent promotions of two public safety telecommunicators at the Sussex County 911 Communication Center. David Korver of Hampton Township was promoted to chief public safety telecommunicator. David, who has eight years of experience after stints as a dispatcher with Hopatcong Borough and Morris County Communications, started working as a public safety telecommunicator for Sussex County in 2011. In 2013 he was promoted to supervisory public safety telecommunicator. Andrea Wehrenberg , also of Hampton Township, was promoted to supervising public safety telecommunicator. Andrea has twenty-two years of experience and previously worked for the Town of Newton as a dispatcher. Both David and Andrea have been instrumental in the opening of the 911 Communication Center. Their experience, dedication and commitment to the sheriff’s organization is clearly evident. They are both well deserving of their promotions. Sheriff Strada stated “We often forget that our telecommunicators are the first ones to receive emergency calls and often times save lives over the phone by giving medical direction to those in need. They all do a terrific job, often times handling extremely stressful emergency calls.” Pictured from left to right: Sheriff Michael F. Strada, David Korver and Andrea Wehrenberg

Arrested: Christopher J. Carey, age 60, of Andover, NJ. < Back Sheriff's officers arrest Andover man for DWI Arrested: Christopher J. Carey, age 60, of Andover, NJ. Previous Next On Thursday, October 16, 2014, while assigned to fugitive apprehension duties, sheriff’s officers Johnny Swords and Joseph Cahill observed a red colored Dodge Ram pickup truck failing to maintain its lane and driving in excess of the posted speed limit while traveling along state highway 206 in Andover Borough. Officers Swords and Cahill pulled the vehicle over and approached to speak with the driver, Christopher Carey. Upon speaking with Carey, Officer Swords detected the odor of alcohol coming from him and, after observing Carey attempt to perform several roadside sobriety tests, Officer Swords determined him to be intoxicated. Carey was subsequently arrested and transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office for breath sample analysis and processing. Upon arrival at the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, Carey repeatedly refused to submit to breath testing. Christopher J. Carey was charged with the following offenses: speeding, failure to maintain lane, failure to wear seat belt, reckless driving, refusal to submit to breath testing and driving while intoxicated. He was issued summonses for the above offenses, given a future court date to appear in the Joint Municipal Court of Green, Fredon, Hampton and Andover Borough, and subsequently released. Sheriff’s Sergeant John Gray assisted in the arrest.

Arrested: Kurt A. Takach, age 45, of Montague, NJ. < Back DWI arrest in Wantage Arrested: Kurt A. Takach, age 45, of Montague, NJ. Previous Next On Wednesday, September 11, 2013, while assigned to countywide community policing duties, Sheriff’s Officer Johnny Swords observed a 2001 red colored Chevrolet pickup truck, operated by Kurt Takach, failing to maintain his lane and driving in excess of the posted speed limit. Officer Swords pulled the vehicle over and approached to speak with the driver. Upon speaking with Mr. Takach and observing him attempt to perform several basic sobriety tests, Officer Swords determined him to be intoxicated. Takach was subsequently arrested and transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office for processing. Takach was charged with the following offenses: reckless driving, failure to maintain lane, failure to exhibit documents, DWI and speeding. He was given a future court date to appear in Wantage Municipal Court and released to the care of a responsible person. Sheriff’s Officer Samantha Schilling and Sergeant John Gray assisted in the arrest.

< 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

CERT Join the Sussex County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and become better prepared to respond to emergency situations right here in your own community. Members of Sussex County’s CERT give critical support to first responders in emergencies, provide immediate assistance to victims, organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site, and collect disaster intelligence to support first responder efforts. CERT members receive training in the following areas: disaster preparedness disaster fire suppression medical operations light search and rescue operations disaster psychology and team organization terrorism and CERT disaster simulation Total basic training is usually about 24 hours, scheduled in 2-1/2 hour modules over a period of weeks. Training courses, materials and equipment are provided free of charge. To become a CERT member, you must be at least 18 years of age. For more information, contact CERT coordinator Eric Muller at 973.579.0380, ext. 2536. New Jersey Office of Emergency Management CERT web site »

Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada Warns the Public of the “Jury Duty Scam” < Back Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada Warns the Public of the “Jury Duty Scam” Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada Warns the Public of the “Jury Duty Scam” Previous Next Press Release Contact: Sheriff Michael F. Strada For Immediate Release 973-579-0850 Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada Warns the Public of the “Jury Duty Scam” Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada would like to warn the public of a scam commonly referred to as the “Jury Duty Scam”. The caller states that they are calling from the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office and that there is a warrant out for your arrest for not appearing for jury duty. The caller goes on to state that “you need to pay a $750 cash bond to clear the warrant”. You are then instructed to stay on the phone with the caller and drive to the Sussex County Courthouse. At this time, “a clerk will meet you outside of the courthouse to receive payment”. This is a scam. The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office will never call you to collect money for missed jury duty. The caller also “spoofs” the caller ID so that the call appears to be coming from the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office. This is a common practice of scammers so be wary of what appears on your caller ID. They may even know your name and some personal information. Remember, scammers can easily look up information about you on the internet. The scammer is persistent and can be threatening in nature if you challenge them. The best way to avoid this scam is to hang up, and in some cases, keep hanging up. If you have concerns regarding this latest scam, please contact our office at 973-579-0850.