Arrested: James Sanford, age 38, of Stanhope, NJ and Torey Posey, age 34, of Newton, NJ. < Back Two warrant arrests in the probation department Arrested: James Sanford, age 38, of Stanhope, NJ and Torey Posey, age 34, of Newton, NJ. Previous Next On Wednesday, October 24, 2012, while assigned to the Sussex County Probation Department, Sheriff’s Officer Joseph Cahill encountered James Sanford. Knowing Sanford to be the subject of an outstanding Superior Court arrest warrant, Sheriff’s Officer Cahill placed him under arrest and transported him to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office for processing. Sanford was subsequently lodged in the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility without bail. Later that day, Sheriff’s Officer Cahill encountered Torey Posey. Knowing Posey to be the subject of an active arrest warrant out of Sparta Municipal Court, Sheriff’s Officer Cahill immediately placed Posey under arrest. He was transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office where he was processed and then lodged in the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility in lieu of $1,500 bail.

Professional Standards The Professional Standards Unit is responsible for reviewing Sussex County Sheriff’s Office standard operating procedures that address applicable non-discriminatory policy, the law of arrest, search and seizure, motor vehicle stop enforcement activities, and any other policies deemed necessary to maintain or enhance the practices of the Sheriff’s Office. Data collection and documenting operations audits, including the achieving and maintaining the New Jersey State Chiefs of Police State accreditation certification are also under the purview of the unit. The unit is dedicated to serving the citizens of Sussex County by promoting the development and implementation of law enforcement policies and procedures. The process of collecting, analyzing and publishing data on law enforcement practice promotes departmental integrity and allows law enforcement agencies the ability to self-assess and to continue to promote effective and unbiased policing. Internal Affairs It is the policy of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office to accept and investigate all complaints of agency and employee alleged misconduct or wrongdoing from any citizen, agency employee or any other sources, including anonymous sources. Following a thorough and impartial examination of the available factual information, a conclusion will be determined and the employee shall be either exonerated or held responsible for the alleged misconduct. Discipline shall be administered according to the degree of misconduct. Officers and employees, regardless of rank/position, shall be subject to disciplinary action for violating their oath and trust. Committing an offense punishable under the laws of the United States, the State of New Jersey, or county constitutes a violation of that oath and trust. Employees are also subject to disciplinary action for the willful or negligent failure to perform the duties of their rank or assignment. In addition, employees may be disciplined for violation of any rule or regulation of the agency or for failure to obey any lawful instruction, order, or command of a superior officer or supervisor. Disciplinary action in all matters will be determined based upon the merits of each case. Officers conducting the investigation of any allegation of misconduct shall strive to conduct a thorough and objective investigation respecting the rights of the principal, any other law enforcement officer, and all members of the public. Accordingly, any supervisor and any officer who may be called upon to conduct an internal investigation must be thoroughly familiar with the agency’s internal affairs policy. This policy has been developed in accordance with the New Jersey Attorney General’s guidelines on internal affairs. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact our Internal Affairs unit at 973.579.0850, ext. 2109. Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs 39 High Street Newton NJ 07860 Compliments and Complaints To effectively manage the performance of our officers, we like to be informed of any commendable conduct so that we can acknowledge them for a job well done and reinforce this kind of work performance. To submit a compliment, please utilize the “Contact Us” section at the bottom of any page. We treat all complaints equally regardless of whether or not they are filled out anonymously or with a name. However, please keep in mind that we can investigate best when we have all available information and have the ability to contact you with further questions, if needed. Internal Affairs Complaint Forms are available below in 11 different languages. Internal Affairs complaint forms may be submitted in person or by mail to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, 39 High Street, Newton NJ, 07860 during business hours. Alternatively, the complaint form may be submitted by calling (973) 579-0850 ext. 2109, or electronically via e-email to the Internal Affairs Unit here . Body Worn Cameras In compliance with the New Jersey Attorney General Issues Directive 2021-5 requiring notifying the public of the type of body cameras this agency is utilizing, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office is currently utilizing Safe Fleet body worn cameras. See photographs below of our uniform as well as plain clothes officers. ComplimentsComplaints Public Announcement In compliance with Attorney General Grewal's Directive 2020-5 and Directive 2021-6 , which require law enforcement agencies to begin to publish, at least once a year, a brief synopsis of all complaints resulting in major discipline—defined as termination, reduction in rank or grade, and/or suspension of more than five days—including the names of the officers sanctioned, the Sussex County Sheriff's Office reports that no officers have received major discipline between June 15, 2020 and December 31, 2020. Downloads Internal Affairs Personnel Early Warning System Law Enforcement Drug Testing Policy Interacting with the Immigrant Community Policy Recruitment and Diversity Plan 2024 Annual Internal Affairs Summary 2024 Annual Major Discipline Reporting 2023 Annual Internal Affairs Summary 2023 Annual Major Discipline Reporting 2022 Annual Internal Affairs Summary 2022 Annual Major Discipline Reporting 2021 Annual Internal Affairs Summary 2021 Annual Major Discipline Reporting 2020 Professional Standards Summary Report 2019 Professional Standards Summary Report 2018 Professional Standards Summary Report Complaint Forms: Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - English Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Arabic Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Chinese Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Haitian Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Hindi Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Korean Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Polish Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Portuguese Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Spanish Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Tagalog Internal Affairs Reporting Forms - Vietnamese

Arrested: Jonathon Sung Back, age 19, of New City, NY. < Back NY man arrested in Sparta for DWI Arrested: Jonathon Sung Back, age 19, of New City, NY. Previous Next On Sunday, August 18, 2013, while assigned to countywide DWI enforcement as part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, Sergeant John Gray observed a black BMW, operated by Mr. Back, speeding and failing to maintain his lane on Route 94 in Sparta Township. Sergeant Gray initiated a motor vehicle stop and interviewed Mr. Back. Upon further investigation, Sergeant Gray determined Mr. Back was intoxicated. Additionally, Back was found to be in possession of a quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Back was arrested and transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office for processing. He was issued summonses for DWI, speeding, failure to maintain lane, reckless driving, possession of an open container/alcoholic beverage in a motor vehicle, possession of a controlled dangerous substance (marijuana) in an amount less than 1/2 ounce, possession of a controlled dangerous substance in a motor vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia Back was given a future court date to appear in Sparta Township Municipal Court and released to the care of a responsible party. Sheriff’s officers Samantha Schilling and Johnny Swords assisted in the arrest.

Arrested: Salvatore A. Romano Jr., age 49, of Swartzwood, NJ. < Back Suspended driver arrested for possession of CDS Arrested: Salvatore A. Romano Jr., age 49, of Swartzwood, NJ. Previous Next On Saturday, December 17, 2011, while conducting DWI enforcement in Fredon Township, Sheriff’s Sergeant John Gray initiated a motor vehicle stop on a car being driven by Salvatore Romano. Further investigation by Sergeant Gray revealed Romano to be in possession of a quantity of cocaine, a digital scale and other drug paraphernalia. Romano was taken into custody and transported to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office where he was processed and charged with the following offenses: possession of a controlled dangerous substance, a crime of the third degree and possession of drug paraphernalia, a disorderly persons offense. Additionally, Romano was issued summonses for driving while suspended, possession of CDS in a motor vehicle and maintenance of lamps. He was given a future court date and released. Sheriff’s Officer Kieran McMorrow from the K-9 Unit assisted in the investigation.

Arrested: Christina Talmadge, age 34, of Montague Township, NJ. < Back Woman arrested after driving to MVC with suspended license Arrested: Christina Talmadge, age 34, of Montague Township, NJ. Previous Next On Wednesday, September 28, 2011, while assigned to the Motor Vehicle Commission in Newton, Sheriff’s Officer Scott Haggerty observed Christina Talmadge operating a motor vehicle. Knowing her driving privileges to be suspended, Sheriff’s Officer Haggerty stopped Talmadge’s vehicle. Further investigation revealed she was also the subject of an outstanding warrant from Frankford Township Municipal Court. Sheriff’s Officer Haggerty immediately took Talmadge into custody and transported her to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office where she was processed, given a future court date and released on her own recognizance.

The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Corrections held its first annual awards day on March 30, 2017. < Back 2017 Bureau of Corrections awards day The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Corrections held its first annual awards day on March 30, 2017. Previous Next The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Corrections held its first annual awards day on March 30, 2017. Bureau of Corrections Awards Day is intended to recognize and commend the actions of both sworn and civilian personnel employed with the Bureau of Corrections who have earned awards and gone above and beyond the scope of their normal duties throughout the last calendar year. This year encompassed a wide variety of recognition across the spectrum, and included some past awardees who have yet had the opportunity to be formally recognized. Among the distinguished guests were Sheriff Mike Strada, Freeholder Sylvia Petillo, Warden Mark Farsi, Undersheriff Lee Liddy, Captain Will Puentes and Captain Larry Beller. Sergeant Anthony Masucci and Officer Richard Cullen led the group in the pledge of allegiance, followed by a thoughtful and inspiring invocation from Deacon Wayne Vondoehren, who volunteers his personal time at the jail for church and spiritual programs devoted to the rehabilitation and support of those incarcerated. Kind words from both the sheriff and freeholder included that corrections staff are subjected to some of the toughest conditions on a daily basis, and that being able to recognize their outstanding efforts on a formal basis is of utmost importance. A segment of Freeholder Sylvia Petillo’s speech reverberated throughout those in attendance when she explained that one of the most prominent aspects she has discovered within the Bureau of Corrections was “pride”—not a selfish type of pride, but a stewardship toward the selfless service that staff, both sworn and civilian, convey on a daily basis, often without recognition or public acclaim. The formal portion of the ceremony was closed by Captain Will Puentes, who thanked all of the attendees, recipients, staff and family members in attendance that made the day possible. Staff, family and friends were warmly welcomed to stay for cake, coffee and pictures following the event. The following are a list of recipients and awards, in order of precedence: Good Conduct Award Awarded to sworn staff members for a consecutive of four years of service without written reprimand or higher discipline. Officer Jose Rivera Corporal Edward Kayal Officer Paul Liobe Officer John Boeren Officer William Martin Community Service Award Awarded to sworn or civilian staff members who devote personal time and energy to a community-based service. Sergeant Erich Olsen Certificate of Appreciation Awarded to sworn or civilian staff members who go above and beyond their normal scope of duties. Tehmina Ali Tehmina goes above and beyond her normal scope of duties for our staff members in the facility, providing fresh cooked meals, mixing up the menu, and often times using her own personal ingredients or items. She is always in great spirits, is a pleasure to work with and a reliable employee. Her work ethic and positivity are recognized and appreciated and we are grateful to have her on our team. Certificate of Achievement Awarded to sworn or civilian staff members for a specific achievement within the scope of their duty to the department or field of law enforcement. Susan McIntyre In March of 2016, Sue McIntyre was able to detect the attempted use of a fraudulent check by an inmate for bail purposes. Her efforts stopped an inmate from possible release. This level of attention to detail reflects great credit upon her work ethic, and reflects positively on our organization as a whole. Honorable Service Medal Awarded for diligence and initiative in the line of duty. Sergeant Andrew Boden Officer Robert Cottrell On May 18, 2016, Sgt. Andrew Boden and Ofc. Robert Cottrell responded to a report of a fire in the laundry area. They assisted Ofc. Blohm in a smoke-filled environment to clear smoke from the building and check for further spread of fire. Both Boden and Cottrell put themselves at risk to help control a situation and prevent the spread of the fire and control the smoke in the building that could have resulted in adverse effects on all employees and inmates in the facility that night. Meritorious Service Medal Awarded for a highly unusual accomplishment, under adverse conditions with some degree of hazard to life and limb to the nominee or where death or injury to a third party is prevented. Officer Todd Blohm On May 18, 2016, Ofc. Todd Blohm responded to the report of a fire in the laundry area. Ofc. Blohm rushed to the area and made sure the inmate laundry worker was clear from the area. He retrieved a fire extinguisher and returned to the laundry room which was filling with smoke and extinguished the fire. He continued to work on checking that the fire had not spread into other parts of the laundry area as the smoke condition worsened. Ofc. Blohm put himself at risk to help control a situation and prevent the spread of fire and control the smoke in the building that could have had adverse effects on all employees and inmates in the facility that night. Wound Medal Awarded for a wound received in the line of duty, inflicted intentionally, resulting in severe puncture wounds, lacerations, fractures or concussion being suffered by nominee. Sergeant Jeremy Lock Corporal Jason Kimble On June 23, 2016, Sgt. Lock was assaulted by a combative inmate where he sustained major injuries to his face and jaw. Sgt. Lock was able to fight through his sustained injuries and continue to fend off the attack from the inmate until backup arrived and the inmate was finally controlled. Sgt. Lock suffered broken facial bones and had his jaw wired as a result of the punches he sustained during this incident. After requiring facial surgery and months of recuperation, Sgt. Lock returned to his duties in full capacity. On January 11, 2013, while escorting inmate Giuseppe Tedesco at Superior Court for sentencing on a murder conviction, the inmate was required to be restrained after mouthing obscenities to the jurors and making a verbal threat to a member of his victim’s family. While attempting to gain control and remove Tedesco to a holding cell, the inmate continued to violently resist and not comply with verbal orders. The inmate was taken to the floor by officers, resulting in Cpl. Kimble sustaining a head injury and a fractured right fibula. This major injury resulted in months of rehabilitation, with Cpl. Kimble returning to his duties in full capacity. Employee of the Year Awarded for dedication to duty, diligence, professionalism and outstanding representation of the organization. The employee of the years’ service to the department is invaluable and brings credit upon the individual, the Bureau of Corrections, and the Office of the Sheriff. Officer Robert Cottrell Ofc. Cottrell has been employed with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections since January 2, 2007, and has been an outstanding officer throughout his tenure. He has also served in the military during his employment with the sheriff’s office. Ofc. Cottrell was the recipient of Employee of the Month for August 2016 for exceptional duty in diffusing an inmate altercation while effectively administering OC spray. His quick actions and professionalism prevented an inmate from becoming seriously injured. Ofc. Cottrell was also recognized for exceptional duty in observing suspicious behavior of an inmate which resulted in the discovery of contraband in the facility. Without Ofc. Cottrell’s attention to detail and outstanding performance, this contraband may have not been discovered, potentially causing harm to an inmate or subsequently a staff member. Ofc. Cottrell is a member of our Special Operations Group and is an integral part of almost every SOG operation. He has assisted in a wide variety of background investigations for applicants and potential new hires and assists with recruit physical training assessments. He has developed a specific fitness plan for several officers to help them throughout their training period prior to the academy. Ofc. Cottrell is one of our most relied upon field training officers and is also heavily relied upon by supervisors to assist in the training process. Ofc. Cottrell is respected by his peers and supervisors alike and is used on many occasions for details of high importance or substantial public visibility. Ofc. Cottrell has valuable insight into corrections-based critical tasks and provides critiques, feedback and departmental integration regarding any training that he attends. Ofc. Cottrell is willing and able to perform above and beyond his call of duty and perform any task he is assigned. On more than one occasion, Ofc. Cottrell has obtained valuable information from inmates, which has assisted the facility in detecting contraband, suspicious and illegal activity. Ofc. Cottrell is an outstanding officer whose positive manner, actions and professionalism reflects greatly upon the Bureau of Corrections and the Office of the Sheriff. Ofc. Cottrell is a great role model for junior officers and an invaluable resource to our team. Sheriff Strada congratulates all of the recipients and looks forward to another successful awards program for both the officers and civilians of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office. Pictured from left to right: Sergeant Jeremey Lock, Officer Todd Blohm, Officer Robert Cottrell, Corporal Jason Kimble, Sheriff Mike Strada, Susan McIntyre, Freeholder Sylvia Petillo, Tehmina Ali, Officer Jose Rivera, Sergeant Erich Olsen, Sergeant Andrew Boden.

The deputy emergency management coordinator attended FEMA’s National Emergency Management Executive Academy in Emmitsburg, MD. < Back Corporal Mark Vogel graduates FEMA Executive Academy The deputy emergency management coordinator attended FEMA’s National Emergency Management Executive Academy in Emmitsburg, MD. Previous Next Corporal Mark Vogel, CEM , the deputy emergency management coordinator for the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, recently graduated from FEMA’s National Emergency Management Executive Academy in Emmitsburg, MD. Corporal Vogel, who has served as deputy emergency management coordinator for the past fifteen years, completed the full curriculum that supports the advancement of the emergency management profession at strategic policy and executive leadership levels. This program has enhanced his talents in emergency management through critical thinking, visionary strategic planning, negotiation, and conflict resolution applied to complex real-world problems. Corporal Vogel completed the four resident courses in the Executive Academy to include: E0680 Examining Emergency Management Policy and Doctrine; E0682 Leading Complex Systems; E0684 Interpreting the Contemporary Emergency Management Environment; E0686 Creating the Emergency Management Stakeholder Community; and a collaborative capstone project. The Executive Academy instills emergency management leaders with a deeper understanding of contemporary and emerging emergency management issues, debates and public policy. It provides insights, theories, tools and resources that enable decision-makers to think and act more strategically and to build capacity to protect against, prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all types of disasters. Sheriff Strada, stating that Corporal Vogel’s training will continue to enhance the operations of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, Division of Emergency Management, commends Corporal Vogel for graduating from this prestigious program. Corporal Mark Vogel (right) is congratulated by FEMA’s Dr. Daniel Kaniewski as he graduates. Photo by Shane Gibbon/FEMA.

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. .

New officers sworn in, celebrating reading, 8th grade jail tour and active shooter civilian response training. < Back Recent Happenings New officers sworn in, celebrating reading, 8th grade jail tour and active shooter civilian response training. Previous Next New Officers Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada was proud to have sworn in Sheriff’s Officer Peter Vex, Sheriff’s Officer Kenneth Farber, Sheriff’s Officer Robert Washer and Sheriff’s Officer William Underwood. Sheriff Strada wishes to congratulate the newest officers and their families as they begin their new careers. Be safe. Read Across America Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada recognizes the role reading plays in our community. He joined Mrs. Shannon Percey’s first graders at Ogdensburg School to read Pete the Cat and celebrate his own love of reading while motivating the children to read. Sheriff Strada realizes reading is an important factor in student achievement and creating lifelong successful readers. The National Education Association’s Read Across America Day is a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually on March 2—Dr. Seuss’s birthday. Across the country, thousands of schools, libraries, and community centers participate by bringing together kids, teens and books. Thank you Mrs. Percey and the Ogdensburg School for inviting Sheriff Strada to take part in this important event. Jail Tour Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada had the pleasure of addressing a group of Kittatinny Regional High School students from Mr. Anderson’s 8th grade Social Studies class as they began their tour of the Keough Dwyer Correctional Facility. This gave the students the chance to experience their class curriculum first hand. Active Shooter Civilian Response Training Sussex County Sheriff Michael F. Strada and members of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office-Special Operations Group were invited to speak on the subject of “Civilian Response/Active Shooter” at the Beemerville Presbyterian Church. Members of the Beemerville Presbyterian Church as well as other churches from throughout Sussex County attended. The attendees were taught the concepts of “Run, Hide, Fight” should they ever be confronted by an active shooter. Sheriff Strada and the instructors emphasized the importance of being aware of your surroundings including exits and identifying objects that can be used to hide or fight. Sheriff Strada would like to thank the Beemerville Presbyterian Church for hosting such an important event.

Process Services Announcement : The Sussex County Sheriff’s Civil Process Business Office is located at 39 High Street, Newton, NJ in front of the main court house with business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding holidays. Appointments can be scheduled by e-mail or by phone at 973.579.0850. All fees must be paid by check or money order made payable to “Sussex County Sheriff.” CASH WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Any court related business must be directed to 862.397.5700. The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office is responsible for the processing and service of all Civil documents that originate from the Court system. These include Summons and Complaints, Writs of Execution, Garnishments and Foreclosures. A Sheriff’s Officer will make up to three attempts to execute the document(s), unless otherwise instructed, at which time the item will be returned to the requestor. Additional mileage will be charged regardless of the success of the service. If you need further information or assistance, please contact us at 973.579.0850. Civil Process Fees Mileage Fees Mileage fees are based on mileage from the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office in Newton to the address of service. A mileage fee for at least three attempts is required at the time of request.

Three drug arrests result from the efforts of K-9 Atlas. < Back Sheriff's K-9 assists Hopatcong police at DWI checkpoint Three drug arrests result from the efforts of K-9 Atlas. Previous Next On Friday, December 7, 2012, Sheriff’s Officer Kieran McMorrow and his narcotics detection canine “Atlas” were assigned to assist the Hopatcong Police Department at a DWI traffic checkpoint they were conducting. K-9 Atlas searched the exteriors of approximately 25 motor vehicles that drove through the checkpoint that evening. While searching the exterior of three of those vehicles, K-9 Atlas indicated he detected the presence of the odor of narcotics. Subsequent searches of the interiors of those vehicles revealed the presence of controlled dangerous substances in all three cars. A quantity of marijuana was discovered in two of the vehicles and a quantity of crack/cocaine was discovered in the third. All subjects were arrested by Hopatcong police and charged accordingly.

Arrested: Alexander Bellino, age 19, of Sparta, NJ. < Back Sheriff's detectives arrest man at motel in Sussex Borough Arrested: Alexander Bellino, age 19, of Sparta, NJ. Previous Next On Thursday, April 7, 2011, sheriff’s detectives Mike Yanko and Richard Otte were in Sussex Borough attempting to locate Alexander Bellino, who was the subject of an outstanding Sussex County Superior Court warrant. Bellino was located at the Sussex Motel and a quantity of marijuana was found in his possession. He was taken into custody and additionally charged with possession of a controlled dangerous substance in an amount of less than 1/2 ounce. Bellino is currently lodged in the Sussex County jail without bail.