< Back Sergeant Andrew Boden promoted to the rank of lieutenant Lieutenant Boden serves the Bureau of Corrections. Previous Next Sheriff Michael F. Strada is pleased to announce the promotion of Sergeant Andrew Boden to the rank of lieutenant. For the past 19 years, Lieutenant Boden has been heavily relied upon and has served as an integral part of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Bureau. His knowledge, experience, abilities and interpersonal skills make Lieutenant Boden a great law enforcement officer and a leader. Lieutenant Boden serves the Corrections Bureau on the Special Operations Group, Honor Guard Unit, and HAZMAT teams and has always gone above and beyond his normal scope of duties. Sheriff Strada stated, “Many officers look up to Lieutenant Boden because of his strong leadership skills and his ability to handle personal and professional issues. He always carries his duties out in a respectful, fair, and professional manner.” Sheriff Strada congratulates Lieutenant Boden and wishes him the best of luck in his new capacity.

< Back Hopatcong woman arrested for faking urine test Arrested: Cheryl E. Semiz, age 19, of Hopatcong, NJ. Previous Next On Monday, May 21, 2012, Sheriff’s Officer Matt Maines was advised by probation officers that a female probationer had attempted to fake a urine test after reporting for probation. Sheriff’s Officer Maines located Ms. Cheryl Semiz in the Sussex County Probation Department and, after a brief investigation, arrested her and transported her to the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office. Semiz was charged with defrauding the administration of a court ordered drug test. She was issued a summons to appear at a future date in Newton Municipal Court and released.

< Back TRIAD law enforcement seminar to be held in September Seniors are invited to attend this free event in Branchville on September 21, 2012. Previous Next On Friday, September 21, 2012, Sussex County TRIAD will be hosting a law enforcement seminar for seniors at Selective Insurance, 40 Wantage Avenue in the Borough of Branchville from 8 a.m. to 12 noon with a free continental breakfast included. The seminar will include classes on home security and computer safety and a demonstration by the Sussex County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit. Seniors will have the opportunity to meet with law enforcement officers and county personnel to gather information on current crimes affecting seniors, facts to combat unwarranted fear of crime, problems faced by seniors and programs that are offered by the Sussex County Division of Senior Services. Admission is free but pre-registration is required. To register, please contact Terry Kelemen, TRIAD coordinator at 973.579.0888, ext. 2508.

< Back Crime Stoppers 5K/10K Run to be held September 8 Join the race against crime on September 8, 2012 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds. Previous Next Sussex County Sheriff’s Crime Stoppers 5K/10K Saturday, September 8, 2012 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 8, 2012. Pre-register by Saturday, September 1, and fees are $20 for the 5K Run/Walk and $25 for the 10K Run. After September 1 through race day, fees are $25 for the 5K and $30 for the 10K. Register for the race at an external web site T-shirts and goody bags will be provided to all 5K and 10K 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. Have questions or need more information about the event? Contact Andy Ball at 973.222.8748. 2012 Supporters and Partners Presented by Thorlabs, Inc. Adam Todd Alternative Press of Sussex County Athenia Mason Supply D&H Alternative Risk Solutions Eastern Propane Extreme Energy Solutions Extreme Off Road Glen Vetrano Hardyston Township PBA Local 374 Jersey Gators Swim Team Lakeland Bank Madsen Construction New Jersey Herald The Printing Center R&T Nautilus St. Clare’s Health System Senator Oroho Sheriff Michael Strada Sussex County Community College Sussex County Fairgrounds Sussex County Imports Sponsorship opportunities are still available! If you would like to make a financial contribution or partner with us in this fundraiser, please contact Lt. Larry Beller at 973.579.0865, ext. 2501 for all the details.

< Back SCSO mourns the passing of search & rescue K-9 K-9 Blaze had an 8-year career with the sheriff’s office. Previous Next Sheriff Strada is deeply saddened to announce the unexpected death of our search and rescue dog, K-9 Blaze who died suddenly, but peacefully, in his sleep over the weekend. A former service dog for the visually impaired, “Nate” was training at the Seeing Eye in Morristown when he was adopted by Lt. Ellicott in April of 2008. A gentle, docile, dog, “Blaze” as he was renamed by Lt. Ellicott, was so peaceful that he actually had to be taught how to bark. It was this calm, yet playful, demeanor that made him ideally suited for search & rescue work. Upon the completion of his initial training, K-9 Blaze became a certified search & rescue dog on October 19, 2008. Throughout his 8-year career with the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, K-9 Blaze responded to, and assisted in the location of, over 40 missing juveniles, adults and seniors throughout Sussex County and the surrounding area. Sheriff Strada joins the men and women of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office in mourning the passing of K-9 Blaze and our thoughts are with Lt. Ellicott and his family.

< Back Crime Stoppers offers $6,000 reward Police seek information about diner vandalism. Previous Next Thanks to the help of an anonymous donor, Crime Stoppers is offering a $6,000.00 reward for information resulting in the conviction of the individual(s) responsible for defacing the Airport Diner in Wantage with swastikas and other anti-Semitic graffiti on September 16, 2017. Submit an anonymous tip »

< Back Sheriff's office challenged by weather Sheriff Strada praises the efforts of those involved in preparing for and assisting in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Previous Next There is an old adage that warns about relaxing during the calm before a storm. In the days immediately preceding Hurricane Sandy’s attack on New Jersey, however, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office was a virtual hotbed of activity. In anticipation of the storm, Sheriff Strada ordered his deputy emergency management coordinators to meet with the county fire marshal, county administrator, and various other representatives of county government along with all of the police chiefs, fire chiefs, each of the municipal OEM coordinators, and emergency medical service personnel from the first aids squads throughout the county to discuss plans for the county’s coordinated response to Hurricane Sandy. Vacations and leave times for essential personnel were cut short or cancelled outright and the county Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was proactively placed on generator power to ensure no breaks in emergency communications. Then came the storm. We all know what followed. Trees uprooted or felled throughout the county, structural damage to many homes, main roads closed, approximately 90% of Sussex County without power, residents scrambling for generators, families without water and customers waiting on 3-hour lines for fuel. This was the challenging environment the Sheriff’s Office functioned in during the days which followed. In addition to their regular patrol duties, including checks on the welfare of affected citizens, providing security to both the county jail and Superior Court, and the transportation of certain displaced residents to and from emergency shelters, Sussex County sheriff’s officers were also assigned to the Sussex County EOC from the onset of Hurricane Sandy until the close of recovery operations. At first glance, the EOC looked like a smaller version of NASA’s mission control. Multiple computer terminals, each designated to an operator assigned to a specific task, lined the desks. At each desk, a representative of one of the branches of county government fielded telephone calls and disseminated information to the other branches. To the front of the room, multiple screens provided information regarding relevant news, weather and situational data. Members of the Sheriff’s Office, Sussex County Administrator John Eskilson, along with representatives from the county departments of environmental and public health services, engineering and planning, human services, central and shared services, as well as the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), joined liaisons from the utility companies, the American Red Cross and other community professionals involved in preparedness, monitoring, response and recovery. They all filled the room each day to assist in the coordination of the county’s response to Hurricane Sandy. Sheriff’s officers assigned to that post were responsible for handling requests for assistance and material from municipalities and attempting to obtain those materials from the state OEM. Additionally, they assisted in forwarding important topical information to the county to be continuously updated on the Sussex County web site and forwarded road closure and power failure information to representatives from Jersey Central Power and Light (JCPL&L). Beginning roughly forty-eight hours after Hurricane Sandy raged through Sussex County, sheriff’s officers, along with law enforcement personnel from several other local police agencies, began patrolling and monitoring gas stations throughout Sussex County to ensure proper distribution of fuel and to prevent civil unrest. Sheriff’s officers remained around the clock at the American Red Cross shelter located at the Sussex County Technical School for the duration of its operation. They were there to supervise the security and safety of the approximately 800 displaced Sussex County residents who had utilized that shelter during the state of emergency. Additionally, sheriff’s officers transported and distributed equipment and supplies to the American Red Cross shelter located at the Hopatcong high school which aided in excess, of 7,000 displaced residents throughout the storm. Sheriff’s officers were also tasked with escorting representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) throughout the county to assess the damage from the storm. As much of the county lost power, the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility was no exception. The jail was without direct power for approximately three days. During that time, sheriff’s corrections officers maintained security, order, and continued the day-to-day operations of overseeing approximately 190 incarcerates with limited back-up power. Throughout the recovery, members of the Sheriff’s Office assigned to the Sussex County OEM continued to distribute ice and water to local OEM coordinators so that it could be distributed to their town’s residents. During the storm and its aftermath, over 13,500 cases of bottled water, 4,370 bags of ice and over 1,200 sandbags were distributed throughout the county for residents in need. Sheriff Strada would like to sincerely thank the following groups for all of their assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Local and county dispatchers, the Sussex County Fire Marshal, township chiefs of police and chiefs of fire departments, municipal OEM coordinators, volunteer fire and EMS personnel throughout the county, elected government officials from the town, county, state, and federal levels, public works departments at both the municipal and county levels, the Sussex County departments of environmental and public health services, engineering and planning, human services, central and shared services, CERT, FEMA, representatives of both local power companies, the volunteers of the American Red Cross, all local and state level law enforcement officers, and the men and women of the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office, bureaus of both law enforcement and corrections.

Emergency Management Emergency Management Coordinator: Sheriff Michael F. Strada Deputy Coordinator: Sheriff’s Officer Steve Sugar Deputy Coordinator: Corporal James Aumick The Division of Emergency Management is a county-level emergency service required by statute that coordinates all available resources to serve the needs of Sussex County during times of emergency events and disasters. ​ In carrying out its responsibilities, the division oversees the emergency management activities of all county agencies and Sussex County's twenty-four municipalities. Each municipality has an emergency management coordinator with whom this division interacts and the coordinators, in turn, interact at the local level with police, fire, EMS, public works, public health, schools, etc. ​ Preparing for and carrying out all emergency functions—also known as comprehensive emergency management—is accomplished in four phases. A description of these phases and the division’s role in each are described below. ​ Mitigation The division has developed a county-wide pre-disaster all-hazards mitigation plan that has identified hazards and vulnerabilities in all of Sussex County's twenty-four municipalities. ​ Preparedness Under the supervision of this division, the county and all twenty-four municipalities have certified Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) that are reviewed annually and recertified every four years. The purpose of the EOPs is to give guidance to emergency responders in emergencies and disasters. The division also assists other public and private nonprofit agencies in developing their own specialized EOPs. Radiological Emergency Information for Residents (374 KB) Radiological Emergency Information for Farmers (473 KB) Response The division has the responsibility to be aware of and coordinate the response of all emergency resources requested by the incident commander of an emergency or disaster. Recovery If a disaster strikes in Sussex County, the division coordinates a thorough preliminary damage assessment with the affected municipalities. Non-insured losses are totalled and reported to the state. In the event of a presidential disaster declaration, the division then coordinates with the state and FEMA to recover the non-insured public sector losses. ​ In addition to the foregoing, the Division of Emergency Management presents training and educational programs including personal emergency preparedness, access and functional needs and incident command for responders. The division also oversees two community alert programs , Swift911™ and Register Ready, that are of tremendous service to the public. ​ For further information or assistance, contact the division at 973.579.0380 or via e-mail . ​ Emergency Management Coordinators ​ Municipality Name Phone Andover Boro John Hoag 973.786.6688 Andover Twp. Eric Danielson 973.383.5544 Branchville Jeff Lewis 973.948.4626 Byram Todd Rudloff 973.347.4008 Frankford Jeff Lewis 973.948.5566 Franklin Jim Williams 973.827.9280 Fredon Keith Festa 973.383.7025 Green Twp. Christopher Lopanik 908.852.9333 Hamburg Keith Sukennikoff 973.827.9230 Hampton Ed Hayes 973.383.5570 Hardyston William Hickerson 973.823.7020 Hopatcong Wade Crowley 973.770.1200 Lafayette Rick Hughes 973.383.1817 Montague Dave Coss 973.293.7300 Newton Daniel Finkle 973.383.2525 Ogdensburg Rick Keslo 973.827.3444 Sandyston Shane Houghtaling 973.222.5533 Sparta Jeffrey McCarrick 973.729.6121 Stanhope Wayne Anthony 973.347.0159 Stillwater Lisa Chammings 973.383.9484 Sussex Floyd Southard 973.875.4831 Vernon Ken Clark 973.764.6155 Walpack Sheriff Strada 973.579.0850 Wantage Joe Konopinski 973.875.7192

About Sheriff's Sales Effective Thursday, October 19, 2023 foreclosure sales will no longer be available using Zoom livestream. ​ New Location as of Nov. 2021 ​ ​ ​ Sheriff’s sales will be held in the historic Sussex County Courthouse, 3 High Street in Newton, New Jersey every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at 2:00 p.m. Attendees should go to the main lobby for check-in and where to proceed. ​ Proof of funds in the form of certified checks, cashier checks or treasurer checks must be shown at the door. Cash will no longer be accepted. Plaintiff’s representative must also attend in person. Bidder must sign in prior to the sales. ​ ​All those attending the sales in person will adhere to the following: ​ If sick (coughing, sneezing or have an elevated body temperature), please DO NOT attempt to attend the sheriff’s sales. The undersheriff or his designee may, at his discretion, for the safety of employees and the general public, disallow and/or eject persons from attending the sheriff's sales. ​ What is a Sheriff’s Sale? A sheriff’s sale, generally the last step in the foreclosure process, is a forced sale of real property at public auction. Foreclosure is the legal process initiated by a lender who holds a mortgage on a property in which the borrower/property owner has defaulted on repaying the loan. This action enables the financial institution to foreclose or terminate the rights of the property owner and force the sale of the property to recoup its loan loss. ​ When and Where Sheriff’s sales are held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month (excluding holidays) at 2:00 p.m. in the historic Sussex County Courthouse, 3 High Street in Newton, New Jersey. If you plan to attend a sheriff’s sale, you should contact the Foreclosure Unit at 973.579.0850 to make sure a property scheduled for sale has not been adjourned or otherwise postponed. ​ Notice of Sales/Advertisement Electronic Bulletin Board Notices of sales are posted on the electronic bulletin board outside the office of the Foreclosure Unit. ​ Newspapers All sheriff’s sales for real property are advertised for four consecutive weeks prior to the initial date of sale. The Sussex County Sheriff's Office legal notices and sales will be advertised in the Advertiser News North and the Township Journal. ​ Online database The Foreclosure Unit maintains an online database of sheriff’s sales which is continually updated as information changes. While every effort is made to insure that these listings are accurate and timely, the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office does not warrant or guarantee the reliability of same. ​ Click to access the database of sheriff’s sales Resources for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure >> ​Sheriff's Sale Procedures ​ The following information is provided as a public service by the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office and is intended to present a general overview regarding how sheriff’s sales are conducted. We strongly urge anyone who plans to acquire real property through a sheriff’s sale to seek legal advice and exercise extreme caution. HISTORY OF THE COMMUNICATIONS CENTER The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center came online in 1990 to facilitate coordination of the various duties and responsibilities of sheriff’s personnel and to improve measures to ensure the safety of its members. The two dispatch position center supported the sheriff’s officers in carrying out their official tasks daily and during the evening hours. Some of those measures included establishing regular radio communications between: sheriff’s officers and corrections personnel moving inmates to and from court appearances sheriff’s officers in the field serving various civil processes sheriff’s officers in the field serving domestic violence restraining orders and carrying out court ordered evictions sheriff’s personnel and other agencies delivering mutual aid assistance when requested In 1995, the communications center began to staff and run the operation continuously, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The new operation consolidated the sheriff’s dispatch and public works dispatch operations as an effort to more efficiently manage the responsibilities involving emergencies supported by county based services. It also relieved the county corrections facility, the only 24-hour manned operation, from duties outside the scope of normal corrections responsibilities. The center was staffed with 5 dispatchers per day (2 day shift, 2 afternoon, 1 midnight) and those additional tasks included but not were not limited to: Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office Sussex County Fire Marshal Sussex County HazMat Team Sussex County Medical Examiner’s Office Sussex County Department of Public Works Sussex County Facilities Management Sussex County Health Department Sussex County Office of Emergency Management With the new millennium upon us, the state of New Jersey continued to encourage the consolidation of Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in the interests of efficiency and economy. There were also technology changes being introduced. The Next Generation 911 (NG9-1-1) was announced as the replacement to the current Enhanced 9-1-1 system and discussions were held relating to the financial impacts to the PSAPs. Consolidation studies funded by the state by RCC Consultants (2000) and the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development/Bloustein School/Rutgers (2006) both concluded with recommendations to consolidate PSAPs for the purpose of improved service and economy. [New Jersey 911 Consolidation Study, October 2006] In April 2006 the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders awarded a contract to RCC Associates to conduct a PSAP consolidation feasibility study for Sussex County. The study focused on analyzing the benefits of consolidating the six PSAPs in Sussex County into one or more countywide PSAPs. RCC delivered its findings and recommendations in a report to the freeholder board in June 2007 recommending consolidation to a single PSAP. In January 2008, the freeholders established the Sussex County 9-1-1 Telecommunications Working Group (TWG) to further the conclusions drawn from the RCC study and to gauge the public interest and support in consolidating the PSAPs into one center. [2008 freeholder resolution establishing TWG] In August 2008 the county received a grant through the New Jersey Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services in the amount of $220,000.00 for the “PSAP Consolidation to Regionalization Project.” [Sussex County 2008 news article] Using that grant, the freeholders commissioned Kimball & Associates in February 2009 to expand upon the previous consolidation studies and recommendations, and develop guidance and support for the planning and implementation of a countywide consolidated PSAP. The planning guide for PSAP consolidation was delivered to the county freeholder board in February 2010. [Kimball & Associates Consolidation Planning Guide] In a report by the TWG, a motion was made and unanimously carried that “The Sussex County Telecommunications Working Group recommends to the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders the findings of the report of L. Robert Kimball and Associates dated February 2010 and specifically recommends the consolidation of the six current public safety answering points into one county-administered and operated central 9-1-1 center in all respects.” [2010 TWG recommendation] In 2012, the sheriff and the freeholders broke ground on the construction of a ten position stand-alone communications center on county owned property in Frankford Township. The project sought to consolidate an ongoing sheriff’s capital project plan to refurbish the existing 20-year old sheriff’s dispatch center with the TWG recommendations, local emergency service interests and resolution support by officials from local municipalities to consolidate local emergency dispatch services. [Sandyston Township solution] This dispatch center was purposely designed to continue supporting the regular duties and responsibilities of the sheriff’s office. It would also be capable of answering emergency 911 calls and dispatching emergency services for the entire county. [County fire chiefs association letter] FACILITIES The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center was designed and constructed to be able to serve as a single point Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) serving all of Sussex County. The center was built as an addition to the existing emergency operating center in Frankford Township to be in compliance with federal and state construction standards, which include minimizing the potential for threats from natural or human sources. The center is located on a secured site and is continuously monitored through alarms systems and video surveillance. Ten 911 console positions are located on the main communications floor. Positions are staffed to meet the demands of the services that are requested, but a minimum of 2 public safety telecommunicators (PST) are staffed continuously. All data, radio, telephone and other electronic systems are supported by a number of robust redundancy measures to ensure the services can continued to be provided when normal service resources are interrupted. By original design, the communications center is supported by a backup facility, often referred to as a “hot site.” The backup site serves as a redundant communications site to the center located in Frankford Township. Real time synchronization between the two sites is used to completely mirror the environment of the main communications site in Frankford using wide area network links and specialized software. In the event of a disruption to the main Frankford site, personnel can relocate to this hot site and resume operations with minimal downtime. In lessons learned from 9/11, this hot site provides for complete redundant emergency communications capabilities from a geographically different location. The communications center provides reliable professional services, supported by a robust communications plan that provides the following capabilities: Facility designed and constructed to be earthquake and hurricane proof (NENA standard). Adjacent to fully functioning emergency operations center with 14 fully functional emergency services activation positions. Two redundant emergency building power generators, each using a different fuel source—diesel and natural gas. In addition to generator support, UPS battery backup on all critical electronic components. 911 communications center designed and built with ten individual dispatch positions, able to accommodate the entire county 911 call taking and dispatching needs. “Hot” backup remote center at sheriff’s office with three individual dispatch positions that mirror those at the main 911 communication site. Equipped with eight 911 trunks directed between the main 911 communications site and the hot backup site, effectively eliminating a single point of failure. 911 systems supported by three geo-diverse servers—two at the main 911 center in the event one server fails and the third located at the sheriff’s office hot backup site in the event the main 911 communications center experiences a total 911 server failure. Microwave link from sheriff’s office hot backup site to the main 911 communications center to ensure clear communication between the two sites, supported with a robust backup Ethernet fiber connection. Back up battery system and emergency generators at all microwave sights for power outages. Use of eight tower sites throughout the county with numerous backup features with each frequency utilized. Back up UHF/VHF radio in the event of a primary radio failure. Redundant network switches to insure continued data connectivity in the event a failure. Access/use of countywide GIS data for most accurate location and efficient dispatch of calls. Real time monitoring of critical data services to allow for and provide immediate remediation. Real time monitoring of environmental conditions in server and radio rooms to allow for and provide immediate remediation. Redundant HVAC systems in server rooms to insure appropriate environmental conditions for electronics. Currently serving 13 municipal clients as a 911 Public Safety Answering and Dispatch Point. Provides emergency medical dispatch protocols to callers. Provides Text to 9-1-1 service. Provides AVL tracking for sheriff and both paid and volunteer fire and EMS organizations. Robust computer automated dispatch system with mapping to pinpoint specific locations of emergencies to aid in response by emergency first responders. CAD system is fully replicated to a disaster recovery server every 2 hours. Network time synchronization from a satellite to insure accurate time stamping across all resources. EMAG service, which gives our paging function used by local emergency service personnel priority access to the Verizon texting network. Robust records management system able to provide clients with end detailed call reports. NENA compliance—a minimum of two telecommunicators on duty at all times, none of whom are accessible to the public or assigned clerk duties. SERVICES Primary Responsibilities Answer emergency telephone calls: Screen callers to verify emergency location and situation Use resources to locate callers that do not respond Provide pre-arrival emergency instructions when applicable Dispatch and track emergency resources Enter and verify all necessary data into CAD: Contact information, addresses Responding resources; dispatch, arrival and clearing times Initial report/request information by callers Special requests, contacts, notifications Answer administrative calls for the sheriff’s office and the communications center and either resolve the inquiry or transfer callers to the proper destination. Monitor radio communications from sheriff’s officers: Track location/status of officers engaged in assignments, traffic stops, special details Conduct computer inquiries to vehicle ownership, driver status, warrants, criminal histories Track and monitor prisoner transports by sheriff’s/corrections personnel Additional Responsibilities Monitor 50+ camera sites at the county judicial complex, corrections center, emergency operating center/911 center and sheriff’s main office Receive requests, dispatch resources and make notifications involving the Sheriff’s Office Special Services Receive notifications and requests related to other public safety programs sponsored and managed by the sheriff’s office Receive requests and arrange for afterhours/weekend call out assignments involving county personnel 911 Answering All 911 calls are answered by specially trained public safety telecommunicators (PSTs). This specialized training includes certification as a basic 911 telecommunicator by satisfactorily completing a course of instruction relating to: enhanced 911 systems and operating procedures interpersonal communications overview of the EMS function overview of the fire function overview of the police function public safety records systems public safety telecommunications systems radio broadcasting rules and procedures telecommunicator role in public safety telecommunicators legal issues telephone techniques All PSAPs in New Jersey are required to use the New Jersey Emergency Medical Dispatch Guidecards. These guidecards help the PST quickly assess the critical points of a particular situation and the level of emergency service response necessary. They also guide a PST in providing medical instructions to a caller involving many different types of medical emergencies. Those instructions may often save lives or prevent a situation from becoming worse. Personnel from this PSAP have managed thousands of calls involving cardiac, stroke, diabetic, fall, trauma, childbirth, accident, fires and other emergencies. We see the value in providing this type of intervention. TEXT TO 9-1-1 The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center accepts 9-1-1 emergency calls via text (SMS) message from within every municipality in Sussex County. Texting provides a method for individuals to be able to contact a 9-1-1 center for help in situations where their safety could be in jeopardy if they were to be heard speaking. Text to 9-1-1 also provides individuals with special needs or who may not be able to speak, access to emergency services when they need help or want to report an emergency. When to send a text to 9-1-1: When you have an emergency that requires assistance from police, fire or EMS. If you have a speech or hearing impairment, you can send a text to 9-1-1 using a cell phone or other device. It is recommended that you inform 9-1-1 that you are speech or hearing impaired so that they can inform the responders. If speaking may cause you harm, such as a break-in or domestic violence situation. Remember to silence your phone so that the sound of 9-1-1 replying does not give you away. Peer pressure. You are with a group and some of the members are doing something dangerous or illegal. If you cannot make a voice call with your cell phone because there is no service you may be able to get data service to send a text message. How to send a text to 9-1-1: Open the message app on your phone or wireless device. In "To" type "911" (there is no need to add "-"). In the message field, type the location, (address and municipality) and a brief description of the problem. Then press "SEND. Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker. Text in simple words, do not use abbreviations. Keep text messages brief and concise. Messages should be sent in English. If this is not possible a voice call should be made to allow use of translation services for voice calls. Entering 911 as the name of the person one wishes to communicate with, followed by a message and "send" will alert a dispatcher at the communications center that a new call has been received. A normal exchange of messages will follow in determining the proper response. All devices sending text messages are plotted on a map as soon as they are acknowledged by the dispatcher. While text to 9-1-1 offers an additional means to contact emergency services, it is important to understand that voice communication is always preferred as the best form of communication. Voice communications allow for quicker exchange of important information and a greater efficiency in getting help to a particular situation. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Appointments to the position of Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) are made as the need arises. All appointments are made in accordance with New Jersey Civil Service rules and regulations. To be a successful PST, a candidate must be competent in many of the inter-related duties and responsibilities associated with a 911 communications center. It is not a career to be taken lightly and those who are successful are typically found to be highly motivated with above average interpersonal skills, good reasoning and judgement, and the ability to multitask. In order to meet the demands of rapid data entry, candidates should be able to keystroke at a rate of 40 words per minute. Additionally, PSTs must be at least 18 years of age and pass an extensive background investigation. In order to serve in this position, a PST must successfully complete the following certification courses, often advertised and offered through local emergency service organizations or local PSAPs: 40-hour Basic Telecommunicator/Communications Officer 32-hour Emergency Medical Dispatcher 8-hour CPR certification Individuals interested in applying to serve as a PST are encouraged to complete and submit the Sussex County Employment Application, available at the Sussex County website . COMMUNITY WEALTH PRESERVATON PROGRAM ANYONE UTILLIZING THE COMMUNITY WEALTH PRESERVATION PROGRAM MUST CONTACT THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE AND PROVIDE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION 5 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO THE SUBJECT PROPERTY SALE DATE ​ Please click HERE for more information For The Defendant (Homeowner/Debtor) The homeowner may, at any time prior to the sale try to stop their home from going to foreclosure sale by reinstating the amount owed, pay the judgment in full, obtain another loan, etc. ​ Defendant Adjournments: Prior and up to 2:00 p.m. on the day of the sale, a homeowner may make up to two (2) adjournment requests, not exceeding 30 calendar days for each adjournment, per NJ Statute NJSA 2A:17-36. Contact the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office at 973-579-0850. New Jersey Statute NJSA 2A:17-36 allows for an additional consensual adjournment only if both the lender and the debtor agree. Defendant Rights Post-Sale: Following the sale, the homeowner has a period of 10 calendar days in which the property can be redeemed. During this time, they are still the lawful owner of the property. The redemption period can only be extended through court order. (Contact the Courts for an extension if needed, not the Sheriff’s Office.) HISTORY OF THE COMMUNICATIONS CENTER The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center came online in 1990 to facilitate coordination of the various duties and responsibilities of sheriff’s personnel and to improve measures to ensure the safety of its members. The two dispatch position center supported the sheriff’s officers in carrying out their official tasks daily and during the evening hours. Some of those measures included establishing regular radio communications between: sheriff’s officers and corrections personnel moving inmates to and from court appearances sheriff’s officers in the field serving various civil processes sheriff’s officers in the field serving domestic violence restraining orders and carrying out court ordered evictions sheriff’s personnel and other agencies delivering mutual aid assistance when requested In 1995, the communications center began to staff and run the operation continuously, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. The new operation consolidated the sheriff’s dispatch and public works dispatch operations as an effort to more efficiently manage the responsibilities involving emergencies supported by county based services. It also relieved the county corrections facility, the only 24-hour manned operation, from duties outside the scope of normal corrections responsibilities. The center was staffed with 5 dispatchers per day (2 day shift, 2 afternoon, 1 midnight) and those additional tasks included but not were not limited to: Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office Sussex County Fire Marshal Sussex County HazMat Team Sussex County Medical Examiner’s Office Sussex County Department of Public Works Sussex County Facilities Management Sussex County Health Department Sussex County Office of Emergency Management With the new millennium upon us, the state of New Jersey continued to encourage the consolidation of Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in the interests of efficiency and economy. There were also technology changes being introduced. The Next Generation 911 (NG9-1-1) was announced as the replacement to the current Enhanced 9-1-1 system and discussions were held relating to the financial impacts to the PSAPs. Consolidation studies funded by the state by RCC Consultants (2000) and the Heldrich Center for Workforce Development/Bloustein School/Rutgers (2006) both concluded with recommendations to consolidate PSAPs for the purpose of improved service and economy. [New Jersey 911 Consolidation Study, October 2006] In April 2006 the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders awarded a contract to RCC Associates to conduct a PSAP consolidation feasibility study for Sussex County. The study focused on analyzing the benefits of consolidating the six PSAPs in Sussex County into one or more countywide PSAPs. RCC delivered its findings and recommendations in a report to the freeholder board in June 2007 recommending consolidation to a single PSAP. In January 2008, the freeholders established the Sussex County 9-1-1 Telecommunications Working Group (TWG) to further the conclusions drawn from the RCC study and to gauge the public interest and support in consolidating the PSAPs into one center. [2008 freeholder resolution establishing TWG] In August 2008 the county received a grant through the New Jersey Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services in the amount of $220,000.00 for the “PSAP Consolidation to Regionalization Project.” [Sussex County 2008 news article] Using that grant, the freeholders commissioned Kimball & Associates in February 2009 to expand upon the previous consolidation studies and recommendations, and develop guidance and support for the planning and implementation of a countywide consolidated PSAP. The planning guide for PSAP consolidation was delivered to the county freeholder board in February 2010. [Kimball & Associates Consolidation Planning Guide] In a report by the TWG, a motion was made and unanimously carried that “The Sussex County Telecommunications Working Group recommends to the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders the findings of the report of L. Robert Kimball and Associates dated February 2010 and specifically recommends the consolidation of the six current public safety answering points into one county-administered and operated central 9-1-1 center in all respects.” [2010 TWG recommendation] In 2012, the sheriff and the freeholders broke ground on the construction of a ten position stand-alone communications center on county owned property in Frankford Township. The project sought to consolidate an ongoing sheriff’s capital project plan to refurbish the existing 20-year old sheriff’s dispatch center with the TWG recommendations, local emergency service interests and resolution support by officials from local municipalities to consolidate local emergency dispatch services. [Sandyston Township solution] This dispatch center was purposely designed to continue supporting the regular duties and responsibilities of the sheriff’s office. It would also be capable of answering emergency 911 calls and dispatching emergency services for the entire county. [County fire chiefs association letter] FACILITIES The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center was designed and constructed to be able to serve as a single point Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) serving all of Sussex County. The center was built as an addition to the existing emergency operating center in Frankford Township to be in compliance with federal and state construction standards, which include minimizing the potential for threats from natural or human sources. The center is located on a secured site and is continuously monitored through alarms systems and video surveillance. Ten 911 console positions are located on the main communications floor. Positions are staffed to meet the demands of the services that are requested, but a minimum of 2 public safety telecommunicators (PST) are staffed continuously. All data, radio, telephone and other electronic systems are supported by a number of robust redundancy measures to ensure the services can continued to be provided when normal service resources are interrupted. By original design, the communications center is supported by a backup facility, often referred to as a “hot site.” The backup site serves as a redundant communications site to the center located in Frankford Township. Real time synchronization between the two sites is used to completely mirror the environment of the main communications site in Frankford using wide area network links and specialized software. In the event of a disruption to the main Frankford site, personnel can relocate to this hot site and resume operations with minimal downtime. In lessons learned from 9/11, this hot site provides for complete redundant emergency communications capabilities from a geographically different location. The communications center provides reliable professional services, supported by a robust communications plan that provides the following capabilities: Facility designed and constructed to be earthquake and hurricane proof (NENA standard). Adjacent to fully functioning emergency operations center with 14 fully functional emergency services activation positions. Two redundant emergency building power generators, each using a different fuel source—diesel and natural gas. In addition to generator support, UPS battery backup on all critical electronic components. 911 communications center designed and built with ten individual dispatch positions, able to accommodate the entire county 911 call taking and dispatching needs. “Hot” backup remote center at sheriff’s office with three individual dispatch positions that mirror those at the main 911 communication site. Equipped with eight 911 trunks directed between the main 911 communications site and the hot backup site, effectively eliminating a single point of failure. 911 systems supported by three geo-diverse servers—two at the main 911 center in the event one server fails and the third located at the sheriff’s office hot backup site in the event the main 911 communications center experiences a total 911 server failure. Microwave link from sheriff’s office hot backup site to the main 911 communications center to ensure clear communication between the two sites, supported with a robust backup Ethernet fiber connection. Back up battery system and emergency generators at all microwave sights for power outages. Use of eight tower sites throughout the county with numerous backup features with each frequency utilized. Back up UHF/VHF radio in the event of a primary radio failure. Redundant network switches to insure continued data connectivity in the event a failure. Access/use of countywide GIS data for most accurate location and efficient dispatch of calls. Real time monitoring of critical data services to allow for and provide immediate remediation. Real time monitoring of environmental conditions in server and radio rooms to allow for and provide immediate remediation. Redundant HVAC systems in server rooms to insure appropriate environmental conditions for electronics. Currently serving 13 municipal clients as a 911 Public Safety Answering and Dispatch Point. Provides emergency medical dispatch protocols to callers. Provides Text to 9-1-1 service. Provides AVL tracking for sheriff and both paid and volunteer fire and EMS organizations. Robust computer automated dispatch system with mapping to pinpoint specific locations of emergencies to aid in response by emergency first responders. CAD system is fully replicated to a disaster recovery server every 2 hours. Network time synchronization from a satellite to insure accurate time stamping across all resources. EMAG service, which gives our paging function used by local emergency service personnel priority access to the Verizon texting network. Robust records management system able to provide clients with end detailed call reports. NENA compliance—a minimum of two telecommunicators on duty at all times, none of whom are accessible to the public or assigned clerk duties. SERVICES Primary Responsibilities Answer emergency telephone calls: Screen callers to verify emergency location and situation Use resources to locate callers that do not respond Provide pre-arrival emergency instructions when applicable Dispatch and track emergency resources Enter and verify all necessary data into CAD: Contact information, addresses Responding resources; dispatch, arrival and clearing times Initial report/request information by callers Special requests, contacts, notifications Answer administrative calls for the sheriff’s office and the communications center and either resolve the inquiry or transfer callers to the proper destination. Monitor radio communications from sheriff’s officers: Track location/status of officers engaged in assignments, traffic stops, special details Conduct computer inquiries to vehicle ownership, driver status, warrants, criminal histories Track and monitor prisoner transports by sheriff’s/corrections personnel Additional Responsibilities Monitor 50+ camera sites at the county judicial complex, corrections center, emergency operating center/911 center and sheriff’s main office Receive requests, dispatch resources and make notifications involving the Sheriff’s Office Special Services Receive notifications and requests related to other public safety programs sponsored and managed by the sheriff’s office Receive requests and arrange for afterhours/weekend call out assignments involving county personnel 911 Answering All 911 calls are answered by specially trained public safety telecommunicators (PSTs). This specialized training includes certification as a basic 911 telecommunicator by satisfactorily completing a course of instruction relating to: enhanced 911 systems and operating procedures interpersonal communications overview of the EMS function overview of the fire function overview of the police function public safety records systems public safety telecommunications systems radio broadcasting rules and procedures telecommunicator role in public safety telecommunicators legal issues telephone techniques All PSAPs in New Jersey are required to use the New Jersey Emergency Medical Dispatch Guidecards. These guidecards help the PST quickly assess the critical points of a particular situation and the level of emergency service response necessary. They also guide a PST in providing medical instructions to a caller involving many different types of medical emergencies. Those instructions may often save lives or prevent a situation from becoming worse. Personnel from this PSAP have managed thousands of calls involving cardiac, stroke, diabetic, fall, trauma, childbirth, accident, fires and other emergencies. We see the value in providing this type of intervention. TEXT TO 9-1-1 The Sussex County Sheriff’s Communications Center accepts 9-1-1 emergency calls via text (SMS) message from within every municipality in Sussex County. Texting provides a method for individuals to be able to contact a 9-1-1 center for help in situations where their safety could be in jeopardy if they were to be heard speaking. Text to 9-1-1 also provides individuals with special needs or who may not be able to speak, access to emergency services when they need help or want to report an emergency. When to send a text to 9-1-1: When you have an emergency that requires assistance from police, fire or EMS. If you have a speech or hearing impairment, you can send a text to 9-1-1 using a cell phone or other device. It is recommended that you inform 9-1-1 that you are speech or hearing impaired so that they can inform the responders. If speaking may cause you harm, such as a break-in or domestic violence situation. Remember to silence your phone so that the sound of 9-1-1 replying does not give you away. Peer pressure. You are with a group and some of the members are doing something dangerous or illegal. If you cannot make a voice call with your cell phone because there is no service you may be able to get data service to send a text message. How to send a text to 9-1-1: Open the message app on your phone or wireless device. In "To" type "911" (there is no need to add "-"). In the message field, type the location, (address and municipality) and a brief description of the problem. Then press "SEND. Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker. Text in simple words, do not use abbreviations. Keep text messages brief and concise. Messages should be sent in English. If this is not possible a voice call should be made to allow use of translation services for voice calls. Entering 911 as the name of the person one wishes to communicate with, followed by a message and "send" will alert a dispatcher at the communications center that a new call has been received. A normal exchange of messages will follow in determining the proper response. All devices sending text messages are plotted on a map as soon as they are acknowledged by the dispatcher. While text to 9-1-1 offers an additional means to contact emergency services, it is important to understand that voice communication is always preferred as the best form of communication. Voice communications allow for quicker exchange of important information and a greater efficiency in getting help to a particular situation. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Appointments to the position of Public Safety Telecommunicator (PST) are made as the need arises. All appointments are made in accordance with New Jersey Civil Service rules and regulations. To be a successful PST, a candidate must be competent in many of the inter-related duties and responsibilities associated with a 911 communications center. It is not a career to be taken lightly and those who are successful are typically found to be highly motivated with above average interpersonal skills, good reasoning and judgement, and the ability to multitask. In order to meet the demands of rapid data entry, candidates should be able to keystroke at a rate of 40 words per minute. Additionally, PSTs must be at least 18 years of age and pass an extensive background investigation. In order to serve in this position, a PST must successfully complete the following certification courses, often advertised and offered through local emergency service organizations or local PSAPs: 40-hour Basic Telecommunicator/Communications Officer 32-hour Emergency Medical Dispatcher 8-hour CPR certification Individuals interested in applying to serve as a PST are encouraged to complete and submit the Sussex County Employment Application, available at the Sussex County website . For Plaintiff Attorneys In order to initiate a sheriff’s sale for real property in foreclosure, you must supply our office with the following: ​ Written request that the sale be scheduled Writ of Execution plus 2 copies $2,000.00 deposit Short form description for advertising purposes Clear legal Schedule A for deed Affidavit of Consideration for sheriff’s deed plus 1 copy Affidavit of Diligent Inquiry [Rule 4:64-2(d)] Notice to Tenants (Appendix XII-K, adopted 11/17/09) ​ Please note that a representative from your firm is required to be present at the time of the sale. If you need further information or assistance, please contact us at 973.579.0850.

< 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.

< Back Sussex County Jail personnel perform evacuation drills Training exercises were successfully carried out at the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility. Previous Next Three separate rapid evacuation exercises were conducted at the Keogh-Dwyer Correctional Facility during the month of June. Designed to simulate conditions that might occur during an actual emergency at the jail, the exercises enhanced the training of all bureau of corrections personnel and prepared them should an actual evacuation become necessary. A different training scenario—ranging from explosives threats to emergent fire and smoke conditions—was carried out during each shift. Inmates were evacuated from their respective housing units, relocated to a safe and secure holding area, secured with wrist restraints and subsequently prepared for possible transport to another housing unit or separate facility. The Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Corrections maintains reciprocal agreements with a number of neighboring counties to house inmates in their facilities in the event of an emergency. During an actual emergency, Sussex County inmates may be transferred to correctional facilities in one or more of those counties. All three exercises, each of which lasted approximately 40 minutes, were successful and all inmates were safely evacuated in a timely fashion without any injuries or problems. The evacuations were a cooperative effort between the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Law Enforcement, the New Jersey State Police and the Newton Police Department.

< 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.