News

Commissioners Endorsed by Electrical Workers, Carpenters Unions

Morristown – Republican County Commissioners Deborah Smith, John Krickus and Stephen Shaw announced their endorsement from two of the largest Unions in New Jersey, IBEW 102 (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) and the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters.  

“Keeping Morris strong means delivering cost effective, transparent, responsive county government that ensures we remain the best county to live in New Jersey,” said Commissioners Smith, Krickus and Shaw in a joint statement. “We are proud to have such strong labor support for our re-election and are eager to continue strengthening our relationship with the county’s working families – regardless of their party affiliation.”  

Smith, Krickus and Shaw said their efforts in Morris are a model to expand and grow the Republican Party both in New Jersey and nationally.  Morris County has a robust and consistent capital budget resulting in local jobs for trade union members for critical infrastructure improvements.  In addition, the Morris County Commissioners are in the process of expanding the Vocational School district by some 500 students with a new facility at the CCM campus.

“We are proud of the role that commonsense Republican leadership has had in the growth of our country. But, make no mistake, our focus is not partisanship at all costs,” said Smith, Krickus, and Shaw. “Rather, our governing philosophy focuses on maintaining affordability, while investing in public safety, education, infrastructure, and the preservation of farmland, open space, and parkland. If we do that, we are confident that we will attract more people to the Republican Party and grow our winning coalition.”

WRNJ Radio

By Jay Edwards

Swedish Diplomat Who Saved Thousands of Jews in WWII Remembered

PARSIPPANY-TROY HILLS, NJ (Morris County) – Morris County Commissioner Deborah Smith joined Mayor James Barberio, representatives of the Swedish government and the Morris County Swedish community (VASA), as well as leaders of the Morris County Jewish community, and many others at Smith Field Park in Parsippany-Troy Hills Sunday to commemorate Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish diplomat renowned for his heroic efforts in saving tens of thousands of Hungarian Jews during World War II.

“Courage and Compassion: Remembering Raoul Wallenberg,” an annual program held every August at the sculpture erected in his honor, highlights Wallenberg’s remarkable bravery and humanitarian legacy, inspiring efforts toward tolerance and peace. The event is co-sponsored by Adath Shalom Synagogue, the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, the Parsippany Interfaith Council and the Morris County Human Relations Commission.

“Today we gather to honor the extraordinary heroism of Raoul Wallenberg, who bravely saved tens of thousands of Jews during the Holocaust. At minimum, his bold efforts in the face of the overwhelming Nazi juggernaut and the Third Reich’s army of collaborators are a monument to the power that individual action can have against the greatest of evils,” said Smith.

But noting the current rise in antisemitism, the murders of 1,200 people in Israel by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7 and the open support some in the United States continue to show for Hamas, Smith questioned whether history is repeating itself.

“Today, as we honor Raoul Wallenberg, we must ask ourselves: Is there enough of us in society with his bold, personal fortitude to prevent another Holocaust,” Smith said. “What I can say is that I am deeply moved to be here today, surrounded by people in Morris County who have embraced Wallenberg’s courage, pushed aside politics and our differences to embrace peace and to reaffirm our commitment to never letting a Holocaust happen again.”

Wallenberg, born in Stockholm, Sweden, on Aug. 4, 1912, was recruited by the U.S. War Refugee Board in 1944 to help Jews persecuted by the Nazis. Sent to Budapest by the Swedish foreign ministry, he launched a rescue mission by issuing Swedish “certificates of protection,” saving tens of thousands of Hungarian Jews from deportation to Auschwitz. Wallenberg set up soup kitchens, nurseries, hospitals and safe houses, and helped establish the “International Ghetto” for protection.

By 1945, his efforts saved an estimated 100,000 Jews from deportation and assisted 50,000 others in emigrating before his sudden disappearance, which remains a mystery. Wallenberg was last seen in the custody of Russian soldiers, who believed he was a U.S. spy and imprisoned him. His heroism saved many lives at the cost of his own.

“Today, we pay tribute to Raoul Wallenberg, a remarkable humanitarian who saved thousands of Hungarian Jewish people’s lives during the Holocaust,” said Barberio. “It is up to all of us that today not only be an act of remembrance that one person with integrity, commitment and courage can make a difference even in the darkest of times, but a powerful reminder that we must stand up against antisemitism, hatred and intolerance. Let us all reflect on the actions of this hero of humanity, as well as the millions of victims, survivors and families who suffered because of the Holocaust.”

“This event reminds us that Raoul Wallenberg is a pre-eminent example of the power of good that can be accomplished by one compassionate and committed individual,” said Meyer Rosenthal, Chair of the Adath Shalom Holocaust Education Committee.

In 1981, U.S. Congressman Tom Lantos, who was among those saved by Wallenberg, sponsored a bill that granted Wallenberg honorary U.S. citizenship, making him only the second person ever to receive this distinction. There have been six others who subsequently were awarded that honor, dating back to the American Revolution.

Morristown Minute

By Chris Connors

Commissioners Fund New Program to Support Nursing Mothers

In recognition of World Breastfeeding Week, which begins today, the Morris County Board of County Commissioners announced the availability of lactation pods for nursing mothers at four county buildings, including the Morris County Library.

View the Video Announcing the Opening of the Lactation Pods

Commissioner Deborah Smith, chair of the Budget Committee, spearheaded the effort to install the pods, using federal dollars issued to Morris County through the American Rescue Plan Act, with support from fellow commissioners and county personnel.

“Whether they are working or on the go, nursing mothers need to be able to have security and privacy when they are breastfeeding or pumping. I wanted to provide them with an option when they are in county spaces,” said Commissioner Smith.

The pods provide a comfortable, secure space with a fully furnished interior where nursing mothers can breastfeed or pump in privacy. The program targeted areas most heavily visited by new moms in county government facilities at four locations, including:

• Morris County Library, 30 East Hanover Ave., Whippany
• Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance, 340 W Hanover Ave., Morristown
• Administration and Records Building, 2nd Floor, 10 Court St., Morristown
• Human Services Central Avenue Complex, 1 Medical Dr., Morris Plains

Celebrated annually from August 1-7, World Breastfeeding Week was created in 1992 by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Advocacy and aims to highlight the benefits that breastfeeding can bring to both the health and well-being of babies.

Daily Record

By Nicole Flanagan

Twenty-one historic sites in Morris County have been awarded $3.6 million in grants to help restore and preserve the properties.

The county Board of Commissioners approved the funding earlier this week, in its latest annual round of historic preservation grants based on recommendations from the Morris County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Review Board.

This largest award went to the Madison Masonic Lodge, a two-century-old former church that the borough agreed to buy for $1.1 million last year to save it from demolition. Madison will receive $562,500 from the county toward the purchase of the Federal-style building on Main Street. It housed the Chatham Presbyterian Church before it was sold to the Madison Masonic Lodge no. 93 in 1931.

Dover, Mountain Lakes, Rockaway Twp. get grants

Other awards included a $433,000 grant to partially restore the Mountain Lakes train station, $400,000 to restore the interior and replace the roof of Rockaway Township’s Ford-Faesch House and $398,172 to rehabilitate Mount Olive’s Italianate-style Seward farmhouse, which dates back to 1800.

The 1875-era Orchard Street Cemetery Gatehouse received two grants totalling $10,000 to develop a preservation plan and pursue a nomination to historic registers.

The grants are used for “the acquisition, stabilization, rehabilitation, restoration or preservation of historic resources by municipalities, qualified non-profits and the county,” the county review board said on their website.

Grants went to projects in 16 towns across the county. About 77% of the recommended funding will be used for construction in 12 projects. The rest of the money is recommended for non-construction work at nine other sites. Over the last two decades, Morris County has provided $50 million in funding to aid 123 sites, the commissioners said.

“Our historic preservation program has been supported by taxpayers for more than 20 years,”  Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw, a liaison to the board, said in a press release. “While the funding preserves our county’s unique heritage by restoring and protecting the fabric of our history, it also supports economic development, tourism and educational opportunities that enhance the overall quality of life of our communities.”

“As Morris County prepares to host the 250th Anniversary of our nation’s independence in 2026, many of the 123 funded historic sites will be on display for visitors to appreciate,” he added.

The list of recipients include:

• Madison Masonic Lodge – Acquisition — $562,500
• Mountain Lakes Train Station – Partial Exterior Restoration –$433,520
• Ford-Faesch House, Rockaway Twp. – Interior Restoration –$400,000
• Seward House, Mount Olive – Interior Restoration –$398,172
• Pompton Plains Railroad Station, Pequannock – Exterior Rehabilitation –$345,723
• Cook House, East Hanover – Exterior Restoration –$334,000
• Ayres Farm Garage, Denville – Exterior Restoration –$254,800
• Lafayette School, Roxbury – Exterior Restoration –$241,608
• Acorn Hall, Morristown – Interior Restoration –$176,360
• L’Ecole Kinnelon Museum – Electrical Upgrades — $138,704
• Darress Theatre, Boonton – Construction Documents –$106,450
• Millington Schoolhouse, Long Hill – Construction Documents –$44,000
• Arthur W. Condict House, Dover – Windows and Turret –$40,000
• Martin Berry House, Pequannock – Landscape Plan –$31,922
• Craftsman Farms, Parsippany-Troy Hills – Hall Restoration –$26,772
• Schuyler-Hamilton House, Morristown – Construction Documents –$26,360
• Growing Stage, Netcong – Construction Documents –$24,800
• Chamberlain House, Jefferson – Preservation Plan –$16,160
• Museum of Early Trades & Crafts, Madison – Clock Restoration –$15,280
• Orchard Street Cemetery Gatehouse, Dover – Preservation Plan –$5,000
• Orchard Street Gatehouse, Dover – Nomination to Historic Registers — $5,000

Parsippany Focus

By Frank L. Cahill

MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County recently welcomed veterans and service providers at the Morris County Veterans Services Office for a meeting hosted by the New Jersey SOS Veterans Stakeholders Group. The event aimed to foster networking and better understand veterans’ support needs across the region.

The meeting saw over 60 participants, including representatives from the offices of U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, and the N.J. State Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Organizations such as Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson, Veterans Affairs Healthcare, Welcome Home Vets of NJ, Morris Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York & Northern New Jersey, Inc., and the Mental Health Association of NJ were also present.

“Supporting our veterans is crucial to honor their sacrifices and ensure their well-being,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a Marine Corps veteran. “While holidays often spotlight their service, we want our veterans to know that Morris County is here throughout the year providing essential services for their transition to civilian life, whether it be access to healthcare, employment opportunities, training, or mental health support.”

Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming, and Jessica Tomalo, Program Coordinator for the Morris County Office of Veterans Services, updated county veterans services. In the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veterans Services Office to include a fourth full-time Veterans Services Officer position, which is currently being recruited, and a seasonal intern who recently joined and participated in the event.

“In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, shelter placement, transportation services, meal assistance, counseling, legal services, and other veteran services currently being provided by the Morris County Human Services Department,” Krickus said.

A new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point (CAP) opened in May at the Morris County VSO at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve its county VSO space to host the VA CAP.

Two VA counselors from the federal Bloomfield Vet Center are available to provide services every Thursday by appointment. Veterans interested in these services should call the Bloomfield Vet Center at (973) 748-0980 to schedule an appointment.

Additionally, a veterans appreciation event is being planned for later this summer at a park in Morris County. Sign up for the Morris County weekly email newsletter for updates about this and other veteran events throughout the county.

Morris County, NJ

Moody’s and S&P’s Uphold Premium Assessments

Morris County’s financial stability again has been given the highest confidence ranking by Moody’s Investor Services and Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings, both of which issued their AAA ratings of the county finances for the 49^th consecutive year.

“The AAA issuer rating reflects the county’s strong and diverse economy, very high wealth and resident income, healthy reserve levels, and exceptionally strong, proactive financial management,” Moody’s concluded in an analysis released May 23.

“Morris County has maintained a triple-A rating for almost half a century. This is the highest rating assigned and saves everyone money by allowing our towns, schools and county to borrow funds for integral community projects at competitive rates. It is very much like a personal credit score, and all county taxpayers reap the rewards,” said Deborah Smith, chair, Morris County Board of County Commissioners Budget Committee. “When the county needs to borrow funding for important infrastructure projects for our community, taxpayers are spared hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest fees, which translates to tax savings for everyone.”

S&P’s May 24 summary also confirmed a positive outlook.

“The county has consistently maintained positive finances during the past three fiscal years because of management’s conservative budgeting,” concluded S&P’s summary.

S&P: Morris County’s ranking higher than federal government.

“Morris County is eligible for a rating higher than the sovereign because we think the county can maintain strong credit characteristics relative to the nation in a stress scenario. … The county has predominantly locally derived revenue with independent taxing authority and treasury management from the federal government,” S&P reported.

The AAA ratings benefit everyone in Morris County

The annual ratings assignment for 2024 involved a review of approximately $37.1 million in General Obligation Bonds being issued by the county, consisting of $30.2 million in general improvement, $2.7 million in parks and $4.2 million in bonds for the County College of Morris.

Moody’s Findings on Morris County’s Credit Strength

• Strong and stable finances
• Large, diverse and wealthy economy with stable employer presence
• Exceptionally strong, proactive financial management

Summary of S&P’s Findings on Morris County

• Very strong local economy
• Historically stable budgetary performance that has resulted in continued reserve improvement due to conservative budgeting, supported by a strong revenue base
• Very strong management with strong financial-management practices, policies Highlights include:

• long-term formal financial and capital-improvement plans
• formal investment and debt-management policies
• reserve policy that limits unreserved fund balance to no less than 12% of expenditures

The Moody’s and S&P outlook for the coming term is also stable, reflecting the expectation that the county will maintain a strong financial position and continue to benefit from its growing economy.

Morris County, NJ

American Correctional Association Recognizes Excellence Across All Standards

The Morris County Correctional Facility (MCCF) stands out as among the best, said assessors from the America Correctional Association (ACA), which reported the lock-up to be 100% compliant with both mandatory and non-mandatory standards.

An ACA review was conducted last week by two out-of-state independent correctional professionals, Kyle Poppert and Marmie Schuster-Walker, who indicated that the MCCF stands out among the best facilities and finished at the top in every category audited. For that the MCCF was issued a 100% compliance in all areas, which isn’t common with these audits. Poppert has conducted over 200 audits since 2006.

“First and foremost, I appreciate the hospitality of the staff at this agency. They made me feel like a member of their team. It takes courage to bring outsiders in and look at your operation, but this was an easy one. This is a very squared away operation,” said Poppert during an exit interview.

“Every inmate we spoke to stated that this is the best facility they have ever been to. They are treated with dignity and respect, and raved not only about the sworn staff, but applauded the medical staff,” said Schuster-Walker. “I would have loved to work here. There is no finer place, from what I have seen in all my years, that is better than this. From the staff to the living and working conditions, this is a top-notch operation.”

Schuster-Walker also relayed how one inmate told her his arrival at the facility was lifesaving.

“This facility saved my life. I was cleared for incarceration by a local hospital, but when I got here, I began to go downhill fast. Both sworn and medical staff acted fast and sent me back out for emergency care. If it wasn’t for them, I would have died,” the inmate said, according to Schuster-Walker.

There are plans for the official recognition of reaccreditation to be conferred and awarded in January 2025 at the Orlando ACA Conference. Staff from the MCCF will attend the conference, where they will receive the reaccreditation award from a panel of ACA corrections professionals.

“To open your doors and allow somebody to kick the tires takes courage. I commend all of you. Oftentimes, the only role model an inmate has is you. You are their mentor. You may not remember all the inmates that you have dealt with, but I assure you they will absolutely remember you,” said Sheriff James Gannon, commending everyone on a job well done.

Morris County, NJ

Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals Presented to 13 Veterans

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners presented Distinguished Military Service Medals to 13 veterans at the Morris County Annual Memorial Day Observance ceremony outside the historic county courthouse in Morristown today.

State legislators and Congressional office representatives also delivered honors to the veterans whose service ranged from World War II to Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“My father, a World War II vet, and my father-in-law, a Vietnam Vet, spoke very little of their time in combat to spare us what they had to endure, so I can only imagine the suffering of those who lost their lives in battle and those of you being honored today. While Memorial Day is a time to reflect on those who fell in battle, it also serves as an opportunity for us to be thankful for those who bravely served and returned home to us. We need you. We need your wisdom, especially in these troubled times,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers.

Watch the Full Morris County Memorial Day Ceremony Video

Sen. Anthony Bucco and Asw. Aura Dunn presented Joint Senate-Assembly Resolutions to each veteran. Kellie Doucette, representing U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill and Nicholas Henry, representing U.S. Rep. Tom Kean, Jr., presented Certificates of Honor from their offices.  

Check Out Photos of the Ceremony

The keynote address of the ceremony was delivered by U.S. Army Veteran Derek Oates, who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004 to 2006. He spoke of the importance of soldiers returning from conflict finding strong support at home.

“We owe a debt of gratitude not only to them, but to every soldier across the generations of conflict. The ultimate tribute we can pay those who lost their lives during combat is to support those who are still with us today,” said Oates, reflecting on his post-war experience as a disabled veteran. “Upon my return from service I struggled making the transition into civilian life. One of the only reasons I am here with you today, while many of my brothers and sisters are not, is because of the support I received.”

Oates, inspired by the terrorist attacks of 9/11, enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduation from Seton Hall Prep in 2002. He deployed to Baghdad with the 82nd Airborne in 2004. During many convoys, he operated as a gunner on top of Humvees, handling weapons like the 50-cal and MK-19. He was injured during those enemy incursions.

SPC. Oates received the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Iraq Campaign Medal.

Upon returning from active duty, Oates trained cadets at West Point and participated in the Helmets to Hardhats program, becoming a Union carpenter and dock-builder. He now owns Roofing Innovations, a veteran-employing construction company in East Hanover.

Morris County Prioritizes Veterans’ Support

Following this year’s Memorial Day Observance, Veterans Tom Mazzaccaro and Emerson Crooks of the Advisory Council on Aging Disabilities & Veterans (ACDAV) and Christine Hellyer, Director of the Office of Aging, Disabilities and Community Programming joined the Commissioners at their public meeting to provide updates on the Morris County Commissioners’ expansion of veterans services.

“Over the past two years, Morris County has expanded its Veteran Services Office. The office is currently in the process of hiring a fourth full-time Veterans Services Officer and a seasonal intern will start in June,” said Commissioner John Krickus, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. “In 2022, Morris County allocated $350,000 to veteran services, and last year contributed an additional $300,000 to address the growing demand for mental health, shelter placement, transportation services, meal assistance, counseling, legal services and other veteran services currently being provided by the Morris County Human Services Department.”

Director Hellyer noted a new federal Veteran Center Community Access Point (CAP) opened on May 2 at the Morris County Veteran Services Office located at 540 West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township. Morris County volunteered to share and improve space at the county VSO to host the VA CAP.

Services are provided every Thursday by appointment by two Veteran Affairs (VA) counselors from the federal Bloomfield Vet Center. Veterans who wish to make an appointment should call the Bloomfield Vet Center at 973-748-0980.

“A Look Back on a Morris County Hero”

Morris County does not forget its heroes, especially those who have fallen in combat in service to the United States and as a result, the county has made it a tradition to recognize at least one by name at the Memorial Day Observance ceremony.

This year the county looked back on Private William Hedges Baker, who died in World War I.

“He had a promising life and career in front of him when he left college on May 2, 1918 to enlist at Fort Oglethorpe in Georgia, where he was attached to the 26th Infantry. On July 20 of that year, less than three months after he joined the Army, Private Baker was shot dead by a German sharpshooter while attempting to retrieve injured comrades on the battlefield at Plouisy, France.  He was only 22 years old,” said Commissioner Deputy Director Stephen Shaw in leading the tribute.

Private Baker was originally buried in France, but he was returned home to Dover on May 10, 1921 for burial in the Orchard Street Cemetery, where his marker remains today.  Many members of the American Legion Post 27 in Dover, named in honor of William Hedges Baker, attended his funeral, and on Memorial Day that year, a platoon of Marines fired three volleys over his grave. Private Baker was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, one of this nation’s highest military honors, and his name is memorialized on the “Dough Boy” World War I monument that continues to grace Dover’s Hurd Park.

The Morris County Distinguished Military Service Medals are unique to the county and were first issued in 1999 to honor World War II veterans on the 55^th Anniversary of the 1944 D-Day Invasion and the liberation of France from the Nazi occupation. They were later expanded to honor service in Vietnam, Korea and general service in the U.S. military during other conflicts. In 2022 Morris County unveiled medals for Iraq and Afghanistan. These awards are presented to veterans who served honorably to help make the nation and Morris County a better place to live.

See Details of All the Honored Veterans & Their Biographies

The veterans honored on May 22, 2024, included:

Peter L. Cullen, Dover
Kimberly Dean, Chester Township
Anthony T. Donadio, Jr., Randolph Township (posthumous)
Fabio A. Escobar, Randolph Township
Wayne F. Henderson, Madison
Elihu W. Kaufman, Long Hill Township
Bill Lee, Roxbury Township
Susan Eno Foelsch-Maher, Chatham Borough
Robert J. McDonnell, Lincoln Park
Mateo Osorio, Madison
Frank Rigillo, East Hanover
Robert W. Smith, Florham Park (posthumous)
Brian Stanislaus, Mount Olive

In other Morris County Veteran news, NJ SOS Veterans Stakeholders will host a meeting on Wednesday, June 5 from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Morris County Veterans Services Office, 540 West Hanover Avenue, Morris Township. All Morris County veterans and service providers are welcome. This is a great networking opportunity to share information about your services. Light snacks and refreshments will be available. Please RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling 973-326-7847.

Morris County, NJ

Prosecutor’s Office Hosts Recognition and Remembrance Event

In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2024, law enforcement, elected officials and community leaders joined the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO) this week to raise awareness and highlight progress in laws and services for victims and their families.

View Photos from the MCPO’s 2024 Crime Victims’ Rights Week Event

The keynote speaker was Chief of Police David Kullgren, Newtown, Connecticut, who served as the staff commander leading the response to the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012.

“In observance of Crime Victims’ Rights Week, it’s crucial that we, as leaders, reaffirm our commitment to the safety and well-being of our communities,” Kullgren said. “This starts with empowering our staff with the necessary training and resources to uphold the highest standards of performance. By equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need, we not only enhance their ability to serve effectively but also show our unwavering dedication to supporting victims and preventing further harm.”

Sheriff James M. Gannon also participated as a guest speaker at the annual event, which was held in the Morris County Administration & Records Building in Morristown. Morris County Commissioner Director Christine Myers presented a proclamation to Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, recognizing April 21 to April 27 as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

“Rising crime leaves us all scarred and undermines our confidence in the justice system,” Commissioner Director Myers said. “It’s during weeks like this that we can focus on the progress made for victims and their families. We are fortunate to have so many dedicated people here today who support victims of crime.”

Following this year’s theme, “How Would You Help? Options, Services, and Hope for Crime Survivors,” the MCPO Victim/Witness Advocate team launched an awareness campaign to highlight the services available to the public. Bookmarks, designed in partnership with the Mail Library Alliance, were distributed throughout Morris County.

The MCPO has been a leader in victims’ advocacy for many years, establishing the Morris County Office of Victim/Witness Advocacy in 1982.

“The Prosecutor’s Office strives to make justice for victims a priority,” said Prosecutor Carroll. “The Victim/Witness Unit helps victims understand their rights, guides them throughout the criminal justice process and connects them with supportive services.”

The Hope Hub/Community Connections programs, operating through the sheriff’s office, were highlighted as resources to aid victims through difficult times.

Sheriff Gannon, a former Morris County homicide investigator, concluded the event with a quote from an article in The Star-Ledger, dated Oct. 28, 2008: “James Gannon, a retired Morris County homicide investigator, has this veteran-cop idiosyncrasy. He calls cases by the victims’ names.”

Gannon emphasized the focus of Crime Victims’ Rights Week: “It’s not about the offender; it’s about the innocent victims of crime. That’s something that was taught to me. In this line of work, you see the worst and best of humanity. In many cases, particularly homicide cases, the best we can hope for is justice and loss. There’s no victory, there’s no high fiving—just justice and loss.”

Community Ambassadors Honored at Commissioners Meeting

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners declared April 2024 National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month at a meeting last week, when Commissioners Director Christine Myers presented a framed proclamation to members of Atlantic Health System’s Behavioral Health Team for their work to provide outreach and support to victims through the Morris County Sexual Assault Center. 

“More than half of all women and nearly one-third of all men in America have experienced sexual violence according to statistics released this year by the White House,” said Myers. “And let’s not forget about the children who are victimized and who many times are nameless. It can happen anywhere, to anyone, and the trauma is life-changing for victims. National Sexual Assault Awareness Month serves as a critical reminder that sexual assault is a serious societal issue that requires collective action and commitment to create a safer world where everyone can feel protected.”

Kerri Bossardet-West, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Manager of Atlantic Behavioral Health, and Sherry Aitchinson, Licensed Professional Counselor of the Morris County Sexual Assault Center at Atlantic Behavioral Health, accepted the proclamation.

“We want to thank the Commissioners for once again acknowledging Sexual Assault and Prevention Awareness Month,” said Aitchinson. “And to let people know that we are here, and we are available. Our hotline is open 24/7; we don’t want victims to suffer in silence. This is a free service in Morris County, and we want everyone to spread the word.” 

Sexual abuse can happen almost anywhere, whether at work, home, school, other public places—or even online—to virtually anyone, regardless of geography, race, age, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or economic and social background. The trauma of sexual abuse is life-changing for victims and can lead to depression, anxiety, PTSD, among other physical and emotional impacts.

“We have seen an increase in sexual violence after the pandemic, so your support for the Morris County Sexual Assault Center under Atlantic Health System is very important,” said Bossardet-West. “Thank you for getting the word out that we are here to serve the victims of sexual assault.”

Members of the Morris County Sexual Assault Center will be at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum on Wednesday, April 17 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for an outreach event featuring speakers, community resources, music, food trucks and more. Learn more about the event here.

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, please call the Atlantic Behavioral Health Sexual Assault Program Hotline: 973-829-0587. Confidential support and crisis counseling provided by a professional therapist are available around the clock, every day.

Advocates, certified forensic nurses and specially trained law enforcement investigators of Atlantic Health’s Sexual Assault Response Team are available to address the medical, emotional and legal needs of survivors 13 years of age and up who are in acute crisis and have been sexually assaulted within a five-day period.

Please visit the Atlantic Behavioral Health website for more information on the Morris County Sexual Assault Center.