e-Newspaper for Jan. 31, 2024 by The Observer Newspaper

Wednesday, 31 January 2024 n www.TheObserver.com n Volume CXXXVI, Issue No. 39

UNDER THE COVER The Essex-Hudson Greenway is coming to Kearny. But many questions remain. Page 3

BELLEVILLE n BLOOMFIELD n EAST NEWARK n HARRISON n KEARNY n LYNDHURST n NORTH ARLINGTON n NUTLEY

TO OUR HEALTH! After months of meetings & planning, Kearny’s ready to go out to bid for Belgrove Drive Health Center Annex By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

Jeff Schlecht | Barbara B. Goldberg photo

kc@theobserver.com

hat was once a police substation on Belgrove Drive will, within months, be officially transformed into a new Kearny Health Department community annex, bringing more, much-needed healthcare access to the southern end of town and East Newark. While the property has been used for events like food distribution and more, it will become much more than that once the project is completed in

about a year, according to the town. Last week, Jeff Schlecht, senior project manager of the firm RSC Architects, Hackensack, was at Town Hall to explain the project. “The annex will provide supplemental health services to the local community — testing, inoculations, food distribution and seminars, so it’s small, one-story facility to supplement everything else going on.” Schlecht says the new facility will be in the same spot of the old police substation that was built in the late 1990s. The parking lot on the other side of the property will not be af-

TRANSFORMING @ KEARNY fected, though the annex will include four spots for employees and visitors. The existing trailer will be removed to make way for a 1,500 square foot “square” building with a vestibule for reception, a meeting room big enough to accommodate up to 41 people, two consultation (exam) rooms, a restroom and a small office area with workstations for employSee ANNEX, Page 18

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Lyndhurst PBA donates Hess Trucks

Lyndhurst PD: 2 from Passaic steal car in Clifton, are nabbed here By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

T Some 50 families received a Holiday Heroes Hess Police Truck thanks to a giveaway by Lyndhurst PBA Local No. 202. Some winners are seen here with Mayor Robert B. Giangeruso and Police Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr., Officer Michael Lestrange and Lt. Paul Haggerty.

kc@theobserver.com

wo Passaic males — one a juvenile and one an adult — allegedly stole a car then went for a not-sowise joyride into Lyndhurst before getting nabbed by police there, Det. Lt. Vincent Auteri, the Lyndhurst Police Department’s public-information officer told The Observer. According to Auteri: Sometime this week, Lyndhurst detectives had obtained

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information a stolen vehicle was operating in town. The vehicle had been stolen out of Clifton on Jan. 22 and had also been seen at the location of a stolen vehicle in Cedar Grove. Dets. Chris Cuneo, Nick Abruscato and Matt Giunta surveyed the reported area for the stolen vehicle Meanwhile, Officer Michael D’Alesandro, who had just completed his patrol tour, advised communications he had located the vehicle traveling on Ridge Road. Dets. Cuneo and Abruscato then came upon the stolen vehicle on Second Avenue. Once they activated emergency lights on their police vehicle, the stolen vehicle stopped and it appeared the driver was going to attempt a U-turn. However, the suspects chose instead to abandon the vehicle and flee on foot after learning Det. Giunta had

approached from the opposite direction. Det. Abruscato gave chase and tracked down Santo Felix Cruz, 19. Det. Cuneo proceeded to pursue the 17-year old juvenile suspect on foot and he was later joined by Officer Elizabeth Clifford. Cuneo and Clifford ultimately tracked down the juvenile and placed him under arrest. A search of the stolen car revealed evidence of burglary tools. Both suspects were charged with receiving stolen property, resisting arrest by flight and possession of burglary tools. Cruz was released on his own recognizance whilst the juvenile was released into the custody of a family member.

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WHAT’S IN STORE FOR THE GREENWAY?

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

nyone who has lived in Kearny for a while knows, fairly intimately, the town and the State of New Jersey haven’t always seen eye-to-eye. One need only look back to 2019 when for months, the town, its people and its leaders fought vociferous — and won — against the state to get the Keegan Landfill closed once and for all. So you’ll forgive anyone who may have been skeptical going into the town’s meeting with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection at Roosevelt School last week where the state was hosting an open house of sorts to explain how the Essex-Hudson Greenway, along the former NJ Transit tracks, was going to work. And while many had questions, there were, let’s say, not as many answers. But there are certain aspects of the project that will eventually span from Jersey City in the east to Montclair further west that are more clear. NJDEP Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette, and several of his colleague, were in Kearny to explain and

n Some questions answered, but not

all, at meeting in Kearny with NJDEP, town governing body & residents

See GREENWAY, Page 15

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IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION Opinion ��Page 6

Obituaries......................................................................................................................Page 13

Sports...............................................................................................................................Page 9

Classifieds �� Pages 16-17

Health & Wellness Directory.......................................................................................Page 11

Business Directory.......................................................................................................Page 19

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Plans for NJ Transit gas-powered grid in South Kearny scrapped By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

lans to build a new gas-powered grid in South Kearny have been scrapped by NJ Transit, the agency announced Jan. 26. Instead, NJ Transit, with the approval of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), will redirecting $503 million in federal grant funding to support resiliency infrastructure improvements at Hoboken Terminal, County Yard in New Brunswick and the Raritan River Bridge. This funding was originally allocated to NJ Transit’s TransitGrid Microgrid Central Facility in South Kearny. NJ Transit says an intensive review of industry proposals for the MCF revealed the project was not financially feasible. Further, since the project was originally designed, multiple

improvements to the affected power grid have been enacted that have functionally made the MCF as envisioned at that time much less necessary than other critical resiliency projects. More specifically, PSE&G says it has made significant investments in power grid resiliency under a program called “Energy Strong” throughout the region that has greatly increased power reliability. To that end, NJ Transit management, along with its board of directors, determined the MCF funding would have greater benefit if applied to other key resiliency projects to harden the rail system’s more highly exposed infrastructure, which are at greater risk of failure in the face of increasing climate-related threats, and will directly benefit transit users every day. “Reallocation of the MCF

funding not only supports these high-priority resiliency projects, it also ensures that good-paying, union construction jobs that this funding supports remain in New Jersey,” NJDOT Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti said. “We appreciate the close partnership with the FTA that will better protect our transit system for all New Jerseyans.” Kearny Mayor Carol Jean Doyle says she’s very grateful the plans have been changed, thereby sparing Kearny of yet another unwanted state project. “Thank you, Gov. Murphy, for redirecting funds to correct issues because of Super Storm Sandy,” Doyle said. “I am happy to hear that union construction jobs continue to ensure our residents keep working. The Town of Kearny is appreciative of ‘Don’t Gas the Meadowlands advocates

for clean air in Kearny.” Meanwhile, environmental activists and advocates chimed in after the news was announced Jan. 26. Paula Rogovin, of the Don’t Gas the Meadowlands Coalition, was one. “Today’s victory belongs to the thousands of people who marched and rallied, spoke out at NJ Transit Board of Commissioners meetings, signed petitions, made phone calls, attended forums, lobbied over 20 towns and cities to pass

resolutions, and got over 70 officials to sign on a statement in opposition to the polluting gas power plant,” Rogovin said. “But despite all the risks this gas plant posed to public health and our climate, NJ Transit, a public agency who should have been living up to our state’s climate and environmental justice commitments, canceled the project without one word in their public statement about preventing pollution impacts. This is shameful.”

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Young couple beaten mercilessly by 5 teens on Kearny Avenue: KPD By Kevin A. Canessa Jr. with Det. Sgt. Mike Gontarczuk

www.theobserver.com

ne may recall a group of juveniles who were arrested after a robbery incident, multiple aggravated assault incidents involving knives and quite a few other incidents in which they violently assaulted other juveniles, typically heavily outnumbering them and where, their social media pages displayed handguns, stolen cars and narcotics activity. Well, it turns out despite first-degree charges such as armed robbery and repeated arrests for other violent acts, they were never incarcerated. Police say some of these juveniles loosely classify themselves into two West Hudson area “gangs,” the Back Street Killers (BSK) or the Cash Out Boys. And, after a short period of time during which they were less active in their societal contributions, they are back at it again, with more arrests. On Jan. 3, between 4 and 5 p.m., the five malcontents — three from Kearny and one each from East Newark and Harrison — aged between 14 and 16, confronted a juvenile couple walking on Kearny Avenue. The couple attempted to flee; however, they were attacked viciously. At least three

of the five are confirmed to be in the Venn Diagram of a gang (BSK/COB). One of the actors, a female, reportedly assaulted a female victim, while the four other male actors beat the boy unconscious, then dragged him across a street as they continued to beat him. A cell phone was stolen from the couple, after which the juvenile actors fled. Both victims were taken to hospital where the girl was diagnosed with a broken nose, swollen black and blue eyes and other injuries and the boy sustained serious injuries, necessitating reconstructive surgery to bones in his face and medical intervention to his eyes and other body parts. Det. Alan Stickno was the primary investigatory in this case and was assisted by Det. Dave Bush. The investigation was frustrated by the consequences imposed by the BSK/COB gang members for speaking with police. One witness actually told Det. Stickno she has seen the results of cooperating with authorities and it resulted her being horribly jumped. Ultimately, after some brave witness interviews and a review of many cameras, all five actors were identified and arrested and charged with aggravated assault, conspiracy and theft. While they

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POLICE BEAT were all transported to the Essex County Youth House, they will not be detained. Even those with prior violent offenses. Nor is it likely their

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8 Lyndhurst PD: ‘Porch pirate’ arrested thanks to crossing guard’s alert thinking,chief’s location

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

serial porch pirate is now behind bars at the Bergen County Jail thanks to the quick thinking of a Lyndhurst crossing guard and the chief of police. On Wednesday, Jan. 24, at approximately 2:54 p.m., a school crossing guard reported observing a man later identified as Jaquiece Smith, 35, Garfield, (seen in mugshot) remove a package from the front porch of a local residence. The crossing guard contacted police headquarters by radio to report the incident.

Chief Richard L. Jarvis Jr. was in the area and when he tried to approach the suspect, he took off running and discarded the packages. Responding officers set up a perimeter within the imme-

diate area. During the search, Det. Michael Giangeruso located the suspect hiding in a commercial dumpster attempting to conceal himself under the rubbish. Det. Giangeruso placed Smith under arrest and subsequently charged him with theft and obstruction. Several hours later, another Lyndhurst resident reported the theft of a package from his front steps. Det. Chris Cuneo was able to gather information during his investigation that linked Smith to this theft, too, and so he was charged with an additional count of theft. Smith was later remanded to the Bergen County Jail, pending court.

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Feltey promoted to Major General

Photo by Barbara B. Goldberg

Kearny’s own Brig. Gen. Thomas Feltey has been promoted to Major General in the United States Army. Though he couldn’t be present, Mayor Carol Jean Doyle recognized him at the Jan. 22, 2024, meeting of the mayor and Town Council. Accepting the proclamation is Feltey’s sister, Tara, who is seen here with the mayor. ‘Words cannot express my feelings concerning my son Thomas,’ dad Thomas Feltey St. said. ‘He has excelled in every venture he has under taken. He has made me proud in all his accomplishments. Starting when he was very young, I watched as he grew into manhood and chose to join the Army National Guard with me. He even excelled in Basic Training and AIT as a platoon sergeant. Even through ROTC he excelled and eventually progressed up the officer ranks and amazed me to get promoted to a Major General. I never thought he would even progress this far in the Army. He followed my example and always gave 100%.

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SPORTS & HEALTH

Lyndhurst girls turns County Tournament snub into winning streak

two tournament wins. She also added 14 steals and four blocks over the two games. There was an understanda“I’m starting to see the jump ble feeling of disappointment back in her step now that for the Lyndhurst girls basketwasn’t there (earlier) and she’s ball team last Monday when not thinking about the ankle seeds for the Bergen County as much anymore,” said Boyce. Tournament were released She had a couple of monster and the Golden Bears were exgames for us in the tournacluded from the 24-team field ment, that’s for sure.” despite an 11-4 record. Guard Sam Mayer, who What Lyndhurst was invited Boyce called “the most importo however, was the Bergen tant person on our team,” also County Invitational and thus has had a big tournament run, far it is making the most of the scoring 12 points against Fort opportunity. Lee and 13 against Dumont. On Thursday, Lyndhurst Sophomore Booke Harper defeated Fort Lee, 53-41, in added a double-double with 10 the Invitational’s preliminary points, 10 rebounds and four round. Then, two days later, steals in the Fort Lee game. the Golden Bears went to DuLyndhurst had a home mont and defeated the home division game against RutherHuskies, 40-37 to advance to ford on Jan. 29 and a crossover the quarterfinals, which will be against Hasbrouck Heights held this coming Saturday. before its quarterfinal matchup “Yeah, we were all disapagainst Leonia on Saturday pointed, and collectively as a at 2 p.m. at Northern Valley team, I think we’re trying to Demarest. use it as motivation moving While it may not have been forward for the rest of the seathe tournament they wanted son,” head coach Chris Boyce to be in, the Golden Bears have said. “It is just fuel to the fire a made the most out of it and little bit by not making it into they know it will be helpful for the main county (tournament). their next tournament - the We’re trying to use that as a state tournament in less than a little motivation and trying to month. play with a little chip on our “This is a great experience, shoulder.” especially with our team Asya Akar, who earlier this having one senior,” Boyce said. season was named The Ob“This is an awesome thing.” server Athlete of the Week for North Arlington was also her play while dealing with an selected for the Bergen County ankle injury, is now at 100-perInvitational, but was knocked cent and playing the basketball off in the preliminary round of her career with 20 points See LYNDHURST, Page 11 and 10 rebounds in each of the By Jason Bernstein

jason@theobserver.com

Photo courtesy of Frank DeBlasio

Nutley’s Toranzo repeats as Outstanding Wrestler at Essex County Tournament By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

For Brandon Toranzo, the only surprise of last week’s Essex County Tournament was the announcement of being selected as Most Outstanding Wrestler. Everything leading up to that on Thursday night was everything he and everyone else that went to Codey Arena the previous two evenings had expected. For the second year in a row, the Nutley heavyweight steamrolled the competition in the 285-pound bracket to repeat as county champion. Toranzo, who a year ago became the first Nutley wrestler to ever win OW, is now the first in recent memory to be a multi-time OW in the prestigious

tournament’s history. “That was a great feeling. I wasn’t sure if I was going to win (OW) because I got a major decision in the finals even though I felt like I did have a dominant tournament,” Toranzo said. “I didn’t expect to get it back to back years. So when I did get my name called, I was pretty surprised about it. It’s a really cool feeling that I get to leave my mark on Nutley like that.” Knowing that he was set to wrestle four times in two days, Toranzo made sure to make quick work of his opponents on Wednesday’s first night, pinning Lekhi Bryant of St. Benedict’s in 28 seconds in the first round, then pinning Orange’s Delano Stirrell in just seven seconds in

the quarterfinals. The lighter workload on night one, proved beneficial on Thursday night. In the semifinals, Toranzo pinned Verona’s John Stockelberg in 3:35. Then, in the final, Toranzo was matched up with a familiar foe in Seton Hall Prep’s Jack Tierney. Toranzo, who defeated Tierney at the Sam Cali Battle for the Belt Tournament as well as in a dual meet, once again was victorious by major decision, this time winning 15-4. “Jack is definitely a tough heavyweight, it’s my fourth time competing against him,” said Toranzo, who is now 22-0 on the season. “And you can tell we both See TORANZO, Page 10

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

While Toranzo’s wrestling stole the show, it was hardly the only big performance by a Continued from Page 9 Maroon Raider. In total, seven Nutley wrestlers placed among kind of know how each other the top eight in their respective wrestle. So I always have to weight classes, the most in recent bring a different aspect to my memory, allowing Nutley to game when I wrestle him. I finish a strong fourth place in the was just working on new stuff this time around to score more team standings. “Our goal was to place in the points.” top five,” said DiPiano. “We want “He’s always dominant,” head to compete with the best and this coach Mike DiPiano said. “As a week, we were considered one of head coach I’ve had great, great the best and that’s a testament to teams and great individuals. I’ve how we work.” had national prep champions, Sophomore Chris Cifelli led I’ve had people place top three at the contingent of underclassmen the Beasts of the East. Brandon by placing third at 106 pounds. works just as hard, if not harder Two of Nutley’s promising than any kid I have ever coached freshmen, Antonio Miaden at 132 so it does not surprise me that we pounds and Aidan Rotbaum at are where we’re at with him.”

TORANZO

150, each finished fourth in their respective weight classes. Sophomores Jacob Harlow and Patrick Chell finished sixth at 120 and 126 pounds respectively, and freshman Jack Finklestein took seventh at 113. “We sped up the process this week. Toranzo was the only senior of the group. The other six guys were freshmen and sophomores. Having six freshmen and sophomores finishing in the top eight is a big deal for us.” For DiPiano, the rapid growth of these underclassmen is a testament to their work as well as the tireless efforts of assistant coaches Nicky Ritacco, Sabino Coppola, Aaron Dunn, Neals Pucillo and Ralphie DiPasquale “They’re the best staff around,”

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DiPiano said. “They work so hard and we are who we are because of this staff! I am extremely lucky to have them by my side!” Belleville had a pair of wrestlers finish on the ECT podium. Standout senior Jakob Ferrer took second at 113 pounds. Ferrer, who opened the season with 21 consecutive wins, fell just short of a county title, losing an 8-4 decision to Seton Hall Prep’s Anthony Pellegrino. Another Bucs senior, Leo Tiankee, took third place at 126 pounds. Bloomfield had four wrestlers finish in the top eight. Michael Hamberlin (144 pounds) and Trevor Frantantoni (175) each finished in sixth place. Nick Kopacz (106 pounds) and Ayden Fox (215) took home seventh place in their respective weight classes.

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LYNDHURST Continued from Page 9

when it lost a 51-46 overtime heartbreaker to Paramus. In defeat, Skyla Acosta had 20 points and 14 rebounds for the Vikings. On the boys side, Lyndhurst earned a second consecutive spot in the Bergen County Jamboree and, as a 13 seed, was awarded its highest seed in a long time. The Golden Bears run however came to an end with a 79-76 overtime loss to Tenafly in the preliminary round on Thursday despite 18 points from Anthony Pizzuti, 15 from CJ Baillie and a Matt Slaby double-double. While Tenafly went on to deliver the upset of the Jamboree on Saturday defeating Ridgewood, Lyndhurst, which as a result of the preliminary round shifts over to the Bergen Invitational Tournament. Lyndhurst met a similar fate as it did two days later, dropping a 62-61 decision to Pascack Hills.

Baillie scored 22 points and Pizzuti added 20 as he closes in on the program’s career scoring record. North Arlington’s BIT run was short-lived when, on Thursday, it lost 61-53 to Waldwick despite 18 points by Ibrahim Gabr. Thursday also saw the end of Bloomfield’s Essex County Tournament run as the Bengals, seeded 17, lost 42-38 decision to Irvington in the third preliminary round. Three nights earlier, Bloomfield defeated West

Orange, 64-55, with both Sean Perrotta and Shariff Brown scoring 19 points apiece. Belleville, seeded 20th in the 41-team field, was knocked out by Glen Ridge in the second preliminary round, 52-50, this past Monday. Nutley, the 28th seed, was bounced in the first preliminary round by Eagle Academy of Newark. On the girls side, both Nutley and Bloomfield made it to the round of 16 before each falling on the road on Saturday. Nutley, seeded 10th, was knocked off by

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In the third preliminary round, the Maroon Raiders defeated Livingston behind a season-high 15 points from Grace Christie and the Bengals got 17 from Aniya Brown in a victory over Millburn. Belleville, seeded 25th, lost 37-25 to Science Park in the second preliminary round. Hudson County will seed its tournament next week. The Kearny girls, who recently completed an incomprehensiPhoto by Jason Bernstein ble nine-game road trip, is likely looking at a top five seed in the seventh-seeded Caldwell, 56tournament. 36, despite 15 points from Anna The Kearny boys have potenGreen. Bloomfield, seeded tially played themselves into a 11th, lost 59-43 to sixth-seeded preliminary round home game Newark Central, which was after winning four of its last five carried by Monmouth-bound to improve to 8-6 on the season. forward Faith Fedd-Robinson’s Harrison looks to head into the 32 points, 19 rebounds and eight tournament after defeating loassists. cal rival Secaucus on Saturday.

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Kearny’s Baeza keeps winning, remains undefeated By Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com

Despite going 25-6 as a junior, last year was a struggle for Kearny’s Joshua Baeza. Competing at 132 pounds often had Baeza’s focus more on making weight than technique. A bump up to 138 pounds for this season has made a significant difference. “In the beginning of the season, we talked it over and just were like, you go to 138, it’s going to be easy, you’ll be fine,” head coach Tony Carratura Jr. said. “You could probably go to 132, but are you going to be miserable and not happy and not have fun this last year?” “Last year going to 132, it was tough,” Baeza said. “It was difficult. I had to work twice as hard, sweat twice as much. Now, I don’t feel so sluggish and dehydrated after weighing in. I

eat, maybe, sip on some water, get electrolytes in. I just feel ready to go. I don’t feel drained or anything.” Those improved pre-match feelings have led to an improved performance on the mat. Baeza enters February with a perfect 24-0 record after winning three matches in Saturday’s quad at River Dell. Two of those were by pin, as were victories earlier this week in duals against Secaucus and Bayonne. Baeza’s stellar season makes him The Observer Athlete of the Week. “I actually think it’s insane,” Baeza said about the streak. “I just kept wrestling my matches and focusing on the next match. I didn’t realize (the streak) until I hit 20 wins and my friend told me that it was my 20th win. I didn’t even know. I was just so focused on my next match. “Each match I keep getting

to before.” With older brothers Justin and Jacob wrestling in rec and at Kearny High School, Joshua practically grew up on the mat. In Joshua, Carratura sees the throwing ability and explosiveness of Jacob, a two-time state tournament qualifier, and the mental awareness of Justin on the mat. “They influenced me a lot,” Joshua Baeza said. “(Justin) never wrestled before (high school) Photo courtesy of Michelle Baeza so when he did it, it was like a Joshua Baeza new sport that I was also being introduced to. Watching Jacob wrestle against even higher commore confident.” petition made me really think “He’s had that special somethat knowing he could do that, I thing since he was young and could do it too.” we’ve always been waiting for At 5-foot-9, Joshua Baeza is it,” said Carratura. “He had that taller than the typical lighter something since he was little. weight wrestler, which he feels When we took over the rec prois something he can use to his gram, he went to the states and advantage. just went on a run and started “I can get to (opponent’s) legs pinning kids that he was losing

at a point they can’t. I can get to cradles or even tilts and points they can’t. I have the extra step on them,” Baeza said. “I never take (my height) as anything bad. I always think that if I’m longer, that’s even better.” Baez takes his undefeated strength into the Hudson County Duals this coming weekend where he and his Kardinal teammates could potentially face a St. Peter’s Prep team ranked No. 3 in the state. Later in February, Baeza will head off to districts and regions where he aims to be just the seventh Kearny wrestler to win a region title and the first since the legendary Dave Cordoba in 2000. “He’s dangerous against anybody and I tell him that all the time,” Carratura said. “I don’t care who’s out there, he has a shot against anybody that’s stepping across from him.”

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

Joseph Zadroga

Joseph Zadroga, a retired North Arlington Police Chief, died sadly from injuries sustained when he was hit by a car. Visiting was at the Armitage & Wiggins Funeral Home, Kearny. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Queen of Peace Church, North Arlington. Burial was in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. Joe was born in Newark and lived most of his life in North Arlington before moving to Little Egg Harbor 18 years ago. He served in the United States Army during Vietnam from 1966 to 1968. He was a member of the North Arlington Police Department having retired as the Chief of Police. Joe was a member of the American Legion, the American Legion Disabled, the Knights of Columbus and the Masonic Lodge. After losing his son, James, who died of a debilitating disease and conditions after his heroic service as a New York City police officer during the 9/11 aftermath, Joe became a fierce advocate to ensure the immediate responders and their families would be recognized, understood and compensated for their patriotic and amazingly brave service to our country. He aggressively petitioned Congress to help in this endeavor and the final result was the James Zadroga Bill, passed by the United Sates Congress. Beloved husband of Linda (nee Baczewski) and loving father of Joseph Zadroga (his wife Lisa) and the late James Zadroga (his late wife Ronda), he was loyal brother to Paula Bates (her husband Richard) and the late Charles Zadroga (his late wife Jane) and he was the cherished grandfather of

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OBITUARIES

Tyler Ann and Dakota. Joe and Linda raised their granddaughter Tyler Ann after she so tragically lost her parents. He was truly a dedicated and loving family man. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Tunnels to Towers.

Czeslaw ‘Chester’ Polak

Czeslaw “Chester” Polak of Harrison died at New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home at Menlo Park, Edison, on Monday, Jan. 22, 2024. He was 95. Private funeral services were under the direction of Mulligan Funeral Home, 331 Cleveland Ave., Harrison. A funeral Mass was celebrated at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, Harrison and his interment was in Holy

Cross Cemetery, North Arlington. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home, 132 Evergreen Road, Edison, N.J. 08837 in loving memory of Czeslaw Polak. If you would like to read the complete obituary or send a condolence message to his family, please visit www.mulliganfh.com.

Carl P. Babinski Jr. Carl P. Babinski Jr., 53, of State College, Pennsylvania, died Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024, at home surrounded by his family

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after a year-long battle with cancer. Born Oct. 22, 1970, in Belleville, he was the son of Karen (Gilmour) Babinski, retired Schuyler School teacher and Carl P. Babinski Sr. (Mary). On June 13, 2009 in Good Shepherd Catholic Church in State College, Pennsylvania, he married Jill S. Singer, who survives. In addition to his parents and wife, he is survived by his two children, Nathan and Allison, at home. He is also survived by his uncle James J Gilmour of Kearny and his two half-brothers, Peter and

All obituaries must be submitted by email by 10 a.m., Mondays, to obituaries@ theobserver.com. Payment is due at submission. Michael Babinski of New Jersey; three brothers-in law and their wives: Peter (Paula) Singer and Joel (Betsy) Singer of St. Marys, Pennsylvania, and Russell (Jennifer) Singer of Virginia. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Mary Singer of St. Marys, Pennsylvania, in addition to numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, uncles, aunts and friends. He grew up in Kearny and attended the Kearny Public Schools, graduating from Kearny High School in 1988. He earned a bachelor of See OBITS, Page 14

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Continued from Page 13 science degree in meteorology from Penn State University. He began his 32-year career as a forecaster with Accu-Weather as an intern and continued up until a few weeks prior to his passing. He had a very strong work ethic and was proud of his ability to work the night shift throughout his career. He was a beloved voice of the weather overnights on radio news outlets throughout the country in such markets as (1010 WINS) New York City, Boston, Detroit, Philadelphia, Chicago and many more. Carl was a huge sports lover, especially in following the Penn State Football team as a season ticket holder and his beloved Baltimore Orioles throughout baseball season. A funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 20, 2024 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Port Matilda, Pennsylvania. Interment will be in Pine Hall Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions in Carl’s name may be made to Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital at www. geisinger.org/about-geisinger/ geisinger-foundation or Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 867 Grays Wood Boulevard, Port Matilda, Pa. 16870.

Obituaries must be submitted by Monday 10AM

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

GREENWAY Continued from Page 3 do his best to answer. And we will now do our best to let you know how that all went. But first, some background. Perhaps most importantly, residents should know this input meeting and listening session was not about whether the program should even be implemented. The State of New Jersey, with the blessing of the NJDEP, have already decided it’s going to happen. So for now, the input was and is a matter of how the Greenway would be structured. The first leg of the Greenway will be built in two local towns: Kearny and Newark. However, perhaps most interesting, is the towns won’t yet be connected for the foreseeable future. That’s because plans for how the Greenway at the Passaic Avenue train crossing will be delayed until another leg of the project. So right from the get-go, Kearny will get its share, Newark will get its. But those who will take advantage of the stretch won’t initially be able to travel from one town to the next. This brought some relief to some of the meeting attendees who clearly said they were concerned over the connection of the two municipalities, one of which, as most know already, has a lot more crime than the other. Still, it’s a non-factor for now, at least. But with that said, the NJDEP says the New Jersey Park Police recently hired seven new park rangers who will be responsible for the new Greenway. And, fortunate for the good people of Newark, a police substation will be placed along the property in that city. But what about Kearny? Mayor Carol Jean Doyle, at the meeting, said it’s a non-starter: If we’re going to have to contend with this project, a police substation must be placed in Kearny. However, it should be noted LaTourette said that concept would be considered, but he would not fully commit to the demand. With that said, for the most part, it will be the state Park Police responsible for protecting the land area. But what happens when those officers aren’t available? The state, LaTourette said, would re-

The Observer n www.theobserver.com imburse any town that has to rely on its own law enforcement, as needed. The same would be said of ambulance coverage. If the state is unable to provide coverage, for a myriad of reasons, Kearny would be reimbursed for providing the same. Still, there were a lot of other concerns raised at the meeting. For Marybeth Kennedy, a long-time adult leader in town for the Girl Scouts, it was about how first responders — and the general public — would be able to get onto and off the Greenway in locations that are remote. Think of it this way — along its path in Kearny, once one gets past Devon Street heading west and once one gets past Forest Street heading east, there is nowhere else to get in or out. And, while heading west, the closest possible egress and ingress would be well below street level as the streets there, starting with Chestnut Street, to Beech Street to Argyle Place and further along, slope upward. So the only location ambulances or police vehicles could get to those areas, from what Kennedy could tell, would be from Forest, Elm or Devon streets. But nowhere else. “So what happens then? They’re just there,” Kennedy said. “There is no chance I would take my Girl Scouts anywhere along that path with no way to get out otherwise.” Kennedy, herself a former EMT, recalled a visit she made to Hofstra University, on Long Island, when her daughter was looking at colleges. In order to get from one part of the campus to another, students had to walk across highways in what she described as tubes. “This would be similar,” she said. Once someone was in these “remote” areas, the only way “out” would be to go back. In some instances, especially medical emergencies, this could be a matter of life or death. Some at the meeting were more receptive to the state’s project than others. While it is still in its infancy — and LaTourette insists public input would be paramount in its overall design once it gets to that point — not everyone was so enthusiastic, including one resident who shouted, “Sorry, but we’re used to being lied to by the state.” LaTourette, meanwhile, fielded questions from anyone who wanted to ask them. Many were about the safety of the Greenway, the financial aspect of it (it’s

being fully funded by the state with not a penny coming from local taxpayers) and more. Those who attended the meeting — there were about 200 or so in the auditorium and its balcony that night — were able to disperse into small groups where various discussions took place. LaTourette said he was fully aware none of this could happen without residents’ input. “Our job is not to come into a community and tell them how it ought to be,” he said. “We ask folks how they want it to be and we help them.” Some of the other concerns mentioned included maintenance of the land/park, bike safety, access to public transit, cooling and shading areas, events and access to eateries. Already, signs have been installed along the Greenway to discourage littering.

Fencing, vehicle barriers and mobile cameras are to be installed along the way, also. Lighting will be uniform throughout, blue call boxes will be installed for safety purposes, fencing and clear entry-points will be labeled as will location demarcation so visitors will know, clearly, where they are. In total, the Greenway will be 9 total miles. About a mile will be in uplands Kearny, from Devon Street to the edge of the Meadowlands and in the first stage with about .9 miles in the Newark portion of it all. Now, While it is not yet available, video of this meeting is supposed to be posted to the NJDEP’s website at dep.nj.gov/greenway. Once the video is available, The Observer will post it, along with photos from the presentation, at www.theobserver.com.

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Wednesday, January 31, 2024

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising. The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classified@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

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EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

CONDO FOR RENT BELLEVILLE Good location. One bedroom. Renovated. Easy commute to NYC, bus, light rail to PATH, 3rd floor. Conveniently location to shopping malls, houses of worship, schools, etc. Message Dorie at (973) 259-9100 or (201) 467-7754. $1700/month. Credit check required. Requires one-month security deposit an rent. Showing requires 24-hour notice 38W02

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Retail Space For Lease !! Dental , Medical, office retail space. approx. 1300 Sqft. North Arlington Ridge Road location !! Call (201)966-8095

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED

Wastewater Collection System Supervisor Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority (Hudson County) is seeking a Collection System Supervisor for the Authorities five pump stations, approximately 9 miles of gravity sewer, and 3 miles of force mains. Will report directly, and function under the supervision of the Executive Director. Assists with & perform daily operation, process changes, maintenance, inspections, and record keeping. Ability to troubleshoot and identify operational failures. Oversees, trains, and works with the operational staff of (4). Required to be on-call for emergencies. Intermediate computer skills are required (MS Office). Requires at least 4 years experience in pump station & collections operations and maintenance. High School diploma, NJDEP C-1 license, NJ state drivers license, and NJ CDL Class B w/Tanker required. All applicants must pass a Physical, Drug Screening, and Background Check. EOE. Applications can be found at https://www.kearnynj.org/kmua-links-notices/. Please email completed applications/resumes to JoVonn Quinones, Executive Director jquinones@kmua.org 36W04

PART TIME Looking for recently retired or recent High School graduates able to work 2 or 3 days a week to install communication cabling Please email : bradleycomm@aol.com 38W03

Shop Helper Full-time $15.05 hr. Shipping, Receiving, Sand blasting, Furnace helper, General shop maintenances (201) 991-8000 or veronica@ tempprocessing.com 38W03

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KEARNY Large room for rent with large closet space in Kearny. Independent entrance, All utilities included, and Near transportation. $650 + 1.5 security Available Now Call 551-580-1831. Se habla Español 39W03

KEARNY For woman, 2nd fl apt, Forest St. Access to kitchen, DR, laundry. Shared Bath. $800/m + 1 month security. No pets/smoking. Available now(941) 526-6378 39W03

KEARNY Office/Medical space in great location in center of town/ Kearny Ave. approx 1300 sq feet. Call for details: (201)538-1319 39W03

BUSINESS FOR SALE LYNDHURST Liquor License Consumption “C” Bar or Restaurant $58,000 Contact Jim (973) 454-9062 38W03

Office furniture installers needed No experience necessary Please contact us at (201)803-5468

The Observer’s office is open Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please feel free to visit us during our regular hours of operation or call (201) 991-1600

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Wastewater Operator Trainee Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority (Hudson County) is seeking to hire a Full-Time Entry Level Operator Trainee for Collection & Storm Sewer Systems. Tasks include but are not limited to Jetvac & Street Sweeper Operation, Snow Plowing, Emergency Callouts, Cleaning, Landscaping, General Manual Labor, Heavy Lifting, Maintenance, Catch Basin/Manhole Repairs, and Inspections. Individuals hired for this position will be enrolled in the NJWA Apprenticeship Program which will assist with additional education and training for Collection System Operator Licensing. Minimum Requirements: 18 Years of Age, High School Diploma, Valid NJ State Driver’s License, Valid NJ CDL Class B w/Tanker or Ability to Obtain. All applicants must pass a Physical, Drug Screening, and Background Check. EOE. Applications can be found at https://www.kearnynj.org/kmua-links-notices/. Please email completed applications/resumes to JoVonn Quinones, Executive Director jquinones@kmua.org 36W04

WWW.THEOBSERVER.COM Come join our Children’s Studio family. We are looking to hire support teachers and caregivers who are creative, energetic and loving. Full time and part time positions available. Please email your resume to childrensstudio102@gmail.com or contact us at 973-485-5437

Summer Interns for Town of Kearny Municipal Administration: The Town of Kearny has received a grant from the New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education to hire college interns ($20.00 per hour) for the summer of 2024. Interns must work between 150-200 hours over a minimum of 10 weeks between May and August. Interns must be currently enrolled in either an undergraduate or graduate level degree program at a New Jersey institution of higher education. The Town of Kearny prefers students currently enrolled in political science, public administration, public policy, urban and regional planning, communications, marketing, business administration, or a related major. Interns will help municipal government officials with meaningful work, including, but not limited to preparation of a master plan for Kearny’s Urban Enterprise Zone program, an adaptive reuse plan for a proposed community recreation center/theater, preparation of a capital improvement plan, management of employee safety and risk management strategies, review of the municipal budget, finance and purchasing policies and practices, and other municipal policies, projects and programs as may be assigned. Please find application here : https://www.kearnynj.org/ job-opportunities/ Deadline to apply is 4/6/24

The Town of Kearny is seeking a Part Time Plumbing Subcode Official (Salary Range: $29.90-$39.00 per hour). Open to NJ residents. Applicants must possess a valid NJ DL and HHS license issued by the NJ Dept of Community Affairs. Job Description 05056 http://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05056.htm. Position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Click here for online application http://www.kearnynj.org/JobOpportunities Deadline for application is 2/23/24 . The Town of Kearny reserves the right to interview and hire a qualified candidate before the submission deadline. The Town of Kearny is seeking a Full Time Housing Inspector/Plumbing Subcode Official (Salary is negotiable based upon qualifications and experience). See Job Description(s) here: https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/02071.htm https://info.csc.state.nj.us/jobspec/05056.htm The position is provisional and subject to the Civil Service exam process. Click here for online application http://www.kearnynj.org/JobOpportunities The deadline for application is 2/23/24. If you applied for these positions previously, please apply again. The Town of Kearny reserves the right to interview and hire a qualified candidate before the submission deadline.

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OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS OBSERVER CLASSIFIEDS

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classiﬁed@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising. The Observer is not responsible for typographical errors. Error credits will not be granted. Minimal changes for multiple-week ads are $10 per instance. Refunds are not granted under any circumstances. Help-wanted ad deadline is 2 p.m., Monday, and all ads must be sent by email to classiﬁed@theobserver.com. All other classifieds are due by 3 p.m. Monday. All classifieds are pre-paid — there is no billing. Call (201-991-1600) to place an ad. While The Observer can accept public notice, we cannot accept legal advertising.

EMPLOYMENT/ HELP WANTED The Town of Kearny is accepting applications for Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS). Under direction of the Health Ofﬁcer, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: sanitary inspections for compliance with applicable public and environmental health regulations, investigations of nuisance complaints and violations of applicable public health laws and ordinance, educational outreach activities, maintenance of accurate paper and electronic records of surveys, investigations, and inspections performed, lead inspections of rental dwelling units, and other duties or special projects as required or as assigned. The position may require periodic evening and/or weekend activities. Must possess an active Registered Environmental Health Specialist License issued by the NJ Department of Health. Lead Inspector/Risk Assessor permit issued by the NJ Department of Health preferred but not required. Appointees will be required to possess a current driver’s license valid in New Jersey. Starting salary is $58,528. see application here https://www.kearnynj.org/job-opportunities/ deadline to apply is 2/29/24

Miss a classified that caught your eye a week ago? Threw your newspaper away already? Don’t worry – our classifieds are all online and date back to 2014. Visit www.theobserver.com and click on CLASSIFIEDS

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PUBLIC NOTICE (We are not a legal newspaper)

Town of Kearny, N.J. Request for Proposal (RFP) Please take notice that the Town of Kearny has posted a Request for Proposal (RFP) on its municipal website (https://www.kearnynj.org/bid-notices/) to select a qualiﬁed professional consultant to prepare a Five (5) Year Zone Development Plan for the Kearny Urban Enterprise Zone (KUEZ). Proposals are due by 5:00 P.M. (EST) on February 9, 2024. Please see RFP on the Town of Kearny website for speciﬁcations and additional details. CDL Driver Wanted Adult Medical Day Care (Belleville) Part Time/Full Time Driver for adult medical daycare in Essex County needed. A CDL with Class B and Endorsement P preferred!!! Spanish speaking a plus. No nights or weekends. Competitive Salary. Call Monday thru Friday only between 10 AM and 4 PM. Call (973) 751-6000 39W03

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Find our how by calling The Observer’s Classified Department at (201) 991-1600 TODAY!

CLEANING SERVICE BLUEBIRD CLEANING Treat yourself to professional cleaning. I provide my own supplies. Responsible, Reliable and Respectful. Fair prices and great references Call Susan (973)743-2039 37W04

IZZA’S CLEANING Houses, Apartments & Ofﬁces Years of experience. References upon request For a free estimate contact 201-838-7698 37W03

The Observer  www.theobserver.com

ANNEX

Continued from Page 1 ees. As part of the design, the sloped roof will include solar battery backup power — a Tesla power wall — that will keep the building functioning with the building’s essentials, such as refrigerators, computers, etc., if there is a power outage. The building, itself, will have partial solar power. 0 Points A digital sign board will be also be placed on the property. The tent, used now mostly for food distribution, will remain in a similar spot and for the same purpose. And even better news? The project is ready to go. “We’re ready for bid,” Schlecht said. “We expect an early award for spring construction, about nine months’ duration for the contract for

‘I’m very happy to see that those solar panels are going to be there as well as the option for that backup generator.’ — George Zapata First Ward Kearny councilman construction which puts us toward the end of the year (2024) for final construction. The estimated cost, we have it at $887,000 with some (Community Development Block Grant) funding that’s going to offset that (price).” Town Administrator Stephen Marks took that one

Lusitania

step further, noting 100% of the project will be paid for by federal CDBG funding and administered by Hudson County. The initial allocation of $700K was bumped, he said, to “well over $1 million,” to cover all costs for the annex. Not a penny of taxpayer

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money will be used. First Ward Councilman George Zapata, who represents the First Ward, where the annex will be located, seemed excited for the prospect of the coming project. “I just want to say thank you for all the work you did in putting this together,” Zapata said. “It’s kinda crazy to think of how fast the year has flown when this project was first being discussed and when we first all met at the current substation to figure out a way to best utilize that space without infringing on parking that’s vital to that area … and touching on the renewable-energy option. “I’m very happy to see that those solar panels are going to be there as well as the option for that backup generator.” Zapata also thanked Health Director Annie McNair for her hard work leading to this day.

Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Meanwhile, First Ward Councilwoman Marytrine DeCastro wanted to ensure the equipment to be used for the project wouldn’t be left overnight and on weekends, thus taking away precious parking spaces. “We think most of the work can be done without negatively impacting the parking.” Schlecht said, noting there could be some minimal disruption to parking at the beginning of the construction phase. The town’s consulting engineer Michael Neglia said the contractors will be required to put in writing the prohibition of parking on the property by the workers. Mayor Carol Jean Doyle was, like Zapata, appreciative of McNair’s efforts and thensome. “I know many residents of the First Ward don’t drive,” she said. “This is a big boost to the First Ward. Good job, (Jeff.)”

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0 Points 7.280 % 15yr 7.125 % APR Rate Payment Example: $8.78 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 6.625% will result in 180 payments of $877.99 on owner occupied 5+ multi-family. Payment Example: $9.06 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 7.125% will result in 180 payments of $955.00 on investment 5+ multi-family. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include applicable property taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. Annual percentage rate (APR) based on $100,000.00 loan with a 15-year amortization term. Financing on properties located in Essex, Union, Hudson and Bergen Counties. Minimum finance charge of $955.00. New loans only. Rates and annual percentage rates are based on 75% loan to value with 25% equity or 25% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.

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Payment Example: $8.30 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 15-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 5.750% will result in 180 payments of $830.41. Payment Example: $6.31 per $1,000 borrowed on a $100,000.00 30-year fixed rate mortgage at an interest rate of 6.490% will result in 360 payments of 631.41. Actual monthly payment may be higher because example does not include applicable property taxes, fees, insurance premiums or other related costs. Annual percentage rate (APR) based on $100,000.00 loan with a 15-year or 30-year amortization term. Financing on owner occupied residential 1-4 family properties located in Essex, Union, Hudson and Bergen Counties. Minimum finance charge of $455.00. Owner occupied rate. New loans only. Rates and annual percentage rates are based on 80% loan to value with 20% equity or 20% down payment. Rates and annual percentages are effective as of the publication date of this ad and are subject to change. Please speak with our Mortgage Department for additional terms and conditions that may apply. Subject to credit approval. Other rates and programs are available.

Wednesday, January 31, 2024

The Observer n www.theobserver.com

Belleville man convicted of 2014 homicide following retrial By Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

kc@theobserver.com

Belleville man who stood accused of stabbing his roommate to death nearly a decade ago has been convicted — for the second time — of murder by a jury of his peers in Essex County, Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II said. Edwin Andujar, of Belleville, fatally stabbed Thomas Parent, 59, of Belleville, on Aug. 7, 2014. That day, Belleville police responded to 26 Wallace St. and found Parent sitting in a wheelchair suffering from multiple stab wounds to his abdomen and back, and a laceration to his arm consistent with a defensive wound. Prior to police arrival, the suspect was observed by a witness standing over Parent holding a bloody knife. That witness then called 911. When police arrived, they said Andujar told an officer, “I stabbed him, I couldn’t take it anymore.” Andujar was then placed under arrest. During the arrest, an officer observed a bloody serrated steak knife under the victim’s wheelchair. On Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, following a (second) multi-week trial before Superior Court Judge Michael L. Ravin, the jury found Andujar guilty of three counts: murder, unlawful possession of a weapon, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. “This defendant brutally stabbed Thomas Parent approximately a dozen times in the stomach and twice in the back as he sat defenseless in his wheelchair. It was an unthinkable, cowardly, intentional act. The defendant’s claim of self-defense didn’t stand up against the facts, the evidence and even his own statements made at the time of the murder. We and the family of the victim

are very grateful that the jury came to the same conclusion,’’ Assistant Prosecutor Michele Miller said. Another assistant prosecutor, Monica Calderon, tried the case with Miller. “We would like to thank the jury for their hard work and their just verdict,” Calderon said. “This was not a case of self-defense, but a deliberate attack on a vulnerable victim. We hope this verdict brings Thomas

Andujar

County, of all three charges, but the verdict in his case was overturned when an appellate court determined, in a 2021 decision, there was “implicit bias” in the voir-dire portion ( jury screening and selection) of the original trial. The appellate decision noted, at the time, the aforementioned “implicit bias” was in play when the state had dismissed a Black juror based on his past.

Parent’s family some degree of closure.” Andujar faces life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for April 5, 2024. Now, this is the second time Andujar has been found guilty of this crime. Essex County Prosecutor’s Spokesman Robert Florida said this case was retried after an appeal. In 2017, Andujar was convicted in Superior Court, Essex

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