p oli C e B lotter Fake Medical Practitioner Arrested In Ocean County

By Alyssa Riccardi

The Rev. Dr. J. Francis Watson, Pastor 40 Schoolhouse Road, Whiting, NJ 08759 Phone 732.350.0900 • Fax 732.350.0343

E-mail: christlutheranchurch2@verizon.net Website: christlutheranwhiting.com

732.355.3315

TOMS RIVER – A Toms River woman has been arrested for allegedly prescribing medications while being a fraudulent medical practitioner, officials said.

Maria F. Macburnie, a/k/a/ Marife L. Macburnie, 62, of Toms River, was charged with Practicing Medicine by an Unlicensed Person, Forgery, Health Care Claims Fraud, and three counts of Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Between March 2022 and June 2023, Macburnie was seeing and treating patients out of Shore Medical Associates, located at 601 Route 37 West, Suite 101, in Toms River. During that time, she as posing as a licensed medical practitioner, and presented herself as Dr. Fe Almazon-Condit - a relative of Macburnie’s with an active license to practice medicine.

Meanwhile, Macburnie was prescribing medications, including controlled dangerous substances, to patients.

Authorities said that Macburnie issued multiple prescriptions written under the name of Dr. Almazon-Condit, and submitted multiple insurance claims and bills for services rendered during time periods when Dr. Almazon-Condit was unable to see and treat patients.

Macburnie was arrested without incident on July 26 and is presently lodged in the Ocean County Jail pending a detention hearing.

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz urge anyone who believes they were seen and/or treated by Macburnie to contact Detective Joseph Mitchell of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad at 732-929-2027, ext. 3532. Prosecutor Billhimer and Special Agent in Charge Ortiz acknowledge the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Economic Crime Squad, DEA New Jersey Division-Camden Resident Office, and Toms River Township Police Department, for their collaborative efforts in connection with this investigation.

The charges referenced are merely accusations and the public are reminded that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Motorcyclist Injured In Route 70 Crash

By Alyssa Riccardi

MANCHESTER – A motorcyclist was injured in a crash on Route 70 that occurred in the early morning hours of July 27, police said.

Around 2:11 a.m., officers and EMS responded to the accident just west of the intersection of County Route 571 (Ridgeway Rd.), near the entrance to the Colby Commons shopping center.

According to police, 36-year-old Collin Boyle of Manchester was traveling west bound on Route 70 in a 2008 Chrysler Town & Country when he attempted to turn left in front of a motorcycle to gain entrance into the plaza.

The motorcyclist, 54-year-old Geoffrey Hawkins of Brick, was traveling east on Route 70 prior to the crash.

As a result, Hawkins suffered several injuries including a head injury. He was transported to Community Medical Center by Manchester EMS for further treatment of his injuries. Boyle refused medical treatment at the scene.

Police said Hawkins was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

At this time, the investigation is ongoing.

Al-Anon Meetings Available Locally

OCEAN COUNTY – Are you troubled by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon Family Groups may be able to help you. Call their 24-hour hotline for local meeting locations at 888-944-5678.

EMS Seeking New Members

BAVILLE – The Bayville Emergency Medical Services is seeking individuals who want to make a difference in their community.

Benefits of membership:

• Free sponsorship for initial EMT Training Program

• Free Training and Continuing Education (Including A, B, C Refresher Courses)

• Opportunities for growth

• LOSAP

• Special operations opportunities

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older (or 16 years old for cadet members)

• Must possess a valid driver’s license

• Must have the ability to use a computer

• Must be able to use good judgement and remain calm in high-stress situations