AG Platkin, DEP Commissioner LaTourette File Suit Against Major Scrap Metal Recycler for Hazardous Fires at Its Facilities

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette announced today that they have filed a public-nuisance lawsuit against a major scrap metal recycler that seeks to put an end to the hazardous conditions that have led to numerous fires at their facilities since 2020.

The complaint, filed today in Superior Court, alleges that there have been at least 12 hazardous fires in the last five years at facilities in Camden that are owned and operated by defendants EMR Advanced Recycling, LLC, EMR USA Holdings, Inc., EMR Eastern, and Camden Iron & Metal (collectively known as EMR). The fires have filled nearby streets with smoke and air pollution, creating an ongoing public nuisance that has severely harmed the health and well-being of Camden’s residents.

“It is outrageous that EMR has failed to correct the dangerous conditions at its facilities in Camden—conditions that have resulted in over a dozen hazardous fires in recent years that threaten the lives and health of Camden residents. We’re taking action today to hold EMR accountable for its reprehensible conduct and to protect Camden residents,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Companies should never be allowed to turn a quick buck at the expense of their communities—but that’s exactly what EMR has been doing for years in Camden. It’s time to put an end to this unacceptable conduct.”

“Neighbors of EMR should not have to live in fear of the industrial business next door to them, wondering whether the air is safe to breathe and the company values its role in the community as much as its profits,” said Commissioner LaTourette. “The DEP is grateful to Attorney General Platkin and his team for pursuing justice on behalf of the residents of Camden.”

EMR owns and operates metal recycling facilities that collect, process, and recycle scrap metal. It has facilities in the Camden Waterfront South neighborhood, which is an area characterized as an environmentally overburdened community under New Jersey’s Environmental Justice Law. These communities have significant low-income, minority, and/or limited English proficiency populations.

One of the most extensive fires at an EMR facility happened in February 2025, when a four-alarm fire started at EMR’s facility located at 1400 South Front Street in Camden. The fire originated from a two-story tall pile of scrap metal material that was waiting to be torn apart into smaller pieces. The fire burned for approximately eight hours before Camden firefighters brought it under control, and it took 12 hours to fully extinguish it.

Altogether, firefighters were on the scene for about 19 hours. Approximately one hundred residents evacuated, and people living nearby reported illnesses and acute symptoms from smoke inhalation, including nausea, headaches, difficulty breathing, burning eyes, and throat irritation.

Another significant fire occurred in the early morning of January 29, 2021. Residents evacuated and a school temporarily closed due to smoke and metallic odors. Five firefighters needed treatment for smoke inhalation, and one firefighter and two residents were hospitalized. Residents complained of odors and smoke in their homes, and they heard explosions coming from the facility.

As the complaint alleges, these fires are the direct result of EMR’s conduct. EMR has maintained hazardous conditions at its facilities, including by maintaining stories-high piles of plastic, glass, dirt, and other discarded material that create a high risk of fires. Even though EMR has known about the risks stemming from its practices, it has failed to take appropriate corrective action—and as a result, there continue to be regular fires at EMR’s facilities, including several fires in recent months.

The complaint explains that EMR has a long history of fires at its facilities across the state. There were at least three fires at another EMR facility previously located in Newark, and at least two fires in scrap metal piles at an EMR Bayonne facility. Similarly, a fire occurred on May 23, 2022, on a barge in the Delaware Bay carrying scrap metal between Defendants’ then facility in Newark and their facility in Camden.

Today’s public nuisance complaint asks the court to order EMR to immediately take action to end the conditions that have led to these fires and that continue to persist, creating chaos and severe health hazards for nearby Camden residents. The complaint asks the court to require EMR to immediately take effective measures to control the risk of fire at its Camden facilities—measures EMR has failed to take.

The State is represented in this matter by Deputy Attorneys General Lisa J. Morelli and Alana V. Paccione in the Environmental Enforcement and Environmental Justice Section within the Division of Law’s Environment and Clean Energy Practice Group under the supervision of Assistant Section Chief Kevin Fleming, Section Chief Gary Wolf, and Deputy Director Paul Stofa.

Gloucester Township Police Advisory: Massive Verizon Outage

As of January 14, 2026 1 PM, a widespread Verizon network outage is currently impacting voice, text, and data services for tens of thousands of customers across the United States.

At this time, Gloucester Township Police 911 Systems and Emergency Communications has NOT been affected. If you are a Verizon Wireless customer and are having issues with your cellular service, you may still be able to call 911 in an emergency. If not, use another carrier’s device or a landline. You also have the alternative to connect your cellular phone to a home or local WiFi connection to establish phone service.

Current Outage Status
– Widespread Impact: Over 460,000 reports were recorded on DownDetector as of 1:00 PM ET.
– Affected Services: The outage is disrupting wireless voice, text, and data services for mobile users. Some Verizon Fios internet customers are also reporting connectivity issues.
– “SOS” Mode: Many users report their phones are stuck in “SOS” or “SOS only” mode, meaning they have no cellular connection but may still be able to contact emergency services.
– Affected Areas: Significant disruptions are reported in the eastern half of the U.S., specifically in New York, New Jersey, Delaware, the Carolinas, Texas, Florida, and Louisiana.
– Emergency Services: Officials in cities like New York and Washington, D.C., have warned that the outage may affect some users’ ability to call 911. If you cannot connect, use a landline or a device from another carrier.

Charles Joseph Reed, 93, of Gloucester City

Charles Joseph Reed, age 93, of Gloucester City, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden, New Jersey. Charles was raised in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, was a longtime resident of Gloucester City, New Jersey, and a graduate of Saint Mary’s High School in Gloucester City, New Jersey. He also completed some college coursework at Akron University.

Charles proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He entered the Navy right out of high school and served for three years, attaining the rank of EM2. During his service, he was awarded the Navy Occupation Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal. Charles was honorably discharged on June 3, 1954.

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Moen Legislation to Create Veterans Resource Mobile Application Clears General Assembly

Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr. that would help veterans and their families easily access essential services

passed the New Jersey General Assembly today. Bill A2138, would authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs to develop a user-friendly mobile application that guides veterans and their families to available benefits, programs, and support resources.

The application would provide information related to veterans’ legal rights, medical and insurance issues, education, housing, and the transition from active to civilian life. The guide should mirror the resource guide available on the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs website. Legislation establishing the Department of Veterans Affairs was signed into law in September and became effective on January 9, 2026.

“As we continue to find ways to connect veterans and their families to the resources they need and earned, a mobile app just makes common sense,” said Assemblyman Moen (D-Camden, Gloucester). “This bill is designed to do three important things: honor New Jersey’s veterans, provide fast and simple access to veteran services, and strengthen the support system for these individuals and their families.”

The bill is also sponsored by Assemblymen Joe Danielsen and Robert Karabinchak.

1st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast and Award Ceremony

Celebrate the legacy of trailblazers at Winslow Township’s 1st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast and Award Ceremony. Join us at the Bud Duble Center in Atco for brunch and community honors.

When: Sat, Jan 17 | 10 AM – 2 PM
Tickets: $25 Adults / $10 Kids under 12 (you can purchase tickets here or at the Board of Health office at the Municipal Building)

Asw. Murphy’s Statement on Bill to Support Vaccine Access Clearing General Assembly

Assemblywoman Carol Murphy (D-Burlington), Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, issued the following statement on the General Assembly’s passage of legislation designed to strengthen New Jersey’s public health infrastructure by ensuring clear, science-based vaccine guidance statewide. Bill A6166 aims to support vaccine access and reduce confusion for families and providers.
This bill is in response to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s recent moves to change the national standards for vaccine policies, including limiting access to the COVID-19 vaccine and changing recommended childhood immunizations. The legislation would require health insurers and the State Medicaid Program to provide coverage, without cost sharing, for expenses incurred in the provision of childhood immunizations recommended by the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH). The DOH would be required to consider guidance from the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the CDC, as well as recommendations from nationally recognized medical organizations, including pediatricians, family physicians, and obstetricians.
“When it comes to childhood immunizations, families deserve clarity and confidence. This bill would ensure parents can rely on trusted, evidence-based guidance from experts at the New Jersey Department of Health, so their children can continue to receive recommended vaccines without unnecessary barriers.
“On the very day that we advanced this bill in the Assembly Health Committee, the federal government announced the overhauling of children’s vaccine schedule to require fewer immunizations. These changes were made without formal public comment from experts. My bill would ensure that DOH takes into consideration guidance from leading medical groups, enabling the state to make well-informed decisions to keep our young people safe.
“Now is the time to provide families, health care providers, and pharmacists with clear and consistent direction, particularly when federal policies change or conflict. This bill would do that. I thank my colleagues for advancing this timely and life-saving legislation.”

HOME COUNTRY: Down at the sale barn Saturday

Down at the sale barn Saturday, the think tank had coagulated there with coffees to go to celebrate life. Doc and Dud had their dogs with them, while Bert and Dewey and Steve went stag.

Dud tried to start a conversation, but the loudspeaker soon drove them outside, where they arrayed themselves on dropped tailgates and waited to hear what Dud had in mind.

“I thought about it a lot,” Dud said, “and I wondered what the favorite part of my job was, and wondered if you fellas ever gave that any thought, too.”

They nodded. Yes, by mutual consent a worthy subject.

“With me,” Dud continued, “it wasn’t so much my job as it was my hobby. You know, writing that book. I’m claiming it as the best part of my job, anyway.”

The assembled were still waiting to read “Murder in the Soggy Bottoms,” as it had yet to see print, and was really a work in progress.

Then Bert picked up the conversation thread. “Of course I’m retired now,” he said, “but when I was running the pawn shop, my favorite part of the job happened when a customer found something in there he really needed and ended up paying much less for it than he thought he’d have to.”

Doc laughed “And you made more on it than you thought you would, too,”

Bert grinned and nodded.

“Yep. That was good too. And you, Dewey?”

Our accident-prone pharaoh of fertilizer got a serious look on his face. He finally said, “The best part of the fertilizer business is seeing the difference it makes in the flower gardens around town. Now maybe it’s just my imagination, but I kinda like to take a little credit for a prettier town.”

“You deserve it, Dewey,” Doc said kindly. “Well now … with me it’s a little different. I have doctoring skills, of course, and it’s good when I can help someone, but these days the most satisfying part of my job is to check someone out thoroughly and find there’s absolutely nothing wrong with them. Now that’s special.”

They all looked over at the tall cowboy, Steve.

“Digging postholes,” he said.

“What?” they said.

“You know,” he said, “the favorite part of my job.”

“Digging postholes?”

“Sure,” he said, grinning.

“It’s the only part of my job where I start at the top end work down.”

Brought to you by A Cowboy’s Bucket List. Available online and from Rio Grande Press.

Statement from Speaker Craig J. Coughlin on the Final Voting Session of the 221st Legislature

“Today marks the final voting session of the 221st Legislature, and as we bring this chapter to a close, I couldn’t be more proud of the work our caucus has done on behalf of the people of New Jersey. Over the last two years, Assembly Democrats kept a steady focus on the challenges families talk to us about every day, and together we met those challenges with purpose and resolve. At a time of mounting uncertainty and pressure from Washington, we stood firm in our shared values and made clear that New Jersey would continue to lead with fairness and stability. “We enacted meaningful property tax relief which put real money back into the pockets of working families. We expanded access to housing, strengthened an economy that continues to grow, and invested in our communities. We also made sure addressing hunger and food insecurity remained a priority, because we recognize that no one can get ahead when they are struggling to put food on the table. “We will continue that work in this final voting session, passing bills that strengthen the foundation we have built, protecting workers through expanded family leave, protecting our privacy, and safeguarding our diverse communities with measures that reinforce trust and safety. “The progress we reflect on today, though worthy of our acknowledgement, is not the result of a single vote or a single moment, but of a caucus that showed up, did the work, and understood that change is built piece by piece. I want to thank every member of our caucus for their partnership, their leadership, and their unrelenting willingness to put the needs of New Jersey families first. I look forward to continuing our work in the next legislative session.”

Resorts Casino Hotel Announces Grand Opening of Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar

XO Bar is Resorts’ fun and flirty Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar on the casino floor.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ (January 12, 2026) – Resorts Casino Hotel is the place to be for Valentine’s Day, with hot fun for couples, besties, and gal pals alike. At the center of all the Valentine’s fun is the XO Bar – Resorts fun and flirty Valentine themed pop-up bar on the casino floor.

Grand Opening Friday January 16

Love is in the Air: Atlantic City’s Ultimate Valentine Themed Pop-Up Bar is returning to Resorts! Step into a world of romance and fun at Resorts Casino’s XO Bar beginning Friday, January 16.  Bar One has been transformed into a love-themed paradise, complete with flirty decor, themed cocktails, and live entertainment. Whether you are planning a cozy date night, a Galentine’s gathering, or a solo toast to self-love, XO Bar is your perfect destination for unforgettable Valentine’s memories.

The Grand Opening on Friday will include, music, dancing, signature drink specials and more!
Read more: Resorts Casino Hotel Announces Grand Opening of Valentine’s Pop-Up Bar
Signature drink specials at the XO Bar

Cherry Fizz • $14
Rico Bay Rum, Grenadine, lime juice, splash of Sprite

White Chocolate Raspberry Martini • $14
Steel Blu Vanilla Vodka, Creme de Cacao white, half & half, Razzmatazz, chocolate swirl

Caramel Kiss • $14
Caramel Vodka, Bailey’s Irish Creme, Buttershots, half & half, whipped cream, caramel drizzle

The XO Bar is open until February 22 – don’t miss all the flirty fun!

More Valentine’s Day Fun at Resorts

There are many reasons to make Resorts your Valentine’s Day destination, including:

OH WHAT A NIGHT! A musical tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
Friday, February 13 | 9PM | Superstar Theater
OH WHAT A NIGHT! is an exciting musical revue featuring all the original hits of Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, plus some of Frankie Valli’s biggest solo hits, including his biggest from the blockbuster movie Grease. The show delivers informative and often hilarious banter between our stellar, high-spirited cast; and the personable stars stay true to the original recordings with live performances of everyone’s favorite songs. Enjoy great choreography, boundless energy, and all those instantly recognizable pop songs that have become timeless.

Candlelight Valentine’s Day Special

Saturday, February 14 | 6:15PM & 8:30PM | Starlight Ballroom

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Atlantic City.  Get your tickets now to discover the music of Valentine’s Day Special featuring “Romeo and Juliet,” “Unchained Melody,” “Your Song,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and more under the gentle glow of candlelight. Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special – Resorts Atlantic City Events (more information and tickets)

Romantic Dining Events

Doughtery’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar is offering an amazing prix fix menu for two – that includes per person a choice of two appetizers/starters; a 32 oz. Porterhouse steak for two, and twin lobster tails; and luscious black forest cheesecake. Reservations are recommended by calling 609-340-6555.

Voted Most Romantic Restaurant by Casino Player Magazine Capriccio Italian Restaurant’s ambiance and award-winning entrees are make for the ideal Valentine’s Day dining destination. They always have something special in store for Valentine’s Day, so make reservations now to ensure your night out is spectacular.

Unique Gifts from Luxe 78

Luxe 78 – Resorts Atlantic City

No one is hard to shop for at Luxe 78, Atlantic City’s Newest Luxury Retail Store, found on the casino level along with other fine shops. With a wide selection of luxury items such as luggage, handbags, designer sunglasses, jewelry, and more, Luxe 78 is Atlantic City’s favorite shop for designer brands and luxury items that everyone will love. Brands include Lagos, Ray Ban, Bose, Christian Siriano, Gucci, Pandora, Kenneth Cole, Frye, Chanel, Blackstone, Brahmin, Dolce & Gabbana + many more!

Pamper Yourself at Bliss Salon

Salon Treatments for Hair, Skin & Nails | Resorts AC

Refresh your body and soul this Valentine’s Day with special treatments at special prices at Bliss Salon – open to the public! Let our knowledgeable staff pamper you while enjoying a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our unisex salon offers all hair, skin, nail and body treatments. Call 609-340-6446 to book.

Spectacular Weddings

Wedding Venues in Atlantic City | Wedding Receptions | Resorts AC

The most important day of your life deserves a setting just as special. At Resorts Casino Hotel, we vow to wow you with a spectacular event that’s just a bouquet’s throw from the beach and boardwalk. Let the dazzling Atlantic City skyline be your backdrop with facilities perfect for intimate ceremonies or the most lavish celebrations. Let our on-site executive pastry chef make the wedding cake of your dreams. Your happily ever-after begins at Resorts. Meticulous one-on-one event planning from start to finish.

For more information about Resorts Casino Hotel, visit ResortsAC.com.

ABOUT RESORTS CASINO HOTEL 

The resort that brought gaming to Atlantic City in 1978, Resorts Casino Hotel is a world-class casino offering action and relaxation that keeps the focus on fun. Making history as the first American casino outside of Nevada, Resorts Casino Hotel is a consistent winner of gaming awards in both Casino Player Magazine and Strictly Slots Magazine. The property features the impressive Resorts Conference Center, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, the Landshark Bar and Grill, and DraftKings Sportsbook at Resorts, a popular on-property sportsbook offering guests live, in-game and general sports betting around the world.

Boasting a prime location spanning 21 acres at the northern end of the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk, the resort features 942 guest rooms and suites in two hotel towers, an 80,000 square-foot casino, two theaters, 10 restaurants, a food court featuring six eateries, two VIP slot and table player lounges, a casino bar, indoor-outdoor swimming pool, health club and spa, salon, and retail shops. Its 64,000 square feet of technologically advanced meeting space includes 24 meeting and function rooms, most featuring natural light and ocean views, and a 13,000 square-foot ballroom. For more information, visit ResortsAC.com or call 1.609.340.6300. Connect with us on Facebook, follow us on X or Instagram and view us on YouTube. 

Wanted: Suspect for Homicide in the 15th District

On December 22, 2025, at 12:17 PM, the above depicted vehicle was used in the Homicide that occurred in the 15th District at 4200 Torresdale Avenue. The vehicle was last captured east on 2200 Adams Avenue.

Vehicle Description: 2014-2016, Navy Blue, Jeep Grand Cherokee. At the time of the homicide, the vehicle was bearing a Temp Tag of #4351-125 from an unknown state. The Cherokee has a broken sunroof window and a shattered rear side cabin window on the passenger’s side.

If you see this suspect do not approach, contact 911 immediately.
To submit a tip via telephone, dial 215.686.TIPS (8477)
All tips will be confidential.

If you have any information about this crime or this suspect, please contact:
Homicide Unit:
215-686-3334/3335
Det. O’Brien #628
Det. Jang #651
DC 25-15-116894

For additional information and updates, visit https://www.phillypolice.com/news-blotter/wanted-suspect-for-homicide-in-the-15th-district/