Regional Briefs – March 2, 2017

Powerful Winds Disrupt Electricity, Newark Airport

TRENTON – Wind gusts of 60 mph downed trees and power lines around New Jersey Thursday. PSE&G and JCP&L report 11,291 homes and businesses without power, mostly in Monmouth, Ocean and Mercer counties, The Associated Press reported. There were delays at Newark Airport.

Escapee Recaptured After Police Chase Through 5 Cities

NEWARK – A man suspected of several shootings and robberies who escaped from police on Wednesday is back in custody after a chase through five cities, The Associated Press reported. Police found Rajahn Smith, 22, driving a stolen car and pursued him until he abandoned his car.

Mosque Gets Threatening Note Signed ‘Muslim Slayer’

BROOKLYN – Police are investigating a threatening note signed “Muslim Slayer” that was sent Tuesday to a Brooklyn mosque, The Associated Press reported. The letter to the American Turkish Eyup Sultan center said he had a “dirty little secret” and fantasized about “killing nonwhites.”

Woman Who Walked On Subway Tracks Hospitalized

BROOKLYN – A woman jumped down from a subway station platform Wednesday morning and began to walk on the tracks, The Associated Press reported. She casually responded to commuters who urged her to get off. She was taken for a psychiatric observation.

8 Charged in Bronx Mail Theft Scheme

BRONX – Eight people were arrested Wednesday for stealing checks and money orders from mailboxes, The Associated Press reported. Since 2015 there have been over 50 arrests for mail theft in Claremont Park, involving over $750,000.

Prosecutor Says He Won’t Pursue Case Against Christie

HACKENSACK, N.J. – For the second time, a prosecutor said Thursday he won’t pursue a criminal misconduct case against Gov. Chris Christie since his involvement in Bridge-gate can’t be proved beyond a reasonable doubt, The Associated Press reported. A judge has twice ruled there was probable cause.

This article appeared in print on page 5 of the March 3rd, 2017 edition of Hamodia.