Regional Briefs – February 25, 2015

Man Collected Dead Dad’s Benefits for 29 Years

TRENTON – Nicholas Severino was arrested Monday for allegedly collecting his father’s Social Security benefits for 29 years after he died, stealing more than $243,000, the Associated Press reported. The father had obtained a second Social Security number on a false name, which the son continued. The agency stopped paying in 2013.

Bank Robber Arrested After Stopping for Coffee

LODI, N.J. – Police arrested a bank robber after he stopped for a cup of coffee a block away, The Record reported. The fedora-clad Michael Cassano placed a BB-gun on the counter of the Hudson City Savings Bank in Lodi on Monday and demanded money. He fled with $4,000, using part of it to buy a coffee.

Poll: Most in NJ Feel Atlantic City’s Best Is Behind It

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. – Some 63 percent of New Jerseyans say Atlantic City’s best days are behind it, a Rutgers-Eagleton poll released Tuesday says. Only 25 percent say the seaside gambling resort’s best days are yet to come.

Fewer Major Felonies in 2014 in NYC’s Largest Parks

NEW YORK – There were 11 percent fewer felony crimes in the city’s largest parks last year, according to the New York Police Department. The city recorded 369 major felonies in 31 of its biggest parks, compared to 415 in 2013. It’s the first decline since 2011.

This article appeared in print on page 34 of the February 25th, 2015 edition of Hamodia.