NJ Councilman, Past Mafia Member, Arrested for Crimes

TRENTON (CNBNews)(June 24, 2026) — Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced that two men were arrested for various crimes including terroristic threats, extortion, usury, and conspiracy.

John Alite, 63, of Englishtown, New Jersey, was arrested on June 19, 2026, and charged with multiple counts of theft by extortion (second degree), corporate misconduct (second degree), usury (second degree), and terroristic threats. It is alleged that Alite made loans in excess of the maximum rate permitted by law and subsequently obtained the property and monies of victims by threatening to commit violent acts. He is also alleged to have misused his corporation, Straightened-Out Entertainment, Inc., to promote his criminal scheme. Alite is a councilman in Englishtown.

JOHN ALITE/FACEBOOK

Stephen Locrotondo, 67, of Bridgewater, New Jersey, was also arrested today and charged with usury and conspiracy, for allegedly agreeing to receive interest on loans in excess of the maximum rate permitted by law in coordination with Alite.

“These arrests are the result of rigorous investigative work and the strong cooperation between the Division of Criminal Justice and New Jersey State Police, who work tirelessly every day in the pursuit of justice,” said Attorney General Davenport. “Our office is dedicated to ensuring that all businesses conduct themselves fairly and lawfully. The conduct alleged in this case was anything but, and we will work to hold those who cheat and steal accountable.”

“Our commitment to holding offenders accountable and delivering justice for victims does not end with an arrest,” said DCJ Director Theresa L. Hilton. “We remain steadfast in our mission to secure justice for every victim to ensure their voices are heard.”

“The charges in this case, which include theft by extortion, terroristic threats, usury, conspiracy, and corporate misconduct, represent serious allegations involving the use of intimidation, coercion, and unlawful financial practices for personal gain. These offenses strike at the fundamental principles of fairness, accountability, and public trust,” said Jeanne Hengemuhle, Acting Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police.

“Today’s arrests reflect the diligent work of detectives committed to uncovering complex criminal activity and pursuing justice on behalf of those impacted. Individuals who seek to enrich themselves through intimidation, exploitation, or abuse of power should expect to be held accountable for their actions.”

Deputy Attorney General Heather Hausleben of the Division of Criminal Justice is prosecuting the case. The case is being investigated by the New Jersey State Police Official Corruption North Unit.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Alite was previously known as a member of the Gambino crime family and John Gotti Jr.’s best friend, according to a report from NJ.com.

He was appointed to the Borough Council in the spring of 2025 after four members suddenly resigned, NJ.com reported.

In an email sent to Patch, Englishtown Mayor Daniel Francisco said that, based on the currently available information, the recent allegations against Alite are not related to the operations within the borough.

“Every American is entitled to due process, including John,” Francisco said. “I will not rush to judgment before the facts are known, and he is entitled to a presumption of innocence while the judicial process unfolds.”

“There are often opportunists ready to pounce on calamity; I implore those following along to remain human — there are always innocent bystanders on all sides, like family, impacted by the urge for commotion,” he continued.

“Based on currently available information, these allegations are not related to the operations within our borough, and indeed will be resolved outside of it.”

In the meantime, Francisco said the borough remains focused on “serving our residents, advancing downtown development, and delivering two great community events this summer.”

When asked if Alite currently retains his position on the Borough Council, Francisco said the decision to continue in his position mainly rests on Alite.

“John is an elected official chosen by the voters last year. The decision to continue in the position rests solely on him,” he said. “The borough and the council have no legal authority over his seat.”

Suspect for Homicide in the 22nd District

The Philadelphia Police Department Homicide Unit is looking to identify the individual, depicted in the following surveillance video excerpts, as part of an ongoing investigation into the double murder of two individuals, that occurred on Friday, May 8th, 2026, at about 2:21 AM, in the 2500 block of W. Berks Street.

The male suspect is described as a Black male that appears to be in his mid-twenties to early thirties, approximately 5’9″ to 5’11” tall, medium built.

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TSA prepared to screen nearly 18.7 million air travelers this Fourth of July holiday

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is honored to play a role in helping travelers reach their destinations to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. The agency is well prepared for the heavy volume over the Fourth of July holiday period, expecting to screen nearly 18.7 million travelers at U.S. airport security checkpoints between Tuesday, June 30, and Monday, July 6. TSA anticipates the highest passenger volume – more than 3 million people – on Thursday, July 2.

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Wellpoint NJ Brings Support to Families in Camden

Recently, Wellpoint NJ hosted a Community Baby Shower in partnership with Connecting NJ and The Cooperative. Welcoming expectant parents, families, and community members, this gathering, hosted in Camden at First Nazareth Baptist Church, brought together dozens of mothers, demonstrating the strong need for maternal and family support resources across South Jersey.

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Arrests at the Reflecting Pool

by George Washington University

Newswise — Five individuals have been arrested on alleged vandalism charges at the Reflecting Pool. These arrests are raising questions about the legal standards for prosecuting damage to federal property and the government’s responsibility for maintaining historic landmarks.

Sara Bronin, a professor at the George Washington University Law School and a nationally recognized expert on property law, historic preservation, land use and government regulation, is available for comment. She previously served as chair of the U.S. Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

Bronin says: “President Trump’s decision to waste millions of taxpayer dollars on a no-bid contract for unqualified people to slather paint on the century-old Reflecting Pool resulted in damage to this important part of the National Mall. Now, he’s trying to shift the blame for his own actions to innocent passersby — by arresting and charging them for federal crimes for dipping their fingers into the Pool, or touching some of the flaking paint.

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Kathleen Ann Brandt, 70, of Gloucester City

On June 24, 2026, Kathleen Ann Brandt (née Dickson), age 70, passed away suddenly at her home in Gloucester City, NJ.

Born in Woodbury, NJ to the late John D. Dickson, Sr. and Anna T. Dickson (née Ashe), Kathleen was a lifelong resident of Gloucester City. She graduated from Gloucester High School with the Class of 1973 and went on to earn her Associate’s degree. Kathleen dedicated over 29 years of service as a secretary for the Gloucester City School District, where her familiar face and warm presence welcomed generations of students and staff.

To know Kathleen was to know her vibrant spirit and love for life’s simple pleasures. She took great pride in watching her grandchildren excel with their sports and extracurricular activities. Kathy thoroughly enjoyed hunting for treasures at yard sales, and loved arts and crafts. Above all else, she cherished her grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. Kathleen will also be fondly remembered for her uniquely endearing trait—always being lovingly, fashionably “late for everything.”

She is survived by her loving children, Michael Burkhardt, Steven Burkhardt (Trish), Andrew Brandt (Eileen), and Jenna Brandt (Jenn); her cherished grandchildren, Domenica Chapman (Zack), Steven Burkhardt, Jr., Michael Burkhardt, III, Trevin Burkhardt, Ni’Asia Connelly, and Bria Brandt; her devoted companion, Kenny Settar; her brother, John Dickson, Jr. (Alice); and her sisters, Peggy Chiodi (Randy) and Denise Robinson. In addition to her parents, Kathleen was predeceased by her brother, David Dickson; and her sister, Barbara Ann Pollander (surviving Bruce). Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

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Bally’s Atlantic City Unveils Bally’s Marketplace

Bally’s Atlantic City officially celebrated the grand opening of Bally’s Marketplace, its newest retail destination, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, June 18.

Bally’s Atlantic City leadership and team members gathered to commemorate the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, with participants including Trinity Updegrove, director of hotel operations; Brian McNulty, retail supervisor, hotel operations; Tarese Brown, executive director of player development and relationship marketing; Frank Policastro, vice president of gaming operations; Gary Ng, executive director of Asian marketing and relationship marketing; and Ruben Santos, director of casino credit and cage operations.

Bally’s Marketplace offers a selection of items for guests to purchase, including electronics, household essentials, accessories and Bally’s-branded merchandise. Guests may browse a rotating assortment of gifts and premium merchandise, including designer handbags and other upscale accessories. Purchases can be made using Bally Bucks, cash or credit.

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Rowan’s Kreyenhagen Named to Philly-SIDA Academic All-Area Baseball Team

Rowan’s Austin Kreyenhagen has been selected to the Philly-SIDA Academic All-Area Baseball Team as voted on by the Philadelphia metropolitan area’s 30 sports information offices.

Kreyenhagen, a sophomore mechanical engineering major, had a standout year, being named to the 2026 ABCA All-Region Second Team. He topped the Profs’ pitching staff with a 9-1 record, which included two complete games, with one of them being a shutout. The righthander registered 54 strikeouts in 77.1 innings and limited the opponents to a .220 batting average.

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HUD Slashes More Red Tape to Lower Costs, Improve Affordability

HUD is announcing fourteen policy changes to its Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Single Family mortgage insurance program that lower costs, reduce regulatory burdens, and improve affordability for Americans seeking FHA-insured mortgages. The changes eliminate outdated requirements, reduce administrative burdens, and make FHA financing more efficient for homebuyers and lenders. Since the start of the Trump Administration, FHA has taken more than 150 actions to streamline its Single Family program.

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John “Jack” R. Sweeten, 66, of Gloucester City

On June 22nd, 2026, at the age of 66, John “Jack” Sweeten, beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, passed away at home. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jack later made his home in Brooklawn and eventually Gloucester City, where he built a life defined by creativity, dedication, and deep devotion to those he loved.

A graduate of Gloucester City High School, Class of 1978, Jack continued his education at an art college in Philadelphia, nurturing the artistic talent that would remain a lifelong passion. Jack loved music—especially drumming—and his artistic spirit showed in everything he touched. Whether behind a drum kit, sketching, or simply appreciating the beauty in everyday moments, Jack brought color and rhythm into the world around him.

Jack worked as a pressman for over 40 years, a career marked by skill, reliability, and pride in his craft. He spent many years with AFL Printing and Bartash Printing before retiring from Inserts East after a long and dedicated tenure. His colleagues knew him as steady, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand.

Above all, Jack loved his family. He was married to his devoted spouse, Janine Sweeten (née Paullin), for 30 years, a partnership grounded in love, loyalty, and shared joy. His warmth, humor, and kindness made him a steady presence and a source of comfort to those closest to him.

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Special traffic and parking advisory for the Fireworks on SUNDAY

FIREWORKS
Sunday, June 28, 2026
[estimated start time – 9:15 PM]

Maple Shade High School parking and roadway restrictions…

The Maple Shade Police Department is advising all residents and guests that will be attending our Fireworks display of specific restrictions that will be in place for vehicular traffic and parking.

It is recommended that spectators park vehicles
off-site and/or walk to the high school, if able.