Cedar Grove Police Blotter: Drug and DWI Arrest / Car Crash / Car Hits Deer

Editor’s Note: The following incidents are reprinted directly from the Cedar Grove police blotter, a listing of selected incidents that may not include the full scope of activity in the area. All of the following incidents are accusations, and all suspects should be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

On Friday, October 9, at 12:07 a.m., Ptl. Raymond Cassella initiated a motor vehicle stop after observing a speeding vehicle being operated in an erratic manner. As the officer secured the operator’s credentials, he observed the man displaying signs of impairment. A subsequent investigation led to the arrest of the 32 year-old operator, Thomas J. Sartor of Morris Plains, on multiple charges, including driving while intoxicated, possession of the Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS) Heroin (9 glassine envelopes), possession of drug paraphernalia, and being under the influence of CDS. Sartor was processed on all charges at police headquarters and released pending a Superior Court Arraignment in Newark.

On Friday, October 9, at 7:51 a.m., police responded to West Lindsley Road on a report a deer had been struck by a motor vehicle. Responding officers discovered the badly injured and determined the involved vehicle had left the scene. Due to the deer’s severe injuries, it was necessary to destroy the animal. Due to the large deer population in the area, motorists are urged to use caution when operating near wooded areas, especially between dusk and dawn.

On Friday, October 9, at 8:31 a.m., police responded to the area of Pompton Avenue and Bowden Road on a report of a motor vehicle crash. A subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of one of the involved operators on charges he was operating a motor vehicle while his NJ driving privileges were under suspension. The 48 year-old defendant, John H. Stevens of Paterson, was also charged with initially providing false information as to his identity to prevent discovery of his suspended driving privileges. Stevens was processed on all charges and released pending a Municipal Court appearance.