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.”

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for raw boneless chicken breast products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. The product contains eggs, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.

The raw honey Dijon boneless chicken breast products were produced on June 2, 2026. The following product subject to the public health alert is [view labels]:

21-oz. vacuum-packed packages of “PRIVATE SELECTION Honey Dijon Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts with Rib Meat” with “BEST IF USED BY: JUN 28 2026” and lot code “15326A” printed on the packaging.

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Trump’s Administration Scores Major Supreme Court Win

26, 2026

SUMMARY-The article describes the Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of the Trump Administration’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian migrants. The article also highlights the Trump Administration’s efforts to end the catch-and-release policy, expedite deportations, and crack down on sanctuary cities.

The Supreme Court has delivered a major victory for American sovereignty, ruling that the Trump Administration has full authority to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian migrants. The Biden Administration weaponized TPS as a backdoor amnesty to flood the country with millions of unvetted migrants — and that loophole is finally closed.

This is the latest decisive win in President Donald J. Trump’s relentless effort to end the border invasion and put American citizens first.

The Trump Administration has made 60 changes in border rules since being elected :

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Jefferson Health Honors Two South Jersey Colleagues

Jefferson Health is proud to recognize two colleagues with BEE (Being Extraordinary Everyday) Awards for their outstanding contributions to patient care and their commitment to creating exceptional experiences for patients and families.

Linda Frankenfield of Hammonton, NJ, a patient care technician in the intensive care unit at Jefferson Stratford Hospital, received a BEE Award for the compassionate care she provided to a patient and family during a recent hospitalization. According to the patient’s family, Frankenfield went “above and beyond” to address both medical and nonmedical needs, helping create an environment of comfort, trust and reassurance during a vulnerable time. Through her attention to detail, professionalism and genuine concern for others, Frankenfield helped transform a difficult experience into one defined by dignity, comfort and healing.

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Introducing the NJHOF Class of 2026

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, the New Jersey Hall of Fame announces its next class of Jersey legends whose accomplishments have shaped the world as we know it. The list of 13 inductees includes:

Arts & Letters

Big Joe Henry, “Livin’ Large and Lovin’ Life” New Jersey radio personality and philanthropist

Education, Research, Engineering & Science

Geraldine R. Dodge*, author, philanthropist, and benefactor of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation

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A Unique Partnership to Address Food Insecurity in New Jersey

Wellpoint New Jersey is proud to partner with United Community Corporation (UCC) to support the opening of a new community grocery store in Newark, expanding access to healthy, affordable food and essential household items for local residents.

Opening in one of Newark’s underserved neighborhoods, the store reflects a shared commitment to addressing food insecurity and improving community wellbeing through neighborhood-based solutions. By increasing access to nutritious food and everyday essentials, the initiative aims to help reduce barriers that impact community wellbeing and create healthier outcomes for New Jersey families.

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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.