Illegal Weapons, Drugs, Budgets Top March News

They say March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb, but the month’s weather was somewhere in between, staying at cheetah level. Despite spring’s official start, short bursts of snow and below average temperatures were stagnant.

But that’s behind us now! It was a news-filled month, as always, so let’s take a look at the top stories of March. Click on the headline for the full article.

A search warrant for a Hopatcong man turned dicey for local police when the homeowner grabbed a pistol and aimed it at a police officer, according to a report. The officer, along with his colleagues, diffused the situation before anyone could be hurt.

Murderer’s Appeal to Push Sentencing Approved

The sentencing for convicted murderer Guiseppe Tedesco, originally scheduled for March 20, was moved to the end of April after the defense asked to not have their client in the courtroom during sentencing. Initially, the decision was made for Tedesco to be present both by a judge and the Appellate Court, but an additional appeal was granted.

A month-long investigation by three different law enforcement agencies resulted in a major drug bust in Hopatcong recently, with a 20-year-old resident being arrested on a slew of charges. Authorities found drugs, illegal knives and paraphernalia in the man’s home.

Resident Pecks at Scrambling Hopatcong Chicken Law

A new Hopatcong resident took his plea to the town council with hopes of amending a standing ordinance that doesn’t allow for raising chickens. The new borough man said all he wants to do is raise his own chickens and eggs for health purposes. No changes have been made.

Hopatcong Budget Has $38 Tax Hike for Average Home

The Hopatcong Mayor and Council introduced its 2013 budget in March and includes an increase in total spending of $376,767. It’s a “good budget,” according to Mayor Sylvia Petillo. State aid in the borough stayed flat as well.