MORRIS TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT

MEDIA RELEASE
49 Woodland Avenue, Convent Station, NJ 07961

Phone (973) 539-0777 John K. McGuinness

Chief of Police

Fax (973) 326-7485

ASSAULT by AUTO/DWI
February 20, 2013
2013-03700

On February 16, 2013 at 00:38 hrs., Morris Township Police investigated a motor vehicle collision involving a hit and run vehicle. Investigation revealed that Quetin E. Thomas of Florham Park, NJ was operating his Blue 2002 Toyota Camry when it collided with a Blue 2007 Saturn Ion at the intersection of Park Avenue and Whippany Rd. While stopped at a red light the suspect vehicle struck the rear of the Saturn while it was stopped for a red light. The resulting impact caused minor injuries to both occupants of the Saturn. Instead of remaining on scene to file a police report as required by law, the suspect asked the other driver for directions to Morristown and drove way. While looking for the suspect vehicle, Ptl. Jenna Landrigan found the suspect vehicle diving head-on towards her, north bound in the south bound lanes of Park Ave. After taking evasive action, the vehicle was stopped a short distance away. During questioning, probable cause to believe Thomas was operating his vehicle while intoxicated was found and he was taken into custody. At the conclusion of the on-scene investigation he was transported to Morris Township Police HQ. During processing Thomas became so belligerent, verbally abusive, and unruly that he was placed in a detention cell until such time he could be transported to Morristown Medical Center for evaluation. Prior to Mr. Thomas release from police custody he was charged with 4th degree Assault by Auto, Obstruction, Driving While Intoxicated, Refusal to submit to chemical tests, Careless driving, Reckless driving, Following too closely, Failure to maintain his lane, Failure to report a collision, Leaving the scene of a MV crash with injuries, and Failure to yield to an emergency vehicle. All summonses and complaints were issued pending his appearance in court.

Suspect/Defendant: Name: Quetin E. Thomas SEX: M Age: 25 Town: Florham Park, NJ

NOTE: Despite these pending charges, every defendant is presumed innocent, unless and until

found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt following a jury trial at which the defendant has all of his/her rights guaranteed by the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and relevant state law.
Capt. Richard Ferrone Patrol Division Commander Public Information Officer RFerrone@MTPD1422.com
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