Alleged Ramsey Mobster 'Papa Smurf' Accused of Running Trash Scam

A reputed local mobster known as "Papa Smurf" is facing nearly 200 years in prison after being charged Wednesday in a widespread federal sweep targeting a mob-run conspiracy to control the trash-hauling industry in New York and New Jersey.

Ramsey resident Carmine Franco, a 77-year-old Genovese Crime Family associate who had two prior convictions in connection with organized crime in the trash removal industry, was allegedly the ring leader of a scheme to control crooked waste management companies, law enforcement officials said Wednesday. 

Franco and a brother formerly owned the Sal Car transfer station in Hillsdale, which they later sold to Waste Management.

Cops: GameStop Customer May Have Clue in Armed Robbery

Franklin Lakes Police think an unidentified man seen in surveillance footage could help them find a gun-wielding robber. Now they're turning to the public to try to identify the man more than two weeks after the Franklin Avenue GameStop was robbed.

'Surge' of Flu Cases Reported at Englewood Hospital ER

A nationwide flu epidemic prompted Englewood Hospital and Medical Center to issue temporary visitor restrictions following a "surge" of flu-related visits and admissions at the hospital emergency room.

"In response to the growing threat, the Medical Center staff is working around the clock to protect the community," the hospital said, noting that the elderly have been particulary hard hit. 

Ridgewood Teacher Pleads Guilty to Disorderly Conduct Charge

A Ridgewood middle school teacher pleaded guilty Thursday in connection with an incident in which he was arrested for shoplifting $75 worth of groceries at Whole Foods last fall.

Appearing before Judge David Pfund on Thursday, Adolfo Noya, 47 of Wyckoff, waived his right to trial on the charge of disorderly conduct and entered a guilty plea. As part of the plea agreement with the prosecutor, the shoplifting charge was dropped.

Saddle Brook Resident Shot in Paterson

A 21-year-old man is recovering from a gunshot wound he received while in a Paterson area known for high heroin sales, Saddle Brook Police Chief Richard Kugler said Monday.

The chief also said that the victim is "lucky to be alive" and should avoid dangerous areas.