DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ
New Jersey has some of the toughest laws in the country regarding drunk driving, specifically driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI). Notably, there's a strict prohibition against plea bargaining to reduce DWI charges. A first-time conviction for drunk driving can result in hefty fines, a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days, and a 90-day suspension of your driving privileges, not to mention additional financial repercussions that can linger.
If you find yourself arrested for driving under the influence, prepare for mandatory license suspension, the potential for jail time, and a staggering minimum of $6,575 in fines and surcharges if convicted. If your insurance company catches wind of the conviction, you may have to pay significant premium increases over the next three years
The truth is that New Jersey's courts are notoriously harsh on people arrested for DUI and DWI. The penalties are substantial and can have a lasting impact on your freedom, work, and life as a whole. Fortunately, working with a quality DUI lawyer - like Edward G. Appel - can help prevent serious charges from going on your permanent record.

- Get Your DUI Case Dismissed with Help from Attorney Edward G. Appel
- The DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ, You Can Trust
- What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
- How Do DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
- Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
- DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ
Edward G. Appel, Esq.
Since 1988 Edward honed his litigation expertise serving as a defense attorney in Criminal Cases, DUI/DWI and traffic matters.
His distinguished courtroom seasoning will benefit his clients as Edward focuses on criminal defense litigation. He has handled thousands of cases and is well versed in motion practice with years of trial experience. His philosophy of being well prepared has served him well over the years and is a testament to his work ethic and diligence. Email: eappel@southjerseydui.com

The DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ, You Can Trust
Did you know that getting a DUI conviction in New Jersey means that you'll have that charge on your record for everyone to see? We're not just talking about friends and family. We mean loan officers, college officials, and prospective employers - people and entities that can help set you on a pathway to success in life. For that reason alone, it's absolutely essential to have a seasoned DUI attorney by your side who can fight for your rights when it's time to go to court. That's where DUI attorney Edward G. Appel comes in.
Many law firms in New Jersey view DWI cases as just another item on their agenda. At our firm, however, it's a primary focus. Unlike those where DWI matters are handled by generalists, we have built a dedicated department solely for DWI cases, staffed with highly trained attorneys who are passionate about this area of law.
This level of specialization isn't just a talking point. It reflects our commitment to providing clients with the strongest defense possible. By leveraging advanced training and a thorough understanding of New Jersey DUI laws, our team is ready to fight your DUI charges and pursue the best possible outcomes for your case.
At the end of the day, our goal isn't to lecture you or judge your actions. Our goal is to defend you and your rights with reliable, aggressive advocacy so you have a real shot at reclaiming your life. Some of the most common situations we help clients overcome include:


DUI Defense in New Jersey
There are several methods to challenge a DWI charge, so facing this accusation does not necessarily lead to a conviction. Attorney Edward G. Appel will examine the specifics of your case to identify the best approach to defend your rights and safeguard your freedom.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
Receiving a DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, irrespective of whether it's your first offense or a subsequent one. The best way to mitigate the risks of jail time, fines, license revocation, and other penalties is to contest your charge with the assistance of a skilled DUI attorney in Highland Park, NJ.


DUI Charges Involving Drugs in New Jersey
Being charged with DUI can happen if you're impaired by illegal substances, prescription medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. These situations tend to be complex, so having a skilled attorney is essential to effectively contest the charges.
DUI Penalties in New Jersey
A DUI conviction can lead to significant repercussions, whether it's your first offense or if you've been charged before. The best way to avoid penalties such as jail time, fines, and license suspension is to contest your DWI charge with the assistance of a skilled attorney.


DUI Field Sobriety and BAC Tests in New Jersey
Authorities use several types of tests to ascertain whether a driver is under the influence. These tests consist of field sobriety tests, breath analysis, and blood examinations. However, the outcomes of these evaluations can sometimes be misleading. Edward G. Appel has the expertise to recognize and demonstrate the inaccuracies in these results to protect your freedom.
What Happens After You're Arrested for a DUI in New Jersey?
Most people feel anxious and frightened after getting arrested for DWI because they are uncertain about what comes next. It almost feels like you're about to hike Twin Lights State Historic Site near Highland Park, NJ without the proper climbing gear. That's why it's so important to understand what to anticipate following a DUI arrest - so you can prepare yourself. The initial step in the legal process is the arraignment, which is a court session that occurs soon after your DUI arrest. At this session, the judge will outline the charges that have been brought against you and give you a summary of the penalties you might face. A significant number of traffic cases are settled with plea agreements, but prosecutors are prohibited from providing these arrangements in DUI cases.
That means you have two options: You can plead guilty and face the full penalties of a DUI conviction, or you can plead not guilty and continue to fight for your rights. There is a chance that your charges could be dropped before the trial, but this usually occurs only if there are significant weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence. The judge in your case will decide the outcome after both parties have presented their evidence. Instead of going through this complicated legal process by yourself, call a New Jersey DUI lawyer like Edward G. Appel. It could mean the difference between years of hardship and a clean record.

Understanding DUI Charges in New Jersey: Criminal vs. Traffic Offenses
In New Jersey, driving under the influence (DUI) is categorized as a traffic violation, though the consequences of DUI charges are severe. However, a license suspension is not mandatory for all offenders. First-time offenders arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level under 0.15% may avoid suspension if they quickly install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their personal vehicle. Other potential penalties associated with a DUI conviction can include community service, fines, and, in certain situations, imprisonment. Depending on the circumstances of your case, working with experienced DUI attorneys in Highland Park, NJ, can help you avoid some or all of these punishments.
You may also be charged with DUI if you operate a vehicle while under the influence of any intoxicating substances, regardless of whether they are illegal, prescribed, or available over the counter. The specific type of drug is irrelevant; what matters is your impairment and inability to drive safely.
If convicted of a drug-related DUI, you could face:
- A license suspension of 7 to 12 months
- Up to 30 days of incarceration
- Fines and surcharges exceeding $3,500
A second conviction may result in a jail sentence ranging from 2 to 90 days and a 2-year suspension of your driver's license, along with increased fines and surcharges.

Here's What to Expect After Your 1st DUI Charge in New Jersey
Many individuals charged with DUI believe that they will receive leniency if it's their first offense, but this is not always true. First-time offenders may incur significant fines, up to 30 days of incarceration, and the compulsory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle. Penalties increase for first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.10% or more at the time of arrest.
As mentioned above, these individuals face a longer mandatory IID installation period, larger fines, and the potential for jail time. First-time offenders will also experience a rise in their auto insurance premiums after their arrest. The State of New Jersey takes DUI offenses seriously, even for those encountering it for the first time.

Here's What to Expect After Your 2nd DUI Charge in New Jersey
It doesn't take a graduate from Academy of Art of Highland Park AAHP in Highland Park, NJ to know that getting a second DUI is bad. Defendants who are charged again within 10 years of a prior conviction face increased penalties for a second DUI offense. They may be fined up to $1,000 and must serve at least 48 hours in jail, with a maximum of 90 days. Additionally, a second conviction can lead to 30 days of community service, a one-to-two-year license suspension, and two to four years of mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) use. These consequences, along with higher insurance rates, can significantly affect a repeat offender's life.

Here's What to Expect After Your 3rd DUI Charge in New Jersey
The court has the authority to impose stringent penalties on individuals with two or more DUI convictions within the past decade. If a person is found guilty of DUI for the third time in a 10- year span, the court may sentence them to 180 days in jail along with a $1,000 fine. Those convicted for the third time will lose their driving licenses for a duration of 8 years.
The court may also require these offenders to install an ignition interlock device for a period of two to four years after their driving rights are reinstated. Because third-time offenders are categorized as high-risk drivers, they will likely face significantly increased auto insurance rates. These individuals should anticipate an extra $1,500 surcharge on their auto insurance each year for three consecutive years. Given that these penalties can have a serious impact on both personal and professional aspects of life, it is crucial to contest the charges with help from a skilled DUI attorney like Edward G. Appel.
How Do DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ, Help with DUI Cases?
Hiring a well-respected DUI lawyer often has a major impact on your case's outcome. Great attorneys will get started immediately by taking a deep dive into the particulars of your case. They'll look for issues with the prosecution's evidence, such as:
- Did on-scene officers follow protocol when storing samples and administering chemical tests?
- Did officers have a valid reason for pulling you over to begin with?
- Are the results from your chemical tests reliable?
If not, a lawyer can expose these concerns, potentially resulting in the dismissal of the charges. These are just a few examples of how an attorney can challenge DUI charges for you.
At the law firm of Edward G. Appel, we thoroughly investigate every detail when defending our clients. In fact, our clients benefit from personalized attention, support, and a meticulously crafted defense that aligns with the specific details of their arrest. For instance, if you're arrested for DUI near Thomas Edison National Historical Park in Highland Park, NJ, our team can examine the scene, analyze the protocols police took, and interview witnesses. We're not satisfied until our lawyers have explored every potential defense strategy for your case. Through comprehensive investigation, negotiation, and, when required, litigation, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
Clients choose us not to simply enter a guilty plea but to robustly contest the charges against them. While no attorney can promise specific outcomes, we assure you that we will continue to advocate for you until you decide otherwise. We examine every detail of your case to ensure all necessary evidence is gathered and the right motions are submitted. There are motions available to suppress evidence if your constitutional rights were infringed upon during the stop, as well as motions to limit or dismiss evidence under particular conditions. Contact us today to evaluate your case. We are eager to help you, even if it's just to provide an initial consultation.

Top 3 Mistakes New Jersey Residents Make After a DUI Arrest
The steps you take following a DUI arrest can significantly influence your chances of successfully contesting the charges. Unfortunately, many individuals fall into common traps that can worsen their situation and negatively impact the outcome of their case. Here's a list of the three most common mistakes that people tend to make after being arrested for DUI.


1. Failing to Hire Reputable DUI Attorneys in Highland Park, NJ
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, you can consult your family lawyer, seek a recommendation from a friend, or find a local attorney. The biggest thing to remember is that you should hire an attorney who understands DUI law and has a solid reputation in DUI defense. Legal issues can be complicated in New Jersey, which is why competent support is paramount. Presenting the right defenses at the right time is crucial; otherwise, you may lose those opportunities. Evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may become unavailable. A case that seems winnable can quickly turn into a lost cause. Remember that failing to act is also a choice.


2. Downplaying DUI Consequences
Understanding the implications of a conviction is a key part of strategizing your defense and can influence your defense approach. Factors such as how your home state handles convictions, the impact of any previous offenses, whether you are a commercial driver or the potential effects on your employment should be explored with a DUI lawyer who is familiar with the possible repercussions of your unique situation.


3. Giving Up and Pleading Guilty
Anyone can choose to plead guilty. However, if you decide to challenge your DUI charge, you have a chance of winning. By pleading guilty, you forfeit that opportunity. There are many scientific and constitutional challenges that can lead to the dismissal of your DUI case. When you plead guilty, you give up your right to contest these issues and force the State to prove its case against you. It's important to check that your lawyer is well-equipped to spot the issues that could lead to a successful defense in your case
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DUI Dismissals Start with Great DUI Lawyers in Highland Park, NJ
Since 1988, Edward G. Appel, Esq. and his team of criminal defense attorneys have fought hard for the rights of clients just like you - men and women who have been charged with a DUI in New Jersey. Because the truth is that a DUI conviction can change your life in an instant.
Opportunities that you once had may be lost, sometimes forever. Having an experienced and dedicated defense attorney by your side can mean the difference between incarceration and dismissed charges or a diminished sentence. It's critical that you exercise your right to hire an attorney who can protect your freedom and defend you in court. Call the offices of Edward G. Appel to learn more about DUI law in New Jersey and to schedule your initial consultation today.
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Latest News in Highland Park, NJ
New Kosher Restaurant “Grill House” Opens in Highland Park, NJ
Dani Kleinhttps://yeahthatskosher.com/2025/05/new-kosher-restaurant-grill-house-opens-in-highland-park-nj/
3 Min ReadA new kosher meat restaurant has officially opened in Highland Park, NJ. Grill House is more than just another eatery—it’s a space built by and for the Jewish community, offering approachable yet elevated Israeli-American cuisine in a warm, family-friendly environment.Built for the Community, by the CommunityGrill House was founded by Moishe Regev and Guy Baracassa, two seasoned real estate developers who purchased the property formerly home to Park Place, a kosher restaurant that closed in 2023. ...
3 Min Read
A new kosher meat restaurant has officially opened in Highland Park, NJ. Grill House is more than just another eatery—it’s a space built by and for the Jewish community, offering approachable yet elevated Israeli-American cuisine in a warm, family-friendly environment.
Built for the Community, by the Community
Grill House was founded by Moishe Regev and Guy Baracassa, two seasoned real estate developers who purchased the property formerly home to Park Place, a kosher restaurant that closed in 2023. While opening a new restaurant may not have been their original plan, the duo understood the community’s needs and chose to invest in something meaningful. Grill House is the result: a modern kosher meat restaurant built on heart, hospitality, and high standards.
The restaurant’s early weeks weren’t easy. Like any new business, they faced growing pains. But instead of giving in, they listened to community feedback, refined their service, and stayed true to their mission—to offer Highland Park and the surrounding areas a reliable and enjoyable kosher dining experience.
Israeli-American Menu for All Ages
The menu at Grill House leans heavily into Israeli-American favorites with something for everyone—whether you’re after a casual lunch or a filling dinner. Highlights from the menu include their signature Jerusalem Mixed Grill, Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich, and Israeli Skewers. A range of starters such as Beef Cigars, Grilled Eggplant, and Cauliflower help set the tone for a flavorful meal.
For those seeking a heartier plate, main dishes include Pargiot (boneless dark meat chicken), Ribeye Steak, and Grilled Chicken Thighs, all served with rice or house-cut fries. Their burger offerings include a Grill House Burger, BBQ Burger, and a Shawarma Burger, giving diners several meaty, satisfying options.
Kids have their own dedicated choices like Chicken Fingers and Hot Dogs, making it a solid pick for family dining. Add-ons such as House-Made Chimichurri, Tahini, or Amba allow diners to customize each dish to their liking.
A New Hub for Kosher Dining in Central NJ
Grill House sits in a prime location at the heart of Highland Park, making it easily reachable for those traveling from NYC, Lakewood, or Bergen County. Its proximity to major roadways like the NJ Turnpike, Route 1, and Route 27 makes it a convenient stop for travelers.
Beyond casual dining, Grill House also serves as a community event space. The first floor features seating for 36 guests, while the second-floor private room accommodates up to 40 people. The space has already hosted events including Sheva Brachot, Torah classes, and memorial gatherings. Flexible catering options are also available for off-site events.
Grill House is a meaningful addition to Highland Park’s kosher dining scene, with a mission rooted in service, quality, and community connection.
Grill House is located at 120 Raritan Avenue, Highland Park, NJ 08904.
The restaurant is under the kosher supervision of the Vaad HaRabonim of Raritan Valley.
Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday, 12 PM to 8 PM.
Peralta leads New Brunswick past Highland Park - Baseball recap
Anthony Gabbianellihttps://highschoolsports.nj.com/game/1012729
Baseball New Jersey's Fastest Growing University Highland Park 2-8 • 2-7 GMC - Gold3FINAL 13...
Baseball
New Jersey's Fastest Growing University
2-8 • 2-7 GMC - Gold
3
FINAL
13
7-1 • 6-1 GMC - Gold
Share: Share on Facebook Share on Twitter
Game Leaders
Runs
Dorian Crocco #2
Highland Park
1
#13 Kelvin Heuston
New Brunswick
3
Hits
Seamus MacKinnon #14
Highland Park
2
#27 Devin Heuston
New Brunswick
2
RBI
Seamus MacKinnon #14
Highland Park
2
#33 Ronaldy Peralta
New Brunswick
2
Home Runs
Dorian Crocco #2
Highland Park
0
#13 Kelvin Heuston
New Brunswick
0
Strikeouts
Dorian Crocco #2
Highland Park
2
#5 Elkin Reyes
New Brunswick
3
Wed, April 23, 2025, 4:00pm
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R | H | E | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Highland Park (2-8) | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 6 |
New Brunswick (7-1) | 0 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 9 | 0 |
WP: Elkin Reyes
LP: Dorian Crocco
Player Stats
Highland Park Batting
AB | R | H | RBI | 1B | 2B | 3B | HR | BB | HBP | SB | AVG | SLG | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dorian Crocco | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .500 | .500 |
Seamus MacKinnon | 3 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .667 | 1.000 |
Connor Roth-Zappo | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Owen Roth-Zappo | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Julio Rodriguez | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Seth Shapiro | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Ahmad Ghumman | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .500 | .500 |
Harold Solomon | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Finn Voorhees | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Totals: | 17 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | .235 | .294 |
New Brunswick Batting
AB | R | H | RBI | 1B | 2B | 3B | HR | BB | HBP | SB | AVG | SLG | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Kelvin Heuston | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Devin Heuston | 3 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .667 | .667 |
Jacob Henderson | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Alex Rodriguez | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | .000 | .000 |
Ronaldy Peralta | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | .500 | .500 |
Roderi Jackson | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .667 | .667 |
Joel Ramos | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | .500 | .500 |
Jose Omar Abreu | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 2 | .500 | .500 |
Ryan Diaz | 3 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .667 | .667 |
Jaylen Thomas | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | .000 | .000 |
Totals: | 21 | 13 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 2 | 4 | .429 | .429 |
Highland Park Pitching
PIT | IP | H | R | ER | BB | K | HB | ERA | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dorian Crocco (LP) | 74 | 3.1 | 5 | 9 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 10.50 |
Ahmad Ghumman | 49 | 1 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 28.00 |
Totals: | 123 | 4.1 | 9 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 14.54 |
New Brunswick Pitching
PIT | IP | H | R | ER | BB | K | HB | ERA | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Elkin Reyes (WP) | 71 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 4.20 |
Totals: | 71 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 0 | 4.20 |
Team Stats
HP | NB | |
---|---|---|
Fielding | ||
Errors | 6 | - |
Passed Balls | - | - |
Batting | ||
Hits | 4 | 9 |
Left On Base | - | - |
Sacrifice Flies | - | - |
Sacrifice Hits | - | - |
Pitching | ||
Wild Pitches | - | - |
New Jersey Church Lays Off 195 Workers After $18 Million Cut from US AID Used to Fund Illegal Aliens
Shore News Networkhttps://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2025/02/23/new-jersey-church-lays-off-195-workers-after-18-million-cut-from-us-aid-used-to-fund-illegal-aliens/
HIGHLAND PARK, N.J. — The jig is up for a New Jersey church that has received tens of millions of dollars in U.S. AID relief money to help illegal aliens resettle across Phil Murphy’s sanctuary state.Shore News Network confirmed layoffs through a WARN notice filed with the New Jersey Department of ...
HIGHLAND PARK, N.J. — The jig is up for a New Jersey church that has received tens of millions of dollars in U.S. AID relief money to help illegal aliens resettle across Phil Murphy’s sanctuary state.
Shore News Network confirmed layoffs through a WARN notice filed with the New Jersey Department of Labor.
The Reformed Church of Highland Park has laid off 195 workers after the Trump administration cut off federal funding for its migrant resettlement programs, church officials said.
The church, which had received $18 million in aid from USAID to place migrants in jobs across New Jersey, is now struggling to keep its programs running. Reverend Seth Kaper-Dale said his organization is owed more than $1.3 million for services rendered in January alone and warned that without immediate support, key programs could collapse.
“For the past 3.5 years, we have experienced that refugees and immigrants are a blessing,” Kaper-Dale said. “Since January 20th, everything has collapsed.”
The church claims it helped place 1,200 migrants in jobs, generating an estimated $182 million in revenue for employers. Kaper-Dale stated that 85% of the refugees they resettled achieved self-sufficiency before requiring additional state assistance.
Governor Phil Murphy, who previously stood with the church against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in 2018, has been urged to intervene again. “If possible, stand with us again, in this new immigrant-related ‘raid’ that Donald Trump is carrying out,” Kaper-Dale said.
The church is now relying on donations and volunteers to stay afloat, but Kaper-Dale said they may face “months of court ahead of us before we see a dime.”
New Jersey church with ties to Phil Murphy received $18 million in federal funding to shelter migrants
Shore News Networkhttps://www.shorenewsnetwork.com/2025/02/09/new-jersey-church-with-ties-to-phil-murphy-received-18-million-in-us-aid-to-shelter-migrants/
HIGHLAND PARK, N.J. — A New Jersey church that received $18 million in federal aid to resettle migrants is now struggling after its funding was cut off, leaving its programs in crisis. Now they are saying the ...
HIGHLAND PARK, N.J. — A New Jersey church that received $18 million in federal aid to resettle migrants is now struggling after its funding was cut off, leaving its programs in crisis. Now they are saying the Trump administration owes them more than a million dollars. In 2018, Governor Murphy stood with church leaders and members to fight against ongoing ICE immigration raids. After that, they began receiving millions of dollars from the federal government to continue placing migrants.
Reverend Seth Kaper-Dale of the Reformed Church of Highland Park said his organization is owed more than $1.3 million for services rendered in January alone. He warned that without immediate support, vital programs assisting refugees could collapse.
“For the past 3.5 years we have experienced that refugees and immigrants are a blessing,” Kaper-Dale said. “Since January 20th everything has collapsed.”
The church had helped place 1,200 migrants in jobs across New Jersey, generating an estimated $182 million in revenue for employer, according to the church.
Kaper-Dale said 85% of the refugees they resettled achieved self-sufficiency before requiring additional state assistance once they were placed.
“I would argue that the new arrivals to our state not only added beauty, creativity and joy to the state of New Jersey, they also brought with them tremendous economic growth. We all remember how the ‘story of the day’, after Covid, was that there was a shortage of workers. We were able (even just over the last 2 years) to see 1200 of the people in our caseload land work in New Jersey’s businesses. We saw the equivalent of 182 million in Revenue Per Employer added to the economy by those workers. 85% of the refugees we resettled were self-sufficient before they needed any help from the Board of Social Services in any county,” said Reverend Seth Kaper-Dale. “Since January 20th everything has collapsed. We are owed hundreds of thousands for services rendered in December. We are owed 1.3 million for services rendered in January (and we have no confidence, at this point, if or when we’ll be paid). Our programs have either been “cease and desisted” or, payments just delayed. To be honest, we (like the rest of the country), just don’t know if we’ll be paid or whether we have months of court ahead of us before we see a dime.”
The reverend said he is now leaning on Murphy to continue to placing migrants and opposing ICE.
“I tried, this past week, to speak with your office (and good, smart people attempted to be helpful) and with State Senators (and they tried to be helpful there too). However, no short-term assistance, or ‘carry-over until Elon releases the money’ funds were found. In the meantime volunteers and the good people of NJ sent incredible donations, to try to fill the gap of broken contracts and massive uncertainty,” he said.
Governor Phil Murphy has ties to the church, having visited in 2018 to stand in opposition to Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. Kaper-Dale is now urging Murphy to intervene again, saying, “If possible, stand with us again, in this new immigrant-related ‘raid’ that Donald Trump is carrying out.”
The church is seeking immediate relief while facing what Kaper-Dale described as “months of court ahead of us before we see a dime.” Volunteers and local donors have attempted to fill the gap, but the uncertainty surrounding federal payments has put the church’s efforts in jeopardy.
The church, once a pillar of New Jersey’s migrant resettlement efforts, now faces an uncertain future without intervention.
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