July 3, 2007: Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi, Esq., announces the graduation of Assistant Prosecutor Vincent Leo, Esq., Sergeant Daniel DeGroot, Detective Evelyn Tasoulas and Detective Anthony Mauceri from the Top Gun training program.

These members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office participated in the program, which was held at the John H. Stamler Police Academy in Scotch Plains from Friday, June 22 through Friday, June 29, 2007.

The Top Gun Program is a specialized narcotics and gang training program organized for New Jersey law enforcement. The intensive six day full immersion program is set up to train both the investigative and legal staff of New Jersey's 21 counties, as well as New Jersey State and Federal law enforcement. The program includes classroom and practical exercise in topics such as surveillance, drug interdiction, undercover operations, gang intelligence, high risk operations and courtroom testimony. The students participated in simulated raids on houses that are scheduled for demolition.

Captain Jeffrey S. Paul of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office led the Top Gun training program along with Deputy Chief Gregory Clay of the Union County Prosecutor's Office and Supervising Deputy Attorney General John Quelch of the Division of Criminal Justice.

Prosecutor Bianchi, who spent time watching the program this past week stated, "I was impressed with the quality of educational instruction and the integration and partnership between the law enforcement officers and the Assistant Prosecutors. We are one team with a common mission to serve the citizens. This valuable training will allow us to better perform our service to the public."

One hundred and four students from county, state and federal agencies participated in the training, including New Jersey county prosecutor's offices, New Jersey State Police, the Division of Criminal Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Prosecutor Bianchi stated, "There are dozens on the waiting list to attend this specialized training and I look forward to sponsoring members of the Municipal Police Departments to attend as well."

The Top Gun faculty number about 50 and are from equally diverse segments of law enforcement.

Congratulations to those who successfully completed this intensive program.

Media Contact: Agent Robyn D'Onofrio
(973) 285-6222