Morris County man charged after alleged vehicle vandalism leads to discovery of ghost gun

FLORHAM PARK BOROUGH, N.J. (Morris County) — An East Hanover man faces multiple weapons charges after police investigating a report of vehicle vandalism allegedly discovered a loaded ghost gun and other prohibited weapons inside his vehicle, authorities said.

Police responded to a residence in Florham Park at approximately 2:45 a.m. May 31 after receiving a report that a known individual was attempting to smash a vehicle window.

Officers responding to the scene located and stopped a vehicle believed to be involved as it fled the area on Ridgedale Avenue. During the investigation, police reviewed surveillance footage that allegedly showed the suspect using an object resembling a handgun to attempt to break the vehicle’s window.

The suspect was identified as Frank Cefalu, 53, of East Hanover Township. He was initially arrested and charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief, and harassment, a petty disorderly persons offense.

Police impounded the vehicle and later obtained a court-authorized search warrant. According to authorities, the search led to the discovery of a loaded ghost gun resembling a Glock-style 9mm handgun containing hollow-point ammunition, as well as a blackjack, which is prohibited under New Jersey law.

As a result, Cefalu was charged with possession of a firearm with intent to use it against a person or property, unlawful possession of a handgun, possession of hollow-point ammunition without proper authorization, possession of certain weapons without a lawful purpose and possession of a firearm without a serial number.

Authorities said Cefalu was lodged in the Morris County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.