Police in Jackson Township are investigating a series of vulgar and threatening voicemails directed at Mayor Jennifer Kuhn as the township heads toward a closely watched mayoral election in November.
According to reporting shared by Wake Up NJ, the messages began arriving about three weeks ago. Some were left on Kuhn’s personal business line, while others were sent directly to her Town Hall office.
The calls reportedly included highly offensive language as well as threats against the mayor’s life. Kuhn said the messages have left her concerned not only for her own safety but also for family members who live nearby.
Jackson Township police are now treating the matter seriously and have increased their presence around Town Hall, particularly during Township Council meetings.
Lt. Joseph Candido told News 12 that depending on the wording of individual messages, the calls could potentially fall under New Jersey laws covering harassment or terroristic threats.
The threats come during an increasingly heated mayoral race between Kuhn and challenger Elliott Shem-Tov.
Shem-Tov condemned the messages after hearing them and rejected the idea that political frustration should ever turn into threats or intimidation. He said voters who want change should express that choice at the ballot box on November 3.
Kuhn delivered a similar message, saying that people who disagree with her leadership should make their voices heard on Election Day rather than through threatening calls.
The episode highlights how quickly political tensions at the local level can move beyond ordinary disagreement. While campaigns often involve sharp criticism and intense debate, both candidates agreed that threats of violence cross a line.
Police have not publicly identified the callers, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Jackson Township’s mayoral election is scheduled for November 3, with Kuhn and Shem-Tov competing for control of the municipality as local debates over development, government transparency and the direction of the township continue to shape the campaign.
Source: Wake Up NJ on X / News 12 New Jersey
By NJ RADAR Team