Newton traffic accident investigated

Newton - Police officers were summoned to the area of Woodside Avenue and Main Street at about 9:15 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, to investigate a report of a traffic accident. Investigation revealed that Ronald Rochinski, 65, of Mill Street, Newton, N.J. was operating a 2006 Ford Mustang northbound on Main Street when he crossed into the southbound lane and struck a utility pole and a parked vehicle near 226 Main Street. Rochinski was transported to Newton Memorial Hospital where he was treated and released for minor injuries. Subsequently, Rochinski was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, careless driving and being under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance. As a result of the collision, the telephone pole became severed causing downed cable, telephone and electrical wires. However, no loss of power was incurred within the area. Traffic was diverted for approximately 6 hours with the assistance of the state Department of Transportation Traffic Diversion Team. Rochinski was released pending an appearance in Newton Municipal Court.