Singer Urges Governor to Ensure Woman Responsible for Trooper’s Death Is Not Set Free

Senator Robert Singer today said the woman serving time for lying to police and contributing to the death of a New Jersey State Trooper in 2010 should remain behind bars.

“Out of respect for the Trooper’s family and all the men and women across the state who risk their lives to protect citizens and enforce our laws, I hope the Governor will think twice about releasing this reckless felon from prison,” said Singer (R-30). “The Administration should do the right thing and ensure she serves out the duration of her sentence.”

Diana Hoffman has six years remaining on a 15-year sentence for eluding police and causing public alarm for filing a false police report claiming a gunman carjacked her vehicle.

Trooper Marc Castellano, investigating a sighting of a possible suspect in the woods along Interstate 195 West in Howell, was struck and killed by a motorist on June 6, 2010.

Hoffman’s application for parole was denied this month, but according to a report published by New Jersey Globe, her name appears on a list of 25 other convicts who may benefit from medical furloughs due to the coronavirus.

“The parole board investigated and determined this criminal should remain behind bars,” Singer said. “She admitted to committing a lie that led to the death of a State Trooper, and under no circumstance should the pandemic be used as an excuse to give her a ‘get out of jail free’ card.”

A portion of Interstate Highway Route 195 in the Howell was dedicated in 2018 as “State Trooper Marc K. Castellano Memorial Highway” to commemorate the memory of State Trooper Marc K. Castellano.

“Trooper Castellano was a dedicated public servant who gave his life while trying to keep the people of New Jersey safe,” said Singer, sponsor of the legislation, at the bill signing. “Renaming part of I-195 in his honor ensures his sacrifice is never forgotten.”