By: Richard L. Smith
A former Englishtown councilman, his son, and a Bridgewater man have been indicted on charges stemming from an alleged illegal lending operation involving threats of violence, extortion, and money laundering, according to information released by New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Division of Criminal Justice.
John E. Alite, 64, of Englishtown, faces multiple charges, including theft by extortion, illegal lending, corporate misconduct, money laundering, terroristic threats, and conspiracy.
Authorities allege that Alite issued loans carrying interest rates exceeding legal limits and used threats of violence to force borrowers to surrender money and property.
Investigators also allege that Alite used two businesses, Straightened-Out Entertainment Inc. and Alite Consulting LLC, to further the operation.
Alite was serving as an Englishtown councilman when he was arrested on June 19, 2026, but has since been removed from office.
Also indicted were Stephen Locrotondo, 68, of Bridgewater, who faces charges related to illegal lending, extortion, conspiracy, corporate misconduct, and money laundering, and Alite's son, John P. Alite, 35, of Manalapan, who is charged with illegal lending, conspiracy, and money laundering.
Attorney General Davenport said the defendants allegedly exploited victims through intimidation and threats to obtain money they were not legally entitled to collect.
New Jersey State Police Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle also expressed concern about the allegations involving a former elected official, emphasizing the importance of accountability and public trust.