Convicted Murderer Faces Sentencing Friday

Jose Feliciano will appear in Morris County Superior Court for sentencing on Friday, April 20.

Capt. Jeffrey Paul of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office said sentencing was moved from the previously-scheduled date of Friday, April 13.

This is the second time the sentencing has been delayed. A previous date of March 2 was changed due a scheduling conflict.

Feliciano, 66, was , known to his congregation as "Father Ed," the pastor at in Chatham Borough, on Oct. 22, 2009.

Feliciano was found guilty of murder, felony murder, two counts of robbery, unlawful possession of a weapon and hindering his own arrest. Morris County Prosecutor Robert A. Bianchi moved to consolidate three aggravating charges into one, since the 30-year mandatory sentence for felony murder meant "[Feliciano] would essentially be spending the rest of his life in state prison."

Feliciano had been a custodian at the church for 18 years at the time of the Oct. 22, 2009 murder.

The jury came back with a guilty verdict on Dec. 22, 2011. Bianchi said after the verdict, "I can think of no greater Christmas gift to Father Hinds’ soul, and for those that loved and respected him that this conviction happens at Christmas time.”

For a video of Bianchi's post-verdict press conference, click here. 

National Crime Victims' Rights Week

The Prosecutor's Office plans to honor Hinds and other victims of crimes in the Recognition & Remembrance Ceremony for Crime Victims' Rights Week, which begins April 23.

The ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. Monday at St. Patrick Church, and will pay special tribute to Hinds.

Paul said, "We felt it appropriate to remember Father Hinds in the place that he knew and loved so well," and there was no better place to honor Hinds than among the residents of the Chathams "who were his family and friends.

Larger tribute will be paid "to victims of crimes and their families, and the countless number of professionals and volunteers who dedicate their lives to helping victims," Paul said.

Those who wish to attend the ceremony can RSVP by calling (973) 285-6268 or emailing rsvp@co.morris.nj.us.