https://patch.com/new-jersey/howell/malicious-evil-fake-megans-law-letter-investigated-howell

HOWELL, NJ — Howell Township police are warning of a fake letter circulating that claims a Howell resident and business owner was subject to a Megan's Law notification.

Howell police posted the warning Wednesday evening, saying the letter that appeared to be from the state was mailed to several homes, businesses and schools in the township. It cited Megan's Law, which defines how a community must be notified of the presence of a convicted sex offender in a community.

"THIS LETTER IS FAKE," Howell police said in post on the department's Facebook page. "The person named is this letter is NOT subject to any type of investigation, prosecution or conviction of any offense related to Megan's Law."

"This is a serious offense. It's malicious and evil,"the post said. "We are actively involved in this investigation to determine the source. We have included our federal law enforcement partners as well."

Police said the letter appears real at first glance but "it is poorly written and constructed."

Anyone who received the letter, which is marked with an address of the State of New Jersey, is asked to handle it as little as possible.

"Do not open it as it may be of evidentiary value," police said. "We already have several in our possession."

Police said they believe the letter was sent "in retaliation for operating a successful business and to prevent further growth opportunities."

The New Jersey State Police website explains how community notification is conducted when a person is convicted of a sex offense and subject to the provisions of Megan's Law