Maplewood Police Issue Statement on Officer Misconduct During July 5, 2016 Incident

The Maplewood Police Department thoroughly and objectively investigates all reports of officer misconduct in a fair and impartial manner and in accordance with the Attorney General’s Guidelines.

Complaints regarding reported officer misconduct on July 5, 2016 were turned over to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Professional Standard’s Bureau for Criminal Investigation. When the complaints were returned by the Prosecutor’s Office, an administrative investigation by the Maplewood Police Department’s Internal Affairs Bureau resumed in April 2017.

Following the fireworks on July 5, 2106, groups began to exit the area of Memorial Park., A fight subsequently occurred on Valley Street. Individuals began to exit the area. At the intersection of Elmwood Avenue and Orchard Road, officers took two individuals into custody. Two additional individuals were taken into custody on Elmwood Avenue near the border of Irvington.

The investigation into the complaints is ongoing. To date, one officer received 17 suspension days with an additional three suspension days in abeyance for violating department rules and regulations and for violating department procedure regarding the use of force. Another five officers have also received formal discipline for violating department rules and regulations.

In addition to the disciplinary action that has been taken, all officers have received additional training to help prevent a recurrence of the violations that were determined to have occurred.