Cop Suspended Without Pay After Caught Shoplifting In Somerset County: Police

NORTH PLAINFIELD, NJ — A police sergeant, who was charged with shoplifting multiple times, was suspended Friday without pay, said North Plainfield Police Chief Alan McKay.

"This decision was not taken lightly or without a careful review of all the facts and circumstances. It appears Sergeant [David] Canica has not lived up to our agency’s core values of honesty, Professionalism, Respect, Integrity, Dedication and Excellence," said McKay.

Canica, 50, of Hillsborough, was charged with four counts of shoplifting, a disorderly persons offense on Wednesday in Hillsborough.

Loss Prevention staff at Weis Supermarket at 315 Route 206 in Hillsborough said Canica was seen leaving the store without paying for items in his shopping cart on four different occasions, according to Hillsborough Police.

The shoplifting incidents happened on Nov. 3, Nov. 9, Nov. 10, and Nov. 19, with a total value of the items of $213.82. Public records show Canica was being being paid $129, 520 in base salary annually four years ago.

"The accusations and arrest of Sergeant Canica are extremely disappointing to me and all the members of this agency," said McKay. "The accusations against this officer do not reflect the character of the hardworking men and woman of the North Plainfield Police Department that serve honorably each and every day and live up to our agency CORE Values."

• Previous reporting: Cop Caught Shoplifting 4 Different Times At Supermarket In Hillsborough: Police

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