Morristown Police Chief Remains Suspended

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown Chief of Police Pete Demnitz remains suspended, nearly a month after his suspension was first announced.

Public safety director Michael Corcoran confirmed Monday morning that Demnitz has not yet returned to the job. He has been on paid leave since Dec. 18. Corcoran declined to comment further on the reasons behind the suspension.

Capt. Darnell Richardson has been serving as acting police chief during Demnitz's suspension.

"I want to assure the public that public safety is of utmost importance and in the Chief's absence, Captain Richardson will serve as Acting Chief. Captain Richardson has been with the Morristown Police Department for over 29 years and the dedicated men and women of the Police department will continue to serve the Town," Mayor Tim Dougherty said in December.

Demnitz was found guilty in a civil suit earlier this year of demoting an officer after that officer blew the whistle on Demnitz's outside jobs, Daily Record reported. Demnitz was cleared by the Prosecutor's Office, but faced a hefty fine.

Dougherty said he found some testimony in that trial concerning, but stood behind the police force.

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