Morristown Police Chief Suspended

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morristown Chief of Police Pete Demnitz has been suspended, public safety director Michael Corcoran confirmed Tuesday morning.

No reason for his suspension was given, and Corcoran declined to comment further. Demnitz, a 35-year veteran, has been suspended with pay. Capt. Darnell Richardson will serve as acting police chief in the meantime.

Mayor Tim Doherty confirmed the suspension to Patch, saying "The police chief is on a paid administrative leave and will return as soon as practicable. 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."

He declined to comment further.

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.

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

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