Former Police Chief David Dudeck Quietly Retired Sept. 1

Dudeck has returned a 2011 Apple iPad and a Glock 9mm handgun that belong to the department, Police Capt. Nick Sutter said.  

In February, Dudeck chose to go out on medical leave from the department after 
 multiple officers filed union complaints alleging a pattern of harassment and intimidation over the past two years. 

The complaints were primarily filed by former Princeton Borough Police officers, who allegedly felt too intimidated to come forward before consolidation. Officers were routinely demoted to patrol or had their schedules changed if they crossed Dudeck. 

After the allegations surfaced, the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office announced they were monitoring the situation, but did not launch a formal investigation. 

Dudeck ultimately chose to retire from the department rather than face an investigation. 

As a result of Dudeck's retirement, the police union withdrew all of its allegations against the chief. The separation agreement includes language saying that Dudeck cannot sue Princeton and vice versa. 

The former chief did not offer a reason for his earlier retirement date, although his duties as head football coach at The Hun School of Princeton  could have conflicted with his sick leave from the municipality. Under Princeton's policy, Dudeck would have had to remain confined to his home during his scheduled work hours, except for doctor/hospital visits, picking up a prescription, attending physical therapy, voting, church, an emergency, or by approval of the chief of police/designee. 

If Dudeck were to coach football or engage in other activities during his normal work hours, he would be in violation of policy and subject to disciplinary measures, including termination.