Jersey Journal (New Jersey)
Copyright 2007 The Jersey Journal LLC
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| This is an editorial from Jersey Journal staff. The opinions expressed below are not those of FireRescue1.com, its staff, or its affiliates. |
JERSEY CITY, N.J. — It has been a shocking past four months for Jersey City’s uniformed services, and the question is what can be done to avoid what is considered aberrant behavior from some of those who are expected to protect us and are held to a higher standard than the rest of us.
Below is a short list of the accusations against some members of what has been called the Pride of Jersey City and that are of a concern to the city’s citizens.
Yesterday, Police Officer Christopher Starks was charged with domestic violence and simple assault.
Yesterday, Police Officer Joseph Clesiak was charged with failure to take action concerning illegal drug use, and he also faces the charge of official misconduct.
On Feb. 28, Police Officer Albert Gonzalez was charged with aggravated assault and weapons offenses.
On Feb. 16, Firefighter Lawrence Lemke was charged with aggravated assault on a police officer, numerous drug counts, and motor vehicle summonses.
On Feb. 12, Police Officer Edward G. Kopf was charged with falsely reporting that his car had been stolen.
On Jan. 23, Police Officer Kevin Freibott was charged with driving under the influence and assault by auto, with charges of aggravated manslaughter added later.
On Dec. 13, Fire Capt. Thomas Verdon was charged with burglary and theft, and he also faces the charge of official misconduct.
On Nov. 1, Police Officer Dean Hashmi was charged with falsely reporting that his car had been stolen. He was re-arrested the next day when stolen property was found in his police locker.
All these cases are still open and the officers and firefighters mentioned still have to go through the judicial system to determine guilt or innocence.
Unfortunately, the growing list can only lower the morale of the men and women in the Police and Fire departments who do their job well and are role models. This behavior also lowers the self-esteem of this city and its people.
New members of these two departments should be reminded by superiors and veterans that their badges not only mean to protect and serve, but that they also reflect the city’s image.