4 Newark cops arrested for falsifying records – WPIX 11 New York

NEWARK — Four Newark police officers, including a lieutenant, were charged Thursday with falsifying police records, acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II said.

The incident occurred January 18, when the officers filled out false patrol logs showing they were at places they weren’t, as surveillence footage and other evidence proved. The officers were accused of being in bars and drinking alcohol while in uniform and on duty.

“The reprehensible behavior alleged to have occurred in this case undermines confidence in law enforcement, and gives a bad name to the vast majority of our officers who risk their lives each day to protect the public,” said Stephens.

“Not only did these officers barhop around the City of Newark while on duty and in full uniform, but they lied in an attempt to cover it up. One officer’s conduct put innocent people at risk. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office has a zero tolerance policy toward officers who violate their oath and the public trust that comes with it,” he added.

Michael Chirico, 55, is accused of driving under the influence as well as tampering with public records. Officials accuse him of driving the wrong way down University Avenue which is a one way street. He also allegedly hit a car driven by a woman with four children in the vehicle.

Lt. Norberto Soares, 42, of Kenilworth, Police Officer Erik Blount, 33, of Newark, and Police Officer Tashia Jones, 35, of Newark, were all charged with tampering with public records, a third degree offense.

The investigation is active and ongoing.