Four Newark police hit another car after barhopping on duty, prosecutor says – NorthJersey.com

Four members of the Newark Police Department were issued summons after falsifying records to hide they that drank at bars around the city while on duty and later got into a car accident, acting Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens said in a statement.

“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,” Stephens wrote in a prepared statement. “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.”

Lt. Norberto Soares, 42, of Kenilworth, and officers Erik Blount, 33, of Newark, and Tashia Jones, 35, of Newark, were charged with tampering with public records.

Additionally, Officer Michael Chirico, 55, of Newark was charged with driving under the influence after he allegedly drove himself and the other three officers the wrong way down University Avenue, hitting a car with a woman and four children inside.

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In January, the officers falsified reports to make it appear they were at the scenes of various emergencies while they were out drinking during their shifts, prosecutors allege.

All four have court appearances scheduled for July 7.

Public Safety Director Anthony Ambrose said the officers have been suspended without pay since January.

He added the four police do not represent officers who “work hard each and every day, especially during these tough uncertain times risking their lives.”

Nicholas Katzban is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: katzban@northjersey.com Twitter: @nicholaskatzban 

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