Opinion ID: 1972099
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: the old bridge matter count iii

Text: Based on our de novo review of the record, we also agree with the ACJC's finding that the evidence does not clearly and convincingly show that respondent impeded or sought to impede the investigation by the State Police of the actions of the Office of the Chief Clerk of the Old Bridge Municipal Court. The ACJC's presentment fairly describes and explains the incident that led to Count III: On August 20, 1990, the New Jersey State Police began an investigation into the Old Bridge Municipal Court by executing a warrant for the search of the files of that court. The investigation was begun after employees of the court compiled information to the effect that Joan Fallon, the clerk of that court, may have used her position to favor her sons and others by failing to schedule cases for trial, collect fines, enforce court orders or report traffic violations to the Division of Motor Vehicles. In the Third Count of the Complaint before this Committee, it was alleged that Respondent had made a number of remarks to the members of his court staff to intimidate them and otherwise persuade them not to cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the State Police. Respondent acknowledged having made, if not the alleged remarks, remarks that were essentially the same; but he testified that he was referring not to the State Police but to the Old Bridge Police Department. Certain employees of the Old Bridge Municipal Court were close to officers of the Old Bridge Police Department and filed reports with that department concerning matters within the Old Bridge Municipal Court. It was, according to Respondent, with reference to such reports and contacts that he made the remarks in question. Finding that the evidence presented was not clear and convincing, the ACJC properly dismissed the Third Count of the complaint.