North Bergen Police Chief Accused of Harassment, Misconduct: Officers Plan Legal Action

March 27, 2025
North Bergen Police Chief Accused of Harassment, Misconduct: Officers Plan Legal Action
  • The plaintiffs in the lawsuit include Officers Rasheed Siyam, Christopher Bowen, Michael F. Derin, Detective Michael A. Derin, and Lt. Alex Guzman, each citing various grievances against Farley.

  • Despite earning over $228,000 annually and leading a department of more than 120 officers, Farley's leadership is now under scrutiny as the officers seek a new chief and a financial settlement.

  • However, Farley now faces serious allegations from five officers who are preparing to sue him for creating a hostile work environment filled with harassment and inappropriate behavior.

  • The accusations against Farley include shocking claims of spiking office coffee with Viagra and Adderall, defecating on the floor in front of staff, and sending sex toys to officers' homes.

  • Officers describe the work environment as reminiscent of an 'Animal House,' with demeaning practical jokes intended to humiliate staff and a culture of retaliation against those who report misconduct.

  • Concerns about officer morale have been raised, with retired NYPD lieutenant Christopher Mercado warning that if the claims are true, they could lead to increased resignations and disengagement.

  • Additional claims against Farley involve forcing officers to complete his daughter's homework, placing fireworks under their chairs, and even jabbing a fellow officer with a hypodermic needle.

  • Robert Farley, who has served with the North Bergen Police Department for 26 years, was appointed police chief in February 2024, promising a commitment to public safety and professionalism.

  • Their attorney, Patrick Toscano, has requested that the New Jersey Attorney General take control of the police department's operations due to safety concerns among the officers.

  • North Bergen Township officials have defended Farley, suggesting that the timing of the allegations is suspicious, coming after his reforms aimed at cutting overtime costs, which reportedly saved about $1 million annually.

  • Evidence shared by Toscano includes photographs of Farley engaging in inappropriate behavior, such as shaving his arm onto an officer's desk and throwing a plaque during an outburst.

  • While the township has not publicly commented on the specific allegations, a spokesperson expressed confidence in Farley's leadership, calling the claims false and outrageous.

Summary based on 14 sources


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