Mayor Sarno Issues Statement on Officer Jose Diaz’s District Court Complaint

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno states, “Again this is very troubling, as our police officers are sworn to enforce our laws, not break them. Any officer that breaches the public trust should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law – ‘let the chips fall where they may’. From the beginning of this incident Commissioner Barbieri, City Solicitor Ed Pikula, Labor Relations Director Bill Mahoney and I have worked with all outside authorities to pursue this case, even bringing in independent counsel and retired Judge Bertha Josephson to hear this case before our citizens Community Police Hearing Board (CPHB). This reflects unfairly on the vast majority of our brave and dedicated police officers, who put their lives on the line protecting our citizens, day in and day out. Whether on-duty or off-duty our police officers must wear their badge not only with courage, but just as important with honor, integrity and professionalism. The reform efforts initiated by Commissioner Barbieri are ongoing and will continue in order to maintain the public’s faith and trust.”