August 15, 2016
A South Jersey police officer allegedly offered a defendant help with criminal charges in exchange for oral sex.
The Gloucester County Prosecutor's Office announced on Monday that Robert E. Marzi was charged with misconduct.
The 29-year-old officer worked for the Monroe Township Police Department for two years and has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the case.
According to the criminal complaint, Marzi attempted on Jan. 17 “an unauthorized exercise of his official functions with purpose to obtain a benefit to himself.”
The Courier-Post reports that Marzi promised a female defendant he would help her with pending criminal charges in exchange for oral sex.
Monroe Township Police Chief John McKeown said the department will also conduct an administrative investigation.
“Every officer takes an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and constitution and Laws of this state," McKeown said, "We must never forget that both on and off duty, we proudly carry this burden. This is a time for each of us in law enforcement to reflect on why we entered policing and what it means to protect and serve with honor.”
Prosecutors are currently reviewing other arrests involving Marzi to determine if additional charges are appropriate.
Marzi posted $25,000 bail and has been released.
