No Decision on Princeton Police Leadership Until New Year

The Princeton Police Department will remain in flux for at least a couple of more weeks until Council decides whether to promote a chief from within or hire an outside civilian director. 

Earlier this month, consultants from The Rodgers Group strongly recommended promoting a chief from within, following a months-long study of the department in the wake of former Police Chief David Dudeck's sudden departure.

Frank Rodgers, president of the consultant group, stressed that the department needs stability, not more change. 

Dudeck was named to lead the consolidated Princeton Police Department effective Jan. 1, 2013. But less than two months later, he went on leave and ultimately retired amidst allegations pattern of harassment and intimidation against his own officers over the prior two years two years. Seven officers have since filed a lawsuit against both Dudeck and the town, outlining the specific allegations of misconduct.

The Rodgers Group was hired to analyze the police department and recommend a leadership structure in an attempt to avoid future problems. The study resulted in an 83-page report and cost the town approximately $12,000. 

Princeton Mayor Liz Lempert recently declined to disclose her opinion of The Rodgers Group's recommendation, but she praised the town's combined police force. 

“I’ve seen this department achieve great things this year," Lempert said. "I think it’s a model for consolidation, they’re spending less but increasing services.

"When I’m out in the community I have people come up to unsolicited and tell me how great their experience has been with the police department," she said. "So what does success look like? That’s what it looks like to me.”

Since Dudeck's departure, Capt. Nick Sutter has been temporarily at the helm of the department. Lempert said the departments have come together "very successfully" under his leadership.

If Princeton decided to promote a chief from within, they would need to determine what ranks would be eligible to apply for the position, Administrator Bob Bruschi said. 

The Rodgers Group strongly opposes hiring a civilian police director, saying it is unnecessary and could detract from the department's progress to date.