Promote Police Chief From Within, Consulting Firm Says

A consulting firm hired by Princeton officials to determine the future leadership of the department has recommended that a chief be promoted from within the department, according to Nj.com. 

The Rodgers Group laid out its recommendations on Tuesday following a months-long study of the department following the departure of former Chief David Dudeck. Dudeck went on leave on February 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, according to nj.com.

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

“Your principal challenge here is that you’ve been doing nothing but change for the last year," said Frank Rodgers, president of The Rodgers Group, according to nj.com. "The last thing you need is more change. You need stability.”