PASSAIC COUNTY, NJ — A New Jersey Police officer punched two bar patrons in the face before fleeing the scene, according to an affidavit of probable cause obtained by Patch.
On Oct. 27, Thomas Connors, 39, a police sergeant in his hometown of West Milford, was charged with two counts of simple assault following an altercation in a bar in September, police said.
According to an affidavit of probable cause, Connors was in Jessie's Country Kettle in West Milford while off-duty at around 12:30 a.m. on Sept. 24.
Around that time, Connors can be seen on surveillance footage talking to another bar patron when he punches him in the face "without any apparent provocation," knocking him to the floor, the affidavit reads.
Immediately after the first punch, Connors turns around and punches another patron in the face, also "without any apparent provocation," knocking him to the floor as well, according to police.
Footage then shows Connors leaving the restaurant, the police report adds.
One of the victims reported having "bodily pain and bruising to his cheek and mouth area" following the assault.
Further investigation into the alleged assaults, including review of surveillance footage and witness statements, found that neither victim provoked Connors "in any manner" prior to the incident.
If convicted of the disorderly persons offenses, Connors could spend up to six months in jail, according to prosecutors.
The West Milford Police Department was not immediately available for comment, and it is not clear if Connors is still employed there.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Wayne Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.