Retirement Payout For Ex-West Orange Police Chief Comes Under Scrutiny: Report

WEST ORANGE, NJ — A $787,017 payout to former West Orange Police Chief James Abbott remains in limbo nearly three months after his retirement, a report says.

The payout for unused vacation, seniority days, overtime and other accumulated leave would apparently be one of the largest retirement payouts to a New Jersey municipal police chief in recent years. Scrutiny over the amount continues, NJ Advance Media reported Tuesday.

Read the full article here.

Abbott retired in December 2025 after serving more than 45 years with the township’s police force. He has seen praise from Mayor Susan McCartney, as well as two former West Orange mayors: John McKeon and Robert Parisi. His successor as WOPD chief – Matthew Feula – was among those who offered Abbott well-wishes on his retirement.

“Chief Abbott has led this department with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the safety of our community,” Feula said.

• See Related: New Police Chief Appointed In West Orange: Feula Takes Reins From Abbott

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