Westwood Pilot Formally Apologizes for Toilet Paper Incident

Westwood pilot Warren Saunders has formally apologized in writing to Mayor John Birkner Jr., members of the council and Police Chief Frank Regino for throwing toilet paper from his plane over in October.

Saunders sent a letter to the borough officials this week, which was required in the plea agreement he accepted. Saunders was and was told he had to send an apology letter to the officials.

Saunders wrote that he took "full responsiblity" for his actions, which he called "misguided." He said his intention was to "garner school and team spirit for our upcoming football game with Mahwah..."

He wrote that he never meant to "cause fear or panic in any way."

"Without doubt it was the most serious lapse in good judegment I have ever made, and a mistake I shall never make again," he wrote.

Mayor Birkner said, "I absolutely accept his apology." He said Saunders has also apologized to him personally "on more than one occasion."

The mayor said he hopes the letter puts closure on the incident. "I know Mr. Saunders is very remorseful for his actions," Birkner said. "He's certainly guilty of very poor judgement of the situation. I think he recognizes that what he did was not a smart move."

In the letter, Saunders singled out the Westwood Police Department, commending "the kind and respectful manner in which I was treated."

Police Chief Frank Regino did not immediately return a call for comment.