HACKENSACK — A federal judge won't dismiss a police
corruption complaint against former Hackensack Police Capt. Tomas Padilla, the
Record reported. Police officers Thomas Aiellos, Vincent Riotto, Donald Pierce
and Scott Sybel had valid complaints that their First Amendment, freedom of
association and due process rights were violated.
The officers claim they faced retaliation when they refused
to contribute to the political campaigns of Padilla and former Police Chief Ken
Zisa. Padilla asked Martini to dismiss the case, saying the officers didn't
have evidence to back up their claims.
Padilla received a $150,000 payment for unused sick and
vacation time when he retired Feb. 1. He receives an annual pension of
$118,858.
Padilla retired as interim chief, a position he took up
after Zisa was convicted on official misconduct and insurance fraud charges.
Zisa was found guilty of removing his former girlfriend from the scene of a
2008 accident and filing a false insurance claim.