MORRISTOWN, N.J. — An off-duty Morristown police officer has been cited for driving while intoxicated and careless driving following a single-vehicle rollover crash on Morris Street earlier this month, according to a statement released by the Town of Morristown.
Now, township officials have issued a press release, complaining about rumors being spread online about the incident.
The incident occurred shortly after 11 p.m. on May 6, when officers responded to the crash and found the driver to be one of their own, who exhibited signs of intoxication and sustained minor injuries. The officer was transported to Morristown Medical Center and consented to blood testing, with toxicology results still pending.
“Based on observations at the scene and the information available at the time, the officer was determined to be impaired and was issued summonses for Careless Driving (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97) and Driving While Intoxicated (N.J.S.A. 39:4-50),” the town said in its public notice.
Supervisory personnel on the scene contacted the Morris County Assistant Prosecutor to ensure an external agency would handle the DWI portion of the investigation. However, after consultation, it was determined that the Morristown Police Department would retain investigative responsibility.
Town cites commitment to transparency amid public concern
Officials emphasized that the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is now overseeing the ongoing investigation, with full cooperation from Morristown’s administration. The town underscored its commitment to a transparent process, stating that the officer remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
“This is a serious and deeply troubling incident,” the town said. “All actions taken were with transparency and the law in mind.”
Morristown officials also addressed what they described as false or misleading claims circulating in recent days.
“It undermines trust and disrespects both the process and the people involved,” the statement read.
The town pledged to provide factual updates and not be “distracted by rumor or speculation” as the investigation continues.
