A Camden police officer received major discipline after investigators found she fell asleep in a patrol vehicle while assigned to a contracted secondary employment detail, according to state disciplinary records.
A Camden County law enforcement officer was formally disciplined after falling asleep inside her patrol vehicle while working a contracted secondary employment assignment, according to New Jersey’s annual major discipline report.
Officer Deborah Baker of the Camden County Police Department was cited for conduct unbecoming and multiple policy violations stemming from the January 2025 incident.
Officer found asleep during contracted assignment
According to disciplinary records, the incident occurred on Jan. 24, 2025, while Baker was assigned to a contracted secondary employment detail.
Investigators determined Baker fell asleep inside her patrol vehicle while on duty.
“Officer Deborah Baker fell asleep inside her patrol vehicle while on a contracted secondary employment assignment,” the disciplinary report states.
Multiple policy violations sustained
The department sustained several charges against Baker, including conduct unbecoming and other sufficient cause under New Jersey civil service regulations.
Records also indicate she was found in violation of departmental policies concerning obedience to laws and regulations, specifically the agency’s Contracted Secondary Employment Directive.
In addition, investigators sustained a violation involving “Sleeping, Loafing and/or Idling.”
Suspension held in abeyance
Although the disciplinary action carried a 14-day suspension, records indicate the suspension was held in abeyance for one year.
A suspension held in abeyance generally means the penalty is not immediately served and may be waived if the employee avoids additional disciplinary issues during the specified period.
The disciplinary report indicates Baker was neither terminated nor demoted as a result of the incident.
Discipline disclosed in annual state report
The case was included in New Jersey’s annual major discipline reporting system, which requires law enforcement agencies to publicly disclose serious disciplinary actions taken against officers.
The report covers disciplinary findings sustained during the 2025 reporting period.
Key Points
• Camden Police Officer Deborah Baker was disciplined after falling asleep in her patrol vehicle while working a contracted secondary employment assignment.
• Investigators sustained charges including conduct unbecoming and violations of department policies.
• A 14-day suspension was imposed but held in abeyance for one year.
