JACKSON, N.J. — A female Jackson Township police officer is accusing the Jackson Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Matthew Kukz of gender discrimination and sexual harassment, seeking a settlement to resolve her claims, according to a letter sent by her lawyer to the township and police department this week.

The officer, who has served with the Jackson Township Police Department for over 19 years, alleges she was repeatedly denied promotions and specialized training opportunities that were instead awarded to less experienced male colleagues, according to the correspondence authored by her attorney, Michael E. Riley. The letter also claims she was subjected to sexual harassment by fellow officers, including inappropriate verbal and written statements. She alleges that Chief Kunz did not act accordingly to address her concerns and claims.

The veteran officer applied for but was denied roles as a detective, school resource officer, and a spot in the traffic unit, according to Riley.

“Male officers, junior to [her[ were given the positions with having little to no training,” Riley wrote in the letter, adding that when she questioned the decisions, she was told to “just do more” by police department brass.

iley warned that a lawsuit citing violations of the New Jersey Civil Rights Act and discrimination laws would be filed if no response to the letter is received by January 30th.

At this time, the attorney has not released further details or evidence about the alleged harassment.

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