TRENTON, NJ — A Trenton police officer has been suspended and faces potential criminal review after an internal investigation found alleged excessive force, with the case now in the hands of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, officials said Tuesday.
The Trenton Police Department confirmed that Officer Aaron Bernstein was immediately suspended without pay following an Internal Affairs Bureau review into the incident.
Case escalated quickly under new reforms
According to the department, Internal Affairs first became aware of the incident on December 3, 2024, triggering an investigation into Bernstein’s conduct.
By the next day, December 4, 2024, the case was formally referred to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office due to the potential criminal nature of the allegations.
Officials noted the swift referral followed new police reform policies implemented by the department in February 2024, which require faster escalation of serious misconduct cases.
Department cites zero tolerance policy
The Trenton Police Department emphasized that Bernstein remains suspended without pay pending the outcome of the prosecutor’s investigation.
In its public statement, the department said it “does not tolerate or condone illegal use of force by its officers,” adding that administrative penalties could include suspension or termination depending on the findings.
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Key Points
• Trenton officer suspended after excessive force allegation surfaced in 2024
• Case referred to Mercer County Prosecutor within one day of Internal Affairs review
• Officer remains suspended without pay pending criminal investigation
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Limited details released as investigation continues
Authorities have not disclosed details about the underlying incident, including where it occurred, whether anyone was injured, or what led to the use-of-force allegation.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office is now responsible for determining whether criminal charges are warranted.
Because the case involves potential criminal conduct, further information is expected to come from prosecutors rather than the police department.
Oversight and next steps
The handling of the case highlights how internal police investigations intersect with external prosecutorial oversight, particularly when force incidents may rise to the level of criminal behavior.
Under department policy, administrative action runs parallel to any criminal review, meaning Bernstein’s employment status could be affected regardless of whether charges are ultimately filed.
For now, officials have directed any additional inquiries to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.
Ongoing case status
Officer Aaron Bernstein remains suspended without pay while the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office continues its review; no charges have been publicly announced.
Trenton Police Department, New Jersey crime, excessive force investigation