Village Police Sgt. Faces Theft Charges

A Ridgewood police sergeant was charged with theft through deception, police said.

Following a three-month investigation, Detective Sgt. William Hemmer was charged with depositing $65,000 in Police Benevolent Association funds into his personal account, the Ridgewood Police Department announced today.

Hemmer, on suspension during the internal investigation since Oct. 30, 2009, is charged with theft through deception, a third-degree offense, and official misconduct, a second-degree crime. He served Ridgewood Police for 17 years.

Earlier today Hemmer turned himself in and was processed. He was released under his own recognizance, Ridgewood Captain John Ward said.

While conducting an audit PBA officials discovered discrepancies in their financial records, Ward said. Formerly the local union's treasurer, Hemmer resigned from the position earlier in the year following a promotion. Police say he allegedly diverted funds—mostly officer dues—into his personal account.

If convicted, Ward said the appointing authority—in this case Village Manager Ken Gabbert—would officially decide Hemmer's future with the department.

"In reality, he wouldn't be a police officer anymore," Ward said.

The case was turned over to the Bergen County Prosecutors Office on Hemmer, a Sussex resident.

The standard jail times for a second-degree offense are between five and 10 years and three to five years for a third-degree charge, Ward said. However the court system and prosecutor's office will determine exact length in addition to other fines or penalties. 

Specific information regarding potential jail time sought will be provided later this afternoon, the prosecutor's office said on a phone call.

Although Ward said it would be inappropriate to discuss the department's sentiment, he said, "We're all humans and have opinions, but we have to allow the justice system" to handle the situation. 

Ward conducted the investigation with Captain Thomas Landers.

Updated with information from Captain John Ward at 2:40 p.m.