Lawsuits by NJ State Troopers Cost Taxpayers Millions

Reveal internal disputes, politicking for better positions and poor treatment of whistleblowers

A hallway of the State Police museum in West Trenton bears the names of the most revered troopers, from former colonels to decorated heroes. But it was no honor for Staff Sgt. Michael Daniele when he landed a desk job there.

Daniele was a 14-year veteran of the canine unit in 2006 when he told a superior that dog handlers were being taught by uncertified people, in violation of state policy. In return for his concern, he alleged in a lawsuit a year later, he was transferred to a sleepy post at the museum.