Authorities say chief had cars, motorcycle fixed at municipal garage
PERTH AMBOY -- An official misconduct case against the city's police chief will go forward after he failed in his attempt to have the indictment dismissed, mycentraljersey.com reported this week.
Benjamin Ruiz, who is suspended, was arrested in December after authorities said he used public money to buy parts for his motorcycle and also had his classic car, as well as a friend's vehicle, repaired at the municipal garage.
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The Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office also alleges Ruiz tried to get a police sergeant, Andy Montalvo, to say that Ruiz had ordered the vehicle towed to his mother's house and not to the city garage.
The judge who denied Ruiz's attempt to dismiss the indictment said the evidence suggests Ruiz may have "abused his official position."
Paul Milo may be reached at pmilo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @PaulMilo2. FindNJ.com on Facebook