New Jersey Chief Resigns Amid Controversy, Criticism

The chief of police for the Westfield (NJ) Police Department is stepping down as chief amid controversy and criticism.

Police Chief David Wayman will be retiring from the department and Captain Chris Battiloro will be appointed Acting Chief of Police.  

Mayor Shelley Brindle said Wayman's retirement comes after consultation with the Union County Prosecutor's Office and the town's labor counsel, according to NJ.com . 

"As with any personnel change of this magnitude, it's critical that we complete a thorough search for a Police Chief who will lead by example and instill a culture of trust and accountability," Brindle said on the Mayor's website .

Union County Prosecutor's Office's spokesman Mark Spivey said his office could not confirm nor deny any investigations into Wayman or the Westfield Police Department and would not say what the consultation with the mayor was about.