New York

New Jersey Police Chief Used City Mechanic for Personal Cars: Prosecutors

A New Jersey police chief has been charged with theft after prosecutors say he used a city mechanic to repair personal vehicles on the department’s time.

Perth Amboy Police Chief Benjamin Ruiz, 53, allegedly had the mechanic make repairs to two of his personal vehicles and to an acquaintance’s personal vehicle, according to the Middlesex County prosecutor’s office.

The alleged repairs happened while the mechanic was supposed to be fixing police cars for the city.

Ruiz, who has been with the police department since 1988, was suspended without pay. He was released on his own recognizance after surrendering to officials. NBC 4 New York has reached out to Ruiz's attorney, who did not immediately respond for comment.

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