FREEHOLD – No one is above the law and a veteran Monmouth County correctional officer is learning that, as she faces third degree shoplifting charges in relation to multiple incidents where she allegedly failed to pay for items at a home improvement store.
Suzanne Simone,53, of Ocean Township, a 22-year-veteran of the Monmouth County Correctional Institution is facing charges of shoplifting in West Long Branch. She is currently suspended from her position according to Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni.
Gramiccioni stated Simone “skip scanned” items, essentially scanning multiple smaller items, and not scanning larger items or pretending to scan them and leaving the store without paying for them. In one instance, Simone was wearing her uniform while committing the theft.
The estimated value of one of the items was $661. Some of the stolen goods were later recovered from her residence.
Gramiccioni said, “it is essential to our criminal justice system that officers maintain the public’s trust. This officer broke the law that she was sworn to uphold, all over a measly $600. This conduct will not be tolerated and is a stain on the men and women in law enforcement who work tirelessly to serve their communities with honor.”
Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden added anyone in law enforcement who violates their oath, “does a disservice to the public and their fellow officers, and will be held fully accountable.”
Monmouth County Assistant Prosecutor Melanie Falco who serves as director of the Office’s Professional Responsibilities and Bias Crime Unit has been assigned to the case.
The Prosecutor’s Office created a Corruption Tip Line designed to solicit the public’s assistance in identifying and targeting corruption, fraud and misconduct occurring in local governmental agencies. Those who have any additional information to add are encouraged to contact Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office Detective Greg Hilton at 1-800-533-7443.
Anyone who wishes to remain anonymous, but has information about a crime can submit a tip to Monmouth County Crime Stoppers by calling their confidential telephone tip-line at 1-800-671-4400; by downloading and using the free P3 Tips mobile app (available on iOS and Android – p3tips.com/1182), by calling 800-671-4400 or by going to the website at monmouthcountycrimestoppers.com.
