NJ Atty General puts Muni Prosecutors on short leash.

In an apparent lack of confidence in the local/municipal prosecutors, the NJ Attorney General has pulled on the reins. To wit, in 2020 every municipal prosecutor will have to register annually with the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ). Prosecutors who retire or lose their jobs must also file a separation report with DCJ.

This new rule also applies to part time, temporary and substitute prosecutors. In addition, each county prosecutor is required to appoint a liaison to interface with the municipal prosecutors and the DCJ. Also contemplated is the creation of Municipal Prosecutors Supervisors within DCJ, the publication of a best practices manual and a possible future requirement that municipal prosecutors reveal their sources of income, political involvement and outside employment.

A copy of the Directive can be read at this link.