New Paltz police officer indicted on misconduct charges

KINGSTON, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A New Paltz police officer is facing charges for allegedly harassing his former girlfriend while in uniform. According to the Ulster County District Attorney's Office, 28-year-old Jerome Milton was arraigned Wednesday on a five-count indictment.

According to the DA's Office, an investigation began after the Town of New Paltz Police Department received information about the alleged harassment and stalking. Police said the investigation revealed an unjustified traffic stop.

"The New Paltz Police Department takes all allegations of misconduct seriously and remains committed to upholding the integrity of this agency and the trust of the community we serve," Chief of New Paltz Police Department Matthew Sutton said. "We will continue to cooperate fully with the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office throughout the course of their investigation."

Milton is accused of stalking and harassing a former girlfriend, which led to an alleged traffic stop of the victim's partner. Police said the traffic stop happened while the DA's Office was investigating the allegations against Milton.

The ticket was then filed with the New Paltz Town Court and entered into Department of Motor Vehicle records. Officials said Milton allegedly engaged in the misconduct while in uniform.

"Like everyone else, Jerome Milton is not above the law," the DA's Office said.

Charges:

• Official Misconduct
• Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the first degree
• Filing a False Instrument in the second degree
• Harassment in the First Degree
• Stalking in the Fourth Degree

"This is a sad but necessary step in reiterating and reinforcing that public office may not be used to abuse anyone or to hide from criminal conduct for which others are routinely prosecuted," District Attorney Emmanuel C. Nneji said.

Milton was released on his own recognizance.