Clinton police chief addresses officer’s arrest, praises colleague for reporting concerns

CLINTON, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The chief of the Town of Clinton Police Department issued a statement reaffirming the department’s commitment to accountability following the arrest of one of its officers on stalking and related charges.

Officer Joseph D. Pietraszewski was arrested April 10 and charged with stalking and contempt of a domestic violence restraining order, Police Chief Timothy McGuire said in a statement released Friday.

Pietraszewski was placed on administrative leave effective the day of his arrest, according to the statement.

“The Town of Clinton Police Department remains committed to the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and public trust,” McGuire said. “It is with a feeling of disappointment, but a firm commitment to justice, that I announce the arrest of one of our officers, Joseph D. Pietraszewski on April 10, 2026.”

McGuire said the investigation began after another officer reported concerning behavior.

“While the details of this case are deeply troubling, I want to bring a vital piece of information to the public’s attention: This investigation began because a fellow Town of Clinton police officer stepped forward to report concerning behavior,” he said.

“In law enforcement, there is often talk of a ‘Blue Wall of Silence.’ In the Town of Clinton Police Department, that wall does not exist. Our officers are trained to prioritize the safety of our community and the integrity of the badge over all else,” McGuire added.

“I want to publicly commend the officer who came forward. Their courage to hold a colleague accountable likely prevented a further escalation of harm and demonstrates the true character of this department.”

Authorities said the department will continue to cooperate with the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office.

“The Town of Clinton Police Department stands with victims and survivors of domestic violence and will continue to cooperate fully with the Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office,” McGuire said.

Prosecutors have previously said Pietraszewski, 29, of Readington Township, was charged following an investigation into allegations involving an ex-girlfriend.