By: Richard L. Smith
A Middlesex County grand jury has decided not to file criminal charges against Woodbridge Township Police Officer Hector Rivera, following an investigation into his use of force during a 2023 arrest, according to information released by the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office. 
The case stemmed from a February 11, 2023, incident in Woodbridge Township, where Rivera was involved in the arrest of a suspect following a domestic violence call.
Authorities said the suspect became combative and resisted arrest.
After being taken into custody, he was transported to a hospital and later to police headquarters, where he alleged that Officer Rivera had used a chokehold during the encounter.
The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office conducted the investigation under the supervision of the Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA).
The probe included witness interviews, body-worn camera footage, and official police reports.
The evidence was then presented to a county grand jury, as required by a 2019 directive from the Attorney General’s Office that mandates independent investigations into police use of force.
According to additional information released by the Attorney General’s Office, the grand jury reviewed all evidence and testimony before voting to issue a “no bill,” meaning they found no basis to pursue criminal charges against Rivera.
Officials noted that the matter was thoroughly reviewed for any potential conflicts of interest before being presented by Middlesex County First Assistant Prosecutor Christopher L.C. Kuberiet.
The OPIA also confirmed it will determine whether the case should be referred for internal administrative review under the state’s Internal Affairs Policy & Procedures.
The Attorney General’s Office emphasized that these cases are handled with transparency and oversight to ensure impartiality and public accountability.