By: Yuritza Arroyo
A state grand jury last week voted to indict New Jersey Department of Corrections Correctional Police Officer Giuseppe Mandara with one count of second-degree official misconduct in connection with an August 23, 2019, physical altercation with a resident at the Adult Diagnostic and Treatment Center (ADTC) Special Treatment Unit (STU) in the Avenel section of Woodbridge.
According to officials, the indictment alleges that Mandara abandoned his equipment, including keys and radio, and thereafter used excessive or unlawful force against the resident.
Officials say his actions are alleged to have been in violation of New Jersey Department of Corrections policies, procedures, and training for New Jersey Correctional Police Officers.
Several days after the altercation, the resident suffered a fatal stroke. Among other evidence presented, the grand jury heard testimony from the state medical examiner about the cause of the stroke and manner of death.
The grand jury declined to initiate homicide charges for any involved individuals. The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.
The death in custody was investigated by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) and presented to the grand jury.