By: Richard L. Smith
A controversial battle over the leadership of the Roselle Police Department took another dramatic turn Friday when a New Jersey appeals court upheld the borough’s decision to fire Police Chief Stacey Williams, just four months after he returned to his position following an earlier termination.
According to information released by the Borough of Roselle, the New Jersey Superior Court’s Appellate Division ruled October 9 that Williams’ repeated use of homophobic language in the workplace warranted his dismissal, overturning a previous decision by the state’s Civil Service Commission.
Williams was removed from duty Friday following the ruling.
The decision marks the latest development in a dispute that began after allegations surfaced that Williams used derogatory language while speaking with fellow officers at police headquarters.
An investigation conducted by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office resulted in disciplinary charges against Williams, who was subsequently terminated in 2024.
However, the chief challenged his dismissal, setting off a lengthy administrative and legal battle.
In June 2025, the New Jersey Civil Service Commission adopted an administrative law judge’s recommendation to reduce his punishment to a 30-day suspension, citing his lengthy law enforcement career and relatively limited disciplinary history.
That decision eventually cleared the way for Williams to return to the department.
According to reporting by New Jersey 101.5, Williams made a public return to Roselle Borough Hall on June 9, 2026, where supporters welcomed him back after nearly three years away from active duty.
His reinstatement generated mixed reactions, with supporters emphasizing due process and his years of service, while critics questioned whether someone found to have used offensive language should continue leading the police department.
The borough continued challenging the reinstatement through the courts.
Friday’s appellate ruling sided with Roselle officials, finding that the Civil Service Commission improperly reduced the disciplinary penalty despite acknowledging the seriousness of Williams’ behavior.
Court records detailed incidents in which Williams used a homophobic slur during workplace conversations, including an exchange involving an openly gay officer.
Testimony also addressed an earlier incident in which Williams used similar language when referring to officers who became physically ill while responding to a scene involving a decomposing body.
The appellate judges determined that Williams’ conduct undermined the credibility of the department and damaged public confidence in its leadership.
The court also emphasized that a police chief holds a position requiring exceptionally high standards of professionalism and accountability.
Judges concluded that Williams’ prior service record did not outweigh the seriousness of the misconduct.
Roselle Mayor Donald Shaw welcomed the decision, describing it as an important step toward restoring accountability within the department.
“This ruling is a victory for accountability and professionalism,” Shaw said. “Our Police Department must be led by individuals who demonstrate respect for every officer and every member of our community.”
The mayor added that department leaders have a responsibility to establish professional standards for the officers they supervise.
The appellate decision effectively reverses the ruling that allowed Williams to reclaim his position earlier this year, bringing his brief return as Roselle’s police chief to an end.
The ruling also concludes another chapter in a dispute that has drawn attention across New Jersey over police leadership, workplace conduct and the authority of municipalities to discipline high-ranking law enforcement officials.