We’ve all had moments of frustration with our supervisors—whether it’s micromanaging, lack of communication, or forgetting to acknowledge hard work. But if you’ve recently muttered “my boss is the worst,” a recent case out of North Bergen, New Jersey might make you think twice.
According to shocking tort claims filed by multiple officers, the town’s police chief is alleged to have gone far beyond what anyone would consider typical workplace misconduct. The claims range from horrifying to absurd: defecating in department offices, spiking office coffee with Viagra and Adderall, and allegedly stabbing an officer’s genitals with a hypodermic needle. Yes, you read that correctly.
The officers involved also allege that the chief sent masturbation cream and a pride flag to an officer’s home (where it was seen by the officer’s family), exposed himself at work, and poisoned a fellow officer’s pet fish. One prank allegedly escalated to a health emergency when extremely hot peppers were placed in officers’ meals.
If these allegations are even partially true, they reflect not just poor leadership but an extreme and dangerous abuse of power. It’s the kind of misconduct that moves beyond civil liability into potential criminal consequences.
But what does this mean for everyday employees?
Too often, we dismiss or normalize workplace misconduct under the guise of “just a difficult boss.” We accept inappropriate behavior because we assume it’s part of the job or fear retaliation if we speak up. This case is an extreme reminder that inappropriate behavior, even when masked as humor or “pranks,” can create unsafe, hostile, and legally actionable work environments.
It’s also a lesson for employers: failing to act on complaints, or protecting high-level individuals despite credible allegations, can erode employee trust and open the door to serious liability.
The takeaway? If you’ve got a boss who’s a little disorganized, forgets your birthday, or occasionally sends a 7:00 a.m. email—count yourself lucky. A workplace led with professionalism, consistency, and respect should never be taken for granted.
And if you”re dealing with something that feels like more than just “difficult,” don’t shrug it off. There are legal protections for employees facing harassment, retaliation, or other forms of unlawful workplace conduct. Sometimes, your gut instinct is the best indicator that something isn’t right—and it’s worth talking to someone who knows the law.
Because as wild as this case may sound, there’s a spectrum of workplace misconduct—and you don’t have to wait until someone poisons your lunch or spikes your coffee to take it seriously.