📍 SADDLE RIVER, NJ – The promotion of two officers in the Saddle River Police Department has raised concerns over the department’s selection process, with some questioning whether seniority and gender equity were factors in the decision.
At a Borough Council meeting on February 10, 2025, Detective Sgt. Edward Riedel and Internal Affairs Sgt. Paul Passaretti were promoted to lieutenant, according to a source with direct knowledge of the proceedings. The promotions bypassed Sgt. Jeff Wells, the most senior officer eligible, as well as Sgt. Diana Golonek, the only female officer in the department.
Concerns Over Seniority & Gender Inclusion
According to department insiders, Sgt. Wells, a longtime officer with extensive experience, was not considered for the lieutenant position. Additionally, Sgt. Golonek, a 12-year veteran and the only female officer in the department, was also passed over.
The decision has raised broader concerns about promotional practices in the Saddle River Police Department, particularly regarding the advancement of female officers.
“The selection process has not been transparent, and we believe qualified officers were overlooked,” said a source familiar with internal discussions, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.
Internal Affairs Scrutiny
The promotions come despite prior internal affairs complaints against Riedel and Passaretti, which were handled within the department but not publicly disclosed.
When asked for comment, Police Chief Jason Cosgriff declined to provide details on the selection process, stating only that the promotions were made in accordance with department policy.
Sgt. Golonek could not be reached for comment.
Calls for Transparency
Some officials and residents have voiced concerns that the department’s promotion system lacks transparency.
“We need to ensure that promotions in this department are based on merit, experience, and leadership, rather than internal politics,” said a Saddle River resident who attended the meeting.
At the time of publication, Mayor Albert Kurpis had not issued a statement on the matter.
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