NJ State Trooper Charged with Assault After Punching Handcuffed Woman in the Face

Nicolas J. Hogan, a 28-year-old New Jersey State Trooper, has been charged with third-degree aggravated assault after allegedly punching a handcuffed woman in the face while holding a flashlight. 

This incident, which occurred in September 2022 in Cumberland County, has raised serious concerns about the use of force by law enforcement.

Who:

Nicolas J. Hogan, a trooper with the New Jersey State Police, is at the center of this controversy following his alleged assault on a handcuffed woman.

What:

Hogan faces charges of aggravated assault causing significant bodily injury, a third-degree offense. The charge follows an incident where he reportedly punched a woman who was restrained in a police vehicle.

When and Where:

The incident occurred on September 7, 2022, in Upper Deerfield Township, Cumberland County. The charges were filed on November 15, 2023.

Why:

The assault allegedly occurred after the victim, described as intoxicated and walking in the middle of the road, spat in the direction of Trooper Hogan. The troopers were awaiting medical personnel to evaluate her condition.

How:

The victim, while detained in the backseat of a police vehicle, reportedly spat towards Hogan, who then opened the door and struck her in the face with a flashlight in his hand.

Context:

The investigation, led by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA), highlights concerns about the use of excessive force by police officers. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin emphasized the importance of professionalism among law enforcement, condemning any disproportionate and unjustified use of force.

Thomas Eicher, Executive Director of OPIA, commented, “We cannot have police officers assaulting people in distress while they are restrained and posing no threat. It is uncalled for, unhelpful, improper, and unlawful.”

Legal Proceedings:

The case is being prosecuted by Deputy Attorneys General Brian Uzdavinis and Niccole Sandora, under the supervision of OPIA officials. If convicted, Hogan faces three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

The charge against Hogan is an accusation, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.