Palisades Park, NJ — A local police sergeant has settled his lawsuit against the Borough of Palisades Park, claiming he was subjected to a faulty and biased promotional process. According to court documents, the settlement includes a $125,000 payment and a promotion to lieutenant for the officer involved.
Christopher Beck, a 21-year law enforcement veteran with the Palisades Park Police Department, initiated the litigation in May 2022. He alleged retaliation and harassment that stemmed from his and his brother’s—also a sergeant—activities in reporting alleged misconduct by a former police captain, Shawn Lee.
Under the terms agreed upon in the settlement, Beck will initially serve as an acting lieutenant, a position that is awaiting formal approval from the borough council. The promotion is slated to become permanent once all aspects of the settlement are fully implemented.
Beck’s legal troubles reportedly began following his brother’s internal affairs complaint against Lee. Beck claimed that his career progression was negatively impacted as a result of his support for his brother, describing the promotional process within the department as a “sham.”
Officials from Palisades Park were not available for comments regarding the matter. Meanwhile, Shawn Lee is no longer associated with the Palisades Park Police Department, though the specifics of his departure remain undisclosed. Attempts to reach Lee were unsuccessful as contact numbers listed under his name were found to be out of service.
Beck’s attorney, Patrick Toscano, commented on the resolution of the lawsuit, stating, “This agreement represents a step toward justice and fairness for my client. Sergeant Beck has served the community with distinction, and this promotion rightly recognizes his qualifications and contributions.”
This case is not the first legal challenge involving Lee. Another police officer, Samuel Kim, settled with the borough for $120,000 in 2021 following allegations of harassment which included a purported assault involving chopsticks. Subsequently, Lee faced disciplinary actions, including a five-day suspension without pay and mandatory attendance at harassment and anger management training sessions, following an internal inquiry.
The Beck settlement echoes a growing need for transparency and fairness in law enforcement promotion practices, highlighting the challenges officers may face in their own ranks.
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