9 Monroe officers suspended after case dismissals

On Wednesday, City Manager John D'Agostino released the names of nine officers that will be placed on unpaid suspension for five days. Five are detectives, and all have worked at the department for several years.

"There is no single person responsible for the dismissal of these cases," D'Agostino said. "We are dedicated to fixing the problem and will do everything in our power to regain public trust and ensure public safety."

Last month, the Union County District Attorney's office announced it had dismissed pending cases involving 39 defendants because Monroe police failed to complete the paperwork necessary for prosecution. The cases dismissed included suspected drug dealers, fraud and a man who allegedly shot into a car with a toddler inside.

Authorities said there could potentially be more disciplinary action against senior members in the police department.

Interim Chief Bryan Gilliard, however, said the department has improved its processes to ensure this doesn't happen again.

"We have an outstanding department of men and women who serve the community with professionalism and dignity," Gilliard said.