By Trendsetter Tribune 
NJ Attorney General files lawsuit against Clark Township officials and police, alleging discriminatory policing against Black and Hispanic residents. Analysis examines implications.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin has filed a lawsuit against Clark Township officials, including former mayor Salvatore “Sal” Bonaccorso, accusing town leaders of systematically targeting Black and Hispanic motorists through discriminatory policing practices.
The complaint alleges that officials instructed police officers to “keep Black people out of Clark,” using traffic stops and minor infractions as a means of harassment. This legal action highlights ongoing concerns over civil rights enforcement at the local level.
Background: Patterns of Policing Disparities
According to the lawsuit, Black drivers in Clark were stopped approximately 3.7 times more often than white drivers, while Hispanic motorists were stopped about 2.2 times more frequently. These disparities violate New Jersey civil rights statutes and the state constitution.
Investigations indicate that officers focused enforcement on roads near the Garden State Parkway and neighboring communities with higher minority populations. In some cases, minor violations—or even claims of marijuana odor—were used to justify vehicle searches.
Evidence: Audio Recordings and Past Settlements
Audio recordings dating back to 2019 reportedly capture Bonaccorso using racial slurs and directing officers to focus on Black motorists, referring to them derogatorily as “spooks.” In 2020, a separate recording revealed Bonaccorso, Police Chief Pedro Matos, and another official using additional racial slurs.
The township settled an earlier related matter for $400,000, though the allegations eventually became public. Bonaccorso resigned in January 2025 during his seventh term amid unrelated corruption charges, including misusing township resources and forging permit signatures.
Responses from Officials
When contacted, Bonaccorso dismissed the lawsuit as “bull****,” declining further comment. Current Clark Mayor Angel Albanese, a Republican, labeled the filing “frivolous” and accused Platkin of political motivations. Matos’ attorney similarly criticized the timing of the complaint.
Matos, on paid leave since July 2020, is contesting his dismissal in ongoing disciplinary proceedings, while oversight by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office ended last March.
Analysis: Implications for Policing and Civil Rights
Despite reported improvements from 2020 to 2024, data indicates some racial disparities persisted in Clark policing. The lawsuit seeks:
- Continued oversight of the police department
- An end to discriminatory practices
- Damages for those affected by alleged harassment
Experts say the case underscores the challenges of eradicating systemic bias at the local level, particularly when leadership has historically condoned or encouraged discriminatory behavior.
Conclusion: Accountability and Oversight
The lawsuit against Clark Township officials highlights broader civil rights concerns in law enforcement, reflecting the need for transparency, accountability, and equitable policing. As legal proceedings unfold, the outcome could influence police practices not only in Clark but across New Jersey municipalities facing similar allegations.