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Attorney Preet Bharara to lead New Jersey traffic enforcement investigation
As special counsel, Bharara will be responsible for ensuring accountability for those involved in the slowdown and preventing similar conduct in the future.
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Preet Bharara. / Image - Wilmerhale
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has appointed Former United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Preet Bharara as special counsel to oversee an investigation into the alleged slowdown of State Police traffic enforcement in the state from July 2023 to March 2024.
The move comes after a report claimed state police is engaging in a slowdown of traffic stops and more frequently stopping Black and Latino drivers. The report also coincides with a rise in crashes and roadway fatalities in the state prompting an investigation.
Bharara, a partner at WilmerHale is widely known for his expertise in tackling corruption and white-collar crime. He was chosen to prevent conflict of interest between the Attorney Geberal’s office and State Police. While Bharara will have full investigative authority under the attorney general’s office, Platkin announced that he will retain final decision-making power.
“I am deeply honored by the confidence placed in me to conduct a fair and rigorous investigation on behalf of the people of New Jersey, who deserve a thorough accounting of the facts.” The Indian American attorney said in a statement.
Platkin expressed "deep disappointment" over the alleged slowdown, calling it "unprecedented" and stressing the need for accountability. “I have complete confidence that Bharara possesses the skill, experience, and unquestioned integrity to complete this investigation and pursue any lead, without fear or favor," he said.
The investigation will examine how the slowdown was orchestrated and aims to prevent similar conduct in the future. Platkin emphasized that public safety efforts, including ongoing initiatives to reduce gun violence and auto thefts, will remain unaffected during the investigation.
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