Police department clears officer who threatened teachers

BOGOTA, N.J. » An officer who was recorded threatening school district employees in an expletive-filled rant acted in a “justified” manner, according to his police department.

Bogota Police Sgt. Craig Lynch accidentally called the Bogota School District in August, which allowed his rant to be recorded by a voicemail system, The Record reported .

On the recording, Lynch can be heard threatening to give tickets to every teacher when they leave the parking lot and warning against a battle with police.

“You’re not going to win,” Lynch said. “That’s a losing battle every time.”

Steen Elementary School Principal Dayle Santoro said the recording came after Lynch cursed at her about a former school employee who hadn’t been rehired. She said she no longer felt comfortable being in the school alone.

“It’s hard to feel safe at the school when he speaks in that way and uses intimidation tactics,” Santoro said.

Interim Superintendent Vincent Varcadipane filed a complaint after Lynch’s meeting with Santoro, prompting a department investigation. In a response, Police Capt. James Sepp recognized the exchange happened but said Lynch’s actions were “justified, legal and or proper.”

Varcadipane said he was disappointed with the department’s decision.

Lynch had worked with students in the district on anti-bullying and anti-drug programs. He was barred from entering school buildings during the department investigation. With the investigation complete, Varcadipane said the officer is still not allowed in school except for emergencies.

Lynch said Friday he doesn’t know if the programs will continue.

The Bogota Board of Education plans to discuss the recording at a meeting, and Lynch said he plans to attend.

“My record speaks for itself,” Lynch said. “I’ve done nothing but good for this district.”