NEWARK, NJ — A Passaic County correctional officer, Lorenzo Bowden, 39, admitted to conspiracy to obstruct justice related to a civil rights investigation into the assault of a pretrial detainee. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. Bowden pleaded guilty in Newark federal court before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz.
Bowden confessed to facilitating the transport of a detainee to a surveillance-free area of Passaic County Jail on January 23, 2021, where other officers then assaulted the detainee. U.S. Attorney Sellinger emphasized the betrayal of trust this act represented for law enforcement officers who are expected to uphold constitutional rights. According to Sellinger, the detainee was handcuffed and posed no threat during the assault.
The FBI’s Special Agent in Charge, James E. Dennehy, criticized the actions of Bowden and his co-conspirators for bypassing proper procedures and choosing to deceive authorities about the incident. The assault led to significant injuries for the detainee, requiring hospital treatment. Bowden’s false statements during an October 2022 federal interview were highlighted as part of the conspiracy to obstruct the investigation.
Bowden faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. His sentencing is scheduled for Thursday, September 5.