"New Jersey Sheriff's Apparent Suicide Follows Layoffs and Jail Beating Charges"

Passaic County Sheriff Richard H. Berdnik died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at a New Jersey restaurant, following a week of departmental turmoil including layoffs and charges against officers for beating an inmate. Berdnik, a respected figure in New Jersey law enforcement, had served as sheriff for five terms and was known for his leadership. His death comes amidst a challenging time for the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, with an ongoing investigation into the circumstances of his passing.