NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — A judge has sentenced for former
Newark police officer to three years' probation for conspiring with other
officers to shake down suspects.
Darius Smith must pay a $5,000 fine and will be permanently barred from
public employment in the state.
The 41-year-old had been a Newark police officer since 1993.
Jurors in May found that Smith stole money, drugs and weapons from suspects
while on duty.
However, the jury found the benefit he obtained was under $200, making the
official misconduct charge a third-degree offense and the theft charge a
disorderly persons offense.
Such offenses usually don't result in prison sentences.
