DOVER — Morris County Prosecutor Robert Carroll and Chief of Detectives Robert McNally confirmed that Sergio Rodriguez, 29, of Dover, has been charged with criminal coercion, a crime of the fourth degree, following an investigation by the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office.
Rodriguez, who is a member of the Town of Dover Council, is alleged to have identified himself as a public official in order to intimidate a liquor store owner and employee into ceasing the sales of alcohol to specific individuals. Rodriguez is alleged to have entered the Dover business on October 25, 2024, informing an employee that the store’s liquor license would not be renewed if they continued to sell alcohol to individuals seen drinking in a nearby courtyard. The business owner spoke to Rodriguez at a later time, and during that conversation, Rodriguez allegedly reiterated that he was a councilman and could prevent the renewal of their liquor license if the owner did not comply with his demands.
“I have no comment at this time, but I do hope this case is reported in its entirety, including its resolution, rather than only covering the allegations made against me,” said Sergio Rodriquez.
On January 2, 2025, Rodriguez was charged with one count of fourth degree criminal coercion, in violation of N.J.S.A. 2C:13-5, by way of a summons complaint. He was processed and released pending a court appearance. In accordance with state law, the defendant’s arrest photograph will not be released.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. Despite these accusations, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
