DOVER — In a public statement, Dover Mayor James Dodd calls for Second-Ward Councilman Sergio Rodriguez’s resignation after the councilman was charged with assault.
“Recent actions attributed to Councilman Rodriguez,” Dodd stated in a Facebook post, “cannot be overlooked.”
initially first-term Councilman Sergio Rodriguez when he was arrested in February, following an altercation with a group of homeless men he accused of public drinking. However, Dodd is now calling for Rodriguez’s resignation after the councilman was once again charged with assault.
According to an official document received by Morris Focus, (Complaint # S-2024-205) a complaint filed in Dover Municipal Court by Det. Concepcion on September 25 at 11:48 a.m. charged Rodriguez with 2C:12:1B(7) aggravated assault, attempted to cause significant bodily injury, a third-degree charge.
Rodriguez, elected in November on Dodd’s ticket, began his term in January by posting social media videos addressing “quality of life” issues in Dover. These videos showed him confronting individuals for alleged infractions such as public drinking and violating trash ordinances, mainly at the Meridia Transit Plaza. One of these incidents, involving homeless men, led to Rodriguez’s first arrest in February. In a video received via an OPRA Request from the Dover Police Department relating to the February 7, Rodriguez is seen in an escalating altercation, at one point kicking a clear bottle out of one man’s hands.
Meridia Transit Plaza has garnered a reputation as a frequent hangout for the homeless and individuals consuming alcohol in public. Morris Focus has been flooded with numerous emails, many including photos, depicting instances of public urination at the location. These ongoing incidents have raised concerns among residents, sparking discussions about how to address the situation and improve the area’s safety and cleanliness. Residents have also complained at Council meetings.
“Regrettably, today Councilman Rodriguez has exhibited behavior that is unacceptable and does not reflect the principles of leadership we strive for in our local government,” Dodd wrote.
“In light of recent events, I am formally requesting the resignation of Councilman Rodriguez,” he added.
“If he has not resigned from office before our next Council meeting, we urge our Town Attorney to take any possible legal steps to bar Council Member Rodriguez from proceedings for the safety of our fellow Council Members and of the community at large,” said Council Members Karol Ruiz and Sandra Wittner.
Morris Focus attempted to reach out to Rodriguez and calls went to voice mail and he has not yet responded to requests for comment.
