Former Saugerties Officer Avoids Jail in Plea Deal

Judges desk in court room

Photo: Getty Images

A former Saugerties police officer, Dion Johnson, will not serve jail time after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors. Johnson, 35, admitted to forcing himself on a woman in 2020 and harassing two female coworkers in 2021. As part of the agreement, he avoided a felony conviction but must complete 60 hours of community service. Additionally, he is banned from seeking employment with any police department in Ulster County.

Johnson's legal troubles began when he was indicted on an eleven-count charge, including second-degree burglary and first-degree sex abuse, both felonies. The indictment alleged that Johnson engaged in unwanted sexual contact and workplace harassment while serving as a police officer. The Ulster County District Attorney's Office, led by Emmanuel Nneji, prosecuted the case.

The investigation into Johnson's conduct started as an internal affairs probe by the Saugerties Police Department and was later referred to the New York State Attorney General's Office. The case was eventually handed over to the Ulster County District Attorney in July 2023. Johnson resigned from the police department in August 2024.

Interim Saugerties Police Chief K.J. Swart emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in law enforcement and stated that allegations of misconduct must be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content