PBA No Confidence Vote for Union City Police Chief Anthony Facchini

The Union City Police Department’s Policemen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) Local 8 has called for a no-confidence vote against Chief of Police Anthony Facchini, highlighting escalating internal discord within the department. While the exact date of the vote remains undisclosed, sources indicate that a majority of the association’s members are prepared to participate, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Background on Chief Anthony Facchini

Appointed as Chief of Police in 2022, Anthony Facchini’s tenure has been marred by controversy. Prior to his promotion, Facchini served in various capacities within the department, but his leadership style has since come under intense scrutiny.

Allegations and Evidence of Incompetence

Several incidents have contributed to the growing perception of Chief Facchini’s incompetence:

• Court Hearing Recordings: Recently, audio recordings from court hearings have surfaced on social media platforms, allegedly highlighting Chief Facchini’s mishandling of critical cases. In these recordings, judges and attorneys reportedly express concerns over procedural errors and lapses in judgment under his command.

• Criminal Charges Against Journalist: In a controversial move, Chief Facchini filed criminal charges against an investigative journalist, Leroy Truth, over alleged cyberbullying, reportedly in response to memes posted about him. This action has raised concerns about freedom of the press and potential misuse of authority. At the same, Chief Facchini has pending criminal charges against him for harassment. Interesting how a police department has a Police Chief with pending criminal charges.

• Retaliation Against Detective Jeorge Habber: In December 2023, Detective Jeorge Habber reportedly faced retaliation after defending the constitutional rights of an investigative journalist. This incident has been cited as an example of punitive measures under Facchini’s leadership.

• Pattern of Retaliation: Multiple reports suggest a culture of retaliation within the department, with officers allegedly being transferred from their posts or shifts whenever Chief Facchini is displeased, leading to a climate of fear and instability.

• Conflict of Interest: Concerns have been raised regarding a potential conflict of interest, as Chief Facchini’s wife reportedly holds a supervisory position within the police department, raising questions about impartiality and ethics.

Political Allegations Involving Mayor Brian Stack

Further complicating matters are allegations that Chief Facchini has leveraged his position for political gain in favor of Mayor Brian Stack:

• Political Contributions: Chief Facchini has a history of making political contributions to Mayor Stack, raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest and the integrity of law enforcement.

• Participation in Political Events: He has been observed attending multiple political events favoring the mayor, which critics argue blurs the lines between law enforcement duties and political allegiance.

• Departmental Shift to Political Enforcement: These actions have reportedly sparked controversy within the police department, with some officers feeling that the agency has shifted focus from law enforcement to political enforcement.

Impact on Departmental Morale

Since Chief Facchini’s appointment, officer morale has reportedly declined. The alleged autocratic leadership style, instances of retaliation, dismissal of internal feedback, and perceived politicization of the department have fostered dissatisfaction among the ranks. The impending no-confidence vote reflects a collective call for change from within the department.

Community Response

Community leaders and residents have expressed concern over the department’s internal strife, emphasizing the need for transparent and effective policing. The public’s trust in law enforcement is at stake, prompting calls for accountability and reform.

Assembly Candidate Marco D. Navarro (LD 37) has publicly criticized the Chief Facchini in a statement release letter about the political unrest within the City of Union City and the Police Department. A posted video by Leroy Truth, brings into light of allegations of pending disciplinary action as political retaliation against Navarro (an employee of the City). Those records have been requested through Open Public Records Act and denied on multiple occasions. Sources state of pending court hearing and litigation against the City, the Chief and Mayor.

There has also been reports that Journalist Leroy Truth has mailed over 130 postcards to all members of the Union City Police Department conducting his own non-confidence vote against the chief of police. Sources claim these letters have not been received by the officers a may suggest that the chief of police is holding these letters hostage from being delivered to the officers. 

Looking Ahead

The outcome of the no-confidence vote could have significant implications for the future leadership of the Union City Police Department. As the situation unfolds, both the department and the community await decisive actions to restore trust and ensure competent, impartial leadership.