NJ Corrections Officer Indicted for Alleged Assault, False Reports

Prosecutors say Daniel Petoia assaulted an inmate and filed misleading reports to cover it up.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:05am

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A New Jersey corrections officer has been indicted on multiple charges after prosecutors say he assaulted an inmate, falsely accused the individual of possessing a weapon, and filed misleading reports to cover up the incident. Daniel Petoia, a senior correctional police officer, was indicted on 12 counts including official misconduct, aggravated assault, and falsifying records.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about abuse of power and lack of accountability within the criminal justice system, especially when it comes to the treatment of incarcerated individuals. It raises questions about oversight and transparency in correctional facilities.

The details

Authorities allege that on December 20, 2024, Petoia assaulted an inmate at the New Jersey State Prison in Trenton, striking the individual repeatedly including blows to the head. Prosecutors say the attack was unprovoked and intended to cause serious injury. Petoia then allegedly submitted false reports accusing the inmate of weapon possession in an effort to justify the use of force, but investigators later determined those accounts were fabricated.

  • The incident occurred on December 20, 2024.
  • Petoia was indicted by a state grand jury on March 26, 2026.

The players

Daniel Petoia

A 34-year-old senior correctional police officer with the New Jersey Department of Corrections who was indicted on multiple charges related to the alleged assault and false reporting.

Jennifer Davenport

The New Jersey Attorney General who announced the indictment against Petoia.

Eric L. Gibson

The executive director of the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA).

Victoria L. Kuhn

The New Jersey Department of Corrections Commissioner.

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What they’re saying

“It is critical that corrections officers adhere to the law while performing their difficult, essential work in our criminal justice system. The State cannot and will not look the other way when incarcerated individuals are assaulted without justification.”

— Jennifer Davenport, New Jersey Attorney General

“False justifications created to conceal misconduct by public officials cannot be tolerated.”

— Eric L. Gibson, Executive Director, Office of Public Integrity and Accountability

“Any betrayal of that responsibility through criminal conduct is a violation of our core mission and will not be tolerated.”

— Victoria L. Kuhn, New Jersey Department of Corrections Commissioner

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Daniel Petoia to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater accountability and oversight within the criminal justice system, particularly when it comes to the treatment of incarcerated individuals. It underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to the law by those entrusted with upholding it.