73°
When the guy showed up this morning and handed over the cash, detectives moved in and arrested Thomas E. Granquist, 58 of New Milford, a 24-year public employee who likely has seen his last paycheck funded by taxpayers.
The victim notified detectives earlier this year that Granquist — who was assigned to monitor people sentenced to community service — shook him down for $350 right off the bat, Bergen County Prosecutor John L. Molinelli said.
The guy gave Rehnquist $100 in cash and later phoned Granquist as detectives listened in, the prosecutor said.
This morning, he showed up with another C-note at the Fort Lee Department of Public Works in the Municipal Building on Main Street.
“The exchange was recorded and investigators immediately moved in and executed a search warrant on Granquist and his office,” Molinelli said. “The cash was recovered and numerous records were seized for examination as part of the continuing investigation.”
Granquist is charged with official misconduct, which could land him behind bars a minimum of two years if he’s convicted at a trial.
His first court date is set for 2:30 p.m. Tuesday in Central Municipal Court in Hackensack.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Hackensack and receive free news updates.
