Ex-North Bergen DPW official will avoid prison even after pleading guilty

Timothy J. Grossi, 77, is a former North Bergen DPW official who was indicted on charges of official misconduct after he was accused of abusing his powers in the department. During his trial, Grossi admitted to ordering township employees to work on political campaigns utilizing municipal vehicles.

After multiple delays in his trial due to “health related causes,” the 77-year-old finally plead guilty in Superior Court. Although the crime comes with a recommended sentence of five years in prison, it is reported by NorthJersey.com, that the judge overseeing the case will suspend Grossi’s jail time. This comes after cardiologist Dr. Preston Hupart said he is “not sure [Grossi] would survive,” a prison sentence.

“Grossi was one of the top officials in the North Bergen Department of Public Works, but this guilty plea will make him a convicted felon, just like the three supervisors under him who previously pled guilty or were convicted at trial,” says Attorney General Porrino.

Porrino is referring to the case of the former head of North Bergen’s DPW James Wiley, and two lower level workers Troy Bunero and Francis Longo who were convicted of working on political campaigns at the expense of North Bergen taxpayers.

“By arrogantly abusing the power entrusted to him and exploiting public workers for political purposes, Grossi promoted a culture of corruption within his department,” Porrino added.

Grossi sentence will take place on December 8th.