Clayton Gonzalez, a former officer with the Camden County Police Department, has found himself entangled in legal issues, resulting in his suspension from a city position and his subsequent resignation from the Camden City School District advisory board. The 34-year-old, terminated from the police department in July 2022, now faces charges related to a domestic violence incident.
According to reports, Gonzalez is accused of threatening a woman and her children with a gun on multiple occasions in November 2023. Charges against him include third-degree terroristic threats, second-degree unlawful possession of a handgun, and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.
Allegedly, during an argument at the woman’s home, Gonzalez retrieved an unregistered handgun from a cabinet, brandishing it and making threats against her and her family. The next day, while driving her and her children, he reportedly displayed the firearm, placing it on the seat and implying the intent to “teach a lesson.”
Gonzalez, employed as a Recreation Supervisor, was placed on leave from his city position in November. Subsequently, he formally resigned from the Camden City School District advisory board in December, citing personal circumstances and the well-being of his family as reasons for the decision.
Vincent Basara, the city’s spokesperson, affirmed that Gonzalez was promptly placed on leave upon learning of his arrest. The city emphasizes the importance of due process and notes that, as an ongoing personnel matter under investigation, no further comments will be provided.
This isn’t Gonzalez’s first brush with disciplinary action. In 2022, the former County Police detective was terminated from the police department for misconduct during a juvenile sexual assault investigation. The department’s report outlined his hostile behavior, use of profanity, and lack of candor during the internal affairs investigation.
Gonzalez’s LinkedIn profile reveals a seven-year tenure as a detective, indicating a career that has seen its share of challenges and controversies.
