A New Jersey cop is in hot water for allegedly filming a female detainee engaging in a sexual act and sharing the footage on Snapchat. Ryan Bonanni, a 24-year-old officer from Ventnor City, has been charged with official misconduct, computer theft, and three counts of invasion of privacy, according to the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office. The incident reportedly occurred after a woman, identified only by her initials BW, was arrested on July 6.
Authorities claim that Bonanni accessed surveillance footage from a holding cell where BW was seen undressing and engaging in a sexual act. Prosecutors say he then recorded the compromising video on his phone and shared the explicit content via Snapchat. This troubling misuse of official equipment and breach of privacy has resulted in serious charges against the young officer.
"We understand the charges against a Ventnor officer reflect poorly on our department, but they do not depict the department as a whole," said Police Chief Joseph Wooton.
In the wake of the charges, Bonanni has been suspended from his duties. Ventnor City Police Chief Joseph Wooton expressed disappointment over the incident but emphasized that it doesn't represent the entire police department. "The men and women of the Ventnor City Police Department will continue to serve the citizens and visitors of Ventnor City with the utmost honor, integrity, and respect," Wooton assured.
The charges against Bonanni are severe, including second-degree official misconduct, second-degree computer theft, and three counts of third-degree invasion of privacy. The accusations have sent ripples through the community, highlighting the critical need for accountability and ethical conduct within law enforcement ranks.