New Jersey's top FBI official is stepping down.

Special Agent in Charge of the Newark office, Michael B. Ward
Special Agent in Charge of the Newark office, Michael B. Ward (fbi.gov)
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The agency announced Friday that Special Agent in Charge of the Newark office, Michael B. Ward, would be retiring Dec. 31.

Ward has held the position since 2010, and has been with the agency for 24 years.

The agency did not say why Ward is stepping down, other than to spend more time with his family.

Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Velazquez will run the Newark office in an acting capacity until a successor is named.

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