NJ firefighter charged with attacking cops during arrest

NEWARK — One of the city's bravest has been accused of roughing up two of the city's finest.

Albert D. Downey, 57, was charged Thursday with aggravated assault against a police officer and resisting arrest.

Police said cops had attempted to arrest Downey on an outstanding warrant about 2 p.m., but Downey tried to walk away and then resisted their attempts to detain. Officials said Downey shoved an officer and wrestled both of them.

He also was charged with contempt of court on the warrant. Authorities did not explain what the warrant was about.

Downey, who earns a base salary of about $111,000 with more than 17 years of experience, was suspended without pay by Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose, who oversees both the police and fire divisions.

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Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-359-5348 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.