ENGLISHTOWN – An investigation has led to allegations that the police chief used law enforcement databases to look up information about citizens and also helped someone shoplift.

Peter S. Cooke, 58, was charged with third-degree computer theft and third-degree conspiracy to commit theft, Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago said.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Professional Responsibility Unit investigated the chief’s actions, alleging that he used a law enforcement database to look up information about two individuals outside the scope of any law enforcement purpose for the data multiples between February 2019 and August 2023.

While on administrative leave, on several dates in August and September 2024, Cooke allegedly assisted a co-conspirator in the shoplifting of that individual from a local grocery store.

This case is being prosecuted by MCPO Deputy Prosecutor Melanie Falco, Director of the Professional Responsibility Unit. Cooke is represented by Debbie Simon, with an office in West Orange.

Allegations are only allegations until proven in court.