Moriarty sues Washington Township's police department over traffic stop

Assemblyman Paul Moriarty has sued Washington Township's police department and a township officer, alleging his civil rights were violated during a traffic stop in July 2012.

The suit, filed in federal court in Camden Friday, says Moriarty was the victim of a false arrest and malicious prosecution, among other complaints. It seeks unspecified damages, asserting Moriarty "suffered damage to his reputation, serious mental anguish, psychological and emotional distress, fear, anxiety, embarrassment, financial losses and the loss of the enjoyment of life."

The suit also names suspended Patrolman Joseph DiBuonaventura, who stopped Moriarty's vehicle on Route 42 in Washington Township. The legislator, a Gloucester County Democrat, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence after he refused to take a breath test.

The charges were later dropped and DiBuonaventura faces trial for alleged misconduct. The officer is accused of filing false reports in connection with the arrest.

Moriarty also has a suit pending against a Washington Township car dealership, alleging its employees initiated events that led to the legislator's arrest.