Rowdy Graduation Party At Hoboken Bar Costs 9 New Port Authority Police Officers Their Jobs

HOBOKEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Nine probationary Port Authority of New York and New Jersey police officers have lost their jobs because of a rowdy graduation party.

The agency investigated reports that officers were drunk and out of control at a Hoboken bar following the August graduation of the 113th class.

As part of the investigation, the Office of Inspector General interviewed more than 100 police officers, customers and staff of the bar, reviewed video, and looked over social media communications and other electronic messages, the Port Authority said.

Nine probationary police officers are being fired, the agency said.

In addition, three newly-minted officers are suspended without pay for 30 days and will have their probationary status extended for a year. Three supervisors and two other officers will also face disciplinary proceedings.

No names were released.

"This is a sad day for the Port Authority Police Department," executive director Pat Foye said in a statement. "We are extremely disappointed by the conduct of the probationary officers involved and appalled by the poor judgment of the Academy staff members in attendance.  The Port Authority is justly proud of the history and dedication of its police department and views the conduct in question as deeply troubling."

"Let the message be clear. Sworn police officers will be held to a high standard of conduct befitting their roles," Port Authority Chairman John Degnan said in a statement. "The individuals who faced discipline today represent a very small percentage of a department that has otherwise distinguished itself for competence and valor. "

The Port Authority said it's re-examining the entire candidate selection and training process.

You May Also Be Interested In These Stories:

(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)