Mercer Times

Former Wildwood Mayor Peter J. Byron faces a new indictment for alleged misconduct and tax-related offenses. According to Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, Byron abused his position by soliciting a job from a city attorney and failing to report the income from that position. Platkin stated, "As alleged, the former mayor inappropriately used his power and influence for unlawful personal financial gain, betraying the public’s trust."

The indictment, filed on April 16, 2024, lists seven counts against Byron, including charges of official misconduct, tampering with public records, and failure to pay taxes. The investigation revealed that Byron failed to pay required state income tax on income earned from New Jersey sources in 2017 and 2018, with his tax return allegedly omitting necessary information.

OPIA Executive Director Thomas J. Eicher highlighted Byron's conflict of interest, stating, "The former mayor had a clear conflict of interest in seeking and accepting this job, given his power over the city contracts and appointments of his employer." Eicher emphasized the importance of holding individuals who abuse their positions of power accountable.

Byron was previously indicted in another case related to alleged fraudulent participation in the State Health Benefits Program. The investigation found that Byron and his co-defendants were not eligible for benefits but fraudulently enrolled and received publicly funded health benefits. The case is pending.

Defense attorney Eric Shenkus, Deputy Public Defender in Cape May Court House, New Jersey, is representing Byron in this matter. The charges against Byron carry significant penalties, with second-degree charges potentially leading to five to 10 years in state prison and fines.

The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. The case is being prosecuted by OPIA Deputy Attorneys General Brian Uzdavinis and Niccole Sandora, under the supervision of OPIA Corruption Bureau Deputy Chiefs Andrew Wellbrock and Jeffrey J. Manis, and OPIA Executive Director Eicher.