Dale Caldwell, the former New Jersey lieutenant governor who resigned last month, has been suspended from his duties as a pastor while the United Methodist Church investigates allegations against him. Caldwell has been removed for the time being as pastor of Covenant United Methodist Church in Plainfield. Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi of the Eastern Pennsylvania and Greater New Jersey Episcopal Area said that a complaint was filed based on concerns raised in a recent investigation report.
“Because we hold clergy to a high standard, we take the allegations made in the report seriously,” the bishop said in a statement shared with local media. "In order to protect the well-being of Rev. Caldwell, the congregation, and all those involved, Rev. Caldwell has been placed on suspension while the complaint is processed." New Jersey Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill, Caldwell’s running mate last year, announced Caldwell's resignation during a news conference on Sept.
25, in response to sexual harassment allegations and alleged misconduct with women. An investigation into complaints against Caldwell found that he committed sexual harassment and other "ethical lapses" with women. The investigation report states that credible evidence shows that Caldwell "made a romantic advance toward a female staffer's friend." These allegations include making inappropriate comments and trying to obtain a promotion for a state employee he was dating.
"We find that the LG's conduct, as set forth in greater detail below, constituted sexual harassment, and was derogatory or demeaning in reference to the staffer's sex, which is a protected category," the report states. "The LG denied making this comment, but we did not find his denial credible." A state trooper assigned to Caldwell at the time told investigators he did not hear the remark.