NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- Officials launched an investigation after a former New Jersey police officer was found dead inside a hotel Thursday.
According to Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes and Totowa Police Chief Carmen Veneziano, workers of the Ramada Inn in Totowa discovered 41-year-old Gary Potenzone Jr., at approximately 11:40 a.m., after they entered his room.
"The investigation revealed that hotel staff went to the room to conduct a welfare check when Mr. Potenzone failed to check out as scheduled," a joint statement Valdes and Veneziano said.
Totowa police called to the hotel were able to identify Potenzone's body.
"There were no signs of physical force or violence at the scene, and the police do not believe there is any imminent danger to anyone in community," Valdes said.
Potenzone joined the police force in 2009 but it is unclear when and why he left the department.
A medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of Potenzone's death are pending an autopsy, which is set to be conducted next week.
An investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office at 1-877-370-PCPO or email tips@passaiccountynj.org. Totowa police can be reached at 973-790-3700.
