Knapp will step down as Morris prosecutor

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric M. Knapp will depart on October 13 after nearly eight years in office.

“I’m exceedingly proud of the men and women of the MCPO with whom I have served. All are law enforcement professionals singularly dedicated to doing justice. It has been my distinct honor and pleasure to have led the MCPO and these outstanding public servants,” Knapp said. “They often perform incredibly brave and selfless acts in the line of duty, unrecognized by the public, for which they should all be commended.”

His departure opens the door for Gov. Phil Murphy to name his own prosecutor  — either through the traditional route of nomination and Senate confirmation – or by appointing a deputy attorney general to hold the post on an acting basis.

Knapp was named acting prosecutor and assistant attorney general in December 2012 by Gov. Chris Christie, who nominated him to the post eighteen months later.

Before becoming prosecutor, Knapp served as a deputy attorney general for four years under Governors Brendan Byrne and Thomas Kean, and as a special assistant U.S. Attorney.

The outgoing prosecutor has not announced his future plans.

“I plan to relax and spend more time with my family, especially my grandson, in the coming months and to pursue other professional endeavors,” Knapp said.