About 12 New Jersey cops allegedly engaged in criminal activity that could land them in jail, according to reports.

A federal corruption probe is focusing on off-duty, private security work that has already ensnared one former Jersey City police officer, according to an nj.com report, and it could lead to federal corruption charges for at least 11 other city cops. Police officers have been expecting the arrests for months, and the Jersey City Police Department is cooperating with federal officials to identify any officers involved, according to an NBC4 New York report.

A group of officers allegedly ran their own security operation, according to the NBC report, and demanded cash payments from construction firms to avoid city rules and fees. Jersey City police officers can work security jobs while off duty, but private business must hire them through the city administration and pay extra administrative fees to the city. Some off-duty officers were paid even though they did not show up at sites where private security is required, such as construction zones and utility work, according to the report.



Jersey City Spokeswoman Jennifer Morrill told nj.com that any investigation is a joint operation between the city and federal investigators. "Over the last three years this administration has initiated and worked with federal authorities in several investigations to root out corruption by long term city employees," Morrill told the publication. "We have a zero tolerance policy and employees should be aware that if they break the law they will be held accountable."

The Jersey City Police Officers Benevolent Association also released a statement: "The JCPOBA will not speculate on this matter, but will remain focused on the ongoing efforts of our members to keep Jersey City residents safe."