Former Rutgers men’s basketball coach Kevin Bannon has been indicted on charges of official misconduct in his job as executive director of the Mercer County Parks Commission.

The indictment was announced by the State Attorney General’s Office Tuesday afternoon..

The indictment alleges Bannon diverted thousands of dollars of public money to the Friends of Mercer County Parks, a nonprofit he controlled.

"We allege that Bannon corruptly used the Friends organization to divert county funds and expand his power over park facilities and events, while also conferring unauthorized benefits like free golf and VIP concert tickets on himself, his family and his inner circle," said Attorney Christopher General Porrino in a statement. "Local taxpayers ultimately foot the bill when officials engage in the type of illegal power grab and abuse of public resources alleged here. We won’t tolerate it.”

Bannon, who was was fired as head of the Mercer County Parks Commission in June of 2016, served as Rutgers’ head coach for four seasons. From 1997-98 to 2000-2001, his Scarlet Knights posted a record of 59-60. His best season was 1998-99 when they went 19-13 and nearly made the NCAA Tournament, but he was fired in 2001 after reports surfaced that he held free-throw shooting contests that forced his players to strip down if they missed shots.

He never coached in college again.

Staff writer Jerry Carino: jcarino@gannettnj.com.