N.J. Park Operation Ended After Gaymon Death

The fatal shooting of an Atlanta businessman by an undercover police officer at a Newark, N.J., park has led to the suspension of the police department's Branch Brook Park patrol.

DeFarra Gaymon, the CEO of an Atlanta-based credit union, was shot to death July 16 by 29-year-old officer Edward Esposito after Gaymon reportedly propositioned Esposito for sex; police contend the businessman lunged at the officer after he showed his badge.

Branch Brook Park is a notorious spot for cruising and casual sex in Newark. The Branch Brook Patrol — which targets lewdness and drug use — has been in existence for five years, and groups like Garden State Equality said they are concerned that gay men are being targeted, reports The Star-Ledger of Newark.

Gaymon's family doesn't believe the 48-year-old acted violently toward Esposito; they've asked the FBI to investigate the case, but the bureau has declined to do so. The Essex County prosecutor's office is investigating the shooting.