The Essex organization run by County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo is the northern half of what is known as New Jersey's Democratic Party-boss system.

WSJ: Ex-Obama Aide Makes Bid in N.J.

Neither Rodriguez nor Divincenzo could be reached for comment, but Des Plaines police reports show both previously denied knowing about team hazing or initiation rituals.

FORBES: Hazing Cases Rock Arizona, Illinois High Schools

School board members unanimously approved last month the suspension without pay of former freshman baseball and boys and girls varsity soccer coach Michael Divincenzo, another defendant in the suit.

FORBES: Hazing Cases Rock Arizona, Illinois High Schools