By KEITH GRANT
Of several planned moves, it is the transfer of chief of detectives Tom Sofield that inspired some 200 residents to pack City Hall Tuesday night, many of whom attacked the action as pure old-time political retribution. Sofield's son, Tom Sofield Jr., was a candidate for City Council on the Republican's coalition ticket this past November. The Democrats narrowly swept all three open seats to maintain full control of the council.
The transfers are planned by incoming commissioner John Laffey, who will replace retiring commissioner Ken Cohen on Dec. 18. Laffey staunchly denies any political motivations exist behind any of his intended moves.
However, former police commissioner and retiring city councilman Ed Buscemi lent his voice to the outraged residents. Speaking in what he said would be his final council meeting, Buscemi drew thunderous cheers and applause when he said, I believe the decision to make this move is motivated by nothing more than political retribution.
Buscemi's son, Det./Sgt. Vincent Buscemi is also said to be in line for a possible transfer, and some residents said it was due to his alleged support of the Republicans.
The elder Buscemi, though, harped back to his days as commissioner some 25 years ago, and charged that just as his removal was politically motivated then
