Jersey City Police Department Reaches Record Numbers as 25 New Police Officer Graduate
Jersey City Police Department Reaches Record Numbers as 25 New Police Officer Graduate; Fulop Administration Continues to Grow and Diversify the Department
Fulop Administration has Grown Police Department to its Largest Size in More than Two Decades; Administration has Expanded Police Presence, Walking Patrols & Community Relations
JERSEY CITY – Mayor Steven M. Fulop and public safety officials announce the city has hired over 330 police officers since taking office in 2013, growing the department to its largest size in two decades. The administration continues to grow the force and enhance public safety, while also diversifying the ranks.
“Expanding the police department enhances public safety by increasing visibility and foot patrols in areas where we need it most,” said Mayor Fulop. “While we know there is more work to do, we are proud of our progress and the strengthening in community relations as more officers means greater interaction with the community.
The Fulop administration has made diversity recruitment a focus, establishing the city’s first recruitment center at the HUB and dedicating two officers to work with the community on outreach. As a result, of the new officers hired since 2013, nearly 70 percent have been minorities, a more accurate representation of Jersey City – the most diverse city in the nation.
When Mayor Fulop took office, there were 779 officers in the department. By utilizing grant and capital funds, the administration has hired several new classes of officers with plans for continued expansion. Since last year, many of the new officers joining the force have been assigned to foot patrols, primarily in the South and West Districts, to enhance visibility and expand community policing.
“We continue to reach historic numbers with a diverse department that reflects the community we have sworn to protect and serve,” said Public Safety Director James Shea. “Rebuilding the police department has been a top priority for this administration, and the recently added recruit classes are an example of those efforts as we work to preserve the safety of those who live, work, and visit this great city.”