Promoting Diversity in Law Enforcement - This policy describes the process by which this department shall establish a program to (1) identify underrepresented groups and (2) take action to address any underrepresentation. Additionally, in accordance with the Act, this Policy sets forth procedures for the collection and reporting of demographic data regarding recruiting, hiring, promoting, and other personnel actions concerning law enforcement officers in New Jersey. Nothing in this policy shall impair this department’s otherwise legally permitted recruiting and hiring practices. To view and read the policy, please click here: Bridgeton Police Promoting Diversity in Law Enforcement Policy

The Bridgeton Police Department is governed by the NJ Civil Service Commission. Every two years, NJ Civil Service offers a Law Enforcement Entry Exam where citizens can take this test to apply to be a Police Officer. There is a City Resident requirement for initial hiring when populating a hiring list. City Residents takes priority. Once that is exhausted, citizens of Cumberland County will then be considered for employment.

A rigorous and thorough background check will be completed upon receiving an application as well as a drug test and psychological exam. An interview would follow and if considered for employment, you would attend a NJ PTC certified Police Academy. After graduating a police academy, Officers are placed with a Coach Officer (FTO-Field Training Officer) for a period of about three months where you will receive additional hands-on training conducting a variety of assignments.

 

 

The Criminal Investigation Division is responsible for secondary investigations into major crimes against persons and property. Some of these include Homicide, Theft, Assaults and Drug (CDS) Offenses. Detectives gain their experience first in patrol learning investigative tactics and procedures along with developing their interview skills with the public. After being assigned as a Detective, you will be trained of the procedures of investigating certain crimes and different methods of how to investigate. Additional training for Detectives is available to enhance their knowledge and tactics of their assignment.

The Administrative Bureau is responsible for maintaining the department's yearly training requirements, computer software programs and reporting, general administrative duties and assignments, Animal Control, department property acquisition and purchasing.

The Internal Affairs Bureau is responsible for investigating all complaints against police officers from the public as well as internally. In addition, the bureau investigates all city applicants for employment, firearms applicants, city permits, taxi applicant, liquor license applicants and conducts inspections each year on certain renewable licenses.

 

Mission Statement:

This law enforcement agency is dedicated to the equitable and impartial enforcement of the laws and ordinances to protect human life, property, and to maintain the public peace. In accomplishing our mission of protection and service, the members of this agency will respect Constitutional rights, human dignity and community values.

We commit to the enhancement of a police-community partnership, and will assist the members of our community with the identification and resolution of problems, in the effort to improve quality of life. We will give our community the highest quality of law enforcement services possible, while continuously striving for the highest professional standards.

Information about the community/area we serve: