Stafford Swears In New Police Chief, Captains, Sergeants And Officers

STAFFORD, NJ — Stafford Township formally marked a leadership transition in its police department, with retiring Chief James Haldenwang saying Russell Griffin will become the new chief on June 1.

During the ceremony, Haldenwang also recognized a series of promotions and new officers who were sworn into their roles.

Haldenwang said his retirement ends"a wonderful career for me."

He said Griffin's appointment was especially meaningful to him and described a long personal connection with Griffin and his family.

"It is a great honor and privilege for me to turn away his staff staff police department over to him," Haldenwang said, adding that "there were many eligible candidates in this position, and they all stepped aside and said Russell's the right guy."

In his remarks, Haldenwang introduced several members of the department who were being recognized. He said John Morrin has been a member of the Stafford Township Police Department since 2004 and noted prior service in the United States Marine Corps. Haldewang said Morrin was promoted to patrolman in 2006, sergeant in 2020 and lieutenant in 2023 before being named captain.

Haldenwang also spoke about Jason Costello, Michael Wade and Ed Kunder, describing their careers and contributions to the department. He said Wade had worked under him when Hall was a sergeant and called him "an amazing asset to this agency since the day he got here." Hall said Kunder had gone through the testing process more than once and told him, "I'm so proud of you."

The ceremony also included recognition of new Class II officers. Hall said John Hart came to the department, took the test and went to the police academy for Stafford. He said Hart and Nicholas Sura "are exceptional officers" and said the department has high expectations for them.

After the personnel recognitions, the group took an oath of office for their positions with the Stafford Township Police Department.

Griffin then thanked the mayor and council for approving the promotions and said the department has "a great working relationship with the town." He said, "As Chief move forward. I'll keep that going." Griffin also thanked Haldenwang for his support and recognized another retiree, Justin Pascale, for his work in traffic safety, saying he "basically ran our traffic station for years and years."

Griffin told those attending that he intends to remain rooted in the community he will serve.

"I can honestly tell you that I tell them that I want to be here, my town is my home," Griffin said.