EMT's Dream To Become Bridgewater Cop Comes True

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Adam Ruiz joined the Green Knoll Rescue Squad when he was 16 with a dream of becoming a police officer in Bridgewater. On Thursday, his dream came true.

"I've known Adam for a long time. There's one thing I can tell I've known for a long time about Adam, and he's always wanted to be a police officer in Bridgewater. No question he has made that known," said Council President Timothy Ring. "I look forward to seeing you on the streets and keeping everyone in Bridgewater safe and secure."

Ring swore in Ruiz at the Thursday night Council meeting as a fulltime police officer with the Bridgewater Police Department.

Ruiz came to Bridgewater as a fully sworn police officer. He has worked for the Raritan Boro Police Department for the past year.

Ruiz was born and raised in Bridgewater and currently resides in Bridgewater. He attended Bridgewater Raritan High School and the Somerset County Vo-tech, where he earned an Electrical Construction Certificate.

He is currently attending Raritan Valley Community College, working on his associate’s degree.

Prior to becoming a police officer, Ruiz worked for Basking Ridge Electric as an electrician, Colonial Motors as a shop employee, Somerset County Communications as a dispatcher and the
Somerset County Sheriff's Office working as a Correction Officer in the jail.

In 2023 Ruiz attended the Morris County Police Academy and upon graduation he was hired by the Raritan Borough Police Department.

Ruiz is also a certified EMT and Firefighter.

"As we can see Adam brings a tremendous amount of work experience to Bridgewater PD," said Bridgewater Police Chief John Mitzak. "While interviewing Adam, I asked him why he wanted to leave Raritan Borough to work in the town next door. Adam related that he was born and raised in Bridgewater, and he has a tremendous amount of pride in our town. He told me that he always wanted to be a police officer in Bridgewater. I am thrilled that we are able to offer a hometown resident a job with his police force."

"Remember, every badge you wear is a symbol of trust and responsibility. Serve with integrity, protect with courage, and let your actions inspire hope in your community," said Mitzak. "I wish you all health, success, and safety in your next 25 to 30 years as a Bridgewater Police Officer."

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.