New Police Officer Sworn To Serve Bridgewater Township

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — A new police officer was sworn to serve Bridgewater Township at Thursday night's Council meeting.

Officer Michael Thomsen, an experienced 16-year veteran police officer, was sworn in by Council President Timothy Ring on April 18. Thomsen previously served the Lebanon Township Police Department.

"As a long-serving officer, you bring with you a wealth of knowledge, expertise and dedication to upholding the highest standards of public safety. In your new role, you will play a pivotal part in maintaining law and order within the Bridgewater Community, ensuring the safety and security of our residents," said Police Chief John Mitzak at the meeting. "Your extensive experience in law enforcement will be invaluable in leading and mentoring junior officers, providing guidance and support in complex situations."

Thomosen's hiring brings the Bridgewater Township Police Department up to 78 officers but they will be losing two officers due to retirement and a lateral transfer in June, Mitzak told Patch.

This hiring is still short of a full complement for the department which is 83.

Thomsen lives in Great Meadows with his wife and four children. He graduated from Somerset County Police Academy in 2007.

Prior to this, Thomsen earned his Associate of Arts Degree in CJ from Raritan Valley Community College and his Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, with a minor in CJ from Fairleigh Dickerson University.

Thomsen enjoys spending time with his family, riding motorcycles, fixing cars, hunting and fishing. He is a genuine outdoorsman, said Mitzak.

"While conducting his background we learned from numerous contacts that Officer Thomsen is a
team player and is always willing to lend a helping hand," said Mitzak.

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