Hillsborough Shows Police Support Through Signs

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Signs are cropping up in the township as residents show their support for the Hillsborough police.

Hillsborough PBA #205 President and Detective Christopher Giraldi got the idea for the signs after residents began requesting them. Residents had seen similar signs in neighboring towns and wanted to show the same support to Hillsborough.

Giraldi said the PBA ordered 100 signs and they were all gone within two days. He has since ordered a second batch. The signs are free to residents to pick up at police headquarters.

"We are not collecting money for the signs. The PBA sponsored the signs and picked up the tab on purchasing the signs," said Giraldi. "Now we are just giving the signs to residents because we greatly appreciate the support."

Giraldi said the signs are helping to boost morale within the department.

"There is a lot of controversy around nation centering as a whole on our profession," said Giraldi. "For me having the signs be put out on front lawn shows support. ... We know we are appreciated when we get donations and letters but it's a little different when an officer is driving down the road, responding to call and sees the overwhelming support for the police department. It's a good feeling when you see this support going on around here and the country."

The signs are currently free to be picked up from the police department at 379 S Branch Rd. However, Giraldi is not sure how much longer they will be available.

The signs are more costly than the PBA had initially thought and they are going a lot faster than they planned, said Giraldi.

Giraldi is not sure if the PBA will be able to order another batch without funding. Luckily, some residents have been making donations to the PBA in exchange for the signs.

The PBA is accepting donations in the form of cash or check made out to the: Hillsborough PBA 205. Donations can be dropped off at the police department when picking up signs or mailed to PO Box 6359, Hillsborough, NJ 08844.

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

Get Patch breaking news alerts sent right to your phone with our new app. Download here. Don't miss local and statewide announcements. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.