South Brunswick Police First in the State to Become Dual Certified

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ - The South Brunswick Police Department achieved the highest level of recognition Monday by obtaining simultaneously accreditation from the national and state-governing bodies for law enforcement. South Brunswick is the first police department in the state to achieve dual certification.

In announcing the achievement, Police Chief Raymond Hayducka gave special recognition to the late Mayor Frank Gambatese.

“Mayor Gambatese would always call the police department the best in the state, with his support and encouragement we remain the only department in the State to twice achieve the highest law enforcement standard,” said Hayducka. “This designation of being the sole municipal police department in the State to twice achieve dual accreditation is a tribute to the hard work of the men and women of the South Brunswick Police Department. It would not have been possible without the strong support of the late Mayor, Council and Township Manager."

The process to become the first police department to be dual certified was extensive. Law enforcement executives from New Jersey and two other States came to South Brunswick Police Department over the past few months and examined all aspects of the department. They examined reports, files, policy, procedures, administration, operations, investigations, and support services to ensure the department met over 500 standards. They conducted interviews with sworn and civilian employees of the department, spoke with residents and hosted open forums for community feedback.

Achievement of simultaneous accreditation demonstrates that the department meets the highest standards in law enforcement. The benefits of accreditation include greater effectiveness and efficiency, reduced liability, improved community relations, and greater accountability.

Chief Hayducka pointed out how challenging it is to achieve either accreditation certification. He said, “In New Jersey, just 38 percent of the 500 police departments statewide are able to receive the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Accreditation distinction. Nationally, less than 4 percent of 17,000 police departments nationwide receive accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.”

Chief Hayducka thanked those residents who came out and provided feedback during the process. “Today confirms that our department continues to be at the forefront of meeting the highest standards in law enforcement. Reaching this goal just encourages us to continue to pursue excellence in all that we do,” he added.