Westfield Detective Recognized As 2024 'Law Enforcement Hometown Hero'

WESTFIELD, NJ — Westfield Police Detective Elizabeth Savnik was recognized as a 2024 "Law Enforcement Hometown Hero" at a special event hosted by Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. in Bernardsville on Oct. 11.

Chiefs of Police serving in the 7th Congressional District were asked to nominate a hard-working, community-oriented individual who has been living a life of public service through protecting and keeping our neighborhoods safe.

Savnik is a 13-year member of the Westfield Police Department presently assigned to the Juvenile & Community Policing Bureau.

She serves as the Westfield Police Department's designated Juvenile Officer, as well as one of its 'Resiliency' Officers.

"Her focus is not just to ensure the safety and well-being of juveniles, but all of our most vulnerable populations – to include senior citizens and those with special needs. She endeavors to build strong working relationships and partnerships with all segments of the community," said Westfield Police Chief Christopher Battiloro. "This is accomplished by her dedicating herself to making public appearances, delivering custom-created educational programs and by planning, promoting, and engaging in various community policing initiatives."

Battiloro continued by saying Savnik has been instrumental in the development of the Juvenile & Community Policing Bureau.

"She has done an exceptional job in creating what I had envisioned when this bureau was initially formed – which is to advocate for and ensure that our most vulnerable populations are not forgotten," said Battiloro. "Detective Savnik has a tremendous passion for helping others. She is an extremely compassionate and caring person who puts her heart and soul into her job. Such is evident in everything she does – from dealing with crime victims to producing first-rate community-policing events with widespread attraction that bring the community together, her work ethic and product is second to none."

Savnik is a proud member of the Board of Directors of New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement (NJWLE) and is integral part of the development and production of its annual conferences.

She also serves as the Vice President of the Union County Juvenile Officers Association.

"They don’t come any better than Detective Savnik. The residents of Westfield, in our particular children, senior citizens, and those with special needs, are extremely fortunate to be served by such a person," said Battiloro.

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