NCJ Number
181943
Date Published
1999
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This review of the New Jersey Division of State Police indicates the division is in need of significant change and offers recommendations on how to restore public confidence in the State Police.
Abstract
While the division generally performs admirably in pursuing its law enforcement mandates, it appears to have done so in a manner that has severely undermined its public support and in a manner that does not pay sufficient attention to the working conditions of its members and employees. This has undermined morale and has diverted division energy and resources to litigation. The report recommends the New Jersey Attorney General consider mandating change in a way that melds some of the old traditions of the State Police with the new requirements to restore public confidence. Recommendations to improve the State Police include the creation of an oversight unit within the Office of the Attorney General and the implementation of policies on discrimination against minority and female State troopers and policies to improve the workplace. These policies concern performance evaluations, facilities, leadership and training, recruitment and hiring, promotions, the police organizational structure and chain of command, complaints investigation, and disciplinary procedures.