The Hackensack Police Department (HPD) has partnered with the Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) to conduct an organizational assessment, aimed at shaping the department’s future direction. The HPD will collaborate with the COPS Office’s Collaborative Reform Initiative to assess several key areas, including: data-driven policing, employee wellness, training and professional development, community engagement and problem-solving strategies, internal and external communications, leadership and organizational structure, and accountability and oversight systems.
“I am excited by this important step that the police department took to enhance its capabilities while putting the community first,” said Hackensack Mayor John Labrosse. “I am thankful that the Department of Justice has selected Hackensack to conduct the organizational assessment, and I look forward to sharing the updates with our residents. We are dedicated to fostering a safe and secure community where all residents feel protected.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to community policing and the goals outlined in its Strategic Plan, HPD Police Director Ray Guidetti has requested the COPS Office to evaluate current practices, with a focus on community engagement and overall departmental effectiveness.
“My commitment – in partnership with the great men and women of the HPD – to create a model police department with supportive infrastructures led me to the COPS Office,” said Hackensack Police Director Guidetti. “I believe their constructive feedback and evaluations are essential for us as an agency to improve and better serve our community.”
Though the assessment is not required by law enforcement agencies, HPD is participating to show its commitment to the City of Hackensack by implementing reforms that will benefit both the department and the community. We believe that it will build trust and help strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the people who live, work, and visit the City of Hackensack.
“The assessors from the Collaborative Reform Initiative will no doubt ensure that our department remains responsive to our community’s evolving needs. I invite our community stakeholders to take this journey with us by checking in for updates on our progress,” added Captain Michael Antista, HPD’s Officer-in-Charge.
The HPD looks forward to the findings and recommendations brought forth by this assessment and is committed to implementing any necessary changes needed to improve the effectiveness and integrity of our police department.
