New Jersey Department of Corrections Adds 72 Officers to Bolster Rehabilitation Efforts and Public Safety

After 19 weeks of rigorous training, the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) welcomed 72 new correctional police officers to its force on August 25. They join more than 4,900 custody staff members who supervise over 13,000 incarcerated individuals across the state.

Governor Murphy praised the newly inducted officers during the graduation ceremony held at the Patriots Theater at the Trenton War Memorial. 

"I am proud to welcome the latest cohort of exceptional correctional officers joining the Department of Corrections ranks," Murphy said. "With their steadfast commitment and unwavering professionalism, this group will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the rehabilitation of our incarcerated population."

The new officers, known collectively as Class 254, underwent a multi-faceted training program. The course work included firearms training, defensive tactics, conflict resolution and de-escalation, gender- and trauma-informed policing, emergency medical care, and over 50 physical training sessions. After 17 weeks of study, they completed two weeks of immersive, on-the-job training at various NJDOC facilities.

Commissioner Victoria L. Kuhn, Esq. expressed her enthusiasm for the career paths available within the NJDOC. “These new officers join a department where hard work, integrity, and opportunity can lead them to success in many different career paths, including the Special Operations Group, Custody Recruitment, the Ceremonial Unit, Special Investigations Division, and more,” she said.

Class 254 is notably diverse in its composition. It includes 59 men and 13 women, hailing from 17 counties in New Jersey, including one from Morris County. Additionally, the class boasts graduates with varying levels of education—12 with Associate Degrees, 12 with Bachelor's Degrees, and three with Master’s Degrees. Nine members of the class have military backgrounds, and 19 come from families with a law enforcement tradition.

Several officers and instructors were recognized for their outstanding performance. Among them were Officer Christopher Smit, who received the Harry Ellifritz Leadership Award, and Melanie Santos-Caceres, who won the Stone/Ratajczak Professionalism Award. Other awards were given for physical fitness, academics, and firearms proficiency.

The NJDOC is actively recruiting for future officers, with Class 255 scheduled to begin training in September. Interested individuals can visit www.NJDOC.gov for more information.

The 72 new officers will strengthen NJDOC's ongoing efforts to provide a secure and rehabilitative environment for incarcerated individuals. The agency continues its mission of advancing public safety and promoting successful reintegration, supported by a professional and diverse workforce.