The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | Summer 2024
Rutherford Chief John Russo Sworn in as President of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police
The gavel has been passed to the next president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police during a ceremony at the police chief ’ s 112th Annual Training Conference & Police / Security Expo in Atlantic City .
John R . Russo , the chief of the Rutherford Police Department , was sworn in as the association ’ s 109th president for a one-year term . In accepting the role as a statewide leader in law enforcement , Russo said , a prime objective will be to give the police chiefs a greater voice in legislative affairs and ensuring their position is considered when proposed laws are discussed .
“ We need to vastly broaden our relationship with decision makers in Trenton to make sure that laws regarding public safety are fair , equitable and help law enforcement perform our duties at the highest levels ,” said Chief Russo , a Rutherford native who lives in neighboring Hasbrouck Heights . “ Legislators and law enforcement need to be close partners in this endeavor , as we are all focused on the same objectives : protecting and serving the public .”
To further amplify the NJSACOP voice , John appeared on March 7 before the Senate Judiciary Committee to address crime , such as car theft . He said the state has an “ over-tolerance ” toward these quality-of-life repeat offenses .
“ For the past several years , we have done all we can to educate our residents to stop leaving vehicles unlocked and to stop leaving keys and fobs in their vehicles ,” Chief Russo told the committee . “ I believe we have made progress with that request . However , the market for stolen motor vehicles remains high and with securely locked vehicles in driveways , the criminal element is resorting to home invasions to accomplish their goals .”
On June 13 , he was back before the Senate Judiciary Committee , on behalf of about 500 law enforcement executives in the NJSACOP , regarding juvenile crime . He called for enhancements to the state ’ s Juvenile Justice System , expressing concerns that policymakers are often tying officers ’ hands when dealing with youth , affecting public safety .
As incoming president , John said , he looks forward to working closely with law enforcement partners on the county , state and federal level . “ Together , we are a much stronger voice and have a greater impact in advocating for the public ,” he said .
The chief also expressed his appreciation to Rutherford Mayor Frank Nunziato and the Borough Council for their support , as well as the 42 other sworn officers of his police department in southern Bergen County .
John was hired by the Rutherford Police Department in 1999 and rose through the ranks , being promoted to Chief of Police in 2013 . He is a Past President of the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association . He is also the former Chief Liaison to the Bergen County Rapid Deployment Force — a force of 180 members from all Bergen County jurisdictions trained and dispatched to handle large scale events and civil unrest .
Chief Russo is a graduate of the 268th Session of the FBI National Academy , selected as the Session Spokesperson . In 2005 , he completed the NJSACOP Command and Leadership Academy , and is now an NJSACOP Accredited Chief Executive . He is also Co-Chair of the NJSACOP Chiefs Wellness Committee .
John has a Bachelor ’ s Degree in Individualized Studies and a Master ’ s Degree in Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University .
“ I look forward to the challenges ahead and working diligently for all New Jersey Police Chiefs with their mission to keep New Jersey law enforcement as a model for the profession ,” Chief Russo said .
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE PHOTO ALBUM FROM THE 112th ANNUAL TRAINING CONFERENCE
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