NEW JERSEY – The New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association (NJSPBA) is urging the New Jersey Civil Service Commission (CSC) to address allegations of cheating and dishonesty during the March 1, 2025, Police Sergeant examination and to provide greater transparency about the ongoing investigation and delayed release of results.
In a letter dated Oct. 20, NJSPBA President Peter Andreyev said the union contacted the CSC immediately after learning of the allegations but has received little communication or clarity about how the state plans to handle the matter.
“Since that time, there hasn’t been much transparency or communication regarding the allegations or how the CSC would address them,” Andreyev wrote.
He noted that while timely scoring of exams is important, ensuring fair results is paramount. “I have demanded that the proper action is taken to guarantee that you all receive those fair results,” Andreyev said, adding that results for the Police Sergeant exam — typically released in the fall — appear to be delayed indefinitely.
“It is generally understood that results of examinations for the title of Police Sergeant tend to be released in the fall, and specifically mid-October,” Andreyev wrote. “Based on the information (or lack thereof) that we have received from the CSC, there does not appear to be a release date in sight.”
The letter states that, according to the CSC’s Exam Symbol Status page, the test remains in the Test Administration phase and has not yet entered Finalizing Review, suggesting further delays.
Andreyev also pointed out that the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP) has urged the CSC not to release exam results until any investigation into potential misconduct is complete.
He said the delay could create issues for both officers awaiting promotions and police chiefs trying to fill supervisory vacancies, urging members to stay informed through the CSC’s Law Enforcement Status Report and Exam Symbol Status page.
“We understand that a delay in the release of results for this examination may result in issues for your members,” Andreyev wrote. “Whether it be the police officer that sat for the examination and is seeking promotion, or it be the chief that must properly staff the ranks of the police department, they are all PBA members.”
The NJSPBA’s letter also provides guidance for police chiefs, noting that Eligible Lists — which determine promotion eligibility — are valid for three years and can be extended by one year. In the meantime, departments may use Provisional Appointments to fill positions temporarily until new exam results are certified.
“While the basics of what to expect were covered, and the links inserted should serve as good starting points for police officers and chiefs alike, we would like to remind you that the New Jersey State PBA and its Civil Service Committee remain available to address member/agency specific questions,” Andreyev wrote.
RNJ has reached out to the New Jersey Civil Service Commission for comment and is waiting to hear back.
