TRENTON, N.J. — Newly installed New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police President Kevin Carey has outlined an ambitious agenda for his 2026-27 term, focusing on legislative reform, officer support and strengthening the association’s role as an advocate for law enforcement leadership across the state.
Carey, who serves as chief of the Collingswood Police Department, began his one-year term as president on June 24.
“The men and women who lead our state’s police departments face increasing operational, legal and legislative challenges every day,” Chief Carey said. “Over the next year, I am committed to advancing reforms that bring greater clarity, fairness and accountability to the systems our chiefs rely on — while ensuring NJSACOP remains a strong, credible voice in Trenton on behalf of law enforcement leadership across New Jersey.”
According to the association, Carey’s priorities include expanding legislative engagement, supporting police executives, and working with lawmakers and criminal justice partners to advance public safety policies and professional policing standards.
His agenda also includes evaluating potential reforms involving professional standards, police training and licensing, the Open Public Records Act, behavioral health response programs, officer wellness initiatives and juvenile justice.
“We will build on the Association’s longstanding reputation as New Jersey’s premier law enforcement leadership organization by investing in executive development, fostering collaboration among public safety partners, and ensuring the voices of New Jersey’s police chiefs continue to help shape the future of policing,” Chief Carey said.
Carey also said the association intends to play a more active role in reviewing legislation affecting law enforcement before it advances through the State House.
“We need to continue working closely with state legislators, the Governor’s Office, the Attorney General and criminal justice partners to ensure that every proposal affecting law enforcement reflects the perspective and expertise of New Jersey’s police chiefs,” Chief Carey said. “We must stay present, prepared, respected and influential on every issue affecting law enforcement.”
Carey joined the Collingswood Police Department as a special officer in 2001 before becoming a full-time officer in 2005. He rose through the ranks and was appointed police chief in September 2014.
The association said Carey has led efforts to restructure the department while emphasizing community engagement and partnerships with schools, businesses and community organizations. He also serves as a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and has held leadership positions with the Camden County Association of Chiefs of Police.
The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police represents law enforcement executives throughout the state and advocates on issues affecting policing, leadership and public safety.
