Outgoing NJSACOP president reflects on year of legislative advocacy, law enforcement initiatives
MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — As his one-year term leading the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police came to a close, Montville Police Chief Andrew Caggiano said the past year was marked by legislative advocacy, public safety initiatives and building relationships during a period of significant leadership changes in state government.
Caggiano completed his term as the association’s 110th president on June 24 after overseeing efforts focused on legislation affecting law enforcement, officer wellness, traffic safety and public awareness campaigns. His tenure also included visits to England, Italy and Budapest, where he represented the NJSACOP in promoting law enforcement leadership and professional development.
“From a legislative and advocacy standpoint, this was one of the most challenging years in the recent history of our association,” Chief Caggiano said. “We transitioned from one governor to another, and one attorney general to another. The shift prompted a flurry of legislation and policy that required close review from the NJSACOP. Our goal was to continue having a strong voice at the table, while informing our membership of discussions in Trenton that directly impact the administration of law enforcement through all communities we serve.”
During his term, Caggiano said the association worked with lawmakers and state officials as Gov. Mikie Sherrill and Attorney General Jennifer Davenport assumed office. The organization advocated on legislation and policies affecting police departments throughout New Jersey.
Among the initiatives highlighted by Caggiano was the association’s push for stronger enforcement against the sale of flavored vaping products that are prohibited under state law. The NJSACOP has called for increased financial penalties for businesses that continue selling illegal products.
Caggiano also recognized the 25th anniversary of John’s Law, which requires the impoundment of vehicles driven by motorists arrested for driving under the influence for at least 12 hours.
“The 25th anniversary of John’s Law is worth marking not because the problem of drunk driving is solved — it is not,” Chief Caggiano said. “But this law proves that targeted, intelligent legislation can make a measurable difference. New Jersey’s roads are safer today because a family refused to accept that their son’s death was inevitable or unrepeatable.”
The association also continued expanding mental health resources for law enforcement officers, including access to its officer wellness program and chief psychologist, while promoting additional services available to police leaders statewide.
In preparation for the FIFA World Cup, Caggiano said the association worked to raise awareness about the risks of human trafficking during major international events and encouraged the public to remain vigilant.
“The front line against human trafficking is not a police cruiser on patrol,” Chief Caggiano said. “It is often a hotel housekeeper who notices a guest who never leaves the room. It is a ride-hail driver who sees something in the rearview mirror that doesn’t look right. Traffickers depend on public indifference. Your attention is one of the most powerful tools we have.”
Caggiano also participated in two traffic safety education videos produced through a partnership between the NJSACOP and the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety. A third training video for law enforcement officers is currently in development.
As his term concluded, Caggiano thanked Montville Mayor Frank Cooney, the Township Council and members of the Montville Police Department for supporting his leadership role with the statewide organization.
“The opportunity to work hard every day to enhance policing in New Jersey while balancing my responsibilities with the Montville Police Department has not been easy, yet it has been the experience of a lifetime, and I would do it again in a heartbeat,” Chief Caggiano said. “I cannot express my gratitude to the NJSACOP Board of Officers and our membership for this opportunity and their trust.”
Caggiano said he hopes the association, now led by incoming President and Collingswood Police Chief Kevin J. Carey, will continue strengthening partnerships with New Jersey’s sheriffs, county prosecutors, the Attorney General’s Office and the New Jersey State Police.
Caggiano joined the Montville Township Police Department in 1997 and was sworn in as the township’s ninth police chief on Jan. 1, 2019. He has also served on the executive boards of the Morris County Chiefs Association and the FBI National Academy Associates-New Jersey Chapter. His successor as NJSACOP president is Collingswood Police Chief Kevin J. Carey.
“Working together, it is all about making law enforcement more efficient and effective for the people of New Jersey,” Chief Caggiano said.
