Washington Township police report busy 2025, highlight retirements and community efforts
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — The Washington Township Police Department logged one of its busiest years in 2025, responding to 68,885 activity logs across Washington Township and Califon, according to the department’s annual update.
Of those 68,885 activity logs, 8,547 occurred in Califon.
In a letter to residents dated Feb. 20, Police Chief Jeffrey Almer said the logs include 911 calls, motor vehicle stops, arrests and property checks.
Motor vehicle enforcement increased, with officers conducting nearly 10,000 stops and issuing more than 1,600 summonses. Police made 149 arrests, including 26 for driving while intoxicated, four for narcotics and 55 on warrants.
For the second consecutive year, the township recorded no drug-related deaths, and officers administered Narcan three times to reverse overdoses, Almer said. He credited the department’s First Aid Squad for its role in successful outcomes.
Personnel changes marked the year, including the retirement of Lt. Chris Bratus after 28 years of service and Sgt. James Burns after 25 years.
“Lt. Bratus will be remembered as one of the best and most respected officers in Washington Township’s history,” Almer wrote.
Of Burns, Almer said, “He will be remembered as a great leader and teacher, and a strong officer who cared for the department and the people in the community.”
The department also completed its third accreditation cycle and continued state-mandated licensing. Almer said accreditation ensures officers are trained and held to the highest standards.
Washington Township hired three new officers in 2025 and promoted several others. The department also hired its first Class III special law enforcement officer to work in township schools.
Community outreach remained a focus, including CPR and First Aid training programs, participation in Toys for Tots and other local events, and continued collaboration with schools and volunteer organizations.
“There is no substitute for good community policing,” Almer wrote, thanking residents and local groups for their support.
Almer concluded the letter by expressing appreciation for township leadership, volunteers and first responders, as well as his officers.
“And as always, thank you to my officers who I am always exceptionally proud of,” he wrote. “These men and women are out there day and night, making sure that the town stays safe and things are handled. They believe in what they do and are dedicated to the residents of our township.”
The chief also asked residents to remember military service members and law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2025.
The department said it looks forward to continuing to build strong community relationships in the year ahead.
