New Jersey Department of Human Services Police
New Jersey Department Of Human Services Police is a state wide police agency in New Jersey. Human Service Police is tasked with the responsibility of patrolling, responding and reporting any crimes against people or property within the several psychiatric hospitals and developmental centers in New Jersey. Such facilities include Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital, New Jersey State Hospital at Trenton and Ancora Psychiatric Hospital.
Functions
Along with psychiatric hospitals, Human Services Police is also responsible for the several developmental centers spread over the state. These centers are for mentally handicapped individuals and are located throughout the state.
In recent years, Human Services Police have been requested to assist the Division of Youth & Family Services (DYFS). DYFS falls under the cabinet-level department. Human Services Police officers assist case workers, upon request. These officers are stationed inside district offices throughout the state.
To properly investigate and charge/arrest individuals, Human Services Police officers are given state wide police powers and authority. With this authority, Human Services Police are required to enforce Title 39 (motor vehicle law) and 2C (New Jersey Criminal Code) within the grounds of their numerous institutions and anywhere in the state if need be. Mission Mission Statement We, the Human Services Police, exist to serve the most vulnerable citizens in New Jersey with respect and sensitivity.
We are committed to the protection of life and property; the prevention of crime and the safeguarding of constitutional guarantees.
We are committed to enhance the quality of life and foster a sense of security in the DHS community.
We nurture the public's trust by holding ourselves to the highest standards of performance and integrity.
We pledge that through our efforts, we will establish a new standard of excellence in law enforcement and service to the citizens of the State of New Jersey. History of the Human Services Police HUMAN SERVICES POLICE HISTORY The need for police at Department of Human Services facilities was recognized by the legislature in the 1890’s when it enacted N.J.S. 30:4-14 authorizing the commissioner to appoint “Special Policemen” to keep the peace at the facilities. There were Human Services Police Officers more than 30 years before the New Jersey State Police was created and they have been serving the public for over 100 years. In those days, an officer was employed by a specific institution and the duties of the officer varied widely from facility to facility. The officers reported to the administration of the particular institution and there was no centralized control of the department. In 1984, Commissioner George Albanese recognized the need for a centralized police service. He issued Administrative Order 1:50 that created the Human Services Police. On December 8, 1995, Governor Christine Todd Whitman signed into law Bill A-2177. This legislation gave Human Services Police Officers full statewide police powers. The Human Services Police is structured with three institutional-based districts, three child protective services units, a detective unit and a HazMat Response Team. Today, the current strength is approximately 160 sworn personnel supported by a staff of about 20 civilian personnel. Human Services Police Officers perform the same basic functions as a police officer in a municipality. However, the Human Services Police Officer is a unique position. They are charged with protecting some of New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents. The Human Services Police continue to expand in areas where the Department of Human Services and the Department of Children and Families see the need for police involvement.
See also
External links
- New Jersey Department Of Human Services Police Page
- Press Release on HSPD officers role in assisting case workers
- Overhaul of DYFS