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5 Major Updates From The Cranford NJ Police Department You Need To Know In 2025

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The Cranford Police Department (CPD) in New Jersey is currently undergoing a period of significant growth and operational refinement, marked by new leadership initiatives and a notable increase in personnel. As of late 2025, the department has been actively addressing major criminal incidents, expanding its community outreach, and making key appointments to bolster public safety across the township. This article compiles the most critical and recent updates from the department, providing an in-depth look at the current state of law enforcement in Cranford, NJ.

The commitment to a strong bond and collaboration between law enforcement and the local community remains the central philosophy of the Cranford Police Department. These recent developments, including an expanded roster and a focus on specialized training, demonstrate the department's proactive approach to modern policing challenges and its dedication to maintaining Cranford’s quality of life. The information below is current as of December 2025.

Chief Matthew Nazzaro: Biography and Leadership Profile

The Cranford Police Department is currently led by Chief Matthew Nazzaro, who was unanimously appointed by the Cranford Township Committee. Chief Nazzaro holds the distinction of being the department's 12th Police Chief, taking the helm following the retirement of former Chief Ryan Greco.

Chief Nazzaro's career is deeply rooted in the Cranford community. He is a lifelong resident who grew up in the town and has dedicated his entire professional career to serving the Cranford Police Department.

  • Appointment: Unanimously appointed as the 12th Police Chief of the Cranford Police Department.
  • Education: Holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) designation. He is an alumnus of Kean University.
  • Early Service: Before his police career, Chief Nazzaro served as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Director of Per Diem EMS from June 1999 to May 2002.
  • Specialized Training: His extensive certifications include Police Training Officer (PTO), Basic School Resource Officer (SRO), Reid Technique of Interview and Interrogation, BLS Instructor, and various New Jersey police training programs.
  • Professional Affiliations: He is an active member of both the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police and the Union County Police Chiefs Association.

Under his leadership, the department has emphasized a culture of recruiting and empowering the finest officers, aiming to solidify its position as one of the best police departments in the state.

Personnel Expansion and Key Appointments in 2025

One of the most significant operational changes in 2025 has been the department's commitment to increasing its manpower. The Township of Cranford recently passed an ordinance to increase the maximum Police Department roster to 57 officers. This critical increase provides the necessary flexibility and support for efficient hiring, ensuring the department can quickly onboard new officers to meet the demands of a growing township.

The push for new personnel has led to several key appointments throughout the year:

  • July 2025 Appointment: Christian Wilde was appointed as a Probationary Police Officer/Police Academy Recruit, effective mid-July 2025.
  • September 2025 Appointment: Jean Carlos Montero was appointed as a 3rd Grade Officer in September 2025.

The Cranford Police Department is continually seeking qualified applicants for full-time Police Officer positions, requiring candidates to possess a New Jersey Police Training Commission (PTC) Basic Police Officer Certification. This focus on personnel not only addresses staffing needs but also supports the department’s commitment to enhanced training and police reform, which includes the licensing of sworn officers.

Major Incident Response and Accountability Updates

The Cranford Police Department has been at the forefront of several high-profile public safety matters in 2025, demonstrating its capability to handle complex and serious criminal investigations in collaboration with county authorities.

Juvenile Murder Charge (September 2025)

In a major public safety announcement, Chief Matthew Nazzaro and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that a Garwood juvenile was charged with two counts of murder. This followed a response by the Cranford Police Department to an incident in late September 2025. The swift and coordinated response highlights the close working relationship between the CPD and the Union County police system in addressing serious crimes.

Officer Accountability and Grand Jury Review (December 2025)

In a separate, high-stakes incident, the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General confirmed in December 2025 that a State Grand Jury declined to criminally charge Cranford Officers involved in a specific incident. This process underscores the legal framework in New Jersey that ensures transparency and accountability for law enforcement actions, with an independent review of officer conduct under New Jersey law.

Community Outreach, Safety Programs, and Topical Authority

The Cranford Police Department maintains a robust and diverse portfolio of community policing and outreach programs. These initiatives are designed to strengthen the police-community bond, which the CPD believes is essential for a better quality of life in the township. The department’s commitment to topical authority extends beyond traditional law enforcement to include public education and environmental safety.

Key 2025 Community Initiatives:

  • Fraud & Scam Prevention Talk: In 2025, the CPD hosted a specialized talk for the Thursday Morning senior club, focusing on the latest scams and providing essential tips on how to avoid them. This initiative directly combats financial exploitation targeting vulnerable residents.
  • National Night Out: The department actively participated in the annual National Night Out event in August 2025, held at the Cranford Campus of UCNJ Union College. This event provides an invaluable opportunity for residents to meet officers, discuss local issues, and build positive relationships with the police force.
  • Cranford Police Athletic League (PAL): The Cranford PAL continues to offer supervised programs coached by Cranford Police Officers and community volunteers, fostering positive interactions between youth and law enforcement.
  • Environmental and Public Safety Programs: The department is involved in local environmental efforts, including the Cranford Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program. This demonstrates a broad commitment to the well-being of the Cranford Township, encompassing both crime and safety and environmental stewardship.

The Future of Policing in Cranford, NJ

The Cranford Police Department is clearly focused on modernization and expansion. The increase in the officer roster to 57 is a strategic move to ensure the department can maintain high service levels and effectively address emerging public safety challenges. Furthermore, the continued emphasis on enhanced training for law enforcement officers is a cornerstone of police reform, ensuring that the department operates with the highest standards of professionalism and community engagement.

From proactive scam prevention for seniors to managing major criminal investigations and participating in community events like National Night Out, the Cranford Police Department remains a dynamic and essential part of the Cranford, NJ, community. Residents are encouraged to utilize the department’s community outreach programs and stay informed on the latest safety tips and local updates.

5 Major Updates from the Cranford NJ Police Department You Need to Know in 2025
cranford nj police department
cranford nj police department

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