5 Critical Ways East Rutherford NJ Police Are Transforming Public Safety In 2025
The East Rutherford Police Department (ERPD) is currently undergoing a significant transformation, marked by new leadership, major technological upgrades, and high-profile law enforcement successes that are redefining public safety in the southern Bergen County area. As of December 22, 2025, the department is actively leveraging community partnerships and modern alert systems to maintain its high standard of protection for the borough's residents and the millions of visitors to major venues like MetLife Stadium and the American Dream complex.
This deep dive explores the most recent developments within the ERPD, highlighting the key personnel and fresh initiatives that are setting a new benchmark for municipal law enforcement in New Jersey. From foiling armed robberies to implementing state-of-the-art emergency communication, the department’s proactive stance is ensuring a safer environment for everyone.
East Rutherford Police Department: Leadership and Structure Profile (2025)
The East Rutherford Police Department operates as a New Jersey Civil Service law enforcement agency, providing 24-hour, 7-day-per-week police protection to the borough. The department is strategically located just seven miles from midtown Manhattan, placing it at a critical junction for regional public safety operations, especially given its proximity to major transportation corridors and entertainment complexes.
Key Personnel and Department Entities
- Chief of Police: Dennis Rivelli. Chief Rivelli was recently sworn in, marking a new era of leadership for the department.
- Department Size: The ERPD is staffed with 39 full-time police officers dedicated to patrol, investigations, and administration.
- Command Structure: The department's hierarchy is composed of the Chief of Police, a Deputy Chief of Police, and various Captains, Lieutenants, Sergeants, and Patrol Officers.
- Records Bureau: The Records Bureau is a vital administrative entity, handling all police reports and records requests. Residents can contact the bureau at 201-438-0709.
- Jurisdiction: The ERPD is responsible for maintaining order and enforcing laws within the Borough of East Rutherford, a crucial area that includes parts of the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
1. Foiling a Major Armed Robbery: A 2025 Law Enforcement Success
One of the most significant recent events demonstrating the East Rutherford Police Department's effectiveness was the quick action that foiled an armed robbery in the early morning hours of July 8, 2025.
The incident, which could have escalated into a serious threat to public safety, was swiftly neutralized by a patrol officer. According to a joint announcement by Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella and the ERPD, the immediate response led to the apprehension of the suspects.
The subsequent investigation led to the formal charging of three men, including Jamil N. Tuncer of Wallington, NJ, on September 9, 2025. This rapid resolution and successful prosecution highlight the strong working relationship between the East Rutherford Police and the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, reinforcing the borough's commitment to aggressive crime fighting.
2. Major Upgrade to Emergency Alert System: Adopting RAVE
In a major commitment to modern public safety communication, the Borough of East Rutherford has upgraded its community alerting system from the previous Swift911 platform to the RAVE alert system.
This transition is a critical step in enhancing the department's ability to communicate rapidly and reliably with residents during emergencies, public safety alerts, and significant events. The RAVE system allows subscribers to receive up-to-date information directly, ensuring the community remains informed about everything from severe weather to local criminal activity.
3. Securing Essential Funding for Modernization
The East Rutherford Police Department has been proactive in securing resources for its long-term operational needs. Recent efforts have focused on obtaining funding for essential equipment, specifically for the police headquarters and a new mobile command unit.
The mobile command unit is a critical asset, especially given the borough’s responsibility for securing large-scale events at venues like MetLife Stadium. This investment ensures that the ERPD can maintain seamless emergency services and command-and-control capabilities during complex or large-scale incidents.
4. Proactive Community Partnership Initiatives
The department's mission statement heavily emphasizes "Community Partnerships" as a core principle. The ERPD is not just focused on reactive policing but on identifying and solving community problems before criminal behavior occurs.
A key initiative reflecting this philosophy is the Emergency Preparedness Community Registration Program. Developed in collaboration with the borough's Access for All Committee, this voluntary program allows residents to register specific needs or information that would better assist police and emergency responders during a crisis. This level of preparedness demonstrates a deep commitment to the welfare of all citizens, including vulnerable populations.
5. Contributing to Regional Crime Reduction Success
The East Rutherford Police Department’s efforts are part of a broader, successful regional law enforcement strategy. In a high-profile news conference held at the East Rutherford Police Department in 2025, Governor Phil Murphy praised local leaders and laws for a dramatic drop in gun violence across the state.
The selection of the East Rutherford police headquarters as the venue for this announcement underscores the department's reputation and its role as a stable, effective partner in New Jersey’s statewide public safety goals. This recognition solidifies the ERPD's status as a key entity in the ongoing fight against serious crime in Bergen County and beyond.
How to Access East Rutherford Police Services and Information
For residents and visitors seeking non-emergency assistance or information, the East Rutherford Police Department maintains several accessible contact points and services:
- Police Headquarters Phone (Non-Emergency): 201-438-0165 (ext. 115 for Chief Administration)
- Obtaining Police Reports: Contact the Records Bureau at 201-438-0709 to ensure the report is ready for pickup.
- Records Window Hours: The Records Bureau is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 4 pm. On Wednesdays, hours are 11 am to 3 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm.
- Emergency Alerts: Residents are strongly encouraged to subscribe to the new RAVE alert system for critical, real-time public safety notifications.
The East Rutherford Police Department continues to evolve, adapting to new challenges with modern technology and strong community ties. Under the leadership of Chief Dennis Rivelli, the department remains a pillar of public safety, ensuring a secure environment for one of New Jersey's most dynamic boroughs.
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