7 Critical Ways Egg Harbor Township NJ Police Are Transforming Public Safety In 2025

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The Egg Harbor Township Police Department (EHTPD) continues to be a central pillar of public safety in Atlantic County, New Jersey, demonstrating a proactive approach to modern law enforcement and community engagement. As of late 2025, the department, which comprises approximately 90 sworn officers, is actively implementing new strategies and leveraging specialized units to combat crime and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

This deep dive explores the current structure, recent activities, and key personnel of the EHTPD, highlighting the critical ways this agency is evolving. From significant recent arrest statistics to the leadership of Chief Frederick Spano and the robust community programs, the information here is current and reflective of the department's operations in late 2025, providing an essential look at one of New Jersey's most active municipal forces.

Biography and Vision: Chief Frederick Spano (2023–Present)

The Egg Harbor Township Police Department is currently led by Chief Frederick Spano, a veteran officer who officially took the helm in 2023.

Chief Spano's career with the EHTPD is marked by decades of dedicated service and progressive advancement. He first joined the department in 1998, beginning his tenure as a patrol officer.

His commitment to law enforcement saw him rise through the ranks, eventually earning a promotion to lieutenant in 2016.

Beyond his administrative and operational duties, Chief Spano demonstrates a strong commitment to youth and community development, serving as a Board Member for the Egg Harbor Township Police Athletic League (EHT PAL).

His leadership focuses on building a progressive police department that balances rigorous enforcement with crucial community partnerships.

EHTPD’s Recent Operational Highlights and Crime Suppression

The operational tempo of the Egg Harbor Township Police Department remains consistently high, reflecting its dedication to maintaining a safe environment for the township’s residents. The department manages a significant annual budget, approximately $11 million, to support its wide range of services and specialized units.

Intensive Enforcement Activity (October 2025 Blotter)

The EHTPD's commitment to proactive policing is evident in its recent crime statistics. A report covering just two weeks, from October 16th to 31st, 2025, revealed a period of intense activity.

During this short timeframe, the Egg Harbor Township Police responded to over 3,200 calls for service.

Crucially, officers executed 42 arrests, underscoring the department's focus on crime suppression and warrant execution.

The department also utilizes an online tool for the public to search for active arrest warrants, promoting transparency and aiding in the apprehension of fugitives.

Notable Recent Cases

Recent high-profile cases handled by the department and collaborating agencies demonstrate the complexity of modern policing in the area. These incidents range from local disturbances to federal crimes:

  • Cyberstalking Arrest: In a multi-agency effort, a 21-year-old Egg Harbor Township resident, Marek Cherkaoui, was arrested and charged with cyberstalking, highlighting the department's involvement in digital crime enforcement.
  • Narcotics Investigations: The EHTPD has been involved in narcotics investigations that resulted in charges against multiple New Jersey residents, addressing the ongoing issue of substance abuse and distribution in the region.
  • Public Health Alerts: The department also plays a role in public safety beyond crime, issuing alerts on local health concerns, such as a skunk testing positive for rabies in the township.

The Seven Specialized Units Driving EHTPD's Success

To effectively manage the diverse challenges of a large township, the EHTPD maintains several highly trained and specialized units. These units represent a significant investment in officer training and equipment, ensuring a high level of service across all aspects of public safety.

The department’s organizational structure includes both patrol and investigative divisions, with specialized teams providing critical support:

  1. K-9 Unit: Essential for tracking suspects, locating narcotics, and searching for missing persons, the K-9 Unit is a vital asset in field operations.
  2. Traffic Safety Unit: This unit focuses on accident investigation, enforcement of traffic laws, and promoting road safety, including the use of Motorcycle and Bicycle Units for focused enforcement.
  3. SWAT Team (Special Weapons and Tactics): A high-readiness team trained for critical incidents, including barricaded subjects, hostage situations, and high-risk warrant service.
  4. Hostage-Crisis Negotiator Team: Working in tandem with SWAT, this unit specializes in de-escalating tense situations through communication and negotiation techniques.
  5. Field Training Officers (FTOs): Responsible for mentoring and training new recruits, the FTO program ensures new officers meet the department's high standards of professional law enforcement.
  6. Special Vehicle Unit: This unit manages and deploys specialized vehicles required for various operational needs, from patrol to tactical situations.
  7. Defense Tactics and Weapons Training Unit: This internal unit ensures all officers maintain proficiency in defense tactics, firearms, and other essential law enforcement skills.

Community Engagement and Proactive Policing Initiatives

A core philosophy of the Egg Harbor Township Police Department is community policing, which is implemented through several long-standing and highly effective programs. These initiatives aim to build trust, provide education, and engage the youth of the township.

The EHT Police Athletic League (PAL)

The EHT PAL is a cornerstone of community outreach. Established in 1989 by young officers, it operates as a non-profit 501(c)(3) youth organization.

The PAL provides a safe, structured environment for children, fostering positive relationships between the youth and local police officers through various sports and educational activities.

Law Enforcement Activities Program (LEAP)

The EHT LEAP is another dedicated effort to support and expand the department's community policing programs.

LEAP is committed to delivering high-quality services through a framework of Partnership and Respect, establishing new activities where police officers and residents can interact constructively.

DARE Program and Officer Training

The department actively participates in the DARE Program (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), a crucial component of its youth outreach.

Furthermore, the EHTPD continually invests in its personnel, as evidenced by the swearing-in of three new police officers in late 2024.

This focus on recruitment and training, as described by Chief Spano, ensures the department remains fully staffed with capable and community-focused law enforcement professionals for the future.

The Egg Harbor Township Police Department's comprehensive approach—combining aggressive law enforcement with a strong commitment to community programs like PAL and LEAP—positions it as a leading example of modern, effective municipal policing in Atlantic County, New Jersey. This strategy is vital for maintaining the safety and well-being of the entire community in 2025 and beyond.

7 Critical Ways Egg Harbor Township NJ Police Are Transforming Public Safety in 2025
egg harbor township nj police
egg harbor township nj police

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