Press Release: Regional Support for West Wildwood Police Amid Staffing Crisis
West Wildwood, NJ — In response to a pressing staffing shortage, multiple South Jersey police departments are stepping in to assist West Wildwood. Cape May County Prosecutor Jeffrey Sutherland reached out to Wildwood, North Wildwood, and Wildwood Crest, all of which agreed to provide essential manpower and resources to maintain local police services. Sutherland praised the collaborative spirit among the agencies, highlighting the strength of the Cape May County law enforcement community.
This interim support follows significant personnel changes in West Wildwood’s police force, prompting a review by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP). The recently published report cites a “complete lack of leadership,” inadequate training, and high officer turnover as key issues destabilizing the department.
The NJSACOP has recommended various options for improvement, including investing in recruitment, shared service agreements with neighboring towns, or even disbanding the department altogether in favor of more reliable external services. Historical data shows a resident population of about 540, which swells to around 5,000 in the summer months, underscoring the urgent need for effective policing services.
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