Guttenberg’s Police Department has seen significant changes over the past two months, with several retirements, a new director, and numerous promotions. The end result is a stronger, more focused department with additional full-time officers on the streets.

Residents bid a fond farewell to longtime Public Safety Director Joel Magenheimer when he left office in August to enjoy his well-earned retirement. Taking his place is new Public Safety Director Robert White, the former deputy chief of the Saddle Brook Police Department and current mayor of Saddle Brook. 

Also in August, five officers were promoted. Nicholas Antonucci, Hossam Elsamra, and Kristen Polacik were all sworn in as full-time Police Officers after serving as part-time Class 2 Specials. John Lopez was promoted from part-time to full-time Class 2 Special. And Najee Anderson was promoted from Class 1 to Class 2 Special.

Two additional promotions took place in September, when Sgt. Rafael Martinez was sworn in as lieutenant, and Det. Frank Pelaez became a sergeant.

All of these changes were implemented to bolster the command structure, increase manpower on the streets, and provide more efficient and effective policing for our community.