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5 Key Updates You Need To Know About The Denville NJ Police Department In 2025

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As of December 19, 2025, the Denville Township Police Department (DPD) is operating under new leadership and a renewed commitment to community transparency, marking a significant year of transition and engagement in Morris County. The department, which serves the 12.6 square mile Township of Denville, has recently welcomed a new Chief of Police and has been highly active with several major community-focused initiatives and internal promotions, solidifying its role as a proactive force in traffic safety and public service. The DPD continues its mission to provide police services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Denville, New Jersey, but with fresh strategies. Residents should be aware of the new leadership, the availability of detailed monthly incident reports, and the popular community programs that are shaping the future relationship between officers and the public. These updates reflect a modern approach to community policing, emphasizing accountability and direct public interaction.

A New Era of Leadership: Chief Scott Welsch and Officer Promotions

The Denville Police Department recently underwent a significant leadership change, marking a new chapter in its history. This transition ensures the department remains dedicated to the highest standards of professional conduct and community service.
  • Chief of Police Transition: The department celebrated the retirement of former Chief Frank Perna and officially swore in Chief Scott Welsch as the new Chief of Police. Chief Welsch, who thanked Mayor Andes and others for the opportunity, now helms the DPD, promising a continuation of the department's commitment to the community.
  • Key Administrative Staff: Supporting the Chief is Captain Frederick Jackson, a key figure in the department's administration.
  • Internal Recognition and Growth: The DPD announced the promotion of three dedicated officers in March 2025, recognizing their leadership and commitment to the Denville community. These promotions are vital for maintaining experienced leadership across all ranks.
This new leadership structure, building on the foundation laid by previous chiefs since the department's establishment in 1936, is focused on leveraging modern policing techniques while maintaining a strong neighborhood presence.

2025 Community Engagement: Citizen and Junior Police Academies

A cornerstone of the Denville Police Department's strategy for 2025 is its robust community outreach through educational programs. These programs are designed to foster mutual understanding and build strong relationships between officers and Denville residents of all ages.

The Citizens Police Academy (CPA)

The Denville Township Police Department hosted its 2025 Citizens Police Academy, which began on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. This program is an invaluable opportunity for adult residents to gain an in-depth, hands-on understanding of police operations, including:
  • Criminal investigation procedures.
  • Traffic enforcement and safety protocols.
  • The structure and function of the Records Bureau.
  • Community policing philosophies.
The CPA helps demystify law enforcement work, encouraging direct dialogue and partnership with the community.

The Annual Junior Police Academy (JPA)

The future of community-police relations is being shaped by the annual Junior Police Academy. The 2025 JPA was held from July 7th through July 11th. This popular program is open to Denville residents between the ages of 11 and 14 (grades 5 through 8). Recruits participate in a structured environment that mirrors a real police academy experience, teaching discipline, teamwork, and respect for law enforcement. The program is a highlight of the DPD's calendar, offering a positive, formative experience for young residents.

Transparency, Traffic Safety, and Recent Incidents

The Denville Police Department has made a noticeable commitment to public accountability and transparency, particularly in the latter half of 2025, while continuing its essential work in crime prevention and public safety.

Monthly Transparency Reports

In a move toward greater public accountability, the Denville Police Department began releasing monthly transparency reports. These reports outline key events and notable incidents from the past month, providing the public with a clear overview of the department's activities. For instance, the reports for October and November 2025 offer residents an up-to-date snapshot of crime trends and police responses in the Denville Township area. This initiative is a critical component of modern community policing, fostering trust through open communication.

Notable Recent Law Enforcement Actions

The police blotter reflects the ongoing efforts of the DPD to maintain safety. A significant recent incident occurred in November 2025, where the Denville Police Department investigated and arrested a resident on multiple weapons charges following reports of gunfire in a neighborhood. This action underscores the department's swift response capability to serious threats within the community. The DPD Records Bureau maintains all incident and arrest reports, including motor vehicle crash reports, which are available to the public as per state guidelines.

The Police Unity Tour

Denville Police Officers also participated in the 2025 Police Unity Tour, a national event where officers ride bicycles to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. This event honors officers killed in the line of duty and is a powerful symbol of the DPD's commitment to the wider law enforcement community and its fallen heroes.

How the DPD Maintains Public Safety in Morris County

The Denville Police Department's operational focus extends far beyond arrests and investigations; it is deeply rooted in proactive public safety measures and community partnerships within Morris County. The department maintains a strong working relationship with the Denville Township K-8 School District, actively contributing to a safe educational environment. The DPD utilizes various strategies to keep the community safe, including:
  • Traffic Enforcement: A constant presence on major roadways and local streets to enforce traffic laws and reduce motor vehicle crashes, a key focus for any suburban New Jersey police force.
  • Community Patrols: Regular patrols across Denville's 12.6 square miles to deter crime and provide a visible presence to residents and businesses.
  • Specialized Units: Utilizing specialized training for officers to handle complex situations, such as the investigation into weapons charges that was reported in November 2025.
  • Crime Prevention: Working with organizations like Morris County Sheriff's Crime Stoppers to share information on local crimes, such as recent theft incidents, to aid in identification and prevention.
By maintaining high visibility and engaging directly with the public through programs like the Citizens Police Academy, the DPD strives to be a resource rather than just a reactive force, ensuring the peaceful and safe atmosphere that Denville residents expect.

Connecting with the Denville Township Police Department

For residents and visitors seeking to engage with the department, several avenues are available. The DPD’s headquarters serves as the central hub for all operations and community services. Key Points of Contact:
  • Administration: The office of Chief Scott Welsch and Captain Frederick Jackson handles departmental oversight and strategic planning.
  • Records Bureau: Located in the front lobby of police headquarters, the Records Bureau is where residents can obtain copies of incident reports, arrest reports, and crash reports.
  • Community Programs: Information and applications for programs like the Junior Police Academy and Citizens Police Academy are typically announced on the official Denville Township Police website.
The DPD's proactive approach, led by its new Chief and supported by dedicated officers, positions it as a model for modern, transparent, and community-focused law enforcement in New Jersey. The ongoing release of transparency reports and the success of its 2025 community programs are clear indicators of a department committed to accountability and public trust.
denville nj police department
denville nj police department

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