5 Major Updates: What's New At The Cherry Hill NJ Police Department In 2025?
The Cherry Hill Police Department (CHPD) is undergoing a significant transformation in early 2025, marked by a change in leadership and the launch of several high-impact community and enforcement initiatives. As of today, December 20, 2025, the department is actively focusing on enhancing public safety through both proactive policing and robust community engagement programs, signaling a new era for law enforcement in Cherry Hill Township.
This comprehensive overview dives into the most critical updates, from the appointment of a new Chief of Police to the introduction of specialized programs designed to improve interaction with residents, ensuring the department remains one of the most progressive and transparent in New Jersey.
New Leadership and Strategic Direction: Chief John Ostermueller
The most pivotal change for the Cherry Hill Police Department is the transition in leadership. On January 1, 2025, Captain John Ostermueller officially stepped into the role of Chief of Police.
Biography of Chief John Ostermueller
- Name: John Ostermueller
- Current Title: Chief of Police, Cherry Hill Police Department
- Appointment Date: January 1, 2025
- Previous Position: Captain (Rose through the ranks of the CHPD)
- Predecessor: Chief Robert Kempf (Retired on December 31, 2024, after 26 years of service)
- Focus: His stated priority is "Enhancing Public Safety" through community policing and modern strategies.
- Contact: (856) 488-7818 (Police Department)
Chief Ostermueller’s appointment, confirmed by the Cherry Hill Township Council, marks a commitment to a leader who has risen through the ranks of the department. His focus on "Enhancing Public Safety" is a strategic shift that emphasizes both traditional law enforcement and innovative community outreach. This transition follows the retirement of long-serving Chief Robert Kempf at the end of 2024.
2025 Community Engagement and Transparency Programs
The CHPD has rolled out several new and returning programs for 2025, demonstrating a strong commitment to transparency, community trust, and specialized public interaction. These initiatives are key to building stronger relationships between officers and the residents they serve.
1. The Blue Envelope Program (Starting April 2025)
In a major step for inclusive policing, the Cherry Hill Police Department is initiating the Blue Envelope Program starting April 1, 2025. This voluntary program is specifically designed to improve interactions between law enforcement officers and drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The Blue Envelope contains crucial information and instructions for both the driver and the officer, helping to de-escalate traffic stops and ensure a safer, clearer communication process for everyone involved.
2. Citizen Police Academy Returns (January 2025)
The popular Citizen Police Academy is back, with the 2025 program scheduled to run from January 22 to March 19. This academy offers Cherry Hill residents an in-depth, firsthand look at the various aspects of law enforcement operations, from patrol procedures to specialized units. It is a vital tool for fostering mutual understanding and demystifying the daily work of the police force.
3. 2025 Junior Police Academy
Targeting the next generation, the Junior Police Academy for 2025 is scheduled to engage young participants. The curriculum is developed by the department to explore law enforcement aspects, emphasizing the importance of community service, discipline, and respect for the law in a hands-on, educational environment.
Targeted Enforcement and Public Safety Focus Areas
Beyond community outreach, the Cherry Hill Police Department is actively engaged in targeted enforcement operations to address specific crime trends that impact the quality of life for residents and businesses in the township.
4. Major Retail Theft Crackdowns
Cherry Hill, home to major shopping centers, has been a focus for retail theft prevention. The CHPD recently conducted multiple operations aimed at curtailing retail theft, which resulted in a significant number of arrests. One focused two-day operation alone netted 38 arrests, underscoring the department’s commitment to protecting local businesses and deterring organized shoplifting rings.
5. Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaigns
The safety of Cherry Hill’s roadways remains a top priority. As part of a national effort, CHPD officers have been actively cracking down on distracted drivers, particularly during campaigns like the "UDrive. UText. UPay." initiative. This high-visibility enforcement targets drivers using handheld devices, reinforcing the dangers of distracted driving and reducing serious accidents on local streets.
Commitment to State Directives and Transparency
The CHPD continues to operate with a strong commitment to state-mandated policies that ensure fairness and transparency. The department has reaffirmed its commitment to the New Jersey Immigrant Trust Directive. This 2018 directive largely restricts local and state police departments from participating in federal immigration enforcement, a policy designed to build trust with immigrant communities and encourage all residents to report crimes without fear of deportation.
Furthermore, the department adheres to the Major Discipline Reporting requirements set by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, ensuring public accountability for any officer misconduct. This dedication to state directives showcases the department's effort to maintain high standards of policing and community trust within the Camden County region.
How to Connect with the Cherry Hill Police Department
For non-emergency inquiries, reporting, or to get involved in the new 2025 programs like the Citizen Police Academy, residents can utilize the department's resources. The CHPD headquarters is located at 820 Mercer Street, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002. The availability of police records and the ability to sign criminal charges are also managed through the department's administrative services. The renewed focus on community-centric programs and modern policing strategies under Chief Ostermueller ensures that the Cherry Hill Police Department is poised to address the public safety needs of the township effectively throughout 2025 and beyond.
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