DOVER — A group of 46 cadets proudly crossed the finish line as graduates of the Dover Junior Police Academy, capping off a transformative week of hands-on training, team-building, and real-world exposure to the many facets of law enforcement.

Throughout the week-long program, cadets received drill instruction and mentorship from officers across several agencies, starting with Drill Instructor Peralta of the Rockaway Township Police Department and Drill Instructor Giaquinto of the Washington Township Police Department. Cadets engaged in intense physical training, learned proper marching techniques, and developed the discipline necessary for a future in public service.

One of the highlights of the week came when the Morris County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Division introduced cadets to K-9 Tim, who gave a thrilling demonstration of his skills in detection and apprehension.

The educational journey continued with presentations from federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and DEA, offering cadets insight into national investigations and the critical work of federal agents.

Cadets also toured the Morris County Correctional Facility, hosted by the Sheriff’s Correctional Division, where they learned about the responsibilities of correctional officers, the complexity of maintaining order, and the importance of professionalism when dealing with incarcerated individuals.

Another impactful moment was a visit to the Morris County Communications Center, where cadets gained an understanding of emergency communications technology and its role in policing.

Their day concluded with a memorable tour of the Atlantic Health Air One helicopter, which landed at Crescent Field, giving cadets a firsthand look at air medical services and how helicopters are used in critical rescue and transport missions.

This week was more than just education—it was a deep dive into the world of law enforcement that taught respect, integrity, leadership, and service.

A special thank you to Mayor James P. Dodd, the Dover Police Department, and all participating agencies for their unwavering support of this program and for their commitment to mentoring the next generation.

Councilwoman Wittner’s recent post presents a false narrative about police staffing in Dover and wrongly accuses me and the Mayor of making decisions we simply did not make. Since she chose to spread misinformation in a public forum, I need to set the record straight.

At no time did I direct the Police Department to reduce staffing from four officers to three. In fact, I recently learned that the four-officer minimum currently in place was established by Chief Delaney in 2022, on his own initiative. For some time, the town was led to believe—based on information provided by members of the department—that this minimum staffing level was the result of a formal contract negotiation. It was only during a recent discussion that Chief Delaney admitted it was his own directive, one he could change at any time if he alone chooses to do so.

For years, Dover operated safely with three officers per shift. I have no personal preference between three or four, as long as public safety is protected and the department stays within its budget. I have never attempted to interfere with staffing decisions, nor would I. The Chief has exclusive authority over daily operations under what is often referred to as the “Chief’s Bill of Rights.” I fully support and respect that.

However, I also have a responsibility to ensure the Town operates within its legal budget. The Police Department’s budget is already more than double the size of any other department in Dover, and overtime costs have become a growing concern. Every department head, including the Chief, is expected to manage within their allocated budget—just like every other municipal department across New Jersey. That’s not micromanagement; that’s basic fiscal responsibility.

It is disappointing that Councilwoman Wittner made no effort to reach out to me before making false and inflammatory public statements. A single phone call could have avoided this. Instead, she chose to misrepresent the facts and undermine my efforts to serve the Town with professionalism and integrity.

I ask that she correct the record and refrain from using my name in political posts that contain false information.

I am hopeful that, moving forward, we can engage in respectful and fact-based dialogue focused on the needs of Dover’s residents and the responsible governance they deserve.

I was officially appointed as the new Business Administrator on Tuesday night, and by Thursday—just two days later—a false narrative began circulating, first from the PBA and now echoed by a member of the Town Council. I generally avoid engaging with negativity, but this must stop if we’re going to work together for the good of Dover.

I operate with an open-door policy and welcome constructive dialogue. However, I will not allow political agendas to misuse my name. Our focus should be on helping and better serving our community—not fueling division.

Spending between $500,000 and $700,000 in overtime for a single department—where base salaries already exceed six figures—is simply unsustainable. We cannot justify straining every other department to support this level of spending.

It’s time to stop the misinformation and start working collaboratively. The numbers speak for themselves.