News & Information

On Friday, June 3, 2011, the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association and the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office joined with local law enforcement agencies to participate in the first-ever countywide Chief for a Day celebration.
In partnership with local law enforcement and the communities of Bergen County, Chief for a Day is designed to brighten the lives of local children with chronic health conditions. The inspirational program provides children and their families with a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of law enforcement.
All participating police departments sponsored a child from their community. The Township of Washington’s 2011 Chief for a day is 9-year-old Sean Ender. Sean is a Washington School student whose hobbies are: Cub Scouts, Video games, Swimming and Math.
Sean received his own Police Uniform to wear for the day. On the morning of June 3, 2011 Sean was picked up from his residence by Chief of Police Randy Ciocco and transported to headquarters. Once at headquarters Sean was sworn in by Mayor Janet Sobkowicz followed by a breakfast with Police Department members. After his morning at the Township Police headquarters Sean was transported by the Chief of Police to the Bergen County Justice Center, where they participated in a group ceremony.
At approximately 11:30 a.m., a motorcade left the Justice Center en route to Lodi Memorial Park. The new Chiefs ended the day there with a lunch and a variety of demonstrations by law enforcement agencies including K-9, Mounted and specialty units from across the county. At the conclusion of the festivities, Sean received a plaque and certificate commemorating his participation as Chief for a Day. Sean was given a gift basket donated by PBA Local 206 - Washington Township Unit.

2011 Washington Twp. Chief for a Day, 9 year-old Sean Ender

WTPD Chief Randy Ciocco, Chief for a Day Sean Ender, Washington Twp Mayor Janet Sobkowicz

"Chief" Ender giving Roll-Call and Orders of the Day in the Muster Room

Sean's Chief for a Day gift basket presented by PBA Local 206 - Washington Township Unit

The Township of Washington Police Department hired three new Police Officers on May 27, 2011:

Travis Cangialosi graduated from Park Ridge High School in 2003. He attended the University of Hartford in 2007, receiving a B.A. in History. There he was a charter member of the History Honor Society and a charter member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Cangialosi attended the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute's Basic Police Training Class #105, which began Friday July 23 and ended on Friday December 17. He is also a 5 year member of the Park Ridge Volunteer Fire Department. Cangialosi is the son of Ronald and Harriet Cangialosi, from the Borough of Park Ridge.

Christopher Reilly graduated from Northern Valley Old Tappan in 2004. He attended Saint Thomas Aquinas College of Sparkill NY in 2008, receiving a B.S. in Criminal Justice. Reilly attended the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute’s Basic Police Training Class #104, which began Friday January 29, 2010 and ended on Friday June 17, 2010. He is also a 9 year member of the Old Tappan Fire Department as well as a 4 year member of the Old Tappan Ambulance Corp. Reilly is the son of Terrence and Betty Reilly of Old Tappan.

Vincent Santa is 27 and grew up mostly in Garfield and Midland Park NJ. He graduated from Bergen Community College with an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice. Soon after he was accepted into the Alternate Route Program with the Bergen County Police Academy and graduated on 12/17/2010 with P.O. Cangialosi in Recruit Class #105. He worked as a specialized rigger and climber until he was hired by the Township of Washington Police Department.

From Left: Police Officers Christopher Reilly, Travis Cangialosi, and Vincent Santa

Saturday, April 30, 2011
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. More than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs, according to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Each day, approximately, 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.

In an effort to address this problem, DEA, in conjunction with state and local law enforcement agencies throughout the United States, conducted the first ever National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, September 25, 2010. The purpose of this National Take Back Day was to provide a venue for persons who wanted to dispose of unwanted and unused prescription drugs. This effort was a huge success in removing potentially dangerous prescription drugs, particularly controlled substances, from our nation’s medicine cabinets. There were approximately 3,000 state and local law enforcement agencies throughout the nation that participated in the event. All told, the American Public turned in more than 121 tons of pills on this first National Take Back Day.

Due to the overwhelming success of the first event, DEA has scheduled the second National Prescription Drug Take Back Day which will take place on Saturday, April 30, 2011, from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm. This is a great opportunity for those who missed the first event or who have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to safely dispose of them. Further information about the second National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will be posted on this website.

www.deadiversion.us.doj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback

Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Police Chief Randy Ciocco announces the recovery of a stolen vehicle. On March 7th, at approximately 08:13 a.m., Police Officer Steven Riedel was on patrol when he observed a vehicle parked in the Our Lady of Good Counsel parking lot in the Township. Officer Riedel identified the vehicle from an alert put out by the Borough of Westwood on January 30th, 2011.
A computer check was run on the vehicle. The Desk Officer, Sgt David Mino, confirmed the vehicle was entered as stolen by the Westwood PD. Detective Sergeant John Calamari arrived on scene to assist.
Detective Warren Morrell of the Westwood Police Department responded to the scene and confirmed it was the vehicle in question. The Vehicle was then transported to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation at the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department for processing.
The investigation is ongoing by the Westwood Police Department. Chief Randy Ciocco would like to state through fluid communication, cooperation, and common goals shared between the Township of Washington Police Department and the Westwood Police Department, situations such as this one are quickly tackled through a professional and diligent response.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Police Chief Randy Ciocco announces the ongoing investigation of a burglary that took place on Monday February 14, 2011.
On February 14th, at approximately 12:35 p.m., Cpl Thomas Lawton and Cpl. Michael Glock were dispatched to a report of a burglary on Washington Avenue in the Township. Upon their arrival they were approached by the homeowner. The resident reported an unknown male party had entered his residence while he was home.
A preliminary investigation revealed the resident was located in the back room of the house when the unknown male party forced entry through the front door of the house and proceeded straight to the master bedroom where he removed jewelry. At this point the burglar realized that someone was home and he abruptly fled the scene.
The burglary suspect is described as follows: a dark skinned male, possibly black or possibly Hispanic, approximately 6ft tall with black hair and a ponytail. The suspect possibly fled the area in a small white colored vehicle.
Det/Sgt John Calamari was dispatched to the Washington Avenue home to process the scene for trace evidence with assistance from the Bureau of Criminal Investigation of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department. The investigation is ongoing and Chief Randy Ciocco would like the public to assist by reporting strange, unusual and/or suspicious activity to the police department without delay at (201)-664-1140. Citizens may dial 9-1-1 from any telephone to report an emergency.

Thursday, February 10, 2011
Police Chief Randy Ciocco wishes to announce the Township of Washington Community Policing Unit, under the direction of Lieutenant Rich Skinner, hosted an informational session for local seniors to highlight the Bergen County Sheriff's Office Gold Star I.D. Program. Lieutenant Skinner stated “This program overall is valuable and will enhance the safety of our seniors, the core of our community”. The session took place at the Knights of Columbus, 70 Pascack Road, at 1:30 p.m on February 9, 2011. This cooperative effort was brought together by the Township of Washington Community Policing Unit and the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department.
Bergen County Sheriff Michael Saudino and Officer Aimee Mehnert from BCSO’s Community Outreach Unit discussed the agency’s Gold Star Identification Program, which provides first responders with vital medical information in the event of an emergency. Participating senior citizens are issued a photo identification card, which corresponds to a file maintained by the BCSO’s 24-Hour Operations Unit.
Data kept on file includes a list of family and emergency contacts, physician’s contact information, as well as current and prior medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, or if a participant becomes incapacitated during a medical emergency, the Operations Unit will release his or her emergency contact information to first responders.
During the informational session, officers answered questions about the program and distributed applications. This program was set up by Bergen County Sheriff's Officer Aimee Mehnert and Township Police Officer Heather Castronova. On Feb. 23 at 11:30 a.m., they will return to the Township to process the I.D. cards at the Washington Township Municipal Building, 350 Hudson Ave. Any seniors unable to attend this work session can pick up applications at the Township of Washington Police Department.
The Gold Star Identification Program is available for county residents over the age of 65 and residents with special needs. For more information about the program, please contact the BCSO’s Community Outreach Unit at 201-336-3540.

S.O. Mehnert, Lt. Skinner, Golden Senior President Kay Capolla, and Sheriff Michael Saudino

Saturday, February 5, 2011
Township of Washington Police Chief Randy Ciocco wishes to announce the successful response to a car fire that occurred on Friday, February 4, 2011. The response to this incident involved assets from the Township of Washington Fire Department and Police Department.
On February 4, 2011 shortly after 8 a.m. Police Headquarters received a 9-1-1 call via Paramus PD reporting a vehicle fire located in a driveway on Ridgewood Rd. The desk officer, P.O. Vincent Montalbano, immediately dispatched Lieutenant Rich Skinner, D/Sgt John Calamari, Cpl. Saverio Fasciano, and the Fire Department. The trio of officers arrived within moments and located a vehicle fully engulfed in the driveway of the residence. At this point the area was secured by the Officers to assist the Township Fire Department. In spite of the icy ground conditions the Fire Department, under the direction of Fire Chief Christopher Meyer, knocked down the fire within minutes of the initial report.
There was no damage to the residence. A preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was most likely accidental. The Fire Department has already determined the ignition began in the vehicle, likely as a result of a malfunction.
Police Chief Randy Ciocco would like to point out the hard work and rapid response of the Township Fire Department in this instance and in so many other incidents. Through fluid communication, cooperation, and common goals shared between the Township of Washington Police and Fire Departments, emergencies such as this one are quickly tackled through a professional and diligent response.

Sunday, January 30, 2011
Police Chief Randy Ciocco wishes to announce the life saving actions by Township Officers. This action is the result of an ongoing investigation of an underage drinking party hosted by a parent in the Township. This is the result of a 9-1-1 call placed on Saturday.
On the evening of January 29, 2011 just after 9 p.m. Cpl Michael Glock and Police Officer Vincent Montalbano were dispatched to a report of an unconscious party at a Valley Ct. residence. Upon arrival the officers observed a residence occupied by several dozen juveniles with adult supervision possibly consuming alcoholic beverages.
Upon arrival to the residence the Officers were directed to an unresponsive 22-year-old male located in the bathroom. Officers were unable to detect a pulse and the male was not breathing. The male was moved to the living room and rescue breathing was initiated. At this time a weak pulse was detected. Westwood Ambulance along with Hackensack University Medical Center Paramedic 106 arrived and took over treatment of the male party. Next officers were directed to an 18-yr-old male who was visibly intoxicated and incoherent. The 18-year-old male was transported to Bergen Regional Medical Center by Tri-Boro Ambulance. This matter is still under investigation and charges are pending.
Chief Randy Ciocco states that defendants in every case are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Township Police Chief Randy Ciocco wishes to announce a fraud attempt on the Wing Lee Chinese restaurant in the Township. Lieutenant Jack Oppelt investigated this incident.
On January 19, 2011, the owner of the Wing Lee Restaurant came into Headquarters to report an attempted fraud. The owner stated he received a phone call from a male party claiming to be from a Federal Health Agency. The caller stated that they had received a health related complaint against the business. The caller went on to state they would be sending an inspector to the business and they could expect to pay a fine of $2,000.00.
Lt Oppelt contacted the local board of health official who stated there were no open cases against Wing Lee and was aware of similar scams that had taken place throughout the state. This investigation is ongoing and local businesses are urged to contact Police Headquarters if they have received similar phone calls.
Chief Ciocco states’ fostering a positive relationship between our local businesses and the Police department is vital for our community. Suspicious activity should always be reported to Police Headquarters in a timely manner. Business owners should be apprehensive of unknown parties making phone calls to them without official identification that can be verified.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Township Police Chief Randy Ciocco wishes to announce the arrest of a 21-year-old West Orange woman for DWI on Sunday, January 16, 2011. This arrest stemmed from a noise complaint made by a resident of the Township investigated by P.O. Steven Riedel.
In the early morning hours, at approximately 4:00 a.m., Police Officer Steven Riedel was on patrol when he was dispatched to a noise complaint on Kennedy Drive. Officer Riedel conducted a canvass of the area spotting the vehicle at the south end of Kennedy Drive. He subsequently approached the running occupied vehicle. While speaking with the driver Officer Riedel detected a strong odor of alcoholic beverage emanating from the 21-year-old’s breath. At the scene the 21-year-old failed a
battery of standard field sobriety tests. With assistance from F/Sgt Gregg Hackbarth, the West Orange woman was taken into custody without incident.
At Police Headquarters, the 21-year-old submitted to a Breathalyzer test. She was subsequently cited for Improper use of Horn and Driving while Intoxicated.
Chief Ciocco states that defendants in every case are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Furthermore, he would like to recognize P.O. Riedel for his diligence. Protecting our citizens and neighborhoods is a priority for Police Departments everywhere.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Chief Randy Ciocco announced a serious automobile crash that occurred on Washington Avenue on Tuesday November 30, 2010. The response to this crash involved assets from the Police Department, Hillsdale Ambulance Corps, Township of Washington Fire Department and Paramedics 105 from Hackensack University Medical Center.
On November 30, 2010, at approximately 1:34 p.m., Police headquarters had received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a crash involving two vehicles. Sgt. William Curl and Cpl. Michael Glock were dispatched and arrived in moments of the report. Upon arrival Officers determined one vehicle operator was trapped in a vehicle and requested W.T.F.D to respond to extricate the occupant.
A Honda accord traveling west bound on Washington Ave occupied my a 22-year-old male party from Ozone Park N.Y. lost control of his vehicle and slid into the east bound lane. A Subaru traveling eastbound on Washington Ave occupied by 19-year-old male out Of the Borough of Westwood collided with the Honda in the eastbound lane. The driver of the Honda was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010
      Hillsdale Police Chief Chip Stalter, Washington Township Police Chief Randy Ciocco, and River Vale Police Chief Michael J. McCann jointly announced the successful completion of a special safety program entitled Safe Banks—Safe Businesses on the evening of Tuesday, November 16, 2010. This program was a collaborative effort on the part of all three police agencies. It provided an important look at bank safety and security to an audience of area bank employees.
      In cooperation with Oritani Bank, under the direction of Bank President & CEO Kevin J. Lynch, Police Officer Heather Castronova of the Washington Township Police Department organized a regional presentation for all area bank employees to discuss safety issues facing the banking industry. The gathering was graciously hosted by Oritani Bank at their headquarters in Washington Township, and drew more than 30 employees who hail from banks in Washington Township, Hillsdale, Westwood, and River Vale. Officer Castronova
enlisted the assistance of Hillsdale Police Officer Jeff Angermeyer, a state-certified Crime Prevention Officer, to lead the discussion about key industry standards and best practices for bank safety and security.
      Washington Township Police Chief Randy Ciocco explained:
“This program epitomizes the best of community policing and the importance of being proactive about real safety issues that can affect banks in the Township of Washington and across the Pascack Valley.” Chief Ciocco continued, “I am thankful to Oritani Bank President Kevin Lynch, and all of the bank employees who attended from throughout the area, for making this project such a success. Staying ahead of the next emergency is only possible through a real partnership with the residents, the businesses and the concerned citizens of each town.”
      The Safe Banks—Safe Businesses project was accomplished through efforts led by all three police departments. River Vale Police Detective Sergeant John DeVoe and Hillsdale Police Officer William Diedtrich joined with Washington Township’s Officer Castronova and Hillsdale’s Officer Angermeyer to assist with notifying the employees of area banks about the event, and then facilitating the discussions held during the actual program. None of the police departments incurred overtime or drew any special expenses in coordinating and delivering this special event thanks to diligent pre-planning.
      The Safe Banks—Safe Businesses program was originally conceived in 2009 by Hillsdale Police Officer Jeff Angermeyer, with assistance from Hillsdale Detective Sergeant Bob Francaviglia. During its inaugural run in 2009, the program was held in Hillsdale Borough Hall. This year’s version was updated with new material and illuminated some of the subtext that the 2009 version first introduced. Thanks to the ambition of Police Chief
Ciocco and Officer Castronova, this project was introduced to Oritani Bank, who wanted to become a partner in the idea and offered their facility as a centrally-located meeting point with plenty of space for all of the attendees. As such, Safe Banks—Safe Businesses 2010 was able to accommodate a larger audience than before.
      The success of this program, which may quickly become an annual event, is not measured by the number of bank robberies or false alarm calls in the Pascack Valley. Hillsdale Police Officer Jeff Angermeyer, who led the presentation, concluded:
“The value of this program is simply that it gives bank employees a chance to contemplate a critical incident ahead of time. Whether it is a medical emergency in the bank lobby, a scam artist presenting a fake I.D., or an actual bank robbery, the only way to be prepared is to have thought about these issues beforehand. Our success here can be counted by the number of questions answered during the presentation or perhaps by the number of new ideas that will be brought back to the different bank branches.”
      Police Chief Chip Stalter originally commissioned this effort in 2009 to ensure open dialogue between the financial institutions of the Pascack Valley and their local police departments. Chief Stalter commented:
“Vigilance against complacency is most crucial for bank tellers, whose mere profession unfortunately lends itself to a certain degree of risk. I hope that this program continues to grow with each passing year and I am not surprised to see the same expectations and enthusiasm from Chief Ciocco, Chief McCann, and their police officers.”
      Among the many bank employees who attended the event, other special guests included the mayor of Washington Township, Honorable Janet Sobkowicz, as well as several top administrators from Oritani Bank. River Vale Detective Sergeant John DeVoe remarked:
“Programs like this one are the best possible examples of cooperation, mutual respect, and teamwork between the police and the community. It is important to continue to build ties with our local businesses, and in doing so, the residents of our towns can enjoy the positive benefits. In the end, our banks become even safer places and our bank employees are properly prepared for emergencies that may arise.”

Police Department conducts Halloween Safety Week and Town Hall opens its doors to Girl Scouts

Chief Randy Ciocco announced the completion of another successful Halloween Safety week and other community Policing activities the week of October 25-29, 2010. They are as follows:

Halloween Safety at the Jessie F George School and the Washington School grades K thru 4th given by P.O. Heather Castronova.

Mischief Night Speech at the Jessie F George School and The Washington School grade 5 given by P.O. Heather Castronova.

Mischief Night speech at the Westwood Regional Middle School given by Sgt Matt McClutchy of the Westwood Police Department and P.O. Heather Castronova.

Tour of Police headquarters given by Chief Randy Ciocco and P.O. Heather Castronova to Girl Scout Jr Troop #354.

Tour of Town Hall and the Township of Washington Municipal court given by Mayor Janet Sobkowicz to Girl Scout Jr Troop #354.

Halloween treats handed out to the Students of the Sullivan Center by Chief Randy Ciocco and Motorcycle Unit Officer Sgt Roy Scherer during the Sullivan Center’s Trunk or Treat.

Chief Randy Ciocco would like to recognize the hard-working men and women of the Township of Washington Police Department who provide round-the-clock protection and services to the residents 365 days each year. Halloween Safety Week is yet another example of ways that the Police Department forges a partnership with the citizenry, rapport with residents, and maintains a posture of community-oriented policing.

Now that the holiday season is approaching, and historically this is the time of year burglaries take place, residents can take several simple actions that make a difference and can deter burglaries:

Senior citizens have been the target of diversion type burglaries. The actor in these cases attempts to gain entry as a utility company or television service employee. Do not allow anyone access or entry into your home unless you are certain who they are and where they are from. Contact the Police Department immediately when in doubt.

As always the Police Department encourages residents to call and report anything suspicious. Your report could stop a crime in progress!!

Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Westwood and Township of Washington Police Departments will be continuing their “Zero Tolerance Policy” this year during Halloween and “Mischief Night”. These standards are very important for the safety of our children and the protection of private property. Parents have to take an active role in order for these standards to be successful. The Police Departments understand that revelry is a part of the Halloween tradition. Please remember that certain activities are unacceptable, even at this time of year. Damaging the property of another is against the law. Juveniles caught participating in any form of criminal mischief will be brought to Police Headquarters for appropriate action and will only be released to a parent or guardian. Parents should speak with their children about unacceptable activities or not allow their children out on these nights without adult supervision.
The standards that will be enforced this year include:
• A Zero Tolerance policy toward acts of criminal mischief, trespassing and aggressive behavior. Anyone found defacing or damaging private property will be arrested and charged.
• We will confiscate all items, including toilet paper and shaving cream, from juveniles found wandering around the Township and Borough unsupervised. Names of all unsupervised juveniles will be recorded.
• Any juveniles found with items we feel pose a significant threat to people or property will be brought to headquarters and processed according to the law. These items include eggs, spray paint, paintball guns, and any other items that could be considered a threat.

A strict 9:00 P.M. curfew will be enforced on October 30th and 31st. Anyone in violation will be brought to Police Headquarters.

Thursday, October 21, 2010
Chief Randy Ciocco announced a serious automobile crash along the Garden State Parkway South Bound at the Pascack Valley toll plaza on, Thursday October 21, 2010. The response to this crash involved assets from the Police Department, Ambulance Corps, Fire Department, and New Jersey State Police and repair crews from the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.
On October 21, 2010, at approximately 10:45 p.m., Police headquarters had received multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a crash involving a vehicle into the Pascack Valley toll plaza south bound on the Garden State Parkway. Police Officer Christopher Kelley and Police Officer Vincent Montalbano were dispatched and arrived in moments of the report.
The vehicle heading south bound on the Garden State Parkway struck the toll plaza injuring not only the driver but an attendant in the toll booth. The driver was taken into custody by the New Jersey State Police for suspicion of being under the influence of any liquor or drugs that could have impaired his ability to operate his automobile. The driver of the vehicle and the employee in the toll booth were transported to an area hospital for treatment and further evaluation.
Chief Randy Ciocco would like to recognize all Agency’s at the scene for their valued assistance during this incident. Further, Chief Ciocco would like to recognize the Township of Washington Fire Department for their response to this incident. Through a regular and coordinated effort of fluid communication, incidents like these that involve different branches of emergency services are handled successfully.

Chief Randy Ciocco announced the arrest of a 23-year-old Washington Township man for narcotics paraphernalia possession on Sunday, October 17, 2010. This arrest stemmed from an investigation conducted by F/Sgt Gregg Hackbarth, Cpl Arsenio Pecora, and Police Officer Steven Riedel.

On Sunday, October 17, 2010, F/Sgt Gregg Hackbarth, Cpl Arsenio Pecora and Police Officer Steven Riedel were dispatched to a report of a male party having convulsions. While providing medical attention to the 23-year-old male he divulged he was under the influence of narcotics.

Further investigation by Cpl Pecora revealed that the man was in possession of a metal spoon for cooking narcotics. As a result the man was taken into custody and transported to an area hospital for medical attention.

The 23-year-old Township man was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, a disorderly persons. Chief Randy Ciocco states that defendants in every case are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Chief Randy Ciocco announced the arrest of a 19-year-old Washington Township woman for narcotics possession on Thursday, October 14, 2010. This arrest stemmed from an investigation conducted by D/Sgt John Calamari, Police Officer Vincent Montalbano, and Police Officer Heather Castronova.
On Thursday, October 14, 2010, Police Officer Heather Castronova was on patrol when she observed two individuals walking around the Schlegel Lake property. As such, D/Sgt John Calamari, Officer Montalbano and Officer Castronova checked the area. While checking Schlegel Lake they observed a male and female sitting at the edge of the Lake.
Further investigation revealed that the female was in possession of a piece of tin foil containing marijuana, as well as a cigar containing marijuana. As a result the female was taken into custody by Officer Castronova with the assistance of D/Sgt John Calamari. She was transported to Police Headquarters for arrest processing without incident.
At Headquarters, the Township woman was charged with possession of marijuana a disorderly persons offenses. The 19-year-old was subsequently released on her own recognizance pending future court appearance.
Chief Randy Ciocco states that defendants in every case are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Chief Ciocco is proud of the coordination between the Detective Bureau and the Patrol division.

Wednesday, October 13, 2010
On Tuesday October 12, 2010, Captain Randy Ciocco was appointed to the position of Chief of Police. Chief Ciocco will be the Township’s fifth police Chief. Chief Ciocco was hired by the Township of Washington Police Department on April 1, 1973 under the direction of Chief William Beppler, the department's first Chief. Chief Beppler was a man that Chief Ciocco grew to respect and admire during his career.

In 1980 Chief Ciocco earned an associate’s degree in Applied science from Bergen Community College. The following year he was promoted to the prestigious rank of Detective, a roll he held in the Department for many years to follow. Chief Ciocco was promoted to detective Sergeant in 1988, Lieutenant in charge of operations in 2000, and finally Captain of police in 2009.

Chief Ciocco, an active PBA 206 member, was president of the local from 1983-84 and remained on the executive board until this year. He is certified by the Police Training Commission as a police instructor as well as the department's crime prevention officer, officer in charge of training, and the head range officer.

As a Detective in the Township of Washington Police Department Chief Ciocco worked many high profile cases. Chief Ciocco was the lead Detective of the 1976 rape and murder of Kim Montelaro at the hands of Christopher Righetti. The young woman was a loved student at Immaculate Heart Academy in Washington Township. Just last year Chief Ciocco joined the Montelaro family in Trenton to show his support during Righetti’s parole hearing. Righetti remains incarcerated to this day.

This appointment is an exciting accomplishment for Chief Ciocco, but also signifies a new chapter in the history of the Washington Township Police Department.

Police responded to a serious accident on Monday afternoon that occurred when a vehicle heading east on Washington Avenue was stuck by a vehicle attempting to make a left turn from a Garden State Parkway exit ramp.

The Township of Washington Police Department received multiple 911 calls around 3:20 p.m. on Oct. 11 reporting an overturned vehicle on Washington Avenue at the exit ramp of mile marker 168 of the Parkway, said Officer Heather Castronova, a department spokesperson.

Within moments of the initial reports, Acting Chief Randy Ciocco, Lt. Glenn Hooper, Lt. Jack Oppelt and Sgt. William Curl arrived at the scene, she said.

A preliminary investigation into the cause of the accident revealed that neither driver was under the influence of any alcohol or drugs that could have impaired their ability to operate their vehicles. Authorities have not detected any criminality, Castronova said.

None of the occupants of the two vehicles sustained any serious injuries, however the occupants of the overturned vehicle were transported by Hillsdale EMS to an area hospital for treatment and further evaluation.

At approximately 3:20 p.m., police headquarters received a 911 call reporting a kitchen fire at a Crest Place residence.

Sgt. Roy Scherer, who is also a volunteer fireman, Cpl Michael Glock and Officer Vincent Montalbano were immediately dispatched. Upon arrival at the scene the three officers encountered heavy smoke emanating from the residence. They entered the home and located the homeowner, who directed officers to the second floor where there was a fire on the stove.

Montalbano extinguished the fire, while Scherer and Glock checked the residence for additional occupants. The two officers located a second occupant and made sure both occupants were removed safely from the residence.

The Washington Township Fire Department arrived and the scene was turned over to the firefighters. Hillsdale and Tri-Boro EMS also responded to the scene.

Damage to the home was limited only to the kitchen and the second floor of the residence. A preliminary investigation revealed the fire was most likely accidental and began in the kitchen, likely as a result of a grease fire.

Acting Chief Randy Ciocco has announced that the Washington Township Police Department is now using Twitter, a social networking site.

Residents can now receive instant updates from the Washington Township Police Department by following them on Twitter.com. The department will be sending "Tweets" to notify area residents of emergency situations, road closures, severe weather, safety tips, upcoming events, and other relevant information.

Followers can opt to have the information sent directly to their cell phones via text message, essentially enabling them to receive these notifications instantly.

A Township of Washington resident came to police headquarters Sept. 8 to report that she had received a suspicious check from a delivery company. The check was issued from a Bank of America branch in California.

The resident stated that she did not know the name of the account holder on the check. Lt. Jack Oppelt advised the woman that this particular scam is common and that she would likely receive some communication in regards to the check.

In a few days the resident reported she had received an e-mail advising her to deposit the check without delay, keep $350 for herself and forward the remaining funds to a party in Nebraska.

Further investigation by Oppelt revealed that the check was fraudulent as well as the account holder. The resident was advised and a loss was prevented.

An 18-year-old Township of Washington man and three male juveniles were arrested for theft on Sept. 9. The arrests stemmed from an investigation conducted by Police Officer Steven Riedel and Police Officer Richard Parsells.

On the evening of Sept. 9 at approximately 6:40 p.m. Riedel and Parsells were on routine patrol when they were dispatched on a report of a theft of lawn ornaments on Chestnut Street. Upon arrival the pair of officers observed four males standing around a vehicle located in the area of the residence where the theft occurred. Also standing with the suspects were several Chestnut Street residents.

After an investigation all four parties were taken into custody without incident and transported to headquarters. At headquarters the 18-year-old was charged with theft and a disorderly person’s offense. He was released on his own recognizance and has to return back to court. Complaints are pending for the three juveniles.

An employee of the Township of Washington Tennis Club contacted police headquarters while she was at work to report that she had been the victim of a theft. She reported that a white male had entered the tennis club one hour before, stating that his vehicle had broken down on the Garden State Parkway.

The male went on to state that he needed $40 in cash to pay the tow truck and would return shortly to reimburse the money. In turn he gave the woman his social security card.

Police officer Heather Castronova and Sgt. David Mino were then dispatched to the tennis club. Further investigation by Castronova, with the assistance of Westwood police and Old Tappan police located an address for the suspect in the Borough of Park Ridge. The suspect came to police headquarters the following day and made restitution to the victim.

Township of Washington police officers are searching for a burglary suspect in connection with two reports of a suspicious man attempting to use landscaping work to gain access to private property.

On Monday afternoon at 12:24 p.m. Sgt. Bill Curl and Cpl. Michael Glock were dispatched to Harrison Street on a report of suspicious activity. The resident of the home reported that a suspicious man, described as a tall, bald black male, came on to her property soliciting landscaping services. The resident said she told the man she was not interested and he left in a small grey car, believed to be a Nissan.

Shortly after, a Crest Place resident came to police headquarters and reported a similar story of suspicious activity near his home. He said he had heard a noise in his basemen. Upon investigation, he saw a tall black male walking on his property. The man told the homeowner he was in the area to do landscaping work, and explained he must have had the wrong house. He then fled the area.

Detective Sgt. John Calamari and officers from the Bergen County Sheriff's Department Bureau of Criminal Investigation went to the Crest Street home to look for trace evidence at the scene.

The man, believed to be approximately 6 feet tall, was last seen wearing shorts and a white t-shirt and is believed to be operating a silver Nissan with California license plates. Acting Police Chief Randy Ciocco has asked that the public call 911 to report any sightings of the suspect or strange or unusual activity to the police.

Washington Township Police are asking the public for help in finding a burglary suspect that has struck in the borough and several miles away in Rochelle Park.

Police in Washington Township were called by a Harrison Street resident at 12:24 p.m. on Monday when a suspicious man came on to the property to solicit landscaping services. When the resident said she was not interested, the man left the area by car, police said.

A short time later, a resident entered police headquarters to report a man on his property. The resident, of Crest Place, heard a noise in the basement and found a man walking the property. The man told the homeowner he was in the area doing landscaping work but had the wrong residence, police said. He then fled.

That afternoon at around 12:55 p.m., Rochelle Park Police were told by a resident that a man tried to enter his home on Rochelle Avenue – a connecting road to Washington Township - through the garage. The resident had left his garage door open and while inside, saw the doorknob connecting the garage to the home begin to turn. The homeowner went to investigate, saw a man standing in the garage, and asked what he wanted. The man wanted to know if the homeowner needed landscaping done but was scared off when the homeowner said he would call police.

Police say the man is described as bald, black and 6 feet tall. He was last seen wearing a t-shirt and shorts. The car is described as a 2007 silver Nissan with a California license plate 5XRL305. Acting Police Chief Randy Ciocco in Washington Township asks the public to call 911 to report any strange or suspicious activity.

Firefighters from the Township of Washington, Westwood, Paramus and Hillsdale and Township of Washington EMS responded to a residential fire on Thursday, August, 26 at approximately 2:57 p.m.

The Police headquarters desk received a 911 call reporting smoke emanating from a garage located on Hampshire Road. The desk officer immediately dispatched Lt. Jack Oppelt, who is also a volunteer fireman, and Sgt. Bill Curl.

The pair of officers arrived within minutes and located heavy smoke emanating from the garage of the residence. The homeowner arrived with the key to the house and the officers confirmed that the residence was unoccupied and all interior doors were closed. The Township of Washington Fire Department, with the help of neighboring fire departments, put out the fire within minutes of the initial report.

Damage to the home was limited to the garage and the house is still inhabitable. A preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was not intentionally set and was most likely accidental. The fire department has determined that ignition began in the garage, likely as a result of a malfunction of an electrical appliance.

A 24-year-old Township of Washington man was arrested during a driving while intoxicated traffic detail Thursday, August 26 at 9:28 p.m.

While monitoring traffic at the detail on Van Emburgh Avenue, First Sgt. Gregg Hackbarth noticed a vehicle with only one operational headlight. He stopped the vehicle and spoke with the driver. While conducting the investigation, Hackbarth noticed a bumper guard on the front of the car that was completely concealing the front license plate.

During the course of verifying the man’s credentials, Hackbarth discovered that he was the subject of an outstanding warrant for an unanswered traffic summons in Paterson. The man was taken into custody and transported to police headquarters for processing.

At headquarters, the man posted bail and was released on his own recognizance, pending a future court appearance. He was cited for the violation of improper display or fictitious plates.

Just after 9 p.m. on Aug. 10, Police Officer Heather Castronova and Police Officer William Jackson were dispatched to a report of a loud party at a Van Emburgh Avenue residence. Upon arrival the officers encountered dozens of juveniles on the property without adult supervision consuming alcoholic beverages.

An investigation conducted by Castronova identified an 18-year-old Park Ridge man as the individual who supplied the alcoholic beverage to the juveniles. The man was arrested and charged with providing alcohol to a person under the legal age.

Saturday, April 30, 2011 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

www.deadiversion.us.doj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback

Saturday, April 30, 2011
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM