2025 Annual Repo rt
Sgt. Ippolito Gonzalez #1107
End of Watch
May 7, 1995
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1. A message from Chief DeCesari
page 3 page 4 page 5
2. Command Staff 3. Department Roster
4. Patrol Division 5. Patrol Squads
pages 6-7 pages 8-11 pages 12-16
6. Support Services Division
7. Detective Bureau
page 17 page 18
Franklin Township Police Patch 2025
8. Professional Standards Division
9. Calls for Service
pages 19-21 pages 22-23 pages 24-25 pages 26-27 pages 28-29 pages 30-31 pages 32-34
10. Motor Vehicle Enforcement & Arrest Data
11. Support Staff
12. Community Policing
13. In Memory of Sergeant Gonzalez
14. Officers of the Month
15. Picture Pages
16. Supervisor of the Year 17. Officer of the Year
page 35 page 36 page 37
18. 2026 FTPD Department Photo
Franklin Township Police Patch 1966 – Early 2000’s
Franklin Township Office of Emergency Management
Franklin Township Police K9 Logo
2 Township of Franklin Est. 1820
Franklin Township Police Department 1571 Delsea Drive Franklinville, NJ 08322 Tele: 856-694-1415 Fax: 856-694-5575
Chief Matthew DeCesari Chief of Police
Lieutenant Anthony Rojas Patrol Division
Captain Jeffrey McGuigan Professional Standards
Lieutenant Andrew Myers Support Services
A message from Chief DeCesari
On behalf of the hard-working men and women of the Franklin Township Police Department, I want to personally thank our residents for the outpouring of support that you have for us. We are very lucky to work in such a great community and every day we strive to protect and serve. Our mission statement is simple. The Franklin Township Police Department is committed to maintaining positive relationships with residents in order to provide superior police service and improve the quality of life in Franklin Township, Newfield Borough, and Buena Borough. We work very hard to uphold our mission and stay true to our core values of upholding the letter of the law and our constitution, being compassionate and treating people with dignity, and providing services that enhance the feeling of safety and security for our residents. The officers that serve this community are second to none. I could not be prouder to serve our residents alongside each and every one of the officers in this department. We want you to know that with your continued support and our commitment to service, we will continue to make Franklin Township, Newfield Borough, and Buena Borough a great place to live and grow a family. Thank you again and we look forward to continuing to serve.
Respectfully,
Matthew P. DeCesari
Chief of Police and Proud Life-Long Resident
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Chief Matthew DeCesari #1144
Lieutenant Andrew Myers #1151
Captain Jeffrey McGuigan #1143
Lieutenant Anthony Rojas #1152
Support Services Division
Professional Standards Division
Patrol Division
Commander
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Commander
Commander
________________________________________________________________________________________________
Squad A
Squad B
Squad C
Squad D
Sgt. J. Fennimore
Sgt. M. Guzman Cpl. A. Fragoso Ofc. G. Moretti Ofc. M. Flynn Ofc. B. Riebel Ofc. T. Kiszelewski Ofc. B. Holdcraft
Cpl. N. Locilento Cpl. M. Neher Ofc. M. Rocco Ofc. J. Branco Ofc. Z. Pharo Ofc. M. Tessier Ofc. O. Alam Traffic Safety Ofc. T. Rambone Police Aides K. Crescitelli B. Demarchi Police Chaplain D. Deegan
Cpl. D. Gallo Cpl. L. Davey Ofc. A. Theuret
Cpl. S. Krauss
Ofc. G. Halikman Ofc. C. Heimerl
Ofc. A. Colofranson
Ofc. J. Miller
Ofc. L. Holdcraft
Ofc. D. Polistina
Ofc. C. Elliott
Ofc. K. Reilly
Ofc. L. Lachowicz
Detectives
SRO’s
Det. D. Colclough
SRO V. Driver
Det. N. Tabler
SRO L. Holdcraft SRO M. Bozarth SRO S. Weston SRO. M. Trabosh SRO. D. LoRusso
Vacant
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Commander:
The Franklin Township Police Department Patrol Division is led by Lieutenant Anthony Rojas who works closely with our Patrol Sergeants on scheduling, training, and special assignments. The Patrol Division Commander works Monday through Friday from 7 am-3 pm and is responsible for being on-call to provide administrative support.
Overview:
The Franklin Township Police Department Patrol Division is the largest division within the police department and consists of one (1) Patrol Lieutenant, four (4) Patrol Sergeants, four (4) Patrol Corporals, and twenty (20) uniformed Patrol officers. The Patrol Division is responsible for responding to over 52,000 calls for service in 2025. The Patrol Division is broken up into four squads of officers who work a rotating 12-hour shift which changes from daywork to nightwork every two weeks. The Patrol Division is broken into two zones, Zone 1 and Zone 2. Zone 1 covers the Northern end of Franklin Township from the Clayton, Elk, and Monroe borders all the way to Rte. 40 and Main Road. Zone 2 covers all areas Southeast of Main Road and includes both Buena and Newfield Boroughs.
Vehicles:
The Patrol Division uses a variety of vehicles to patrol almost 66 square miles. The following vehicles are currently assigned to the Patrol Division:
(10) Ford Interceptors
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(4) Ford Explorers
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(2) Ford F-150 Responders (1) Ford Edge (Administration vehicle)
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All of our patrol vehicles are also equipped with a Mobile Data Terminal computer which allows officers to check vehicle registrations, update CAD information, and do reports all from within
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their vehicle. Most vehicles are equipped with E-ticket printers to allow quick access to New Jersey Courts in order to quickly and efficiently issue traffic summonses. All of our vehicles also have the capability to store a duty shotgun or rifle. Two of our vehicles are also equipped with an Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) which is a camera system that automatically checks vehicle registrations and provides the officer with an alert regarding unregistered vehicles, stolen vehicles, or wanted persons.
Equipment:
A main focus of our Patrol Division is to be prepared for active shooter events. Each patrol squad is equipped with the following: • Rifle rated Ballistic shield • Tactical Medical Bag outfitted with necessary items to stop bleeding during critical incidents
• (2) Less-lethal platforms- Taser 7 & 40 millimeter Less-lethal launcher • Breaching equipment capable of breaching any interior or exterior door • Ram and Sledge hammer
Training:
In addition to the equipment provided to prepare for active shooter events, every officer also receives annual training mandated by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office for active shooter and incident management protocols. Our department also participates in annual active shooter preparation training and this year we hosted a full-scale active shooter drill at Delsea High School that incorporated all aspects of Active Shooter Incident Management (ASIM) and active shooter patrol response techniques.
Duty Weapons:
The Franklin Township Police Department currently carries a Glock .17 handgun while on duty. The department is transitioning in early 2026 to a Glock G47 handgun, which carries nine- millimeter ammunition. Officers also carry either a shotgun or rifle while on duty. The department issued shotgun is a Mossberg 590a and the department issued rifle is a Colt M4 Patrol Rifle. Officers also have the option to purchase and carry their own duty rifle as long as it is compliant with our firearms policy.
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Sergeant Joshua Fennimore #1160
Ofc. Larry Holdcraft #11103
Ofc. Blake Reibel #11105
Corporal Alex Fragoso #1157
K9 Ofc. Greg Halikman #1165
2025 Squad A Statistics:
Investigation Reports:
250
Motor Vehicle Crash Reports:
166
Motor Vehicle Stops:
4,009
Motor Vehicle Tickets Issued:
3,292
Criminal/Warrant Arrests:
201
DWI Arrests:
20
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K9 Activity Reports:
30
Ofc. Luke Lachowicz #11120
Ofc. Brett Holdcraft #11122
Sergeant Michael Guzman #1156
Ofc. Michael Rocco #1173
Ofc. Austin Theuret #1179
Corporal Scott Krauss #1164
Ofc. Joseph Branco #11101
2025 Squad B Statistics:
Investigation Reports:
286
Motor Vehicle Crash Reports:
147
Motor Vehicle Stops:
4,300
Motor Vehicle Tickets Issued:
3,943
Criminal/Warrant Arrests:
166
DWI Arrests:
20
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K9 Activity Reports:
10
Ofc. David Polistina #11116
Ofc. Cody Elliott #11113
Sergeant Joseph Murray #1154
Ofc. Garrett Moretti #1172
Ofc. Anthony Colofranson #1192
Corporal Nicholas Locilento #1158
Ofc. Zach Pharo #11106
2025 Squad C Statistics:
Investigation Reports:
301
Motor Vehicle Crash Reports:
172
Motor Vehicle Stops:
3,672
Motor Vehicle Tickets Issued:
4,094
Criminal/Warrant Arrests:
175
DWI Arrests:
22
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K9 Activity Reports:
12
Ofc. Mason Tessier #11115
Ofc. Tyler Kiszelewski #11114
Corporal David Gallo #1167
Corporal Michael Neher #1155
Ofc. Matthew Flynn #1170
Corporal Louis Davey #1162
Ofc. Charles Heimerl #11102
2025 Squad D Statistics:
Investigation Reports:
186
Motor Vehicle Crash Reports:
150
Motor Vehicle Stops:
5,022
Motor Vehicle Tickets Issued:
4,605
Criminal/Warrant Arrests:
275
DWI Arrests:
26
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K9 Activity Reports:
36
Ofc. Omar Alam #11118
Ofc. Jesse Miller #11108
Commander:
The Franklin Township Police Department Support Services Division is led by Lieutenant Andrew Myers. This Division is comprised of several units to include: Detective Bureau, Traffic Safety Unit, K9 Unit, School Security & SRO’s, Crossing Guard and the Chaplain Program. The Support Services Commander works Monday through Friday from 11 am-7 pm.
Detective Bureau:
The Franklin Township Police Department Detective Bureau is comprised of one (1) Detective Sergeant and three (3) Detectives. This unit is responsible for the investigation of all major crimes occurring within Franklin Township, including homicide, robbery, aggravated assaults, vehicular homicide, and sexual assaults. In addition, Detectives investigate a wide range of property crimes such as burglary, theft, and fraud-related offenses. The Detective Bureau also oversees the department’s evidence function and provides assistance to clerical staff with OPRA and discovery requests. Detectives are further tasked with the registration and monitoring of residents subject to Megan’s Law requirements. To ensure continuous coverage, Detectives rotate on-call responsibilities on a weekly basis to respond to after-hours incidents. On average, Detectives are called in approximately 15–20 times per year outside of normal working hours. Each Detective is assigned a take-home vehicle to ensure timely response while on call. The department recently upgraded the detective fleet, which currently includes one (1) Ford Edge, two (2) Chevrolet Malibu’s, and one (1) Ford Explorer. Detectives receive extensive and ongoing training throughout the year. This training includes search warrant preparation, interview and interrogation techniques, crime scene investigation, fatal motor vehicle crash investigation, arson investigations, juvenile and adult sexual assault investigations, and high-technology crime investigations. Detectives maintain close working relationships with the Gloucester County and Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Offices and are responsible for staying current on the policies and procedures governing each county.
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Traffic Safety Unit:
The Franklin Township Police Department Traffic Safety Unit was established in 2025 to enhance roadway safety and reduce serious motor vehicle crashes throughout the township. The unit is currently comprised of one (1) officer and is supervised by an administrative Sergeant.
The Traffic Safety Unit was created to achieve several key objectives, including:
• Providing high-visibility traffic enforcement in areas experiencing elevated motor vehicle crashes and traffic-related complaints • Maintaining a high-visibility police presence in and around schools during student arrival and dismissal times • Targeting specific roadways and intersections to reduce speeding and moving violations that contribute to fatal and serious motor vehicle crashes • Conducting traffic studies at critical intersections and making recommendations for traffic control devices or traffic pattern modifications Ofc. Thomas Rambone #1168
The officer assigned to the Traffic Safety Unit currently works Monday through Thursday, from 7 am to 5 pm, allowing for focused enforcement during peak traffic periods.
The department’s increased emphasis on traffic enforcement has resulted in a significant reduction in fatal motor vehicle crashes. In 2025, Franklin Township investigated two (2) fatal motor vehicle crashes as compared to seven (7) in 2024—representing a 72% decrease. This measurable success reflects the intended outcome of establishing the Traffic Safety Unit and demonstrates that proactive, high-visibility enforcement efforts are directly contributing to the preservation of life on Franklin Township roadways.
K9 Unit:
The Franklin Township Police Department K9 Unit is currently comprised of three (3) handlers and their assigned K9 partners:
Corporal Nick Locilento and K9 Teli Corporal David Gallo and K9 Zeke Officer Greg Halikman and K9 Sader
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The K9 Unit conducts annual training under the guidance of the New Jersey State Police K9 Unit, ensuring all teams meet the highest professional standards. Each K9 handler is equipped with the necessary tools and resources to operate effectively as a team. The K9 partners reside with their
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handlers, and each handler is assigned a take-home vehicle to ensure rapid deployment and continuous readiness. The unit currently operates Ford Police Interceptor vehicles.
The K9 Unit is funded entirely through the nonprofit organization Franklin Township Friends of K9 , eliminating the financial burden on township taxpayers. The nonprofit is maintained through the dedicated efforts of the Ketchum Family, whose commitment plays a critical role in the unit’s continued success. The unit participates in several fundraising initiatives throughout the year, including a highly successful ATV raffle which occurred last October. The continued success and stability of the Franklin Township Police Department K9 Unit would not be possible without the generosity, dedication, and ongoing support of the Ketchum Family, for which the department is sincerely grateful.
2025 FTPD K9 Unit:
2025 K9 Unit Statistics:
K9 Activity Reports:
95
Tracks:
17
Narcotics Searches:
58
Arrests:
55
Handguns Seized: 5 Types of CDS Seized: Heroin, Marijuana, Ecstasy, Crack Cocaine, Methamphetamine
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K9 Rozo retired on 12/09/2025
School Security Unit:
The Franklin Township Police Department School Security Unit is comprised of six (6) School Resource Officers who are designated as Class III Special Law Enforcement Officers by the State of New Jersey. All officers assigned to this unit are retired law enforcement professionals who meet the qualifications established under state statute. The unit is supervised by an administrative Sergeant.
The School Security Unit is responsible for providing security services to all Franklin Township Public Schools, the Delsea
Regional School District, and Edgarton Christian Academy. The unit supervisor serves as the primary liaison between the police department and all schools within the district, ensuring consistent communication and coordination on school safety matters. In addition, the unit provides assistance to Cleary Elementary School and Our Lady of Mercy Academy with any school security concerns that arise throughout the school year. School Resource Officers perform a wide range of duties, including coordinating security for special school events, maintaining and updating district emergency operations plans, conducting state-mandated security drills, and fostering positive relationships with students, staff, and parents. The Franklin Township Police Department maintains a strong and collaborative relationship with all of its school partners, a partnership in which we take great pride. The department’s highest priority is school safety, and the School Security Unit remains fully committed to preparedness, prevention, and rapid response to any incident that could jeopardize the safety and well-being of our students and school communities.
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2025 School Resource Officers:
SRO Larry Holdcraft #1134 Delsea Middle School
SRO Mike Bozarth #11109 Edgarton/FT Schools
SRO Vince Driver #1116 Delsea High School
SRO Sean Weston #11111 Franklin Twp Schools
SRO Mike Trabosh #11119 FT Schools/Edgarton
SRO Danielle Lorusso #11121 Franklin Twp Schools
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Detective Bureau
D/Sergeant Nick Pasculli #1150
Vacant Detective Position to be filled in early 2026
Detective Nate Tabler #1178
Detective Dylan Colclough #1177
2025 Detective Bureau Statistics:
Investigation Reports:
424
Arrests:
32
Subpoenas:
28
Search Warrants:
25
Communication Data Warrants:
43
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Call Outs:
20
Professional Standards Division
Commander:
The Franklin Township Police Department Professional Standards Division is led by Captain Jeffrey McGuigan. Captain McGuigan works closely with the Gloucester County and Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office to ensure that all Internal Affairs complaints are investigated according to the guidelines set forth by the New Jersey Attorney General. The Professional Standards Division investigates all incidents of alleged officer misconduct, all internal affairs complaints, tracks and audits all meaningful reviews, and conducts mandatory officer drug testing.
Overview:
The Franklin Township Police Department Professional Standards Division investigated twelve Internal Affairs complaints in 2025. Internal Affairs investigations may result in one of the following findings: Sustained, Not Sustained, Unfounded, or Exonerated. All complaints are investigated thoroughly and objectively to ensure that officers are held to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability. In addition, the Professional Standards Division conducted twenty eight command-level meaningful reviews. These reviews are completed following incidents such as uses of force, vehicle pursuits, or officer-involved motor vehicle crashes. Command-level meaningful reviews allow supervisory personnel to evaluate an officer’s actions to ensure compliance with departmental policies and procedures. Each meaningful review is formally documented and tracked by the division commander. If a review identifies a potential policy violation, the matter may result in counseling or be referred for a formal Internal Affairs investigation, depending on the severity of the incident. Maintaining public trust is a fundamental priority of the Franklin Township Police Department. The work performed by the Professional Standards Division plays a critical role in promoting transparency, accountability, and the delivery of high-quality police services to the community.
2025 Internal Affairs Statistics:
Category:
Findings:
Other Rule Violation- 5 Demeanor Complaint- 1 Criminal Violation- 3 Differential Treatment- 1
Not Sustained- 1
Sustained- 3 Exonerated- 5 Unfounded- 2
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Excessive Force- 2
Pending- 1
In 2025, the Franklin Township Police Department responded to a total of 51,753 calls for service. The majority of these calls were handled by the Patrol Division and included incidents such as domestic violence, 9-1-1 emergency calls, motor vehicle crashes, thefts, well-being checks, psychiatric emergencies, burglaries, and motor vehicle complaints. Calls for service are received and dispatched by Public Safety Telecommunicators assigned to the Gloucester County Emergency Response Center in Clayton, New Jersey. Once received, calls are
typically relayed to the on-duty shift supervisor, who assigns officers either directly or based on the patrol zones they are working. Officers may respond outside of their assigned zones when the severity of an incident or the need for additional resources requires it. On average, the Franklin Township Police Department responds to approximately 141 calls for service during each 24-hour period. Many calls require a significant time commitment, as officers must complete detailed reports and documentation. Depending on the nature of the incident, a single call for service may take several hours to fully resolve. Due to Franklin Township’s large geographic size and extensive roadway network, a substantial number of calls involve motor vehicle incidents. In 2025, the department responded to 825 motor vehicle crashes and handled 549 motor vehicle complaints. Domestic violence incidents also accounted for a significant portion of police activity. During 2025, officers responded to 365 domestic violence calls. Additionally, the department investigated 86 assaults, 81 missing persons, 51 burglaries, 178 theft complaints, and 280 harassment or neighbor disputes. Officers also responded to almost 1,200 burglar alarm activations and assisted with over 3,500 medical-related calls.
Collectively, these calls reflect the wide range of responsibilities handled by the Franklin Township Police Department and underscore the department’s commitment to providing timely, professional, and comprehensive public safety services to the community.
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Type of Call
January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025
EMS Calls
2,367 1,172
Burglar Alarm Activation
Motor Vehicle Crash Animal Complaint
825 608 549 462 365 280 272 206 192 178 126 104
Motor Vehicle Complaint
Well Being Check Domestic Violence
Harassment/Neighbor Disputes
Disputes
911 Misdial/Open Line Psychiatric Emergency
Theft
Juvenile Complaint Fraud Complaint
Assault
86 81
Missing Person
Burglary Overdose
51
38 28 18
Shoplifting Sex Offense
Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash
2
Robbery
1
Calls for Service in Buena Borough:
Type of Call
January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025
EMS Calls
1.041
Motor Vehicle Crash Animal Complaint Domestic Violence
124 104
79 22 16
Theft
Assault
Burglary
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Calls for Service in Newfield Borough:
Type of Call
January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025
EMS Calls
153
Animal Complaint Domestic Violence Motor Vehicle Crash
35 27 16
Theft
5 2
Assault
Burglary
1
Total Calls for Service 2025
EMS Calls
Burglar Alarm
Motor Vehicle Crash
Animal Complaint
Motor Vehicle Complaint Well Being Check
Domestic Violence
Harrasment
Disputes
911
Psych
Theft
Juvenile
Fraud
Assault
Missing Person
Burglary
Overdose
Shoplifting
Sex Offense
Fatal MVC
Robbery
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The Franklin Township Police Department takes a proactive and data-driven approach to motor vehicle enforcement. As discussed previously, the department achieved a significant reduction in fatal and serious motor vehicle crashes in 2025. This success was the result of a multifaceted strategy that included high-visibility traffic enforcement, targeted patrols in high-crash areas, and close collaboration with Gloucester County officials to identify roadway improvements within the township that could further reduce crashes. Through the analysis of crash data, a major traffic safety improvement was implemented in the Forest Grove section of the township with the installation of a four-way stop at the intersection of Main Road and Weymouth Road. During the two-year period prior to the change, the department responded to 28 motor vehicle crashes at this intersection. After reviewing the data, Gloucester County engineers agreed that the installation of a new traffic control device would significantly enhance traffic safety. Since the four-way stop was installed, there have been no reported motor vehicle crashes at that location.
Increased traffic enforcement efforts also resulted in a rise in driving while intoxicated (DWI) arrests. The department participates in several traffic safety grant programs awarded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which focus on periods of increased impaired driving, such as summer holidays and the Christmas and New Year’s season. In addition, the department utilized nearly $29,000 in funding from the Drunk Driving Education Fund (DDEF) to support enhanced DWI enforcement throughout the year.
In total, the Franklin Township Police Department conducted 18,806 motor vehicle stops in 2025 and issued 17,384 motor vehicle summonses. The department made 90 arrests for driving while intoxicated and recorded a total of 875 arrests for the year. These enforcement efforts reflect the department’s continued commitment to improving roadway safety, reducing preventable crashes, and protecting the lives of residents and visitors throughout Franklin Township.
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Type of Enforcement
January 1, 2025-December 31, 2025
Motor Vehicle Stops (Total) Motor Vehicle Summons
18,806 17,384
Total Arrests DWI Arrests
875
90
Warrant Arrests Narcotics Arrests
457
87
Other Criminal Arrests
246
Total Criminal Complaint Filings
1,223
Buena Statistics Motor Vehicle Stops
3,646 2,928
Motor Vehicle Summons
DWI Arrests Total Arrests
14
173
Newfield Statistics Motor Vehicle Stops
1,428 1,254
Motor Vehicle Summons
DWI Arrests Total Arrests
2
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FTPD Statistics 2023-2025
20000
18000
16000
14000
12000
10000
8000
6000
4000
Clerical Staff: 2000
0
2023
2024
2025
Motor Vehicle Stops
Motor Vehicle Summons
DWI Arrests
Total Arrests
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Support Staff
Clerical Staff:
The Franklin Township Police Department Clerical Division is comprised of two Police Clerks who perform a wide range of essential administrative functions. Their responsibilities include filing and maintaining incident reports, processing firearms permit applications and expungements, managing billing, and handling all other clerical duties necessary for the Department’s daily operations. Our Police Clerks also play a huge role in planning and preparing each year for Holiday with a Hero, which is our largest community policing event of the year. Our clerks organize and set up for the event which is a huge success every year. In addition, Police Clerks provide direct customer service to residents who visit the Department each day. Their professionalism and dedication make them an integral part of our mission to deliver the highest level of police services to the Franklin Township community.
Clerk Gina Reyes
Clerk Candace Delaney
Police Aides:
The Franklin Township Police Department employs two Police Aides who provide valuable support to the Department’s day-to-day operations. Retired Franklin Township Police Lieutenant Ken Crescitelli oversees fleet management and works closely with the Township mechanic to ensure all police vehicles are properly maintained and in optimal condition for officer safety and reliability. Retired Vineland City Police Detective Bob Demarchi assists with courtroom operations and conducts firearms background investigations. Together, these Police Aides deliver essential services to our residents and play an important role in supporting the overall effectiveness of the Department.
Police Aide Ken Crescitelli
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Bicycle Patrol Unit:
The Franklin Township Police Department maintains a two-officer Bicycle Patrol Unit that is utilized during special events, including community day celebrations, parades, and targeted enforcement initiatives. Officers assigned to the unit have received specialized bicycle patrol training and are certified in bicycle patrol operations. The Department currently operates four bicycles acquired through shared services agreements with Buena Borough and Newfield Borough. These bicycles have since been refurbished and fully equipped for patrol use.
Training and Firearms Unit:
The Franklin Township Police Department Training and Firearms Unit is comprised of officers with specialized expertise in firearms, conducted energy devices (Tasers), less-lethal options, handcuffing techniques, and officer self-defense. This unit is responsible for administering all mandatory firearms qualifications, active shooter training, and other required proficiency standards. Unit members maintain a comprehensive and organized training records system to ensure full compliance with New Jersey Attorney General Guidelines. As law enforcement training standards continue to evolve, this unit plays a critical role in preparing officers to meet modern policing challenges. Providing officers with current, relevant, and effective training is a top priority of the Department. One key initiative implemented by the unit is a monthly, department-wide training program conducted throughout the year. Each month focuses on a different topic, including human performance, active shooter response, first aid, and high-risk encounters. Emphasizing hands-on, scenario-based training enables officers to develop real-time decision-making skills and ensures they are prepared to safely and effectively respond to any situation encountered in the field.
Drone Unit:
The Franklin Township Police Department will establish a Drone Unit in 2026 to enhance operational capabilities and public safety. This two-officer unit will be responsible for operating an EVO Lite 640T Enterprise Premium drone, which is being acquired through forfeiture funding at no cost to taxpayers. The Drone Unit will be deployed to support critical incident response, missing persons investigations, and public safety operations during community events.
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The Franklin Township Police Department takes great pride in the community policing initiatives it hosts throughout the year. These events provide valuable opportunities for officers to engage with residents in positive, informal settings, strengthening relationships and fostering open communication. By interacting with the community outside of traditional enforcement roles, officers are able to build meaningful connections and help youth see them as approachable, caring individuals dedicated to their well-being. An effective community policing program plays a vital role in building trust between the Police Department and the residents we serve.
The Department’s largest community policing event this year was Holiday with a Hero . Through the generous support of local businesses and residents, more than $13,000 was raised to provide children in need with a memorable Christmas shopping experience. In partnership with the Newfield Terrace Community Center, officers were able to take over 70 children shopping at Walmart, creating a meaningful and lasting impact on families within our community. This event continues to be one of the most rewarding initiatives we host, allowing us to give back to those who need it most. Police Youth Week is one of our favorite community policing events. This year we hosted nearly 30 students for a week of police academy style fun. The recruits listened to presentations from our K9 Unit, the New Jersey State Police, the Gloucester County Sheriff’s Department and many more. The week capped off with a field trip to
Morey’s Pier in Wildwood and a graduation ceremony in front of friends and family. Another cornerstone of our community engagement efforts is National Night Out , held annually each August. This free, carnival-style
event offers food, games, and family-friendly activities, bringing residents together with police officers, township fire departments, and other first responders for an evening of fun and
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fellowship. The night concludes with a fireworks display generously sponsored by Newfield National Bank. The Franklin Township Police Department would like to extend its sincere appreciation to Mayor Jake Bruno and the Township Committee for their continued support of these community policing initiatives. The funding and encouragement provided by the Township make these events possible and allow us to continue giving back to the community we are proud to serve.
2025 National Night Out
Thank You!!!!!
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A Tribute to Sergeant Gonzalez
This year marked the 30th anniversary of the tragic line-of-duty death of Sergeant Ippolito Gonzalez #1107. Each year, members of the Franklin Township Police Department honor his ultimate sacrifice by coming together to clean and maintain the memorial located outside Police Headquarters. While a simple gesture, it serves as a meaningful opportunity for reflection and remembrance, and a way to honor the lasting legacy Sergeant Gonzalez left on our Department. This anniversary held special significance, and the Department sought to do something truly meaningful for the Gonzalez family. With the support of Mayor Jake Bruno and the Township Committee, the decision was made to re-dedicate Malaga Park and rename Malaga Park Drive in honor of Sergeant Gonzalez. In a moving ceremony held in mid-May, the Franklin Township Police Department welcomed hundreds of riders participating in the first leg of the Police Unity Tour. The riders arrived at the park and surprised Sergeant Gonzalez’s nephew, Lou, and his family as newly installed street and park signage bearing Sergeant Gonzalez’s name was unveiled. It was an honor to host this ceremony, which also marked the official reopening of the park following extensive playground renovations made possible through a community grant. Families throughout Franklin Township can now enjoy upgraded playground equipment at the newly dedicated Sergeant Gonzalez Memorial Park , ensuring that Sergeant Gonzalez’s sacrifice and service will be remembered for generations to come.
Malaga Park Drive is named in honor of Sergeant Gonzalez
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Annual Gonzalez Memorial Cleanup
Dedication of Sergeant Gonzalez Memorial Park
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Officers of the Month
The Franklin Township Police Department maintains an Officer of the Month program, with recipients selected by the Department’s command staff. Officers are recognized based on overall job performance, notable arrests or investigative follow-up, demonstrated leadership, and their positive contributions to morale and professionalism within the Department. The selected officer is formally recognized with a certificate and a Department challenge coin, and their photograph is prominently displayed within Police Headquarters for the duration of the month in recognition of their achievement.
Ofc. Tyler Kiszelewski January 2025
Ofc. Matthew Flynn February 2025
Ofc. Thomas Rambone April 2025
Ofc. Austin Theuret March 2025
Ofc. Garrett Moretti June 2025
Ofc. Mason Tessier July 2025
Ofc. Brett Holdcraft August 2025
Cpl. David Gallo May 2025
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Ofc. Anthony Colofranson September 2025
Ofc. Luke Lachowicz October 2025
Ofc. Greg Halikman November 2025
2025 Franklin Township Police Department Challenge Coin
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Picture Pages
Officer Rocco receives the 2025 Matthew McCloskey Compassion Award
Officer Halikman graduates from the NJSP K9 Academy
2025 Safety Patrol Installation Breakfast at Cleary Elementary
2025 Youth Week trip to Morey’s Pier
Officer Brett Holdcraft sworn in full time
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Officers arrive in Washington, DC for National Police Week
Family Game Night in Newfield. Thank you to Danny’s Pizza!!
Lieutenant Myers Promotional Ceremony
Thank you to Danny’s Pizza for Sponsoring Newfield Game Night
33 Officer Konnor Reilly graduates Gloucester Co. Police Academy
2025 Holiday with a Hero
2025 Gloucester County Police Awards Recipients
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Supervisor of the Year
Sergeant Michael Guzman #1156
Sergeant Michael Guzman #1156 has been selected as the 2025 Franklin Township Police Department Supervisor of the Year. This honor recognizes his outstanding leadership, professionalism, and dedication to both the Department and the community. Sergeant Guzman is a graduate of Millville High School, Class of 2009, and earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Cumberland County College. He began his law enforcement career with the Avalon Police Department, where he was hired as a Class I officer in May 2012. He later attended the Cape May County Police Academy, graduating in May 2013 as the top student in his class. During the academy, he received both the Vehicle Operations Award and the Director’s Award. Sergeant Guzman joined the Franklin Township Police Department as a Class II officer in June 2013 and was appointed as a full-time officer in June 2014. Throughout his career, he has served in numerous specialized and leadership roles, including Field Training Officer, member of the Tactical Patrol Unit, member of the K-9 Unit, and instructor with the
Department’s Firearms and Training Unit. In March 2019, Sergeant Guzman graduated from the John “Sonny” Burke K-9 Academy alongside his K-9 partner, Rozo, earning the prestigious John “Sonny” Burke Award. In May 2023, Sergeant Guzman was promoted to the rank of Corporal, and he continues to exemplify professionalism and leadership in his supervisory role. Outside of work, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and camping with his family. He resides in Franklin Township with his wife, Veronica, and their three daughters, Adalynne, Ellie, and Kendall. Sergeant Guzman was selected for this honor by the Department’s rank-and-file officers. He is widely respected as a hardworking, compassionate supervisor and an exceptional leader among his peers, and he is truly deserving of this prestigious award.
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Officer of the Year
Officer Joseph Branco #11101
Officer Joseph Branco #11101 has been selected as the 2025 Franklin Township Police Department Officer of the Year. This prestigious honor is awarded based on peer selection, and Officer Branco was chosen by an overwhelming majority of his fellow officers. His selection reflects the high regard in which he is held by his peers, who recognize him as a leader committed to improving the Department and consistently bringing a positive, professional attitude to his work. Officer Branco grew up in Franklinville and graduated from Delsea Regional High School in June 2012. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Camden County College in the summer of 2015. He began his law enforcement career with the Sea Isle City Police Department and graduated from the Cape May County SLEO II Police Academy in June 2016.
Officer Branco joined the Newfield Police Department in April 2017, followed by service with the Elk
Township Police Department in November 2017 as a patrol officer. In July 2022, he joined the Franklin Township Police Department as a full-time police officer. Officer Branco takes great pride in working alongside the dedicated men and women of the Franklin Township Police Department to protect and serve the residents of Franklin Township, Newfield, and Buena Borough.
Outside of his professional duties, Officer Branco enjoys staying active, playing golf, and spending time with family and friends.
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2026 Franklin Township Police Department
This report was completed by Chief Matthew DeCesari and is dedicated to the hard-working men and women of the Franklin Township Police Department.
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