Montville Police Chief Aims to Lead State Chiefs Association and Inspire New Recruits

Balancing Politics and Law Enforcement

The delicate balance between politics and law enforcement is a challenge that requires careful navigation. Montville Chief Andrew Caggiano, the newly elected president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP), has expressed confidence in his ability to manage this complex relationship. In an interview following his swearing-in on July 21, Caggiano emphasized that the association remains nonpartisan. “We don’t take sides,” he said. “We don’t endorse candidates.”

Despite this stance, the association recognizes the importance of being actively involved in policy discussions as new leadership takes office in Trenton in 2026. The goal is to ensure that law enforcement voices are heard when new laws are introduced. “There needs to be a team approach to ensuring the voice of law enforcement is heard and considered,” Caggiano stated. Over the next year and beyond, the NJSACOP plans to strengthen relationships with federal partners, the state’s attorney general, state police, county prosecutors, and lawmakers.

Caggiano has already begun discussions with potential candidates for governor, including Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Rep. Mikie Sherrill. Among the key issues under consideration is bail reform, which was enacted by former Governor Phil Murphy in 2017. This reform allows more non-violent offenders to remain free while awaiting trial, a policy critics argue enables repeat offenses.

“We would like to see fixes to bail reform,” Caggiano said. “We’d like to see improvements to the juvenile justice system. Our position is not to get rid of those things, but there are areas we can improve on.” He pointed out that arrested juveniles are often sent back to their home counties, which can be inconvenient for victims and disrupt local law enforcement efforts.

Addressing Juvenile Justice Concerns

Caggiano explained that if a juvenile is arrested in Montville, their case is handled in the same county. However, if the juvenile is from a different area, such as North Jersey, the victim may have to travel long distances to attend the court proceedings. “We are revictimizing the victims,” he said. He supports legislation currently moving through Trenton that could address this issue.

Maintaining a nonpartisan approach is crucial for the association, as it aims to work with all political factions. “We want good public safety policy, policy that will help us do our jobs and make New Jersey a safer place,” Caggiano added.

Recruitment and Diversity Challenges

Another pressing concern is recruitment, as applications for police positions have declined. Caggiano noted that while Montville typically receives around 100 applicants for the civil service exam, the most recent test only yielded 10 names. He attributed this drop to the negative perception of the profession in recent years, particularly after events such as the murder of George Floyd in 2020 and subsequent nationwide protests.

“There's far fewer people going into this profession,” he said. “It's disheartening to see, especially for me. I spent 28 years doing this and I still love getting up every day to come to work.” He also expressed concern when even police officers suggest their children should avoid the profession.

Caggiano hopes to reverse this trend by promoting diversity within the force. For example, Asians make up 20% of Montville’s population, yet they are underrepresented in law enforcement. “We need good people from all walks of life—males, females, all different ethnicities,” he said.

A Family Legacy in Law Enforcement

Caggiano’s own family reflects his commitment to the profession. His eldest daughter, a senior at New Haven University, has expressed interest in becoming a police officer. “I’m extremely proud that she wants to get into the profession,” he said. While his other two daughters are pursuing careers in healthcare, he believes the profession needs individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Leadership and Career Path

Caggiano’s rise to the presidency of the NJSACOP followed his election as fourth vice president in 2022. This placed him in the annual succession line, where he will replace Rutherford Chief John Russo this year. The current first vice president, Collingswood Chief Kevin Carey, will succeed him in 2026.

In Montville, Caggiano advanced from the Patrol Division to the Detective Bureau before becoming the township’s ninth police chief on January 1, 2019. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and has attended prestigious programs such as the West Point Command and Leadership Program and the FBI National Academy.