Law Prevents Maplewood from Doing Nationwide Search for Now PD Chief

Maplewood Mayor Vic DeLuca reports that, due to a state law, the Township of Maplewood will not be able to launch a nationwide search for a new police chief.

The news was first reported by TAPintoSOMA after DeLuca and Acting Chief Jim DuVaul responded to questions at a meeting of the Hilton Neighborhood Association on Thursday.

“There is a state law that our attorneys believe pertains to Maplewood regarding the appointment of a superior officer,” DeLuca told Village Green in a follow up. DeLuca cited New Jersey Code TITLE 40A – MUNICIPALITIES AND COUNTIES, 40a:14,40A:14-129 – Promotion of members and officers in certain municipalities, which reads:

“In any municipality wherein Title 11 (Civil Service) of the Revised Statutes is not in effect, and except in cities of the first and second class, a  promotion of any member or officer of the police department or force to a superior position shall be made from the membership of such department or  force.  Due consideration shall be given to the member or officer so proposed  for the promotion, to the length and merit of his service and preference shall  be given according to seniority in service…. No person shall be eligible for promotion to be a superior officer unless he shall have previously served as a patrolman in such department or force.”