the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, after two and a half years of leadership and reform, Hackensack Police Director Ray Guidetti has announced he will step down at the end of the month. Appointed in August 2022, Guidetti was tasked with overhauling a police department plagued by overtime abuses, internal turmoil, and declining arrests.
Transforming the Hackensack Police Department
Under Guidetti’s leadership, the Hackensack Police Department (HPD) underwent major reforms, including:
- Cracking down on overtime abuse and financial mismanagement
- Implementing cutting-edge public safety technology
- Enhancing accountability and oversight
- Expanding community engagement and outreach
- Establishing the Safe Streets Operations Control Center
“When we brought in Ray Guidetti, the Hackensack Police Department was in crisis,” said Mayor John Labrosse. “Ray stood up to an entrenched system, and because of his efforts, Hackensack is better off today.”
Controversy and Pushback from Officers
Despite his efforts, Guidetti’s tenure was met with resistance, including:
- Multiple grievances and lawsuits filed by officers alleging retaliation
- A no-confidence vote from PBA Local 9A and PBA Local 9
- The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office taking control of the department’s internal affairs bureau in April
- An ongoing assessment by the Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services office
PBA Local 9 President Frank Cavallo welcomed Guidetti’s departure, stating, “Over the past two years, the director has driven a wedge between the police department and the community.”
A New Era for the Hackensack Police Department
In October 2023, Capt. Mike Antista was sworn in as Hackensack’s new police chief, marking the first time in 14 years that the city had filled the position.
“Ray Guidetti has been an incredible mentor,” said Chief Antista. “His vision and guidance set the foundation for the future of this department.”
City officials credit Guidetti’s leadership with restoring accountability and positioning the HPD for long-term success.
“Police reform is difficult, and there will always be those who oppose change,” said Mayor Labrosse. “We will continue working to support our dedicated officers while addressing those who put personal profit ahead of duty.”
Guidetti’s Final Statement
As he prepares to leave, Guidetti expressed pride in the changes made during his tenure.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together,” he said. “The Hackensack Police Department is stronger, more accountable, and better equipped to serve the community than ever before.”
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