Palisades Park Police Earn Elite ‘Accredited’ Status: A New Era of Excellence
photo courtesy of Police Director Michael Gardner
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
PALISADES PARK, NJ — The Palisades Park Police Department (PPPD) has officially entered the upper echelon of New Jersey law enforcement.
Police Director Michael Gardner, Esq. announced this week that as of March 12, 2026, the department has been formally accredited by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police (NJSACOP). This prestigious designation places Palisades Park in an elite group of agencies recognized for maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct, transparency, and operational efficiency.
A Milestone for Public Safety
The road to accreditation is a rigorous process, requiring a department to prove it meets hundreds of strict “best practice” standards. For residents, this means a more accountable, efficient, and professionally managed police force.
Director Gardner expressed his gratitude to the leadership team that spearheaded this multi-year effort:
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Chief George Beck and Captain Jimmy Rotundo were highlighted for their hands-on leadership in making this achievement possible.
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Mayor Paul Kim was recognized for his “unwavering support” of the department’s modernization and commitment to the community.
What This Means for Palisades Park Residents
Accreditation isn’t just a trophy on the wall—it’s a promise of quality. Research shows that accredited departments often see:
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Reduced liability and insurance costs for the borough.
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Increased transparency in police-citizen interactions.
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Standardized training that ensures every officer is prepared for modern policing challenges.
“I would like to thank the dedicated men and women of the Palisades Park Police Department… and the residents of Palisades Park,” said Director Michael Gardner. “Effective March 12, 2026, we have joined an elite group.”
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A now-retired police officer is suing the borough, alleging retaliation and failure to promote him to sergeant after he cooperated with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office in a reported investigation into borough Mayor Chong “Paul” Kim, the lawsuit says.