In an effort to modernize the look and feel of the Cranford Police Department, as well as strengthen ties to the community, Chief James Wozniak announced changes to the agency’s marked vehicle fleet and the uniforms worn by patrol officers.
Chief Wozniak noted that little had changed regarding police uniforms in over 50 years. He stated, “Until now, our officers’ uniforms looked amazingly similar to those worn in the 1960s and 70s. These uniforms sacrificed utility and comfort for a dated appearance. It was time to move forward.”
The new look adopts advanced technology and fabric while remaining true to the 117 year history of the Cranford Police Department. The new patch, an inverted navy triangle with “Cranford Police, Established 1897, NJ” embroidered in gold, harkens back to some of the earliest patches worn by Cranford officers of the last century. New uniforms exchange the formal looking clip-on ties and military hats for lightweight moisture wicking fabric and cargo pockets. According to Captain Joseph Van Bergen, “The new uniform is more comfortable and more functional; it is now appropriate for the job police are expected to perform every day.”
Cranford’s newest police vehicles also received a makeover. While maintaining the easily recognizable black and white scheme employed by police agencies across the country, the new 2014 Ford Utility Police Interceptors entering service this month also display blue and gold lettering and striping. The colors were selected because of their connection to Cranford and the community’s various athletic teams. A Cranford Cougar paw can be found on the rear bumper. The new utility vehicles are a change from the existing fleet of Dodge and Ford sedans, but are expected to reduce maintenance costs and enhance the ability of officers to remain on patrol during major weather events.
Chief Wozniak was the driving force behind the changes. “When I arrived in this position,” he stated, “I had two main goals. First, I wanted to provide my team with the equipment, tools, and direction to professionally protect the citizens of Cranford. Second, I wanted to build on our existing ties to this community and make it clear to everyone here that as much as we police this town, we are part of this town."