Truly successful organizations owe their achievement to a sound set of core values, from which policies and actions are derived and guided. These values not only guide the organization’s vision and strategic plans but must be an integral part of the organization’s daily operation. The Ridgewood Police Department subscribes to a set of governing values, which clearly states the department’s beliefs as an agency. The values of this department have been demonstrated by a long history quality and compassionate service to our community. Our values are;

Integrity - The Ridgewood Police department and its personnel can only succeed in their mission if we maintain our integrity. Our authority comes from the trust bestowed upon us. Once this trust is broken, by an individual or by the department, our actions are rightfully called into question. The department and its employees must hold themselves to a standard that is beyond reproach.  We are committed to nurturing the public trust by holding ourselves to the highest standards of professional & ethical conduct.

Professionalism- We believe in adherence to the highest professional standards in our actions, conduct and job performance. We are proud of our rich tradition of providing quality police services to the residents and visitors of Ridgewood. We are proud to be a part of a noble profession that is called upon to maintain safety, security and public order in a free society. We are proud of the real partnerships we have with the people we serve. We are proud of the highly motivated, highly trained, and highly respected personnel we have. We are proud of our recognition as an Internationally Accredited Law Enforcement Agency.  

Community - We believe that the cornerstone of this department is the relationship we have with the community we serve. Our ability to be effective in carrying out our mission is based on the credibility we have with the community. Understanding that we are a part of, and not separate from, the community is critical. Although we are granted full-time responsibility for policing the community, we cannot do it without the approval and cooperation of the public. We are committed to empowering our members and the community to resolve problems by creating a collaborative environment that encourages holistic solutions that address the needs of the community.

Courage – We believe in Courage. We will exercise physical courage by reacting appropriately to threats even when faced with physical risk. We will demonstrate moral courage by doing what is right even when not popular with others. We are proud of the continuous physical and moral courage demonstrated by our members during times of crisis and in our daily activities.

Respect – We believe in the principle that every individual has dignity and worth. We are committed to respecting individual rights, human dignity, and the value of all members of the community and of the department. We will treat all persons in a dignified and courteous manner, and exhibit understanding of ethnic and cultural diversity, in both our professional and personal endeavors. We understand our role as guardians of the constitution and pledge to uphold the principles and values embodied in the constitutions of the United States and the State of New Jersey. 

Excellence – We believe in striving for excellence in everything we do. We are committed to continuous improvement, always looking for ways to better serve our community and enhance our profession.

Innovation – We believe that the challenges/opportunities of today and those in the future require new and innovative solutions. We encourage and empower our members along with the community to seek out and/or develop unique and innovative solutions.  We promote and support an atmosphere that encourages communication, creativity and participation.

It is the vision of The Ridgewood Police Department to be a mission driven, learning organization committed to excellence, continuous improvement and community service. An organization which is both responsive and responsible to the public we serve. 

A professional organization we can be proud of, as well as an organization our community can be proud of and one which other departments use as a benchmark of excellence.