Employees shall conduct their private and professional lives
in such a manner as to avoid bringing the department into disrepute.
Loyalty to the department and to associates is an important
factor in department morale and efficiency. Employees shall maintain
loyalty to the department and their associates as is consistent with
the law and personal ethics.
Cooperation between the ranks and units of the department is
essential to effective law enforcement. Therefore, all employees are
strictly charged with the establishing and maintaining a high spirit
of cooperation within the department.
All members are required to take appropriate action toward aiding
a fellow employee exposed to danger or in a situation where danger
might be impending.
Police officers of all ranks shall at all times take appropriate
action to:
Employees of the department are always subject to duty although
periodically relieved of its routine performance. They shall, at all
times, respond to the lawful orders of supervisors and other proper
authorities as well as calls for assistance from citizens. Proper
action must be taken whenever required. The administrative delegation
of the enforcement of certain laws and ordinances to particular units
of the department, does not relieve members of other units from the
responsibility of taking prompt, effective police action within the
scope of those laws and ordinances when the occasion so requires.
Employees assigned to special duties are not relieved from taking
proper action outside the scope of their specialized assignment.
Employees shall not commit any act, nor shall they be guilty
of any omission that constitutes neglect of duty.
All employees shall perform their duties as required or directed
by law, department rule and regulation, policy or order, or by order
of a supervisor. All lawful duties required by competent authority
shall be performed promptly as directed, notwithstanding the general
assignment of duties and responsibilities.
Employees in doubt as to the nature or detail of their assignment
shall seek clarification from their immediate supervisor.
Employees shall not commit acts of insubordination.
Employees shall observe and obey all laws and ordinances, all
rules and regulations and orders of the department.
Employees shall not criticize the official actions, instructions,
or orders of any department member in a manner which is defamatory,
obscene, unlawful, or which tends to impair the efficient operation
of the department.
Employees shall treat other employees with respect. They shall
be courteous and civil at all times in their relationships with one
another. When on duty, and particularly in the presence of other employees,
or the public, supervisors shall be referred to by rank.
Orders from supervisor to subordinate shall be in clear, understandable
language, civil in tone, and issued in pursuit of department business.
No supervisor shall knowingly issue any order which is in violation
of any law or ordinance.
Obedience to an unlawful order is never a defense of an unlawful
action; therefore, no employee is required to obey an order which
is contrary to law or local ordinance. Responsibility for refusal
to obey rests with the employee. They shall be required to justify
their actions.
Employees who are given orders which they feel to be unjust or contrary to rules and regulations, must first obey the order to the best of their ability, and they may proceed to appeal as provided in Subsection 3:1.19.
Upon receipt of an order conflicting with any previous order
or instruction, the employee affected will advise the person issuing
the second order of this fact. Responsibility for countermanding the
original instruction then rests with the individual issuing the second
order. If so directed, the latter command shall be obeyed first. Orders
will be countermanded, or conflicting orders will be issued only when
reasonably necessary for the good of the department. Notice of countermanded
or conflicting order, is to be given to the officer issuing the original
order, by the countermanding officer.
An employee receiving an unlawful, unjust or improper order,
shall at first opportunity, report in writing to the Chief of Police
through the chain of command. This report shall contain the facts
of the incident and the action taken. Appeals for relief from such
orders may be made at the same time. Intradepartmental action regarding
such an appeal shall be conducted through the office of the Chief
of Police.
Employees shall not, under any circumstances, solicit any gift,
gratuity, loan, reward or fee where there is any connection between
the solicitation and their department membership or employment without
written permission from the Chief of Police. All solicitations must
stay within the perimeters of Federal and State law, directives from
the Office of the New Jersey Attorney General and Bergen County Prosecutor's
Office.
Employees shall not accept either directly or indirectly any
gift, gratuity, loan, fee, or any other object of value arising from
or offered because of police employment or any activity connected
with said employment. Employees shall not accept any gift, gratuity,
loan, fee or other object of value, the acceptance of which might
tend to influence the actions of said employees or any other employee
in any matter of police business, or which might tend to cast an adverse
reflection on the department or any employee thereof. No employee
of the department shall receive any gift or gratuity from other employees
junior in rank without the express permission of the Chief of Police.
Employees are prohibited from buying or selling anything of
value from or to any complainant, suspect, witness, defendant, prisoner,
or other person involved in any case which has come to their attention
or which arose out of their department employment except as may be
specifically authorized by the Chief of Police. Employees are further
prohibited from bidding, purchasing, or having any financial interest
in any property and equipment available for sale by the Township of
Lyndhurst.
Employees shall not accept any gift, gratuity or reward in money
or other compensation for services rendered in the line of duty to
the community or any person, business or agency except lawful salary
and that which may be authorized by law.
Any unauthorized gift, gratuity, loan, fee, reward, or other
object coming into the possession of any employee shall be forwarded
to the office of the Chief of Police together with a written report
explaining the circumstances.
Employees shall not solicit anyone to intercede with the Chief
of Police, Appropriate Authority, Mayor or members of the Township
Committee in relation to promotion, assignments, disposition of pending
charges, or findings in a department trial or other related matter.
This shall not preclude, however, an employee's right to legal
counsel or Union representative.
Employees shall not frequent places of bad reputation, or associate
with persons of bad reputation, except as may be required in the course
of police duty. This shall include any and all persons and places
that the employee knows or should have known are involved in criminal
activity or violations of law past or present.
Employees shall not, at any time, withhold any information concerning
suspected criminal activity.
Employees knowing of other employees violating laws, ordinances,
or rules and regulations of the department, or disobeying orders,
shall report same in writing to the Chief of Police through the chain
of command. If the employee believes the information is of such gravity
that it must be brought to the immediate personal attention of the
Chief of Police or if the offending employee is in the employee's
chain of command, official channels may be bypassed.
All employees of the department shall adhere to the policy and
procedures established by the Chief of Police and the Township of
Lyndhurst regarding Harassment in the Workplace.
All employees shall observe and respect the civil rights of
all persons.
Employees are expected to perform their duties to the best of
their abilities at all times.
Employees shall display respect for their supervisors, subordinates,
and associates. All employees are to display good ethical character
in on and off duty contexts and shall conduct their professional and
private lives in a manner to avoid bringing this agency disrepute.
Police officers shall not display cowardice in the line of duty,
nor in any situation where the public or another officer may be subjected
to physical danger. Unless actually incapacitated themselves, officers
shall aid, assist, and protect other officers in time of danger or
under conditions where danger might be impending. This does not imply
that officers should take undue risks in the performance of their
duties if alternative methods fail.
Employees shall not, at any time, use or attempt to use their
official position, badge, credentials, or affiliation with the department
or profession for personal or financial gain or advantage.
No employee shall incur any financial obligation on behalf of
the department without the approval of the Chief of Police.
No employee shall imply or accept financial liability for loss
or damage on behalf of the Township.
1.
No employee shall borrow any money or otherwise become indebted to
any other employee.
2.
Employees shall not solicit other employees to cosign or endorse
any promissory note or other loan.
3.
No employee shall offer to act as a cosigner or endorser of any promissory
note or other loan for another employee.
4.
Paragraphs 1-3 do not apply to transactions among employees related
to each other.
5.
Employees shall promptly pay all just debts and legal liabilities
incurred by them.
No employee shall take any official action or initiate or engage
in any legal conduct with the intention to retaliate against any person
for criticizing or complaining about any employee.
If a supervisor and subordinate enter into a dating relationship,
marital relationship or civil unions during the course of employment,
and the department reasonably believes the relationship may create
a conflict of interest, one of the employees shall be transferred
to another position. Such transfers shall be made in accordance with
applicable collective bargaining agreements. A supervisor or subordinate
involved in a relationship as described within shall report the relationship
to the supervisor's commander. Failure to report such a relationship
may subject the involved employees to discipline.
While off duty, police officers shall take appropriate action
as needed in any police matter that comes to their attention within
their jurisdiction as authorized by New Jersey Law and Department
Policy.
While employees have a right to maintain personal web pages
and websites, their status as employees of the police department requires
that the content of those web pages and websites not be in violation
of existing agency policy or directives.
1.
Employees shall not express personal opinion as official agency policy
or position.
2.
Any item, object, or material that could be used or misconstrued
as official agency sanctioned property shall not be used or depicted
on any personal Internet posting without the express written permission
of the Chief of Police.
a.
These items, objects, or materials include, but are not limited to:
photographs, images, reproductions or other depictions of agency uniforms,
badges, patches, equipment, weapons, marked or unmarked units, reports,
evidence, crime or crash scenes, etc.
Employees are prohibited from engaging in the following activities
while on duty with the exceptions as noted:
1.
Sleeping, loafing, idling;
2.
Recreational reading (except at meals);
3.
Conducting private business while on duty;
4.
Unlawful gambling, unless to further a police purpose;
5.
Smoking in public view;
6.
Sexual conduct;
7.
Soliciting or otherwise enhancing secondary employment interests
while on duty or as a result of an official duty;
8.
Conducting secondary employment activities while on duty;
9.
Taking any photographs, pictures, digital images of any crime scenes,
traffic crashes, people, or job related incident or occurrence with
any personal analog or digital device, camera or cellular telephone;
10.
Releasing any photographs, pictures, digital images of any crime
scenes, traffic crashes, people, or job related incident or occurrence
taken with a personal or agency analog or digital device, camera or
cellular phone to any person, entity, business, or media/Internet
outlet without the express written permission of the Chief of Police;
11.
Audio recording which is not connected with an official investigation
or duties is prohibited;
12.
Employees are forbidden to secretly videotape or record personal
conversations with other employees anywhere in headquarters or substation.
The exception to this is for an Internal Affairs investigation or
otherwise authorized by the Chief of Police;
13.
Any other activity deemed inappropriate by the Chief of Police.
1.
No employee of the department will appear for, or be on duty, under
the influence of alcohol or drugs, or be unfit for duty because of
its use.
2.
Employees of the department, shall not drink any kind of intoxicating
beverage while on duty, or take any drugs not duly prescribed and
necessary for health at any time, except on special assignment authorized
by the Chief of Police. Sworn employees shall not drink any kind of
intoxicating beverage while in uniform. An employee, while assigned
to duty in civilian clothes, may use intoxicants if absolutely necessary
in the performance of duty, provided such use does not render them
unfit for proper and efficient performance of duty. Under no circumstances
shall legally defined intoxication be considered justifiable. Such
use must be documented in writing, detailing the reasons therefore
and the amounts consumed.
3.
Taking Medication on Duty. Employees of the department shall not
take any medication which may diminish their alertness or impair their
senses prior to or after reporting for duty unless directed by a physician.
4.
Notification about Medication. When employees are required to take
any prescription medication or any non-prescription medication which
may diminish their alertness or impair their senses, the employee
shall notify their supervisor as to the medication required, its properties,
the dosage and the period during which the employee is required to
take the medication. This notification shall be by the prescribing
physician. If the medication is a non-prescription drug the employee
shall make this notification. The required notification shall be made
prior to the employee reporting for duty. This information so provided
shall be confidential.
5.
Intoxicating beverages may not be consumed at or in the police station
or ancillary facilities.
6.
No sworn member of the department shall, at any time when in uniform,
or any part thereof, except in the performance of duty, enter any
place in which intoxicating liquor is served/sold, unless authorized
by a supervisor. This provision does not include establishments with
a separate dining area where the serving of alcoholic beverages is
not the primary function (e.g. certain diners and restaurants which
have a liquor license).
7.
Employees shall not bring into or keep any intoxicating liquor or
drugs on department premises except when necessary in the performance
of a police related task. Liquor or drugs brought into department
premises in the furtherance of a police related task shall be properly
identified and stored according to department policy.
8.
No employee shall report for regularly scheduled duty, with the odor
of alcohol on their breath.
9.
Employees of the department shall not consume alcoholic beverages
within eight hours prior to reporting for duty.
10.
Supervisors shall not assign to duty or allow to remain on duty,
any member or employee whose fitness for duty is questionable due
to the use of alcohol or medication.
11.
No liquor license shall be held by any regular police officer, or
by any profit corporation or association in which any such person
is interested, directly or indirectly.
12.
The Department of Alcoholic and Beverage Control (ABC) prohibits
the employment of police officers who are employees of the local force
in the municipality where the licensed business is located. Hence,
members of the Lyndhurst Township Police Department may not be employed
by a business located in the Township which is licensed to sell alcoholic
beverages in this State. However, ABC laws and regulations do not
prohibit members of the Lyndhurst Township Police Department from
being employed by such licensed businesses which are located outside
the Township of Lyndhurst.
13.
Police officers so employed shall not, while engaged in the selling,
serving, possessing or delivering of any alcoholic beverages: (1)
have in his possession any firearm, or; (2) wear or display any uniform,
badge or insignia which would identify them as a police officer.
14.
No police officer so employed shall be permitted to work in excess
of 24 hours per week in any such establishment.
15.
No employee shall operate a Township vehicle after having consumed
alcoholic beverages.
Every employee who fails to appear for duty at the date, time
and place specified without the consent of competent authority, is
"absent without leave." Such absence must be reported in writing to
the supervisor immediately. Absences without leave in excess of one
day must be reported in writing to the Chief of Police. Any member
who is absent without leave for a continuous period of five days shall
forfeit their position in the department, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:14-122.
Unless otherwise directed, members shall report to roll call/briefings
at the time and place specified, properly uniformed and equipped.
They shall give careful attention to orders and instructions avoiding
unnecessary talking or movement.
Police officers shall maintain sufficient physical and psychological
condition in order to handle the core functions required of a law
enforcement officer, and shall immediately report their inability
to perform the core functions of a law enforcement officer to their
supervisor. Employees displaying conduct that may be harmful to themselves
or others shall be reported to the Chief of Police and Supervisor
immediately.
Sworn employees on duty or in uniform shall not enter public
places except to perform a police related task. Loitering and unnecessary
conversation in such locations are forbidden. Employees off duty and
not on any official standby shall not loiter in Police Department
areas.
Employees shall not smoke on duty while in direct contact with
the public nor when in or out of uniform in public view, except that
smoking is permitted in public view at meal times. There shall be
no smoking in police headquarters or in police vehicles. These areas
are non-smoking areas.
Employees are to remain at their assignments and on duty until
properly relieved by other employees or until dismissed by competent
authority.
1.
Members, while on lunch/meal breaks, must have their portable radios
"ON" to monitor the activities of the shift and to ensure immediate
radio contact, if necessary.
2.
Members will be permitted to suspend patrol, subject to immediate
call at all times, for the purpose of having one meal during their
shift, but only such period of time shall be allowed therefore as
is reasonably necessary, and not to exceed 30 minutes. The member
shall arrange to suspend patrol only at such time as it will cause
the least interference with his regular duties.
3.
Members are to arrange to take meals and breaks at times during the
shift so not more than one unit is at any one location at the same
time. The Shift Commander has the right to assign the time for meal
and break periods.
Employees shall attend in-service training as directed by the
Chief of Police. Such attendance is considered a duty assignment.
Employees shall promptly submit such reports as are required
by the performance of their duties or by competent authority. If a
report is not completed prior to the end of the shift, the employee,
with the approval of the Shift Supervisor, may complete the report
on overtime. If the Shift Supervisor deems that it is not urgent,
"Not Complete" will be added to the report.
From time to time the Chief of Police may call for full dress
inspections of the department or any part therefore. Sworn employees
directed to attend such inspections shall report in the uniform prescribed,
carrying the equipment specified. Unauthorized absence from such inspection
is chargeable as absence without leave.
When meeting in public, employees on duty shall conform to normal
courtesy standards and refer to each other by rank/title.
Uniformed employees will render full military honors to the
national colors and anthem at appropriate times. Employees in civilian
dress shall render proper civilian honors to the national colors and
anthem at appropriate times.
No sworn employee, unless authorized by their supervisor shall
possess keys to any premises, not their own, on or near their assignment.
Employees are required to maintain a working telephone in the
place where they reside. Changes in address or telephone number shall
be reported to the Chief of Police within 24 hours of the change.
This shall be done in writing and within the specified time whether
the member or employee is working or on leave. (Reports should be
submitted in advance of the change in the event of a planned move,
noting the effective date of change.)
The use of portable radios, MP-3, I-Pod type devices, or any
other form of entertainment, other than equipment authorized by the
department, is prohibited while on duty.
Employees operating department motor vehicles shall possess
and maintain a valid New Jersey driver's license, with appropriate
endorsements when made necessary by their assignment. Whenever a driver's
license is revoked, suspended, or lost, the employee shall immediately
notify the appropriate supervisor giving full details.
1.
Employees may be tested based upon reasonable suspicion. The Chief
of Police is authorized to order individual testing provided it is
in accordance with the NJ Attorney General's Drug Testing Policy.
Specimens shall be ordered from an employee when there exists reasonable
suspicion to believe that the employee is using substances. Employees
who refuse to submit to a test based upon reasonable suspicion after
being lawfully ordered to do so are subject to the same penalties
as employees who test positive.
2.
Random drug screening may be ordered by the Chief of Police from
time to time. If the Chief of Police orders random drug screening
it shall be in accordance with the NJ Attorney General's Drug
Testing Policy and any policy mandated by the Bergen County Prosecutor.
Employees who refuse to submit to a test when randomly selected are
subject to the same penalties as those employees who test positive.
3.
Any employee who serves as a witness on behalf of the collective
bargaining unit or is otherwise required to witness the selection
of employees for testing must maintain confidentiality. Anyone who
discloses the identity of an employee selected for random testing,
or the fact that a random selection is scheduled to take place prior
to the collection of urine samples, will be subject to discipline.
Conduct not specifically addressed by law, departmental policy,
public policy, philosophy, rule or regulation shall be consistent
with existing law, departmental policy, public policy, philosophy,
rule or regulation.
All sworn employees of the department shall maintain in good
order a regulation uniform. Sworn employees shall appear neat, clean
shaven and well groomed while in uniform. All articles of uniform
shall conform to the departmental uniform regulations. Sworn employees
shall not wear the uniform or any part off duty, except while traveling
to and from duty, without the permission of the shift supervisor.
Uniforms shall be kept neat, clean and well pressed at all times.
While wearing the uniform, members shall maintain a military bearing,
avoiding mannerisms such as slouching, shuffling and hands in the
pockets. The uniform hat shall be worn during special events as directed
by the Chief of Police or designee.
Employees shall wear proper civilian attire to meet the task
objective such as court, and training assignments. The employees may
wear corporate casual or traditional business attire as prescribed
by the Chief of Police.
[Amended 3-10-2020 by Ord. No. 3044-20]
Every employee of the department, while on duty, must at all
times be neat and clean in person, their clothes cleaned and pressed,
and their uniform in conformity with the rules and regulation of this
department. The Grooming Standards will not be deviated from without
the written permission from the Chief of Police.
1.
Male Employees.
Hair shall be evenly trimmed at all times while on duty. The
style shall be no more than medium length and fullness. Bushy hair
protruding from the sides, back or front of the head is prohibited.
Hair shall not be more than four inches in length or of such length
as to cover any portion of the ears or extend below the eyebrows when
headgear is removed; nor shall it extend over the shirt or coat collar.
A neat, tapered pattern shaped at the rear of the neck shall be maintained.
Hair length or style shall not interfere with the wearing of headgear.
Unusual, outrageous, or faddish haircuts are prohibited. These include,
but are not limited to, names or symbols cut into the sides or top
of the head, unusual shapes such as an arrow, Mohawk style, unusual
dyes, colors or tints, etc. The unique quality and texture of curled,
kinked, waved and straight hair are recognized.
Wigs or hairpieces may be worn while on duty only for cosmetic
reasons to cover natural baldness or physical disfigurement. Wigs
or hairpieces must be of good quality and fit, present a natural appearance,
conform to the standards set forth in these rules and regulation,
and fit properly beneath the uniform hat, when applicable. They must
not interfere with the proper performance of duty or present a safety
or foreign object damage hazard.
Sideburns shall not extend downward beyond the lowest part of
the ear opening. Sideburns shall be trimmed and neat in appearance
and the base shall be clean shave horizontal line.
A clean shaven appearance is required except that mustaches
are permitted. Mustaches shall be neatly trimmed and shall not extend
more than 1/2 inch below or to the sides of the corner of the mouth.
Mustache ends will not be waxed or twisted. Unusual dyes, colors or
tints, etc., are prohibited.
Beards shall not be permitted on sworn personnel except for
medical or religious reasons. Waivers may be granted by the Chief
of Police on a case-by-case basis and only with compelling supporting
documentation. The Chief of Police may also grant a waiver for undercover
operations. Facial hair below the top lip, on the chin, or below the
sideburns on the jaw, is not permitted.
Hair growing from the chest, neck, ears or nose shall be neatly
trimmed. Chest hair shall not extend over the collar, tie or exposed
T-shirt.
Fingernails shall be clipped and trimmed short. Nail polish
and nail paintings are prohibited.
The wearing of earrings shall be prohibited while in uniform.
Eccentric or faddish jewelry including, but not limited to, nose rings
or studs, tongue rings or studs, eyebrow rings or studs, etc., shall
be prohibited. While in uniform, only one ring per hand is permitted.
While in uniform, neck chains shall not be worn on the outside of
the uniform. This neck chain is in addition to any chain worn to identify
the wearer as having a medical condition.
While in uniform, only one wristwatch in addition to any bracelet
worn to identify the wearer as having a medical condition.
2.
Female Employees.
Hair shall be kept clean, neatly shaped, and arranged in a professional
style. Hairstyles with a maximum of two braids may be worn. Pony tails
and pigtails are not permitted. When in uniform, hair shall not fall
below a horizontal line level with the lower edge of the back of the
collar. Long hair, including braids, must be neatly and inconspicuously
fastened, pinned or secured to the head and may not dangle free at
any point. Hair length or style shall not interfere with the wearing
of headgear. Hair shall be coifed in such a manner as to not cause
a hazard around machines or electronic equipment such as printers
and copiers. Long hair may be worn in a bun or similar rolled style
to conform to this standard.
Unusual, outrageous, or faddish haircuts are prohibited. These
include, but are not limited to, names or symbols cut into the sides
or top of the head, unusual shapes such as an arrow, Mohawk style,
unusual dyes, colors or tints, etc. The unique quality and texture
of curled, kinked, waved and straight hair are recognized.
When worn, hair ornaments shall not present a safety or foreign
object damage hazard. Banana clips, combs, and sharp pins are not
authorized. Barrettes similar to the hair color may be used to pin
up hair.
Wigs or hairpieces may be worn while on duty only for cosmetic
reasons to cover natural baldness or physical disfigurement. Wigs
or hairpieces must be of good quality and fit, present a natural appearance,
conform to the standards set forth in these rules and regulations
and fit properly beneath the uniform hat, when applicable. They must
not interfere with the proper performance of duty or present a safety
or foreign object damage hazard.
Cosmetics may be applied so that colors blend with the natural
skin tone. Exaggerated, outrageous, or faddish cosmetic styles are
deemed inappropriate and shall not be worn. Lipstick colors shall
be conservative and complement the individual. Long false eyelashes
shall not be worn when in uniform.
Brassieres that provide adequate support shall be worn.
Fingernails shall not exceed 1/4 inch measured from the fingertip,
for sworn personnel as it may interfere with the safe discharge of
a firearm. Fingernails for nonsworn personnel shall not exceed 1/2
inch measured from the fingertip. Fingernail length shall not interfere
with the operation of electronic equipment or adversely effect performance.
Nail polish colors shall complement the skin tone. Sworn personnel
are prohibited from using nail polish colors that are bright, fluorescent,
or that present unusual luminescence or reflection.
The wearing of earrings shall be prohibited while in uniform.
Eccentric or faddish jewelry including, but not limited to, nose rings
or studs, tongue rings or studs, eyebrow rings or studs, etc., shall
be prohibited. While in uniform, only one ring per hand is permitted.
While in uniform, neck chains shall not be worn on the outside of
the uniform. This neck chain is in addition to any chain worn to identify
the wearer as having a medical condition.
While in uniform, only one wristwatch in addition to any bracelet
worn to identify the wearer as having a medical condition.
3.
Tattoos.
They cannot be vulgar, indecent, sexist, and racist or incite
libidinous thoughts. Tattoos, similar markings or brands cannot be
on the head, face, or neck.
4.
Eyeglasses.
Eyeglasses worn by sworn police personnel while on duty or in
uniform shall be conservative in design.
Employees are responsible for the proper care of department
property and equipment assigned to them. Damaged or lost property
may subject the responsible individual to reimbursement charges and
appropriate disciplinary action. Employees shall not use any department
property or equipment for personal business or pleasure.
Employees shall immediately report to their supervisor in writing
of any loss of or damage to department property assigned to or used
by them. The immediate supervisor will be notified of any defects
or hazardous conditions existing in any department equipment or property.
Employees shall not mar, mark, or deface any surface in any
department building. No material shall be affixed in any way to any
wall in department buildings without specific authorization from the
Chief of Police.
Employees shall not mark, alter, or deface any posted notice
of the department. Notices or announcements shall not be posted on
bulletin boards without permission of the Chief of Police or unless
in conformance with collective bargaining agreements. Under no circumstances
will notices, pictures, etc., be posted that are degrading, obscene,
or considered detrimental to the good order of the police department.
Final judgment of improperly posted material will be made by the Chief
of Police.
Employees shall not use any department vehicle without the permission
of a shift supervisor. Department vehicles shall never be used for
personal business or pleasure, except for the Chief of Police subject
to a written agreement with the appropriate authority and the Township.
Members and employees, when driving vehicles of any description,
private or the department, shall not violate the traffic laws, except
only in cases of absolute emergency, and then only in conformity with
the law regarding same. They shall set an example for other persons
in the operation of their vehicles.
Such transportation will be done at the direction or permission
of the shift supervisor.
Whenever a police officer shall be involved in any accident,
or cause any damage, while in charge of or using a motor vehicle owned
by the department, he shall as soon as possible notify the officer
in charge. It shall be the duty of the officer in charge to cause
an investigation to be made of same, and a written report made to
the Chief of Police.
Whenever a police officer shall be involved in any accident,
or cause any damage, while in charge of or using an off duty motor
vehicle, he/she shall as soon as possible notify the officer in charge.
It shall be the duty of the duty officer to cause an investigation
to be made of same, and a written report made to the Chief of Police.
Whenever an employee is involved in any accident or cause any
damage while operating a motor vehicle in which a violation of the
law is charged against the employee, he/she shall report the accident
or damage to the Shift Supervisor immediately. A copy of the official
report will be forwarded to the Chief of Police.
In the event that Township property is found bearing evidence
of damage which has not been reported, it shall be prima-facie evidence
that the last person using the property or vehicle was responsible.
Departmental property and equipment is and remains the property
of the department and is subject to entry and inspection without notice,
including, but not limited to, lockers, desks, filing cabinets, computers,
and department vehicles.
If department property is damaged or lost as a result of misuse
or negligence by an employee, that employee may be held liable to
reimburse the department for the damage or loss and is subject to
disciplinary action.
A driver shall be responsible for the general appearance and
cleanliness of their assigned vehicle. The driver will further insure
that all necessary equipment is present and in proper working condition.
It shall be the responsibility of any employee operating a department
vehicle to see that it is properly parked off the traveled portion
of the highway at a crime scene, fire, etc., unless such vehicle is
being used to light the scene, create a road block, or under other
extenuating circumstances. When the vehicle is parked at headquarters,
it will be secured.
Employees shall:
Any employee receiving a written communication for transmission
to a higher command, shall, in every case, forward such communication,
unless withdrawn by the initiating party. A supervisor receiving a
communication from a subordinate directed to a higher command shall
endorse it indicating approval, disapproval, or acknowledgment.
Employees shall not use the department as a mailing address
or delivery drop site for private purposes. The department address
shall not be used for any private motor vehicle registration or driver
license.
Department telephone equipment and electronic devices may not
be used for the transmission of messages involving toll charges without
the express approval of a commanding officer. Employees must identify
their name, rank and assignment when answering the telephone.
No employee shall make any contract on the part of or purchase
any articles for use by the department without first having obtained
the authorized consent of the Chief of Police.
All employees of the department operating the police radios
shall strictly observe regulations for such operation as set forth
in department orders and by the Federal Communications Commission.
All members of the department operating the MDT or the Static
Terminal shall strictly observe regulations for such operations as
set forth in departmental orders and policies, as well as, those set
forth by the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office and any other
governmental agency.
Employees shall not knowingly lie, give misleading information,
or falsify oral or written communications in any official report when
it is reasonable to expect that the information may be relied upon
because of the employee's affiliation with this department.
1.
Employees shall not reveal any confidential business of the department.
They shall not impart confidential information to anyone except those
for whom it is intended, or as directed by their supervisor.
2.
Employees shall not make known to any person, any department order
which they may receive, unless so required by the nature of the order.
3.
Contents of any department record or report filed in the police department
shall not be exhibited or divulged to any person other than a duly
authorized person, except on approval of the Chief of Police, or under
due process of law, or as permitted under department regulations.
4.
Employees shall not release or expose any employee's home address,
home telephone, pager number, or personal information to a non-employee
without the express permission of the Chief of Police.
Employees shall be courteous in their dealings with the public.
They shall perform their duties, avoiding harsh, violent, profane
or insolent language and shall remain calm regardless of provocation.
Upon request, they are required to supply their names, photo identification
and badge numbers in a courteous manner. They shall attend to all
reasonable requests from the public quickly and accurately, avoiding
unnecessary referral to other parts of the department.
All employees, must remain completely impartial toward all persons
coming to the attention of the department. Violations of the law are
against the people of the state and not against the individual officer.
All citizens are guaranteed equal protection under law. Exhibiting
partiality for or against a person because of race, creed, color,
national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender identity or expression,
affectional or sexual orientation, marital status, familial status,
liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, disability,
atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information,
nationality, pregnancy or other protected class (N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et
seq.) is conduct unbecoming a public employee. Similarly, unwarranted
interference in the private business of others when not in the interests
of justice is conduct unbecoming a public employee.
Courtesy and civility toward the public is required of all employees
of the department. Employees shall not use words which humiliate,
disparage, demean, degrade, ridicule, or insult a person because of
their race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender
identity or expression, affectional or sexual orientation, marital
status, familial status, liability for service in the Armed Forces
of the United States, disability, atypical hereditary cellular or
blood trait, genetic information, nationality, pregnancy or other
protected class. (N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq.)
Members on duty shall not conceal themselves except for some
police purpose. They shall be immediately and readily available to
the public during duty hours.
Employees of the department shall not make public statements
concerning the work, plans, policies, or affairs of the department,
which may impair or disrupt the operation of the department or which
are obscene, unlawful or defamatory except for those permitted by
law.
No employee shall be a member of or connected with any subversive
organization except when necessary in the performance of duty and
then only under the direction of the Chief of Police. A subversive
organization is an organization with the purpose for revolutionary
and rebellious acts against a government entity.
[N.J.S.A. 38:23-4]
Employees may become members of a fire department, auxiliary
corps, first aid unit or other civic organization provided such membership
does not interfere with their obligation as a department employee.
Employees shall not affiliate themselves with any organizations whose
constitutions impose provisions which might in any way exact prior
consideration and prevent the proper and efficient functioning of
the department. This prohibition does not apply to the active military
or naval services of the United States or of this State, in time of
war, in an emergency, or for or during any period of training, or
pursuant to or in conjunction with the operation of any system of
selective service.
No employees except in the discharge of police related duties
shall knowingly associate with or have any dealings with any person
or organization which advocates or which is instrumental in fostering
hatred, prejudice or oppression against any individual or group.
Employees shall not permit their names or photographs to be
used to endorse any product or service which is in any way connected
with law enforcement without permission of the Chief of Police. No
employee shall utilize the agency name, affiliation, patch, badge,
emblem, logo or reasonable facsimile thereof, in furtherance of any
personal business, outside employment venture or objective without
the express permission of the Chief of Police.
All requests for public speeches, demonstrations, and the like,
will be routed to the Chief of Police for approval and processing.
Employees directly approached for this purpose shall suggest that
a party submit their request to the Chief of Police.
Employees shall not engage in political activity while on duty
or while in uniform, or at any time if to do so would conflict with
their duties or impair their ability to perform their duties. No employee
shall directly or indirectly use or seek to use their authority or
official influence to control or modify the political actions of another
person.
Employees may run for public office in accordance with New Jersey
State Law, but may not campaign nor engage in any activity connected
with candidacy for such office during any tour of police duty. Employees
shall not display any political material on any governmental property
or on their person while on duty or in uniform.
Police officers may engage in non-partisan political activities
except when such activities will impair or harm the operation or discipline
of the department.
Employees of the department shall not solicit contributions
for political purposes while on duty nor shall they directly or indirectly
use or attempt to use their official position to influence of their
office for political reasons.
Employees may contribute funds or any other thing of value to
candidates for public office subject to the provision of law governing
such contributions.
Employees shall not engage in any polling duties in the Township
of Lyndhurst, except in the performance of their official duties.
Employees shall not display any political material on any government
property or on their person while on duty or in uniform.
Attendance at a court or quasi-judicial hearing as required
by subpoena, resulting from department employment, is an official
duty assignment. Permission to omit this duty must be obtained from
the prosecuting attorney handling the case or other competent court
officials. When appearing in court, either the official uniform or
business attire shall be worn. Employees shall present a neat and
clean appearance, avoiding any mannerism which might imply disrespect
to the court.
It shall be the duty of every employee to appear and testify
upon matters directly related to the conduct of his/her office, position
or employment before any court, grand jury, or the State Commission
of Investigation. Any employee failing or refusing to so appear and
to so testify shall be subject to removal from his/her office, position
or employment.
Any employee subpoenaed to testify for the defense in any trial
or hearing or against Township of Lyndhurst in any hearing or trial
shall notify the Chief of Police through the chain of command upon
receipt of the subpoena. The Chief of Police or designee shall also
notify the Township of Lyndhurst Attorney.
Employees are required to answer questions by or render material
and relevant statements to a competent authority in a department personnel
investigation when so directed.
Employees are required to be truthful at all times whether or
not under oath.
Employees shall not volunteer to testify in civil actions and
shall not testify unless legally subpoenaed. Employees shall accept
all subpoenas legally served. If the subpoena arises out of department
employment or if the employee is informed that they are a party to
a civil action arising out of department employment, they shall immediately
notify the Chief of Police through the chain of command of the service
or notification and of the testimony they are prepared to give.
Employees shall not volunteer or agree to testify as an expert
witness in civil actions without the prior written approval of the
Bergen County Prosecutor and the Chief of Police.
Employees shall confer with their commanding officer before
giving a deposition or affidavit on a civil case. If a commander determines
that the case is of importance to the Township of Lyndhurst, they
shall inform the Chief of Police before the deposition or affidavit
is given.
Employees shall not serve civil process or assist in civil cases
unless the specific consent of the Chief of Police is obtained. They
shall avoid entering into civil disputes, particularly while performing
their duties, but shall prevent or abate a breach of the peace or
crime in such cases.
The Lyndhurst Police Department hereby adopts and incorporates
the "Internal Affairs Policy & Procedures" of the Police Management
Manual promulgated by the Police Bureau of the Division of Criminal
Justice in the Department of Law and Public Safety to govern the conduct
of internal affairs investigations.
