Hudson County, NJ Sheriff’s Officers Set the Standard for De-Escalation!

Tonight, we recognize the Hudson County Sheriff’s Officers for their outstanding professionalism and de-escalation skills—handling a situation with respect and fairness, when so many other departments might have resorted to unnecessary force or arrest.

At a Hudson County Commissioners Meeting, a member of the public attended, expecting to speak during the public comment session, just as he has done at numerous other meetings. What he didn’t know was that Hudson County has an unconstitutional rule requiring people to email the commissioners 24 hours in advance to “ask permission” to speak at a public meeting.

There was no sign-up sheet, no posted notice, and no way for him to know about this rule.

The man waited all night, patiently sitting through the meeting, expecting his turn to speak. However, when he finally thought it was time, the commissioners voted to end public comment without giving him the chance to speak.

When the man rightfully protested being denied his voice, instead of calmly explaining their unconstitutional rule, one commissioner aggressively escalated the situation, immediately yelling at the man.

In many other places, this could have led to the man being tackled, tasered, or arrested. But instead, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Officers stepped in and demonstrated real de-escalation, true professionalism, and genuine respect for the public.

They quickly diffused the situation and engaged in a respectful conversation with the man, who simply wanted to exercise his right to speak. They listened, treated him with dignity, and by the end of the night, they were shaking hands and sharing a positive exchange.

Where other law enforcement agencies might have resorted to force or arrest, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Officers ensured the man went home feeling heard.

This is a direct reflection of the leadership of HUDSON COUNTY SHERIFF FRANK SCHILLARI and LIEUTENANT RUIZ, who train their officers not just in law enforcement, but in true public service. Their officers showed tonight what it means to protect both public safety and the public’s constitutional rights.

Any police department can claim to support de-escalation and constitutional rights, but the Hudson County Sheriff’s Officers proved it tonight.

I am proud to know these officers and grateful for their dedication to serving the public with professionalism and integrity.

(Pictured: Some of the exceptional Hudson County, NJ Sheriff’s Officers who upheld the highest standards of professionalism tonight.)