WILDWOOD – The Board of Commissioners has honored Police Chief Joseph Murphy for his leadership of the Police Department, including working to advance professional standards, demonstrating decisive leadership and introducing proactive initiatives.
Murphy was on hand to receive his award March 12 as his department shared the receipt of a letter of gratitude from the Lithuanian ambassador to the United States for its role in aiding a wounded Lithuanian student in Wildwood last summer.
Deputy Mayor Steve Mikulski, who oversees the Department of Public Safety, read the proclamation honoring Murphy, saying the chief has collaborated extensively with Mikulski to implement stricter curfews and a backpack ban, ensuring a safer environment for visitors and residents. The city now has a 10 p.m. curfew for individuals under 18 who are not with a parent or guardian.
Mikulski said the chief also has instituted security upgrades on the boardwalk and has spearheaded efforts to advance the department’s professional standards, referring to its quest for accreditation by the New Jersey Chiefs of Police Association. This is the first time in over a century, Mikulski said, that the department has sought this accreditation.
“Accreditation ensures adherence to and exceedance of industry best practices,” he said.
Further, Mikulski said, Murphy has introduced strategic hiring initiatives to strengthen shift coverage, reduced overtime costs and prioritized officer well-being.
He said the chief has strengthened the department and enhanced public safety, “making Wildwood a safe and welcoming city for residents and visitors.”
Contact the reporter, Christopher South, at csouth@cmcherald.com or 609-886-8600, ext. 128.
