STAFFORD – In a personal interview, James Haldenwang, the newly appointed police chief of Stafford, shared his vision for community-oriented policing and his deep commitment to both public service and the well-being of his officers.
Approved unanimously by the governing body, Haldenwang, 52, brings 24 years of experience within the Stafford Police Department. The new chief says he started late at age 28, working in the trades before he decided to pursue a career in law enforcement.
Haldenwang, hired by the local department in 2000, graduated second in his class from the Ocean County Police Academy. He worked in the patrol division until 2006, transitioning into the Drug Enforcement Unit for seven years.
Promoted in 2013 to sergeant, he moved up the ranks to lieutenant in 2020 and became the captain of service in 2023. His last role before becoming chief placed him in charge of the department’s purchasing and budgets, public information, and Internal Affairs.
The new chief also went to college later in life and has both an undergraduate and master’s degree in administrative science from Farleigh Dickinson University.
Reflecting on his career, Haldenwang emphasized his belief in the fundamental principles of policing, rooted in community service and protection. “We’re here to serve the public,” he stated unequivocally. “We’re here to protect people, from the weak and the strong and everybody in between – and we are not going to put up with unlawful behavior.”
Haldenwang added that protecting the public meant charging people appropriately and letting the justice department take its course when someone violates the law. Central to his vision for the local law enforcement agency is a commitment to excellence in policing, underpinned by ongoing education and training for officers. This includes ensuring members of the department know what they can and cannot do – by teaching them about the Constitution, constitutional law, and case law.
“You really have to educate your officers so that they know where the lines are, so they can respect the rights of the public,” said Haldenwang. “I truly believe in the founders of our country and the Constitution that they wrote. I firmly believe in the laws that we have, and I believe that everyone is innocent until proven guilty.”
“I don’t want my officers trying to be the judge. I want my officers finding probable cause reasonable suspicion, investigating and then letting the courts do what they’re supposed to do,” continued Haldenwang. “I don’t want to detain anybody that they shouldn’t detain for any period of time longer than what it takes to figure out whether or not they need to continue to investigate or if they’ve dispelled their reasonable suspicions.”
Highlighting his belief in the shared commitment among the department’s 60 sworn members, Haldenwang emphasized their collective dedication to serving and protecting the public. He stressed the importance of advocating for the physical and mental health of department members, recognizing it as critical to their well-being and effectiveness in their roles.
Haldenwang isn’t shy about praising his team, which he says he couldn’t have picked better himself. He expressed feeling “blessed” to lead such a talented group, emphasizing that this included everyone from sworn officers to dispatchers and administrative staff.
The new chief believes in a leadership style that “catches people doing right” – with a focus on recognizing and appreciating good work.
“I think that when people feel appreciated, and they feel like you care about them, they want to do more,” he explained. This philosophy, he believes, translates to a more motivated and effective department.
Photo by Chris Lundy
New Chief – New Priorities
Community outreach is a key priority for Haldenwang, who plans to engage with civic associations and increase the department’s presence within the community. Haldenwang expressed his concerns about scams that target seniors and plans to provide information to put people on alert.
The department’s social media presence will also see a boost under Haldenwang’s leadership. They plan to utilize these platforms to share positive community initiatives like the “Cops and Kids” program and their annual Christmas “Grinch” program. Additionally, the department website is being revamped to include a police blotter, keeping residents informed of local law enforcement activities.
Stafford’s Dispatch Center, which fields calls for Stafford and Barnegat, was the second in the state to receive accreditation. Gearing up for reaccreditation in May, Haldenwang emphasized the importance of maintaining not just compliance but also staying at the forefront.
“It’s crucial to me that our dispatch center isn’t merely meeting requirements but is also pioneering cutting-edge practices,” stated Haldenwang. He stressed the significance of setting an example for other agencies to follow.
Haldenwang credited his predecessor, retired Chief Thomas Dellane as a wonderful mentor. He said he is excited to implement the “Ride Together” program initiated by Dellane. Certified counselors will be going out with officers in Barnegat, Little Egg Harbor and Stafford to ride with officers on particular calls.
“I went up to Elizabeth to look at their program,” Haldenwang said. “Their program has been a resounding success, and it was inspirational to see how they were able to serve the community together.”
Plans are also underway to reinstate the Citizens Police Academy to allow adult members of the community to get an inside look at various aspects of the local law enforcement agency.
Reflecting on the significance of empathy and understanding in law enforcement, Haldenwang expressed a desire for a more compassionate approach to policing.
“We need softer hearts,” he remarked. “Most people are good and need to be taken care of – and need our help.”
Haldenwang’s dedication to service extends beyond his professional realm, deeply rooted in his personal life as well. With 18 years of marriage to his wife Bridget, and two children, Jack, 13, and Reilly, nearly 17, the Haldenwang family resides in another town within southern Ocean County.
Beyond his familial bonds, Chief Haldenwang’s faith in God plays a central role in shaping his worldview and guiding his actions. “I truly believe God placed me exactly where I am today,” he shared. For Haldenwang, living a life centered on honesty and integrity is paramount, reflecting his commitment to both his faith and his role as a leader in the community.
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