Despite no friends or family on hand due to the growing concerns over the spread of COVID-19, the Jersey City Police Department still swore in 14 new cops at a City Hall ceremony earlier today.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“This is a different time for all of us, particularly for young first responders whose first assignment if to face professionally responsibilities they’ve taken an oath for during a pandemic,†Mayor Steven Fulop said in a statement.
“We welcome this new group and I’m certain they will only enhance the fine job our officers have done over the years and will continue to do during this current world crisis that is impacting us all.â€
The class will immediately begin field training and become an asset during the coronavirus pandemic as social distancing and an array of other health safety measures put into effect become a new part of daily life.
During the city’s state of emergency, residents have been asked to work from home if possible.
Nevertheless, first responders are on full staffing levels and all municipal offices are open and operating to service residents – though those services are now by appointment only.
Earlier today, Fulop announced that there are now eight COVID-19 cases in the city, also urging residents to consult their regular physicians before going to the emergency room since healthcare professionals are also contracting the disease.
The Hudson County Sheriff’s Office held a similar private ceremony today, welcoming a dozen new officers to their department.
