Training Unit
NJ TRANSIT police officers are trained constantly to hone their skills and sharpen their minds. The Training Unit educates and conditions NJTPD officers throughout their careers. The NJTPD Training Unit members maintain the highest level of proficiency in law enforcement tactics and keep the Department at the forefront of transit policing throughout the nation.
During the initial year-and-a-half of an officer's career, the Training Unit plays a vital role and coordinates all aspects of training. Training Unit members instruct at the police academy, coordinate field training exercises and prepare new officers for their first job assignment
Additionally, the Training Unit provides progressive training and support to officers of every rank in the Department. Officers actively build on skills and tactics by participating in various tactical and firearms training exercises which simulate real life situations. Each officer is given the opportunity to train twice a month and receive police-oriented defensive tactics training. This Unit manages and coordinates "mandatory in-service" training and external training, which includes but is not limited to domestic violence, pursuit driving and use-of-force matters.
Community Outreach Programs also fall under the auspices of the Training Unit. These programs include Community Emergency Outreach Response Training (CERT), assistant conductor introduction course, new regional bus supervisor course and railroad familiarization training for other law enforcement agencies. Recently, Citizens Police Academy was launched under the direction of Chief Trucillo and gives NJ TRANSIT customers and employees an inside look at the day-to-day functions and operations of the Department.