Commissioner Humberto Cuadrado: A Trailblazing Career in Law Enforcement and Community Service

Paterson – Humberto Cuadrado has made history as the first Latino from the City of Paterson Police Department to serve in the Passaic County Sheriff’s administration and as Undersheriff. Breaking barriers and setting a new standard of excellence, he has become a symbol of dedication, professionalism, and compassion throughout his remarkable career.

His journey in the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office began when the late Sheriff Richard Berdnik recognized Cuadrado’s dedication to law enforcement and his potential to be an invaluable asset to the organization. Berdnik gave him the opportunity to serve, highlighting Cuadrado’s contributions and accomplishments, which ultimately led to his promotion to Undersheriff.

Now, as he honorably retires from a distinguished law enforcement career spanning decades, Cuadrado transitions into civilian life serving in administrative roles, while leaving an enduring legacy. His public service includes roles with the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Paterson Police Department, volunteer Paterson Constable, and a United States Veteran who served as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army.

Passaic County Sheriff Thomas Adamo praised Cuadrado, stating that “throughout his years of service, he has worked tirelessly to ensure the community’s trust in the department. He has promoted equity and fairness, and represented the department with the utmost professionalism and integrity. He has demonstrated his commitment and loyalty, serving as an invaluable asset to the Office of the Passaic County Sheriff.”

Cuadrado’s career reflects an unwavering commitment to public safety and operational excellence. At the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, he has served for 14 years in leadership roles such as Director of Fleet Management, Community Policing, Auxiliary Services, and Court Securities and for the past 4 years as Undersheriff.

Gary Giardina, former Passaic County Sheriff and now Director of the Passaic County Police Academy, shared that “Cuadrado has been a pleasure to work with in all of his roles within the department. His leadership is characterized by unwavering dedication, a collaborative spirit, and an ability to inspire those around him. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the department operates at its highest standards, leaving an enduring impact on both his colleagues and the community he serves.”

As a Police Instructor at the Passaic County Police Academy, Cuadrado has trained countless new officers, sharing his expertise and serving as a role model for the next generation of law enforcement professionals. Prior to that, he spent nearly three decades in the City of Paterson Police Department’s Major Crimes Division, solving complex cases and enhancing public safety.

His collaborative efforts with other agencies on high-profile cases earned him commendations from the FBI, the United States Department of Justice, the NJ State PBA, and numerous other federal, state, and local organizations.

Appointed by NJ Governor Phil Murphy to the NJ Puerto Rico Commission, Commissioner Cuadrado further demonstrates his dedication to civic engagement. He also serves as Co-Chair of the Hispanic Multi-Purpose Service Center and is actively involved in organizations like the statewide Borinqueneers Education Alliance, the Latino Democratic Leadership Alliance of Passaic County, and as advisor to the Dominican American Elected and Appointed Officials Caucus (NJ DAEOC), among others.

His contributions to the Passaic County Open Space Commission and the Passaic County Youth Commission, among various civic boards, highlight his commitment to fostering community well-being. As the founder of the Paterson Hispanic Police Association, he championed equity and recognition for Latino officers while supporting scholarships and community relief efforts.

In addition to these roles, Cuadrado is a proud member of numerous professional and civic organizations, including the Paterson Police PBA Local #1, the Passaic County Retired Police and Fire Association, the Honor Legion of the NJ & NY Police Departments, and the Blue Knights. These affiliations underscore his deep connections to the law enforcement community and his unwavering support for its members.

Cuadrado’s pursuit of excellence is reflected in his educational achievements. He studied Criminal Justice at Passaic County Community College and Fairleigh Dickinson University, completed advanced training in forensics and major crimes at Princeton University and the FBI, and earned certifications in Bio-terrorism and HAZMAT. He has also completed the FBI LEEDA Executive Training at Quantico, Virginia, further honing his leadership skills.

Humberto Cuadrado’s exceptional career exemplifies a life devoted to service. As a community leader, law enforcement professional, instructor, and advocate, his leadership, professionalism, and compassion leave an indelible mark on his community, fostering safety, equity, and opportunity for all. His legacy of dedication, operational excellence, and community engagement will continue to inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps, proving that perseverance and a commitment to making a difference can break barriers and create meaningful change.