Township of Irvington Commends Ambrose Group and Implements Recommendations to Enhance Police and Fire Departments

Irvington, NJ – March 12, 2024

Mayor Tony Vauss of the Township of Irvington is thrilled to announce the remarkable achievements of the Irvington Police Department (IPD) and the implementation of recommendations provided by the esteemed Ambrose Group LLC. Over a year ago, Mayor Vauss took the initiative to bring in the Ambrose Group, led by Anthony Ambrose, a 35-year veteran of law enforcement and public safety, to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the police and fire departments, collectively known as the Public Safety Department.

The Ambrose Group has meticulously assessed the IPD and Irvington Fire Department, providing invaluable insights and recommendations. The independent firm was commissioned to evaluate the departments, identify areas for improvement, and issue a detailed report. This report will serve as a guide for transforming the IPD and Irvington Fire Department into model departments, ensuring that the residents of Irvington receive exceptional police and fire services.

Mayor Vauss acknowledges the importance of ongoing monitoring and improvement and will continue to engage the Ambrose Group to act as a monitor for the foreseeable future. In addition, the Ambrose Group will be entrusted with examining other departments within the township to enhance their efficiency. Furthermore, they will serve as an independent hearing officer, reviewing disciplinary matters to ensure fairness and impartiality.

The assessment conducted by the Ambrose Group has resulted in several recommendations, including staffing adjustments, upgrades to property and evidence facilities, acquisition of Mobile Video Recorders (MVRs) and additional patrol vehicles, implementation of a neighborhood security camera system, deployment of gunshot detection technology, and improvements to IPD facilities, including front lobby and prisoner cell blocks. The report also includes the drafting of new policies, both mandated by the Attorney General’s office (A.G), and revisions to existing policies. Adequate training for all internal affairs personnel and compliance with A.G mandated training requirements are also prioritized. Additionally, executive development training, increased oversight of juvenile-related curbside warnings, enhanced review of use of force incidents, and the implementation of strategic and succession plans are among the recommendations.

Mayor Vauss expresses sincere gratitude to the Ambrose Group for providing this insightful and comprehensive report, which will serve as a roadmap for success for the Irvington Police and Fire Department. The Mayor also extends appreciation to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Attorney General’s Office for their invaluable assistance in this endeavor. The Township of Irvington recognizes that achieving success requires collaboration and acknowledges the dedicated efforts of Public Safety Director Mr. Tracy Bowers, who has wholeheartedly accepted the report and initiated the implementation of its recommendations. Under Mr. Bowers’ leadership, the IPD has already made progress in areas such as staffing and supervision policies, ordinance revisions, training enhancements, evidence management, and the establishment of a Deputy Director. Revising the mission statement is among the many positive steps taken.

The Township of Irvington takes immense pride in its achievements. An assessment conducted from 2014 to 2023 reveals significant reductions in various crime categories. Murder rates have decreased by 70%, with an average reduction from 20 incidents to 6. Robbery has seen a remarkable reduction of 59.83%, dropping from 463 incidents to 186 in 2023. Assault cases have decreased by 59.36%, from 187 incidents in 2014 to 76 in 2023. Furthermore, burglary rates have experienced a substantial 85.01% reduction, with incidents decreasing from 587 in 2014 to 88 in 2023.

When Mayor Vauss took office in 2014, his motto was to make Irvington clean and safe. The accomplishments of the Irvington Police Department and the implementation of the Ambrose Group’s recommendations are testament to his commitment to that mission.

The Township of Irvington looks forward to continuing its journey towards a safer and more prosperous community, where residents can thrive and feel secure.