Friends,
It is with a heavy heart I bid Bergenfield farewell. I have been your chief for almost 4 years. From day one I made community policing my number one platform. In that time we have accomplished great things together. I can't express how beyond proud I am of the men and women of the BPD. We were named the 4th safest city in the United States by Neighborhood Scout in 2019.
I believe that feat was in large part due to Bergenfield Police Department’s commitment to community policing. We formed partnerships and worked together to reduce crime and the fear of crime. We brought back the chaplain program, we created an amazing youth police academy, we attended functions, events, played basketball, ran through sprinklers, had snow ball fights, and were always there to talk to, to lean on, in both good times and bad. We created a community that was inclusive even though our demographics screamed differences. We broke down barriers and worked together.
I would like to thank the members of the mayor and council, the Borough Administrator, and all of the Borough Department heads for their support of me and the Police Department. Without their help, our success would have been much more difficult to accomplish.
I will be bringing my community policing philosophy to Pacific Grove, CA along with my 25 years of experience from Bergenfield and law enforcement to their community and Police Department. I look forward to becoming a part of their community as I did in Bergenfield on day one, back in August of 1994. I am excited for my new venture and already feel welcomed from their staff and community.
If I named every member of our community that impacted me, this letter would turn into a novel. I will just say each and every one of you hold a special place in my heart and I am eternally grateful. Individually, you know how you impacted me.
I leave you in great hands with the members of BPD and my administration. DC Massey and Captain Rabboh both shared in my vision of community policing during my tenure as Chief. DC Massey was born and raised in Bergenfield and Capt Rabboh did as I did and became part of the community by getting involved.
This opportunity is bittersweet. I was honored to be your first female officer, and first to attain every rank including becoming first chief in a Bergen County municipality on Sept 1, 2015.
A great leader makes a place better than they received it and hopes that those who follow will continue on that path and make it even better. I hope I exceeded your expectations during my time as your Chief
Thank you all, I wish all of you nothing but the best.
Warmest Regards,
Chief Cathy Madalone
