Highland Park Police Department

06/09/2026

On May 21st, the Middlesex County 200 Club Valor Awards Ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the dedication, professionalism, and selfless service found throughout public safety. Police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, and their families gathered to recognize individuals whose actions exemplify courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to others.

Among those honored were members of the Highland Park Police Department for two extraordinary incidents that highlight the profound impact first responders can have during moments of crisis.

Officer Jonathan Laraj, Officer Justin Samson, Officer Claribel Peralta, and Officer-in-Charge Alexander Triana were recognized for their actions during an Infant Seizure Emergency Transport on May 26, 2025. Responding to a 9-1-1 call involving a 17-month-old child suffering an active seizure, these officers acted decisively when no advanced life support unit was immediately available. Working together, they transported the child to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital while providing continuous care. During the transport, the child became unresponsive, prompting Officer Laraj to initiate CPR. Their quick thinking, teamwork, and dedication ultimately contributed to the child's full recovery.

Detective Sergeant Sean McGraw was honored for his work in a Missing Juvenile Recovery and Exploitation Investigation on November 4, 2025. Through rapid investigative efforts, Detective Sergeant McGraw coordinated with numerous local, state, and federal partners after a missing and endangered 15-year-old juvenile was believed to have been lured from her home through online communication. By leveraging digital evidence, real-time location data, and extensive interagency cooperation, he helped locate the juvenile in the Bronx, New York, and assisted in the apprehension of a suspect with a history of offenses involving minors. The juvenile was safely recovered and reunited with her family.

These incidents reflect the very best of public service—professionalism under pressure, dedication to protecting the vulnerable, and a steadfast commitment to preserving life.

Thank you to every honoree and first responder recognized that evening for your courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to serving others. Your actions make our communities safer and exemplify the highest ideals of public service.

06/01/2026

The Highland Park Police Department is pleased to offer a Distracted Driver Awareness Program designed specifically for new drivers under the age of 18.

This informative program will focus on the dangers of distracted driving, safe driving habits, decision-making behind the wheel, and practical strategies to help young drivers stay focused and safe on the road. Whether your student has recently obtained a permit or driver's license, this program provides valuable information that can help reduce risk and build confidence.

Please see the information below for program details and registration instructions.

To register, please use the link below:
https://forms.gle/afp8aPVyv5874yaz9

We encourage all eligible students and their parents to take advantage of this important safety opportunity. Together, we can help make our roads safer for everyone.

05/29/2026

It is with great pride and excitement that the Highland Park Police Department welcomes Officer Sebastian Gonzalez and Officer Michael Kovalchik following their graduation from the Monmouth County Police Academy. This milestone marks the beginning of their law enforcement careers as they join the Patrol Division and begin field training while serving the residents of Highland Park.

Adding to this special occasion, both officers are Highland Park natives and proud graduates of Highland Park High School. Their return to serve the community that helped shape them reflects a deep commitment to the Borough and its residents.

Pictured with the newest officers are members of the Highland Park Police Department who attended the graduation ceremony to celebrate their achievement and welcome them into the profession. The Department congratulates Officers Gonzalez and Kovalchik on this accomplishment and wishes them continued success as they begin their careers in public service.

05/28/2026

SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE!!!
Please use the below link for more info:
https://highlandparknj.myrec.com/info/default.aspx

05/26/2026

05/22/2026

Join the Highland Park community this Memorial Day as we come together to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. Memorial Day is more than a long weekend — it is a time to reflect on the courage, dedication, and selflessness of our nation’s heroes. We encourage all residents and families to come out and enjoy the parade, support our community, and pay tribute to those who gave everything for our freedom. The parade will begin in New Brunswick and should reach Highland Park shortly after 11:00 A.M.. Please be advised that there will be no parking on Raritan Avenue from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 25th, due to parade activities and road closures.

05/17/2026

To the Highland Park Community:

I want to inform you about an incident that occurred earlier this morning on N. Third Avenue.

At approximately 12:15 a.m., officers responded to a reported disturbance near N. Third Ave. and Montgomery St. The situation was quickly resolved with no injuries, and the area is now secure. We sincerely thank our law enforcement partners who assisted in ensuring a swift and safe resolution.

Please be assured that this was an isolated incident, and at no time was the public in danger.

The matter is under active investigation by our Detective Bureau. As this is ongoing, we are unable to provide additional details at this time.

Thank you to our community for your continued cooperation, vigilance, and support.

Chief Rick Abrams
Highland Park Police Department

05/15/2026

HIGHLAND PARK YOUTH POLICE ACADEMY 🚔
📅 July 6th – July 10th, 2026

Ever wonder what it’s like to train alongside police officers?The Highland Park Youth Police Academy gives students an exciting, hands-on look into the world of law enforcement through:

✅ Team-building exercises✅ Physical training & drills✅ Interactive classes✅ Leadership development✅ Problem-solving activities✅ Real-world police demonstrations

This program is designed to build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and respect — all while creating lasting memories and friendships.

Open to students entering 5th through 12th grade.

Whether your child is interested in law enforcement, leadership, fitness, or simply trying something new.

📧 To learn more or request an application, please contact Officer Bryant Fitzgerald at: [email protected] or📞 (732) 712-2505

Spots may be limited. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable week with the Highland Park Police Department!

05/13/2026

This week, the Highland Park Police Department joins communities across the nation in recognizing Police Week — a time to honor the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of the men and women who serve in law enforcement.

We remember the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, while also recognizing those who continue to serve their communities each day with professionalism, strength, and dedication. Behind every badge is a person, a family, and a commitment to something greater than themselves.

Throughout this week, we stand together in remembrance, gratitude, and support for all law enforcement officers and their families.