JACKSON – A 16-year veteran of the Jackson Police Department took the next step in his law enforcement career as his family members and peers gathered to celebrate his success.
Dozens of people, including municipal officials and fellow police officers, gathered at the municipal building to praise the work of Lt. Steven Laskiewicz, who was promoted to the rank of captain during the June 23 meeting of the Township Council.
“While all of our officers are great, Capt. Laskiewicz has earned [this promotion],” Councilman Kenneth Bressi said.
“I am very excited to be given the opportunity … I am looking forward to taking on my new tasks to serve the people of Jackson,” Laskiewicz said.
Police Chief Matthew Kunz said Laskiewicz was hired by the Jackson Police Department in July 1999.
Kunz said that during the past 16 years, Laskiewicz has completed about 50 state and federal law enforcement courses, covering topics ranging from SWAT instruction to U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration investigations.
The chief said Laskiewicz has been an asset to the police department, citing his involvement in training new officers, his work as a patrol sergeant and most recently as the head of the Professional Standards Unit and serving as the police department’s public information officer.
As a captain, Laskiewicz will oversee the department’s patrol efforts as the new Uniform Services Division commander, on top of his previous responsibilities.
“Right now, I’m still doing everything until the chief sees if there is going to be any more movement with any kind of promotions in the near future,” Laskiewicz said.
Kunz said Laskiewicz has been involved with the Ocean County Narcotics Strike Force and has received a number of commendations, including three unit citations, a command citation letter, an excellent police review ribbon and a good conduct ribbon.
The chief said Laskiewicz has had extensive firearms training and has trained in Krav Maga, a self-defense system originally employed by Israeli military forces.
“As you can see, Capt. Laskiewicz is eminently qualified for this promotion,” Kunz said.
A captain’s position opened when Capt. Andrew Cheney retired.
Following a long round of applause after Laskiewicz accepted his promotion, council members praised the effort he has made on behalf of Jackson for the past 16 years.
Laskiewicz’s promotion “proves that hard work and dedication pay off,” council President Barry Calogero said.
“Capt. Laskiewicz is not only a fine police officer, but a fine gentleman,” Councilman Robert Nixon said.
According to Jackson’s 2015 salary ordinance, police captains are eligible to receive a salary between $157,064 and $171,476.