N.J. Police Chiefs Demand Full Probe into Cheating Allegations on Promotion Exam
New Jersey law enforcement officials are demanding transparency and accountability amid major allegations about the March 1, 2025 police sergeant promotional exam. The New Jersey State Policemen’s Benevolent Association has urged the state’s Civil Service Commission to investigate potential exam cheating, arguing that the promotion process’s fairness and legitimacy are now in question.
In a formal letter, NJSPBA President Peter Andreyev stated that the union immediately notified the Civil Service Commission of the charges. But Andreyev claimed the commission hasn’t been clear about its goals. Exam results are usually revealed in mid-October, but this year they were delayed, leaving many officers concerned about their careers.
Officers and departments that use these data for promotions and staffing are frustrated by the wait. The NJSPBA highlighted that transparency is necessary to restore trust and ensure fair evaluation of all candidates. Statewide police chiefs were advised by the union to establish temporary supervisory appointments until a legitimate eligibility list is released.
The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police supports the NJSPBA’s request that the Civil Service Commission delay exam results until the investigation is complete. Association President Andrew Caggiano said law enforcement leadership ethics depends on exam credibility. He stressed that disclosing results before addressing complaints could damage honesty among officers who took the test.
The state’s police promotional tests have been controversial before. After post-exam revisions unfairly disadvantaged applicants who followed the original instructions, a court nullified a previous sergeant exam in 2019. That case sparked long-term worries about monitoring, exam security, and fairness, which have returned.
The Civil Service Commission has not confirmed a probe, but its silence has frustrated officials for answers. Police unions and chiefs say transparency and clarity are essential for trust, thus the lack of communication has been a serious worry.
Experts warn that frequent exam integrity issues can lower department morale, stall promotions, and lead to legal action. Officers who studied hard and followed the rules face uncertainty while agencies struggle to fill top jobs. The unions have stated that only a comprehensive and transparent investigation can restore system faith.
New Jersey law enforcement is actively monitoring the inquiry. How properly and quickly these complaints are dealt affects the state’s promotion system and public trust in law enforcement. The NJSPBA and police chiefs organization have underscored that only a fair and merit-based conclusion would achieve justice for all personnel and preserve law enforcement credibility in New Jersey.
Sources
New Jersey 101.5 News
WRNJ Radio
