The National Strategy for Homeland Security and the Homeland Security Act of 2002
served to mobilize and organize our nation to secure the homeland from terrorist
attacks. This exceedingly complex mission requires a focused effort from our entire
society if we are to be successful. To this end, one primary reason for the establishment
of the Department of Homeland Security was to provide the unifying core for the
vast national network of organizations and institutions involved in efforts to secure
our nation.
The North Bergen Police Department's Office of Homeland Security was established
in response to the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and was created to help detect,
deter and prevent future acts of terrorism. The duties of this unit include:
Investigation
The North Bergen Police Department's Office of Homeland Security has an investigative
division that is supplemented by the North Bergen Police Department Detective Bureau.
This investigative unit works closely with the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security
& Preparedness, Hudson County Terrorism Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation's
Joint Terrorism Task Force. Unit members are responsible for the investigation of
suspected or bona fide acts of domestic and international terrorism or terrorist
related activity.
Training
This unit has its own dedicated training division which supplements the North Bergen
Police Department Training Bureau. Personnel assigned to this unit implement training
programs in accordance with State and Federal guidelines, and also develop customized
programs for individuals who will be first to arrive on the scene of a major disaster.
This unit has also created educational programs for non law enforcement personnel.
Response
The North Bergen Police Department's Office of Homeland Security works with various
agencies to develop emergency response plans. This unit has already created responses
plans to a wide variety of both man-made and natural disaster scenarios, including
evacuation initiatives and strategies that will help increase the safety of our
citizens. It is also outfitting first responders with the equipment necessary for
them to take action in the event of a disaster.
Intelligence
The North Bergen Police Department's Office of Homeland Security has established
close ties with other North Bergen Township, County, State and Federal agencies.
Intelligence sharing between these various agencies is critical when devising plans
to combat and respond effectively to acts of terrorism. Several members of this
unit are assigned to the Hudson County Terrorism Task Force in an effort to help
propagate intelligence sharing.