As police recruitment declines nationwide, some law enforcement agencies from other states are hoping to find their next officers in New Jersey. The police department from Alpharetta, Georgia held a recruitment event in Hasbrouck Heights where, for three days, residents interested in joining the department attended recruitment sessions and were physically assessed.

Shenique Rosario attended last year’s event and was hired by the Alpharetta Police Department. She said the work-life balance they offer is superior to most areas. “Everything is great,” Rosario said. “For the young people, for the people trying to settle down, this is a great lifestyle there. And the police department is really well run.” But as Alpharetta recruits more officers, New Jersey is left with a deficit and potential crisis.

Andrew Caggiano, chief of police in Montville, said it’s a sign of the times that every state is facing after the protests and calls for police reform following the murder of George Floyd. “My agency, for example, we used to get over 100 applicants easily a year when we give a test,” Caggiano said. “And the last test we gave I got 25. And this is not unique to Montville. It’s around the state.”