To further its mission of maintaining an open line of communication with residents, the Saddle Brook Police Department recently launched its own Facebook page.

The department already sends out Nixle emergency alerts, tweets and has operated a website since 1995, but until late January had not had a presence on Facebook. Chief Robert Kugler said the new Saddle Brook Police Facebook page should provide residents yet another way for the department to disseminate information to the public.

“I believe this initiative will be an invaluable tool for our law enforcement agency in providing enhanced services and direct, immediate information to those interested in what is occurring from the police department within the township," Kugler said. "Our residents and citizens who follow Facebook will now have a new place to turn to in times of emergency, to keep abreast of what's happening in town or when they simply have a question or want to make a comment."

Lt. John Zotollo spearheaded the department's Facebook initiative and oversees operation of the page. 

“We have started out basically putting out news releases, including crime incident press releases and specific information such as the police officer hiring announcement and snow emergency parking restriction announcement," Zotollo said. "Public safety related news, current police topics and alerts and addressing local concerns will also be present and featured.” 

As of Feb. 22, the page had 268 "Likes", but the department wishes to expand its reach and is requesting residents "Like" the page so they can receive police department postings in real time.

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