OLD BRIDGE — A veteran police officer, who received a department and a state award for saving a life in 2006, has moved up the ranks.
James Ford, who was sworn in as an Old Bridge police officer in 1997, was promoted to the rank of sergeant at a Township Council meeting on Aug. 6.
Mayor Owen Henry welcomed Ford and his family at the meeting.
Ford began his law enforcement career as a corrections officer at East Jersey State Prison, Rahway, before coming to Old Bridge, where he has served as a patrol officer with the Patrol Bureau.
“Among many of his duties in the past 18 years, [Ford] has been a training officer providing instructions and training to new officers,” the mayor said. “For the past 12 years of his service, [Ford] has served as PBA 127 [Police Benevolent Association] president and is currently a state delegate.”
Ford has received numerous letters of appreciation from individuals in the community who have related how he assisted them in their time of need, Henry said. Ford also has received recognition from Mothers Against Drunk Driving for his efforts regarding drunk driving enforcement.
“He is involved in numerous community service events as well as coordinating the police department’s Cops for Kids annual holiday party,” Henry said, adding that Ford has also volunteered in the community as a coach for baseball and soccer.
