The Hopewell Township Police Department is increasing its ranks with the appointments of two new patrol officers.
Officers Collin Brigham and Brandon Kuzma took their oaths of office in front of family, fellow officers, residents, and officials at a Township Committee meeting on Jan. 8.
“Collin Brigham and Brandon Kuzma, they started our process here to become police officers back in February 2023. We when out and advertised and wound up getting 115 applicants that wanted to apply for the police department here in Hopewell Township,” Police Chief James Rosso said.
“They completed a PT [physical agility test] assessment that we ran in June. They completed several interviews, a background phase, a physiological phase, all before we come to what is taking place today.”
Brigham and Kuzma began their new roles as Hopewell Township police officers on Jan. 10.
Both officers will attend the Mercer County Police Academy next month on Feb. 20, which will run for 22 weeks.
They will then have several months of training with the township police department’s field training program before being off on their own, according to Rosso.
Collin Brigham (left) takes his oath as he officially becomes a Hopewell Township police officer on Jan. 8.
Brigham is from South River and graduated from South River High School. He attended Middlesex County Community College after high school where he went on to earn an associate degree in criminal justice.
“Soon after college he enlisted in the U.S. Army as an infantryman where he completed four years of service and obtained the rank of sergeant. During his time of service, he received several accommodations,” Rosso added.
“After the Army, Collin went on and worked as an armed security guard at U.S. Navy Station Earle in Colts Neck.”
Brandon Kuzma (left) administered oath of office by Hopewell Township Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning.
Kuzma is from Hopelawn and attended John F. Kennedy High School in Iselin. After John F. Kennedy High School, he also attended Middlesex County Community College before enlisting in the U.S. Army.
“Brandon completed three years of service in the U.S. Army National Guard as an infantryman and has since completed his enlistment in the national guard. During Brandon’s service in the Army, he received several accommodations,” Rosso explained.
The township police department does not just serve Hopewell Township residents, but also Hopewell Borough residents.
“We have a great unit here in our team. I look forward to having you two join us,” Rosso said.