GTPD Media Release- GTPD Lead the Way in Addressing Opioid Use Disorder with Comprehensive Training for All Officers 4-10-2025
The Gloucester Township Police Department (GTPD) is pleased to announce that all of its police officers have successfully completed the Operational Readiness for Police Officers: Effective Strategies and Practical Techniques for Addressing Opioid Use Disorder and Co-occurring Conditions course through Seton Hall University. This progressive initiative is designed to equip GTPD officers with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively respond to the opioid crisis and its associated mental health challenges, fostering safer township communities and improving their interactions with those struggling with addiction.
With opioid use disorder (OUD) and co-occurring mental health conditions impacting communities across the nation, this training is a critical step toward modernizing the law enforcement approach to public health issues. The course provides police officers with a deeper understanding of the nature of opioid addiction, the complexities of co-occurring conditions, and the importance of compassion during interactions. By addressing these concerns with professionalism, empathy, and practical strategies, officers will be better prepared to de-escalate potentially volatile situations and connect individuals to the resources they need for recovery.
“This training is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing the well-being of our police officers and the Gloucester Township community that we serve,” said Chief David Harkins. “The opioid crisis and mental health challenges are problems that no single agency can solve on its own. By ensuring our police officers are better prepared with the knowledge and skills to handle these complex situations, we are not only making the GTPD more operationally ready but also promoting a healthier, more supportive approach to policing.”
Additionally, it is important that our community is aware the GTPD offers their Project SAVE Advocate, who serves as an excellent resource providing information and treatment programs to individuals who need assistance regarding substance abuse for themselves, and friend, or a loved one. For more information and help related to addiction, please contact the Project SAVE advocates at 856-302-7051.
Lastly, another valuable program available is the GTPD Family Resource Center’s Project SAVE Support Group, which provides an opportunity for adults to meet, who now struggle with family members or friends with a substance use disorder, and give voice to those affected by this problem. Participants will explore ways of handling common problems and make changes in their own attitude and behavior toward their loved one with a substance use disorder. The SAVE Support Group meets at the Gloucester Township Police Family Resource Center located at 1324 Little Gloucester Road, Blackwood, NJ 08012 every Wednesday night from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. For more information please contact our Gloucester Township licensed social worker at 856-842-5553 or email FamilyResource@GTPolice.com.
Date and Time of Media Release: 4/10/25 08:00 AM
Media Release By: Deputy Chief Anthony Minosse #126
Address/Location
Gloucester Township Police Department
1261 Chews Landing Rd
Clementon, NJ 08021
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 856-228-4500
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