Paterson Police Department Announces Implementation of Risk Management and Early Intervention Program

PATERSON – The Paterson Police Department today announced the implementation of a first-of-its-kind Risk Management and Early Intervention Program (EIP). The program reviews officer conduct and provides remedial retraining, peer supported mentorship, and other behavioral corrections to promote best practices in a non-disciplinary setting.

The program will continue to rebuild trust with the community by identifying at-risk employees and enhancing the efficacy of an existing state-mandated Early Warning System.

“From the outset, we committed to increasing accountability and improving the relationship between the department and the community,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin. “With this program and its ability to identify issues before they become larger problems, we can work directly with officers to ensure they receive the training and resources to be their very best. It is all about helping officers and ensuring they have everything they need when they put on a uniform to protect and serve the people of Paterson.”

“At the end of the day, we want our officers to be the highest trained and most professional in the entire state,” said Officer in Charge Patrick Murray. “This program will help officers in their careers and foster growth for them as well as the relationship between police and the community.”

The EIP is headed by Director Mark Iocco, who dedicated 26 years to the New York City Police Department. During his tenure there, he served as the commanding officer of the NYPD’s Risk Management Bureau, where he spearheaded reforms, conducted analyses of use-of-force incidents, and managed risk for the largest police force in the United States. Alongside Director Iocco are members of the Professional Standards Division as well as employees assigned to the Paterson Police Department through the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.

This initiative enhances officer performance, accountability, and community trust by utilizing data-driven insights and body-worn camera video review to flag potential issues before they escalate.

The EIP works by continuously monitoring key performance indicators such as use of force incidents, investigative detentions, motor vehicle stops, civilian complaints, professionalism, and language. When underperformance is detected, a review is conducted that is intended to address any area of the member’s performance that may benefit from intervention. This assessment extends well beyond the behavior detected and encompasses a holistic review of the member’s tenure with the department. Non-disciplinary interventions such as mentoring, specialized training, legal reeducation, and wellness programs are initiated by a committee to provide officers with the necessary tools to succeed.

Through this proactive approach, the program not only prevents misconduct but also promotes officer well-being, strengthens community relations, and reduces departmental liability. By fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, the Paterson Police Department reaffirms its commitment to excellence in public service and the safety of our community.

“We are supporting our officers by identifying potential warning signs early to prevent negative outcomes for them, and offer the best possible service to the residents of this city,” said Director Iocco. “This is by no means a disciplinary system, but rather one meant to identify behaviors before they become larger issues and make sure every officer has an opportunity to correct deficiencies early on.”

Developing an enhanced Early Intervention Program to identify at-risk employees and building upon state mandated Early Warning Systems already in place is one of the 55 strategic goals and initiatives outlined in the Strategic Plan for the Paterson Police Department. The program was created to improve the department overall while working closely with the community, increase transparency and accountability, and rebuild trust with the people of Paterson.

On March 27, 2023, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin assumed control of all police functions in Paterson. Command of the department was assumed by key members of the Department of Law and Public Safety staff and leaders from within the New Jersey State Police. In October, the Paterson Police Department provided a one-year update to the Strategic Plan unveiled in the Fall of 2023 by Attorney General Platkin and then-Officer in Charge Isa M. Abbassi. In just one year, nearly three-quarters of the 55 goals and initiatives outlined in the plan were completed, with the rest already in progress. Officer in Charge Murray will continue that trajectory as the PPD continues to be recognized nationally as a constitutionally focused, accountable, and responsible police department.

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