2 Police Officers Promoted In Bridgewater Township

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Two Bridgewater Police Officers were promoted at the Sept. 4 Council meeting.

Patrick Knapp was promoted from Sergeant to Lieutenant, and Johnathan Han was promoted from Officer to Sergeant.

"Tonight we have the opportunity to celebrate two of our finest officers in our department who are continuing their service on behalf of our residents and stepping up into positions of leadership within our department," said Mayor Matthew Moench at the Council meeting.

Moench called both officers phenomenal, "they are the cream of the crop that we have."

Patrick Knapp

Police Chief John Mitzak said Knapp "has consistently demonstrated commitment, loyalty, and leadership within this department."

Knapp earned his Bachelor's degree from Rutgers University and graduated from the Somerset County Police Academy in June 2007. He was then sworn in as a Bridgewater Police Officer in August 2007.

He also served as PBA President from 2016 to 2022. He was also promoted Sergeant in November 2022.

"Lt. Knapp's promotion not only reflects his years of service but the quality of that service, marked by support of his colleagues, dedication to the department, and his steady commitment to our core values," said Mitzak.

Johnathan Han

Mitzak described Han as a "leader who represents the next generation of supervisors in this department."

Han graduated from Montclair State University in 2013 and the Mercer County Police Academy in 2015. In 2018, he was assigned as a School Resource Officer in Bridgewater. He transitioned to Detective in 2021 for four years.

"Most recently, John made the decision to return to patrol to broaden his experience and further prepare for future leadership responsibilities," said Mitzak. "That kind of initiative and dedication to growth is something that we value in our supervisors."

Han also serves as a Firearms Instructor and a member of the Somerset County SWAT team. He is also proficient in the Korean language.

"His mission is to make those who believe in him proud and to leave this department stronger for those who come after him," said Mitzak. "That is the mindset of a leader. That is the mindset of a true servant."

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