New Era for Bridgewater PD to Begin With Wednesday's Appointments

A ceremony swearing in Bridgewater Police Capt. Manny Caravela as the department's new chief and director set for Wednesday will include a series of promotions aimed at bringing the department to full staff ahead of the new year.

Speaking after the Township Council approved his appointment as chief, the chief-to-be said he wanted to have the appointments done at once rather than wait until after the holidays.

Division heads rotate assignments after the first, he said, but this year will be different: with new officers in place, he'll be able to get everyone into position right away. 

The ceremony set for 3:30 p.m. in the municipal courtroom will backfill the captain's rank Caravella is vacating, and promote a new lieutenant as well. Two new township police officers will join the ranks, also.

Chief Caravella was the first choice of not only Mayor Daniel Hayes, but clearly the council members also, who praised his professionalism and experience in the department.

Township Administrator James Naples said the township undertook a review process led by Westfield Chief of Police David Wayman and South Brunswick Chief Raymond Hayducka, both of who gave "high recommendations" to Chief Caravela.

"I'm just very thankful for the opportunity to be in this position to be chief," Chief Caravela told the council, and joked about passing up "opportunities to bail out."

"This is what you work your whole career for," he said.