Newest Long Valley Police Officer Officially Sworn In

LONG VALLEY, NJ — The Washington Township Police Department announced the hiring of the newest police officer to join the force.

Patrol Officer Michael Smith was officially sworn at the Nov. 21 Township Committee meeting.

Smith, a 27-year-old who was born and raised in Jefferson Township, attended Moravian University, formerly known as Moravian College, where he played lacrosse and earned his degree in sociology.

Following graduation, Smith worked as a lacrosse coach and a K9 handler for the Morris County Sheriff's Office for two years.

"I made the move to the Washington Township Police Department because of the community. My dream growing up was to be as good of a role model as Jefferson Township Officers were to me as a kid," Smith said.

After working with the Washington Township Police Department for the past two years in a K9 capacity, Smith said he wants nothing more than to join the community and fulfill the values that the department holds close.

Smith will receive an annual salary of $46,757, according to official township records.

"Washington Township has a great community and department filled with officers that put the people first. I’m excited to start getting to know all of the residents and working to earn everyone’s trust as a protector and resource," Smith said.

The Washington Township Police Department was established in 1964 with the mission of protecting life and property, enforcing the law fairly and impartially, and maintaining the peace, order and safety of the community they serve.