School Police Officers Sworn In Ahead Of New Year In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY, NJ — Parsippany Township officials have officially sworn in five returning Class III Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLEOs) to enhance school safety across the district.

SLEO officers Fred Arnold, John Orrico, Ed Lepre, John Palardy and Michel Cerullo were sworn in during a ceremony on Jan. 8, hosted by Mayor James Barberio.

SLEO officers are retired law enforcement professionals hired to provide security and oversee safety duties in schools. They work under the supervision of local police departments, including Parsippany’s, across the state.

Although funded through the Board of Education budget, Class III Special Law Enforcement Officers (SLEOs) remain part of their local police departments, including Parsippany.

Eligibility requirements for a Class III officer include:

• Be a retired law enforcement officer under 65, who served as a full-time officer in any New Jersey municipality or county, or as a member of the New Jersey State Police, and was in good standing at the time of retirement within the last three years.
• Pass firearms qualifications as required by the New Jersey Attorney General’s guidelines.
• Successfully complete a medical examination, psychological screening, and drug testing, in line with the N.J. AG Drug Testing Policy.
• Be a New Jersey resident with a valid New Jersey driver’s license.
• Pass a thorough background investigation.
• Hold a New Jersey PTC Basic Police Officer or NJSP Academy Certification.
• Demonstrate physical capability to perform the job functions.
• Provide a letter of good standing from the retiring agency’s Chief of Police or Officer in Command, including employment dates, retirement type, and standing status.

The re-sworn-in SLEOs provide a visible police presence in Parsippany schools, ensuring student safety and promoting open communication between students and law enforcement.

“I’m proud to re-confirm these Special Officers,” Barberio said. “Maintaining student safety is paramount to me, and these dedicated men serve Parsippany well.”