Verona Police Updates: Awards, Retirements, New Officer, Return To 600 Bloomfield Ave

VERONA, NJ — The Verona Police Department is officially back at 600 Bloomfield Avenue and fully operating as normal.

The VPD announced the move in a social media post, thanking local residents and the business community for their patience and understanding during the temporary relocation.

AWARDS

The Verona Police Department and its officers recently earned a pair of awards, authorities say.

According to the VPD, officers responded to a fire at Our Lady of the Lake Church in April 2024.

“Detectives Maguire and B. McMahon, along with Verona Fire Inspector Connor McCann, worked tirelessly to conduct a thorough investigation,” police reported in a social media post. “We’re proud to share that on Dec. 4, 2025, they were honored by the Knights of Columbus #3632 with the 2024 Shield Award for their outstanding dedication and hard work on the case.”

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The Verona Police Department also noted that the township has been awarded a 2025 Traffic Safety Gold Award for the community’s continued commitment to keeping local roadways safe.

“Over the past year, the township has secured more than $40,000 in state and federal grants focused on pedestrian safety, enforcement, and technology-driven analysis,” Verona police noted. “These resources allow us to expand our data-driven enforcement efforts, enhance safety around our schools and business districts, and remain a leader in Essex County and across New Jersey.”

“We are also honored to share that Chief Kiernan received the prestigious AAA Traffic Safety Leadership Award, recognizing his vision and dedication to advancing traffic safety initiatives throughout Verona,” the VPD added.

NEW OFFICER

The Verona Police Department recently welcomed its newest officer to the force: Daniel Vecchio.

Vecchio previously completed the Capstone Internship Program with the department in 2022, demonstrating "professionalism, commitment and a strong work ethic," the VPD reported.

RETIREMENTS

The VPD also took a moment to recognize two retirements with social media posts.

LIEUTENANT, PBA PREZ – “The Verona Police Department proudly congratulates Lieutenant Anthony Condorelli on his retirement after 25 years of dedicated service to our community. Throughout his remarkable career, Lt. Condorelli served with distinction as a Lieutenant, Sergeant, Patrol Officer, and Detective. His unwavering commitment, leadership, and professionalism have made a lasting impact on our department and the residents of Verona. Lt. Condorelli also served as the Verona PBA President during his time with the VPD. Please join us in thanking Lt. Condorelli for his exceptional service and in wishing him all the best in his well-deserved retirement!”

CROSSING GUARD – “The Verona Police Department would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr. Schroeder for his 22 years of dedicated service as a crossing guard for the Verona community. If you’ve ever passed through the Hillside & Forest corner, you’ve likely been greeted by his friendly presence and unwavering commitment to keeping our students and residents safe. Please join us in congratulating Mr. Schroeder on his well-earned retirement and thanking him for his many years of service to Verona!”

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