In 1952, the New Jersey Turnpike was completed joining Route 130, Route 1 and Route 27 as the major roadways in South Brunswick. The police added “Specials” and auxiliary officers to handle special events like parades.
The men who served at this time were proud of the peace that was maintained in the community and the cooperation of its citizens. This period also brought the first African American officers. The 1960s brought the first three police cars into the township, Ford speed stick shift, with bubble roof lights.
Crime was on the rise with the building of the Kendall Park homes and an increasing number of migrant workers, which prompted the creation of a full time force.
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Patrolman John Grunovich struggled with a suspect and felt ill afterwards, he suffered a heart attack and became the first officer to die in the line of duty. The 1970s brought technical advancements to the department.
The breathalyzer made its first appearance in 1970. In 1972, the VASCAR radar was installed. A universal gym was purchased for workouts at the station. Growth in the communities in the 1980s and 1990s kept the department growing and busier than ever.
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With over 40,000 residents and four major north-south highways running through, South Brunswick’s finest will stay busy and ever vigilant.
