Sparta Police Department named number one in the state

The Sparta Township Police Department was recently ranked number one in the state and 7th in the nation by SafeWise.com which uses data submitted by uniform crime reports to rate police departments.

“I attribute a lot of this to several things,” said Police Department Chief Neil Spidaletto. “First of all, the culture in our department and our mantra. Usually, when it comes to police departments, it’s said they ‘protect and serve’: here we ‘serve and protect’. We take great pride in being proactive and being out there in the community as a visible force to make this township safe.”

To this end, the 35 officers and four specialists focus on every day infractions such as speeding, careless driving and those under the influence as well as conducting investigations into more serious crimes.

Reactions to Sparta Police Department’s First Place Ranking

Sussex County Sheriff Michael Strada said his office has a “great working relationship” with Sparta police.

“They are an extremely pro-active police department which I’m sure helps keep the crime rate down and their citizens safe,” Strada said.

Former Sparta Mayor Gil Gilbert also wasn’t surprised pleased with Sparta’s ranking.

“Led by Chief Neil, his ranking officers and his outstanding officers out on the street, you know they care about Sparta and are proud to serve the people of Sparta,” he said.