Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department
| Company type | Law enforcement agency |
|---|---|
| Industry | Law enforcement, transit security |
| Founded | June 1928 |
| Headquarters | Jersey City , United States |
Area served | Port Authority of New York and New Jersey properties in New York and New Jersey |
| Products | Policing, security, emergency response, firefighting (historically) |
Number of employees | Approximately 2,100 sworn personnel |
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department (PAPD) serves as a law enforcement entity functioning within both New York and New Jersey. It enforces municipal and state regulations throughout properties owned or administered by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), a bi-jurisdictional agency responsible for managing airports, seaports, bridges, and tunnels in the Port of New York and New Jersey region.
PAPD’s coverage encompasses key transportation centers including three bus terminals—the Port Authority Bus Terminal, George Washington Bridge Bus Station, and Journal Square Transportation Center—as well as the World Trade Center located in Lower Manhattan, and the PATH transit network. It stands as the largest transit-focused police department in the country, comprising roughly 2,100 sworn personnel.
History
Founded in June 1928 with an initial cadre of 40 officers known as Bridgemen, nine of whom were promoted to Bridgemaster (Sergeant), the Port Authority Police Department expanded in tandem with Port Authority infrastructure projects. These included the opening of the Holland Tunnel in 1927, development of three Metropolitan Airports and a Marine Terminal during the 1940s, followed by the establishment of the Port Authority Bus Terminal in the 1950s. The Port Authority also assumed control over the Hudson and Manhattan Railroad, subsequently renaming it as the PATH.
Airports
The PAPD is responsible for security at three principal airports: Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy International, and LaGuardia. Combined, these airports accommodate over 140 million travelers annually, facilitate approximately 1.2 million flights, and handle around 2.2 million tons of air freight each year. This trio constitutes the largest airport network within the United States. The department oversees vehicle screening checkpoints, responds to aircraft-related emergencies, supports international passengers, and provides escort services for visiting officials. Additionally, PAPD patrols the smaller Port Authority-owned Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, which primarily serves general aviation.
Moreover, PAPD offers firefighting and emergency rescue operations at all four airports. Officers assigned to these roles receive specialized training in aircraft rescue and firefighting techniques and are equipped with a fleet of dedicated "crash trucks."
Marine terminals
At marine facilities such as the Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal, Howland Hook, and Port Jersey, police efforts concentrate on managing traffic flow and deterring theft of cargo.
Structure
The department’s central command is located at the Port Authority Technical Center in Jersey City, New Jersey. The Central Police Desk situated at Journal Square functions around-the-clock as the communications nucleus, coordinating officer deployments, supervising radio communications, and integrating intelligence from New York & New Jersey Crime Information Systems along with the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). This data supports officers actively patrolling various sites. The PATH system handles approximately 200,000 commuters daily; its stations are monitored through video surveillance to aid law enforcement activities.
PAPD officers are also assigned to patrol critical crossings including the Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, Bayonne Bridge, Goethals Bridge, multiple spans of the George Washington Bridge, and the Outerbridge Crossing. Their responsibilities include traffic management, inspections for hazardous materials, truck weight enforcement, emergency response services, and enforcing motor vehicle regulations. Anti-impaired driving initiatives are regularly conducted at these locations. The Port Authority operates America’s largest bus terminal, accommodating 57 million passengers and over 2.2 million bus movements as recorded in 2001. Police functions there range from routine security measures to crisis management; specialized Police Officer/Social Worker teams provide assistance to runaways and missing children through counseling and social service referrals. The PAPD also secures both the World Trade Center site and facilities associated with the Port Authority Trans-Hudson system.
Criminal Investigations Bureau
The Criminal Investigations Bureau consists of 77 detectives and supervisors who specialize in crimes related to transportation. Their recent efforts have focused on combating airline ticket fraud involving computerized systems, as well as intercepting illegal property and narcotics. These operations have resulted in the confiscation of assets exceeding $10 million, including 35 kilograms of illegal drugs. The bureau works closely with various agencies such as the New Jersey State Police, New York City Police Department, United States Customs and Border Protection, and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration. Additionally, members contribute to the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force to help thwart terrorist threats within the region.
Emergency Service Unit
Established in 1983, the Port Authority Police Emergency Service Unit (ESU) was created to provide swift responses to emergencies on the PATH railroad system, despite initial resistance from Port Authority Police leadership. In partnership with PATH railroad staff, the unit deployed a repurposed utility vehicle for emergency interventions. ESU specializes in underground rescue missions, extricating passengers from trapped situations, and administering first aid. A notable technique includes using Vetter air bags to lift train cars off individuals requiring rescue. Prior to the ESU’s inception, local law enforcement managed PATH emergencies.
Personnel within the ESU receive advanced training for emergency response and rescue scenarios both within Port Authority facilities and externally. Their expertise covers animal control, hazardous materials handling, use of heavy weaponry, bridge and water rescue operations, and tactical missions. Key incidents involving ESU include:
- The 1983 ceiling collapse at the Journal Square Transportation Center
- Water rescues conducted within the PATH system in 1992
- Response efforts following the 1993 World Trade Center bombing
- Rescue of an individual trapped atop a water tower in West New York, New Jersey
- The NJ Transit train accident in the New Jersey Meadowlands during 1996
- A general aviation crash in Newark, New Jersey in 1999
- Flood rescue operations amid Hurricane Floyd in 1999
- Emergency response during the World Trade Center collapse on September 11, 2001
Canine Units
The Port Authority Police Department inaugurated its canine unit in September 1985 with an initial team of three patrol dogs assigned to both PATH and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. These dogs were trained under the guidance of NYC Transit Police canine handlers and began active patrols by December of that year.
Following the TWA Flight 800 disaster in late 1996, the department established a Canine Explosive Detection Unit, which was subsequently expanded to include a K-9 Narcotics Detection Unit. Presently, this division comprises 45 officers, three sergeants, one inspector, and a total of 48 dogs deployed continuously across all Port Authority facilities.
Candidates entering the K-9 unit must pass demanding physical fitness assessments, agility evaluations, interviews, and complete no less than 400 hours of specialized training. While German Shepherds are predominantly used, other breeds such as Labradors, Belgian Shepherds, and Golden Retrievers are also part of the team. Each dog is trained exclusively for either explosives or narcotics detection.
Currently, there are 40 dogs certified for explosives detection—22 of which hold certification from the federal Transportation Security Administration—while eight dogs focus on narcotics detection. These teams routinely conduct patrols and inspections across aircraft, cargo warehouses, bus terminals, subway stations, vehicles, and unattended baggage. They also provide assistance to other governmental agencies when required.
A profound loss was experienced when Sirius (Badge #17), a police dog killed during the collapse of the South Tower at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Sirius’ remains were recovered in 2002 and honored with full ceremonial recognition.
Firefighting and Crash Emergency
In June 1998, the Port Authority Police Department inaugurated a comprehensive training center dedicated to aircraft rescue, firefighting, and fuel spill response at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Recognized as one of the largest facilities nationwide, it equips officers with aircraft rescue skills through the use of a propane-powered fire pit and an aircraft replica featuring a damaged wing. The facility’s computer-controlled systems allow for diverse firefighting drills varying in scale and intensity.
Each year, more than 600 Port Authority officers receive cross-training as aircraft rescue firefighters across JFK, Newark Liberty, and LaGuardia airports.
In 2014, responsibility for the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Unit transitioned from the Police Department to the Port Authority Aviation Department following FAA investigations that revealed significant shortcomings in training documentation and unqualified personnel serving as firefighters. A federal consent decree required the establishment of a dedicated ARFF firefighter team, removal of police oversight over ARFF operations, and appointment of non-police ARFF staff. While police officers continue to serve in operational roles, command authority for ARFF shifted to a fire chief and deputy chiefs within the Aviation Department at all four agency airports. The Police Academy Deputy Inspector maintains oversight of the JFK Rescue Training Center.
Aviation Unit
In July 2010, the PAPD opted to dissolve its aviation unit, anticipating annual savings near $4 million in labor, fuel, and maintenance expenses. The sale of two Sikorsky S-76 helicopters was projected to bring in over $8 million.
An eight-month evaluation from August 2008 through April 2009 recorded 258 helicopter flights, of which 228 were security patrols covering Port Authority airports, bridges, tunnels, and properties. No unusual events occurred during these patrols. One flight responded to the US Airways Flight 1549 emergency but was redirected by NYPD. Additional missions included aerial photography of facilities. The review highlighted that the Port Authority was unique among U.S. airport operators in utilizing patrol helicopters.
Training
New recruits undergo a rigorous 26-week program at the Port Authority Police Academy located in Jersey City, NJ, supplemented by a Regional Training Center at Kennedy Airport. The curriculum encompasses laws from New York and New Jersey, behavioral sciences, public relations, police protocols, arrest procedures, courtroom testimony, rules of evidence, defensive tactics, first aid, firefighting techniques, patrol and traffic duties, firearms instruction, defensive and pursuit driving skills, along with water safety training.
Officers consistently participate in refresher courses and updates on emerging tactics. The Koebel Memorial Police Firearms Training Center is equipped with advanced technology featuring eighteen shooting bays that simulate scenarios including moving targets and shoot/no-shoot exercises.
In June 2016, supported by federal funding, PAPD introduced counter-terrorism training centered on active shooter response for critical personnel. That same month saw the induction of 102 new recruits into its force of approximately 1,800 officers. The department prioritizes intelligence operations and engages actively in 28 federal, state, and local task forces such as the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force.
Rank hierarchy
Under the supervision of a non-uniformed Superintendent of Police or Director of Public Safety, the Port Authority Police Department comprises ten sworn ranks, arranged as follows:
| Rank Title | Insignia | Uniform Shirt Color |
|---|---|---|
| Chief of Police Operations | White | |
| Assistant Chief | White | |
| Deputy Chief | White | |
| Inspector | White | |
| Deputy Inspector | White | |
| Captain | White | |
| Detective Lieutenant or Lieutenant |
White | |
| Detective Sergeant or Sergeant |
Dark Blue | |
| Detective or Police Officer |
Dark Blue |
Advancement to sergeant, lieutenant, and senior ranks is contingent upon successful completion of examinations and eligibility assessments. Promotions to detective, captain, and higher positions are granted at the Superintendent’s discretion.
Authority and jurisdiction
Officers within the Port Authority Police Department possess full law enforcement powers across New Jersey and New York State. This authority enables them to execute warrants, make arrests, employ force including lethal force when necessary, carry firearms and restraints, and issue citations.
Gear and transportation
Each officer is equipped with a Glock 19 9mm as their standard sidearm, alongside expandable batons, pepper spray, handcuffs, whistles, flashlights, ballistic vests, and radios connected to Central Dispatch.
The department’s vehicle inventory features Ford Police Interceptor Utilities, Chevrolet Impalas and Tahoes, Dodge Chargers, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and multiple watercraft. At airport facilities, specialized aircraft rescue fire fighting vehicles—commonly known as crash trucks—are utilized.
Line of duty fatalities
The Port Authority Police Department has suffered the loss of 50 officers while performing official duties. Among these fatalities, 37 occurred during the September 11 attacks—marking one of the most significant single-day losses in U.S. law enforcement history. The fallen personnel ranged from newly sworn patrol officers to the Chief of the Department.
K9 Sirius| Officer's Name | End Of Watch | Cause Of Death |
|---|---|---|
| Patrolman Charles Kessler | December 16, 1951 | Accident |
| Police Officer James Calandra | November 19, 1956 | Motorcycle Accident |
| Police Officer Hitler M. Mcleod | November 3, 1961 | Gunfire |
| Police Officer Bertram Winkler | March 21, 1972 | Heart Attack |
| Police Officer Arthur M. Ansert | October 8, 1973 | Vehicular Assault |
| Police Officer Henry J. Koebel | May 26, 1978 | Gunfire |
| Police Officer William J. Perry | December 22, 1980 | Gunfire |
| Police Officer Scott R. Parker | September 5, 1983 | Gunfire |
| Chief James Romito | September 11, 2001 | Terrorist Attack |
| Police Officer Richard Rodriguez | ||
| Captain Kathy Mazza | ||
| Police Officer Liam Callahan | ||
| Police Officer James Lynch | ||
| Director Of Public Safety Fred V. Morrone | ||
| Police Officer James Nelson | ||
| Police Officer Uhuru Gonja Houston | ||
| Police Officer Clinton Davis | ||
| Police Officer Alfonse Niedermeyer | ||
| Police Officer Paul Laszczynski | ||
| Police Officer Nathaniel Webb | ||
| Police Officer John Lennon | ||
| Police Officer George Howard | ||
| Police Officer Michael Wholey | ||
| Inspector Anthony Infante | ||
| Lieutenant Robert Cirri | ||
| Police Officer Kenneth Tietjen | ||
| Police Officer John Levi | ||
| Police Officer Thomas Gorman | ||
| Police Officer Dominick Pezzulo | ||
| Police Officer Antonio Rodrigues | ||
| Sergeant Robert Kaulfers | ||
| Police Officer Donald McIntyre | ||
| Police Officer Donald Foreman | ||
| Police Officer Christopher Amoroso | ||
| Police Officer Walter McNeil | ||
| Police Officer Maurice Barry | ||
| Police Officer Joseph Navas | ||
| Police Officer James Parham | ||
| Police Officer Walwyn Stuart | ||
| Police Officer Bruce Reynolds | ||
| Police Officer John Skala | ||
| Police Officer Gregg Froehner | ||
| Police Officer Stephen Huczko Jr. | ||
| Police Officer Paul Jurgens |
| Officer's Name | End Of Watch | Cause Of Death |
|---|
1993 World Trade Center Bombing
On February 26, 1993, the World Trade Center, managed by the Port Authority, became the target of a terrorist bombing. Officers from the PAPD assigned at the location promptly responded, aiding in the evacuation amid power failures and dense smoke caused by the explosion in the B-2 level parking area. The smoke permeated through elevator shafts and stairwells, reaching upper floors and creating hazardous conditions.
September 11, 2001 Attacks
The complex was struck once more on September 11, 2001. Accommodating more than 50,000 employees and approximately 70,000 visitors each day, the Port Authority Police collaborated closely with the NYPD, FDNY, and other agencies to execute coordinated rescue and evacuation efforts that greatly minimized fatalities. This tragic event marked the greatest loss of law enforcement personnel for the PAPD in a single incident within the United States: 37 officers along with one police K-9 unit, Sirius, lost their lives at the World Trade Center.
See also
- List of law enforcement agencies in New Jersey
- List of law enforcement agencies in New York
- Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police
- New Jersey Transit Police Department
- Newark Police Department
- New York City Police Department
- Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
External links
- Port Authority of NY/NJ Police
- Port Authority Police Memorial
- Port Authority Police Benevolent Association
- Port Authority Police vehicles
| Name | Date | Cause |
|---|
- Articles with short description
- Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Department
- Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
- Transit police departments of the United States
- Airport police departments of the United States
- Specialist police departments of New York (state)
- Specialist police departments of New Jersey
- Port police departments of the United States
- Law enforcement in the New York metropolitan area
- 1928 establishments in New Jersey
- 1928 establishments in New York (state)