The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, in partnership with the Atlantic City Police Athletic League and the Pleasantville School District, successfully hosted a youth engagement visit to the New Jersey State Police Headquarters on Monday, July 13, 2026. The initiative brought over 30 students from Atlantic City and Pleasantville to State Police Headquarters for an immersive educational experience designed to strengthen trust, understanding, and positive relationships between young people and law enforcement.
Chairman Perry Mays of the Atlantic County Coalition for a Safe Community joined the visit, along with Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds, First Assistant Prosecutor Erik Bergman, Police Chaplain Pastor Lou Strugala, Chief of Staff Michael Kane, Lieutenant Wilber Santiago of the Atlantic City Police Department and Deputy Director of Community Engagement Raymond Royster of the New Jersey Office of Attorney General. The students toured the New Jersey State Police Museum and Learning Center, followed by a guided introduction to the Regional Operations & Intelligence Center (ROIC) – the State Police’s statewide intelligence hub responsible for real-time information sharing, threat assessment, and multi-agency coordination.
A hands-on look at the history and mission of the State Police
The students explored the distinguished history, traditions, and evolution of the New Jersey State Police, gaining insight into the Outfit’s commitment to public service and professionalism. Troopers and staff engaged directly with the students, sharing personal experiences, answering questions, and demonstrating the values that define the organization.
Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle and members of the Command Staff provided welcoming remarks and interacted with the students throughout the program. Their presence underscored the State Police’s dedication to mentorship and community partnership.
Humanizing the badge
The Prosecutor’s Office expressed deep appreciation for the State Police team’s professionalism, hospitality, and engagement throughout the visit. Troopers and staff “humanized the badge,” helping students see the people behind the uniform and understand the importance of cooperation, respect, and shared responsibility in building safer communities.
Students left with a deeper understanding of law enforcement, a greater respect for the work officers perform daily, and an experience they will remember for years.
A shared commitment to community
The New Jersey State Police emphasized that hosting the students was an honor and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering meaningful connections with the communities they serve. They expressed enthusiasm for continued collaboration on initiatives that provide positive, impactful experiences for young people across Atlantic County.
