Mission

The Essex County Sheriff’s Department’s foremost priority is the safety and protection of the residents of our region. We achieve this by not only maintaining secure custody of those entrusted to our care but by providing robust, evidence-based programming designed to reduce recidivism and promote successful reintegration.

Our mission is carried out through:

• Housing inmates securely, safely, and fairly, ensuring that correctional practices comply fully with local, state, and federal laws.
• Delivering a comprehensive range of treatment, educational, vocational, and rehabilitative programs that address the root causes of criminal behavior—helping individuals improve their lives, make better choices, and return as productive members of their communities.
• Expanding access to academic training, life skills instruction, and workforce development initiatives to prepare individuals for sustainable success after release.
• Providing clinical substance use treatment, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other behavioral health services tailored to meet the diverse needs of the incarcerated population.
• Informing and educating the public about the department’s work through media outreach, facility tours, and community appearances by the Sheriff, leadership, K-9 unit, and uniformed staff.
• Maintaining a professional working environment that prioritizes the welfare, safety, and professional development of staff.
• Designing comprehensive post-release supervision and support plans, connecting individuals to community resources to aid their successful reentry.
• Partnering actively with local, state, and federal law enforcement and community stakeholders to develop innovative programs that fight crime, reduce recidivism, and promote public safety.