Bernards Township Ranked Second Safest in New Jersey

Bernards Township has been ranked the second safest municipality in New Jersey, according to a comprehensive analysis of crime statistics released this week. The Somerset County community of approximately 28,000 residents recorded exceptionally low rates of both violent and property crimes, earning high marks for public safety, according to TAPinto Basking Ridge.

The annual safety analysis, conducted by security research firm SafeWise, evaluated crime data from 2024 across New Jersey’s 565 municipalities. Bernards Township was surpassed only by Ridgewood in Bergen County, while neighboring Chatham Township secured the third position statewide.

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Impressive Safety Statistics

According to the report, Bernards Township recorded a violent crime rate of just 0.17 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly below the state average of 2.1 per 1,000. Property crimes occurred at a rate of 3.8 per 1,000 residents, compared to the state average of 12.5 per 1,000, according to SafeWise’s report.

The study analyzed FBI Uniform Crime Report statistics and population data to determine rankings. Violent crimes included murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault, while property crimes encompassed burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson.

“Bernards Township has consistently demonstrated extremely low crime rates across all categories,” said Rebecca Edwards, lead safety analyst at SafeWise. “The community’s commitment to public safety is evident in the data, which shows not just low crime numbers but a consistent downward trend over the past five years.”

Local Leadership Response

Township officials welcomed the recognition, attributing the high safety ranking to effective policing, community engagement, and collaborative safety initiatives. Mayor James Baldassare Jr. expressed pride in the accomplishment during Tuesday’s Township Committee meeting.

“This recognition reflects the exceptional work of our police department and the strong partnership between law enforcement and our residents,” Baldassare said. “Public safety has always been a top priority for our governance, and these results validate our community-oriented approach.”

Police Chief Michael Shimsky credited the department’s emphasis on community policing and proactive crime prevention programs. “Our officers work hard to build relationships throughout the township, which leads to better information sharing and cooperation from residents,” Shimsky noted, according to MyCentralJersey.

Community Policing Approach

The Bernards Township Police Department has implemented several innovative programs credited with contributing to the township’s safety record. These include a robust neighborhood watch program, extensive use of security cameras in public spaces, and specialized units focusing on youth engagement and senior citizen safety.

The department’s 42 sworn officers maintain high visibility throughout the township’s 24 square miles, with emphasis on both enforcement and education. A community relations unit coordinates regular public safety workshops, school programs, and business security assessments.

“We’ve found that being proactive and visible in the community serves as both a deterrent to potential criminals and builds the trust needed for effective policing,” said Captain Michael Voorhees, who oversees the department’s community policing initiatives. “Our residents are truly partners in maintaining public safety.”

Resident Perspectives

Bernards Township residents expressed satisfaction with the ranking, with many citing safety as a primary reason for choosing to live in the community. At local coffee shops and on social media platforms, residents shared positive experiences with police responsiveness and community engagement.

“I’m not surprised by this ranking at all,” said longtime resident Susan Chen. “I’ve lived in several communities across New Jersey, and the visible police presence here and their approachability really make a difference. My family feels very secure here.”

The township’s active Neighborhood Watch program includes over 40 neighborhood coordinators who work closely with police to identify potential safety concerns. Program coordinator Thomas Rayfield attributes part of the township’s success to this network of engaged citizens.

Regional Standout

The SafeWise report highlighted Somerset County’s strong overall performance, with four municipalities ranking in the top 20 statewide for safety. In addition to Bernards Township, Montgomery Township (7th), Hillsborough Township (12th), and Bridgewater Township (19th) received high marks.

Somerset County Sheriff Darrin Russo noted that the county’s municipalities benefit from strong coordination between local police departments and county-level law enforcement resources. “We’ve developed excellent information-sharing systems and mutual aid protocols that enhance the effectiveness of all departments within the county,” Russo explained.

The safety ranking comes as Bernards Township continues to experience moderate population growth and development. Local officials view the strong safety record as both an achievement to maintain and a selling point for attracting new residents and businesses to the community.

“When businesses and families are deciding where to locate, safety is typically at the top of their consideration list,” said Economic Development Advisory Committee Chair John Carpenter. “This recognition helps position Bernards Township favorably in an increasingly competitive environment.”