Wildwood Honors Police Chief Joseph Murphy for Leadership and Safety Initiatives

WILDWOOD, N.J. – The Wildwood Board of Commissioners recently honored Police Chief Joseph Murphy for his leadership in advancing professional standards, implementing proactive safety measures, and enhancing the city’s law enforcement capabilities. On March 12, Murphy received recognition for his efforts, which included securing a letter of gratitude from the Lithuanian ambassador for the department’s role in assisting a wounded Lithuanian student last summer. Deputy Mayor Steve Mikulski, who oversees the Department of Public Safety, highlighted the chief’s leadership in introducing a 10 p.m. curfew for individuals under 18, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, and enforcing a backpack ban to increase safety for residents and visitors. Additionally, Mikulski praised Murphy for leading the department’s pursuit of accreditation by the New Jersey Chiefs of Police Association, marking the first such effort in over a century. The accreditation process ensures that Wildwood’s police department adheres to and exceeds industry best practices. Murphy’s leadership also extended to introducing strategic hiring initiatives to improve shift coverage, reduce overtime costs, and prioritize officer well-being, further strengthening the department and public safety.