HISTORY

In 1891 the town fathers established the first organized police force to oversee the growing population of immigrants who were settling in the area. This force lasted only two years and was disbanded in 1893. Years went by and a new force was established. In 1937 Patrolman Lorenzo “Renzi” Rossi became the first police chief to enforce laws in Raritan. The Raritan Police force was located at the Raritan Fire House on Anderson Street with the police department patrolling the graveled streets on bicycles and on foot.

As time went on the police department moved to motorcycles and eventually cars were used for police response. The police department expanded over the years and has had many dedicated officers patrol the streets of Raritan Borough professionally and with honor.  Police Headquarters moved in 1979 to its current location at 20 First Street.

The department expanded from 21 sworn officers to a total of 22 sworn officers and 1 civilian employee in January 2026.  The department currently consists of a Chief of Police, 1 Captain, 1 Lieutenant, 5 Sergeants, 1 Detective, 13 Patrol Officers, and 1 civilian Administrative Assistant.  Dispatching of our officers is handled through Somerset County Communications who provide professional services to the Borough.