The Hackensack Police Youth Division investigates all criminal offenses committed by juveniles under the age of 18, as well as reports of child abuse and neglect. The Youth Division works very closely with local school officials to foster a healthy and productive learning environment for the youth attending our schools. Along with investigating all juvenile crimes, the Youth Division has also incorporated numerous youth programs.

The Hackensack school resource officer program began in 1982 at the Hackensack High School. The police officer assigned to this position has direct contact with high school students, guardians and school officials. The school resource officer patrols the high school complex in an effort to educate, preserve the peace, and protect persons and property within the school community, while enforcing federal, state and local laws. The school resource officer’s goal is to provide positive relationship between students, staff and the law enforcement community. For further information contact the Youth Bureau at 201-646-7730.

The Hackensack Police Youth Academy is a one-week academy held during spring break. The goal of the Police Youth Academy is to give each recruit an idea of the type of training that is required to become a police officer, while allowing Police Officers the ability to bond with the youth of our community. The five-day curriculum includes various presentations from guest law enforcement agencies, field trips, military drill and physical training. The Hackensack Police Youth Academy started in 2001 and has graduated an average of 85 cadets each year. We are looking forward to the start of each class; registration begins in January. For further information contact the Youth Bureau at 201-646-7732.

Detectives from the Youth Bureau educates the community by providing power point presentations on gang awareness. By taking a proactive approach the Youth Bureau can deter gangs from attempting to recruit the youth of our community. For further information, contact 201-646-7732.