Camden, Wildwood Receive Money to Hire More Officers

Officials say the Camden County Police Department has received a $2.1 million federal grant to hire more officers as part of a nationwide initiative.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports the U.S. Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) is awarding $107 million to police departments across the country, with approximately $5.1 million in aid going to four New Jersey law enforcement agencies.

Officials say the Wildwood and East Orange police departments have also received funding along with the Essex County Sheriff's Office.

New Jersey U.S. Attorney's Office officials say 15 new officers will be hired in Camden County thanks to the grant.

The COPS program funds entry-level salaries and benefits for newly hired, full-time officers for three years. Funding is also earmarked for rehiring officers laid off during budget cuts.