More than 1,000 Members Ring in 1-Year NJ Shield Anniversary

April 14, 2022 – Press Release

HAMILTON, NJ­ – The New Jersey Shield program, an initiative that fosters information sharing and enhances communication between law enforcement and the public and private sector, marks its one-year anniversary April 14.

The program, a joint effort between the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness and the New Jersey Regional Operations and Intelligence Center, provides counterterrorism, cybersecurity and preparedness information and resources to its nearly 1,200 vetted members.

The many benefits available to members include access to cost-free analytical and intelligence products, advisories and alerts, training opportunities, a resource library and global partner programs.

“The NJ Shield program continues to demonstrate its value to New Jersey-based organizations and the State,” said NJOHSP Director Laurie Doran. “All members benefit from and contribute to the program by way of shared subject matter expertise, the promotion of best practices and identifying and addressing vulnerabilities. This becomes vital in our efforts to safeguard the public and private sector – especially those involving critical infrastructure and the supply chain.”

Since its inception, NJ Shield has attracted a diverse group of participants, including New Jersey government agencies, homeland security affiliates, law enforcement, as well as private- and public-sector managers of security, emergency management and business continuity.

“In just the first year, we’ve seen promising growth within the program from members, who act as both our first line of defense and our greatest resource,” said New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan. “Additionally, NJ Shield’s unique information sharing capacities connect our membership to other regional, national and international programs. This collaboration has proven critical to deterring, containing and responding to any potential threats.”

In addition to its baseline initiatives, the NJ Shield team has recently begun coordinating and hosting Hometown Security events, which are virtual and in-person forums that equip members and workforces with the information, tools and resources needed to improve upon preparedness, security and overall resilience.

“The evolving threat landscape necessitates a culture of preparedness,” said NJOHSP Deputy Director Eric Tysarczyk. “NJ Shield provides resources to enable the programmatic capabilities of stakeholders throughout the state. Beyond its role in mitigating threats, the program also touts a limitless potential for developing new and lasting partnerships.”

To learn more about the initiative or to apply for membership, please visit the program web page at www.njohsp.gov/newjerseyshield.

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The New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP), a Cabinet-level agency, was created in 2006. The Director serves as the Governor’s Homeland Security Advisor, and is responsible for leading and coordinating the State’s counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and emergency preparedness efforts while building resiliency throughout the State across all levels of government and the private sector. NJOHSP oversees and distributes discretionary State and federal homeland security and emergency preparedness funds on behalf of New Jersey. More information about NJOHSP can be found at www.njhomelandsecurity.gov.