On August 2, 2021, New Jersey Attorney General Andrew J. Platkin announced that Isa Abbassi would be taking over as the new head of the Paterson Police Department. Abbassi, who has been with the department for over 20 years, will be the first Muslim-American to hold the position.
Abbassi’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the Paterson Police Department, which has faced criticism in recent years for its handling of use-of-force incidents and allegations of misconduct. In his new role, Abbassi will be tasked with implementing reforms to improve transparency and accountability within the department.
Abbassi’s career in law enforcement began in 1999 when he joined the Paterson Police Department as a patrol officer. Over the years, he has worked his way up through the ranks, serving in various roles including detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and deputy chief. In 2019, he was appointed as the department’s acting chief following the retirement of former Chief Troy Oswald.
Throughout his career, Abbassi has been recognized for his dedication and leadership within the department. In 2017, he received the Paterson Police Department’s Medal of Honor for his role in a high-speed pursuit that resulted in the arrest of a suspect who had fired shots at officers. He has also been recognized by the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police for his work in community policing.
As head of the Paterson Police Department, Abbassi will be responsible for overseeing a force of over 400 officers and ensuring that they uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. He will also work closely with community leaders and organizations to build trust and improve relations between the police and the community.
Abbassi’s appointment has been met with praise from both local officials and members of the community. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh called Abbassi a “proven leader” who is “committed to making our city safer and more just.” The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations also issued a statement congratulating Abbassi on his appointment and expressing hope that it would “inspire other Muslim Americans to pursue careers in law enforcement.”
Overall, Isa Abbassi’s appointment as head of the Paterson Police Department represents a significant milestone for both the department and the Muslim-American community. As he takes on this new role, Abbassi will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those he serves and help build a stronger, more inclusive community in Paterson.
