Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Timeline
Generic

Derek Smith

Maywood,NJ

Summary

As a proven law enforcement leader with over 25 years of experience, I proudly lead a team of dedicated officers committed to protecting and serving the borough of Maywood.


My extensive background spans criminal and narcotics investigations, supervision, policy implementation, and community engagement. Throughout my career, I have consistently worked to strengthen partnerships within the community, ensuring public safety through proactive strategies and responsive leadership. My focus remains on managing effectively while fostering an environment of trust, professionalism, and service excellence.

Overview

26
26
years of professional experience

Work History

Captain

Borough of Maywood Police Department
09.2024 - Current
  • Overseeing patrol operations and ensuring effective functioning.
  • Directing the Detective Bureau, K-9 Unit, and Records Bureau.
  • Ensuring compliance with police licensing, PTC, and New Jersey Attorney General Guidelines for all sworn officers.
  • Monitoring the conduct and efficiency of both sworn officers and civilian staff, ensuring adherence to department rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Managing correspondence, reports, and records related to department activities.
  • Ensuring the proper use, maintenance, and accountability of headquarters, equipment, supplies, and materials.
  • Inspecting personnel and equipment regularly to ensure maintenance and uniform standards.

Patrol Lieutenant

Borough of Maywood Police Department
04.2020 - 09.2024
  • Supervise a platoon consisting of two patrol squads, ensuring effective operations and adherence to policies.
  • Direct the work of sergeants and officers under my supervision, ensuring their actions are aligned with departmental rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Serve as the Domestic Violence Liaison between the department and the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office, facilitating collaboration and ensuring proper handling of related cases.
  • Supervise the department's Internal Affairs Unit, ensuring investigations are conducted thoroughly and impartially.
  • Oversee the department’s Cell Block/PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) coordination, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and protocols.

Patrol Sergeant

Borough of Maywood Police Department
08.2014 - 04.2020
  • Supervise and manage an assigned patrol squad, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
  • Direct the daily activities of officers under my supervision, ensuring adherence to departmental rules, regulations, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Report directly to the Platoon Lieutenant, assisting with any tasks or directives as needed.
  • Oversee the supervision, training, and development of Class 1 Special Police Officers within the department.

Task Force Officer

Drug Enforcement Administration
10.2010 - 09.2014
  • Investigated and prepared for the prosecution of major violators of controlled substance laws at both interstate and international levels.
  • Conducted surveillance operations to identify co-conspirators, stash locations, and overt acts involved in illegal trafficking.
  • Interviewed and managed confidential informants to gather intelligence critical for ongoing investigations.
  • Identified assets derived from or traceable to illicit drug trafficking for potential seizure or forfeiture.
  • Drafted detailed reports and affidavits documenting overt acts, ensuring successful prosecution of major cases.

Patrol Officer

Borough of Maywood Police Department
11.1999 - 10.2010
  • Regularly patrol residential and commercial areas to ensure public safety, prevent criminal activity, and identify any potential threats.
  • Investigate incidents and criminal activities, including collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting statements to aid in case development and resolution.
  • Conduct both vehicle and foot patrols to identify criminal activity as well as motor vehicle violations and take immediate corrective action as necessary.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice

Seton Hall University
South Orange, NJ

Timeline

Captain

Borough of Maywood Police Department
09.2024 - Current

Patrol Lieutenant

Borough of Maywood Police Department
04.2020 - 09.2024

Patrol Sergeant

Borough of Maywood Police Department
08.2014 - 04.2020

Task Force Officer

Drug Enforcement Administration
10.2010 - 09.2014

Patrol Officer

Borough of Maywood Police Department
11.1999 - 10.2010

Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice

Seton Hall University
Derek Smith