From the time of Seaside Park’s incorporation in 1898, marshals were employed to maintain law and order during the summer months originally policing the town on foot, and later motorcycles or cars. Appointments were made on an annual basis. With the increase of year-round residents, the position became full-time. The police department was established in the early 1920’s. One of the first marshals was Frank Sprague who was first hired in 1912 and held the positions of marshal, police officer and police chief until 1931. With the increase in population, by 1959 the department grew to 12 members.
Currently the department has 15 sworn officers as well as 21 Special I and II officers and 1 civilian staff member. Since being appointed in September of 2018, Chief of Police James Boag has focused on increased training and overseen the update of all agency policies. New community programs such as a Virtual Neighborhood Watch Camera Registration and an increased use of social media for crime prevention and community tips and leads have been implemented. The department has made strives to maintain a connection with its residents and visitors through community programs such as Municipal Alliance, Neighborhood Watch, and Community Events sponsored by the Police Department and Local Policeman’s Benevolent Association. The Seaside Park Police Department works every day to be an asset to the Borough and community and strives to live up to their core values: “Honesty, Fairness, and Integrity.”