JACKSON, N.J. — Elenor Hannum, a leading voice in the local organization Citizens United to Protect Our Neighborhoods (CUPON), publicly opposed the recent establishment of a new oversight position within the Jackson Police Department. Hannum criticized an improper vote conducted by the local police union, alleging that members of Jackson’s Policemen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) 168 made the decision using an informal show-of-hands vote rather than a formal process.
Hannum, now running for council has filed a tort claim seeking $500,000 in damages from the township and pledges to defund the police department and eliminate the position of Public Safety Director.
The position, titled the Director of Public Safety, is intended to oversee and evaluate the police department’s effectiveness and operations. Joseph Candido, a long-serving Jackson police officer, was appointed to the role, focusing on public safety initiatives, traffic regulation, and officer training programs.
Hannum, who is currently running for a local office, accused both PBA 168 and Mayor Michael Reina of engaging in a corrupt agreement. “That’s not how it’s done at my union, the NJEA,” Hannum said, claiming that the police union’s decision-making lacked transparency and procedural integrity.
In response, local officials, including Mayor Reina, defended the creation of the position, citing a series of incidents involving inadequate police training and a significant case of misconduct at the police headquarters. Reina stated that the council, mayor’s office, and PBA were united in supporting the oversight role to promote greater accountability and professionalism in the department.
The Director of Public Safety position was established amid calls from residents and officials for stronger oversight measures following the incidents. The stated aim is to improve officer training and enhance overall police efficiency.
“This is a complete political agenda,” Hannum said of the PBA’s decision to endorse the creation of the public safety director. “There was never a closed vote by the law enforcement union membership. Instead, it was a show of hands. Never have I seen a vote for a union that way. I’m a member of a union.”
Hannum is a member of the NJEA.
Hannum then alleged that a PBA member was engaging in inappropriate behavior.
Now, she is suing Jackson Township for $500,000 after filing a tort claim for $250,000 each against Council President Jennifer Kuhn and township lawyer, Assemblyman Gregory P. McGuckin.
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