South Middlesex Times

Gurwinder Singh, a Sikh police officer, has become one of the first in New Jersey to serve while wearing his articles of faith, including a turban and beard. His journey with the Rutgers University Police Department (RUPD) reflects a significant shift towards inclusivity within law enforcement.

“I’m with a department that allows me to be an officer without having to sacrifice my religious beliefs,” said Singh, who graduated from Rutgers in 2021.

Singh's transition into law enforcement was supported by Captain Armando Quinones of RUPD and Kenneth Cop, vice president of public safety at Rutgers. "Captain Q learned all he could about the Sikh faith, and eventually I went through the academy with my articles of faith intact," Singh noted after graduating from the Cape May County Police Academy in June 2023.

Initially working in radiology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, Singh was inspired to join law enforcement by Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal, a Texas officer who broke similar barriers before being killed in duty. “He inspired me to pursue a career in law enforcement,” Singh said.

The RUPD accommodated Singh's religious needs during his application process. This included adjustments at the Cape May County training facility where Tom DePaul facilitated religious accommodations for him. “Whatever diversity you can bring the better,’’ DePaul commented on representing New Jersey's diverse population.

Singh explained that wearing articles of faith is integral to Sikhism: "The turban represents honor, courage, and spirituality." Recently allowed to wear his kirpan on duty, Singh emphasizes serving and protecting others as part of his faith.

Yolanda Ciccone, Middlesex County Prosecutor, also supported these accommodations. Wayne Canastra stated that these efforts highlight Prosecutor Ciccone's commitment to diversifying law enforcement across New Jersey.

Kenneth Cop praised the progress made: “Chief Cop was very supportive... I hope we have started something amazing for the future.”

Singh now advocates for policy changes statewide regarding Sikh officers' attire. “I hope we can use Rutgers as a framework for other Sikh officers,” he remarked while actively participating in related advocacy through organizations like the New York-based Sikh Officers Association.

“Through his willingness to be flexible... Officer Singh exemplifies the spirit of diversity and inclusion in law enforcement,’’ Cop concluded on Singh’s impact within RUPD.