Detective James Ciampi Memorial Run

The officers and staff of the Fairfield Police Department have always prided themselves in providing premier law enforcement services to those we have sworn to protect and serve. At the same time, our officers make it a point to remain woven within the fabric of our community. In return, we have always enjoyed the public’s unwavering support and respect.

We now need your support, love, prayers and well wishes more than we have in the past. I am saddened to announce that, recently, one of our young, bright and dedicated officers, James Ciampi, was diagnosed with cancer. His condition is such that he is currently unable to come to work and is concentrating completely on his recovery, a battle we know he will win.

Many of you already know Jimmy personally or are familiar with him, but for those of you who do not, here is some information about this extraordinary officer and man. Jimmy grew up in Fairfield and began his career with the Fairfield Police Department as a Class II Special Officer in October 2016. He was appointed as a fulltime officer only a year later. In 2022, he was assigned to the Essex County Auto Theft Task Force for six months where he excelled at helping to arrest many criminals throughout Essex County. He is a physical fitness instructor, is an integral part of running the department’s junior police academy and is a part of the department’s Special Olympics Snow Bowl flag football team.

In his brief career he has been commended on multiple occasions. He has received (4) lifesaving citations, (3) unit citations and (1) meritorious service citation. He was also honored in 2018 by Mothers Against Drunken Driving for his work in this area. In April 2020, he was one of three Fairfield police officers who help to neutralize a suspect who had pointed a loaded handgun at officers after having been involved in a pursuit. For those actions, he received a gallantry star from our department and valor awards from the 200 Club of Essex County, the New Jersey State PBA and the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

While he is physically absent from the department, he remains in our constant thoughts and prayers. During this time, our officers, staff and members of the Fairfield Police Foundation will be engaged in a variety of different activities to help raise awareness about his fight with this disease while at the same time raising funds to assist Jimmy with some of his expenses.

As our “CIAMPI STRONG #94-NO ONE FIGHTS ALONE” merchandise becomes available for purchase, we will immediately make the public aware of how they can go about obtaining it. For now, anyone who would like to donate directly to assist Officer Ciampi can do so through the Fairfield Police Foundation by sending a check to the Fairfield Police Foundation (309 Bloomfield Avenue. Caldwell, N.J. 07006) and notating “for Jimmy” in the memo portion. Until then, please keep Jimmy and his family in your prayers.