Sheriff Amir D. Jones Secures $162,894 Donation to Equip Essex County Sheriff’s Officers with Bulletproof Vests
The Essex County Sheriff’s Office has secured a transformative gift that will enhance officer safety across the county. Dr. César DePaço, Law Enforcement Liaison Officer with the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, Law Enforcement Division – Administration, has pledged $162,894 to fully fund the purchase of 150 bulletproof vests for Essex County Sheriff Officers.
This unprecedented commitment underscores the vital importance of officer protection and highlights the growing partnerships between law enforcement agencies in New Jersey.
“This donation is a powerful investment in the officers who put their lives on the line for Essex County every day,” said Sheriff Amir D. Jones. “Thanks to Dr. DePaço’s generosity, we can ensure our officers are protected with the most advanced safety equipment available. Officer safety is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.”
Dr. DePaço, known nationally for his philanthropic support of law enforcement, framed the contribution as a duty rather than an act of charity.
“I hold the highest regard for the men and women who serve with integrity and courage. Providing each officer with the necessary protective equipment is not a charitable gesture; it is a solemn responsibility,” said Dr. César DePaço, Law Enforcement Liaison Officer, Somerset County Sheriff’s Office – Law Enforcement Division, Administration.
The partnership marks one of the first large-scale donations under Sheriff Jones’ administration, reflecting his vision to prioritize officer wellness, community trust, and resource accessibility since taking office earlier this year.
The Essex County Sheriff’s Office will begin immediate procurement of the new vests, with Sheriff Amir D. Jones and Executive Undersheriff Arthur Jorge working in coordination with Dr. DePaço to ensure timely and efficient distribution.
About Sheriff Amir D. Jones
Sheriff Amir D. Jones made history in January 2025 when he was sworn in as the first African American Sheriff in Essex County’s history. A lifelong Essex County resident, Sheriff Jones has dedicated his career to building safer communities through fairness, transparency, and innovation in law enforcement.
Under his leadership, the Essex County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new era focused on:
Community Engagement
Launched a new Community Engagement Team, leading the Essex County Sheriff’s Office’s first-ever Back-to-School Giveaway serving hundreds of families. Maintains consistent, year-round outreach to build trust, visibility, and authentic connection across Essex County.
Officer Wellness & Protection
Secured $162,894 to ensure bulletproof vests for every officer. Continues to prioritize officer safety and wellness through meaningful investment, resource access, and a culture of internal support.
Mental Health & Internal Wellness Culture
Fosters a department-wide culture of wellness through peer support tools, mental health resources, and direct pathways to internal care. Simultaneously expands public access by sharing countywide wellness resources across ECSO’s digital platforms for all Essex County residents.
Crime Reduction Through Innovation & Collaboration
Led a 9-day warrant sweep in partnership with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office resulting in 56 arrests for serious violent offenses, and joined multiple agencies in a federal takedown charging 30 individuals in Newark. Demonstrates ECSO’s strong commitment to proactive, coordinated law enforcement.
Public Safety Modernization & Technology Expansion
Introduced ECSO drones and new motorcycles to increase mobility, tactical efficiency, and event response. Launched “Ask the Sheriff,” a digital Q&A series designed to increase transparency and open communication with the public.
Sheriff Jones’ tenure reflects a generational milestone: a leader committed to modern policing, officer wellbeing, and building deeper relationships with the Essex County community.
About the Essex County Sheriff’s Office
The Essex County Sheriff’s Office is the largest and most active Sheriff’s Department in New Jersey. Guided by Sheriff Amir D. Jones’ historic leadership, the Office is committed to enhancing public safety while fostering community trust through transparency, innovation, and principled service.
About Dr. César DePaço
Dr. César DePaço proudly serves as Law Enforcement Liaison Officer with the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office, Law Enforcement Division – Administration. A successful Founder & CEO of Summit Nutritionals International Inc and President of DePaço Foundation, he has extended deep philanthropic support to law enforcement and first responders across the U.S., donating $10 million since 2013 to law enforcement agencies both nationwide and internationally.