Hillsborough Police Department Recognizes 2023 Top Cops

Each year the Hillsborough Township Police Department selects two “Top Cops”, one from each Patrol Squad, to be recognized for their exceptional performance for the previous year.

The award recipients are determined based on a score devised from the Annual Job Performance Evaluations, along with a ranking achieved from their respective supervisors and peers.

Officer Dillon Kelly and Officer James Sakers are recognized for the highest ranking on each of the two Patrol Squads. “Top Cops” are formally recognized by the Department, the Mayor, and the Township Committee and receive an acknowledgment in their personnel file.

In addition, Officers Kelly and Sakers will have their names engraved on a plaque displayed in the lobby of Police Headquarters honoring each year’s recipients since the program’s inception in 1996. In addition, they will be awarded a merit bar that is worn above their uniform badge.

“Congratulations to these two veteran officers on their exemplary service to the Township, earning them this distinct honor,” commented Committeewoman Catherine Payne.

Officer Dillon Kelly has been a member of the Department since 2019 where he has served in the Patrol Division. Officer Kelly is the recipient of several Command Citations, letters of appreciation, as well as several Supervisory Commendations such as a lifesaving award. He also serves as a Field Training Officer for the department. This is Officer Kelly’s second time receiving this award.

Officer James Sakers III has been a member of the Department since 2019. He has served in the Patrol Division and has been designated a Field Training Officer. Officer Sakers is the recipient of several Command Citations as well as Supervisory Commendations. He is also the recipient of several letters of appreciation, from the community, for a job well done during the performance of his duties. This is Officer Sakers’ first time receiving Top Cop. ###