The Cranford Township Committee on July 8 adopted Resolution 2025-262 appointing Christian Wilde as a probationary police officer in the Cranford Police Department, effective July 10, 2025.

The appointment was introduced and adopted by roll call vote; the committee recorded unanimous "yes" votes from Commissioner Black, Commissioner Andrews, Commissioner Mila Prunty, Deputy Mayor Mary Gallo and Mayor Terrence Curran. The oath of office was administered at the meeting and Wilde is scheduled to begin the John H. Standler Police Academy session on July 11, 2025.

Township officials and Police Department leaders characterized Wilde as a lifelong Cranford resident with local school and athletic honors, a recent Marist University graduate with a B.S. in criminal justice, and a candidate who previously completed the department's recruitment process. Police Chief remarks at the meeting noted Wilde comes from a family with multiple members in law enforcement and described him as "mature, generous, and a natural leader." The chief asked the public to join in congratulating Wilde and his family.

Committee members and the police chief also discussed continuing staffing efforts: appointments of per-diem communications officers and a recently hired communications officer, Samuel Mendez, were recognized. Officials said filling vacancies helps the department manage retirements and transfers while maintaining public safety coverage.

The committee also noted receipt of a clean municipal audit with no findings, which officials said reflects ongoing financial management and administrative oversight.

The resolution language certified the appointment at the July 8 meeting; the committee recessed briefly for the oath and then returned to regular business.