Atlantic City Police Department Deputy Chief Bridget Pierce was presented with a New Jersey Women in Law Enforcement “Lifetime Achievement Award” during the opening of the annual NJWLE conference held in Freehold, New Jersey.

Deputy Chief Pierce, born and raised in Atlantic City, began her career in 1996. She has steadily risen through the ranks of the police department. In August of 2020, Pierce was promoted to Deputy Chief becoming the first woman in the history of the Atlantic City Police Department to be promoted to this rank.

Chief James A. Sarkos and Local PBA #24 President Jules Schwenger accompanied Deputy Chief Pierce to the conference.

“I was honored to attend and witness Deputy Chief Pierce receive this prestigious, competitive and well-deserved award at the NJWLE Conference,” said Chief Sarkos. “Deputy Chief Pierce has distinguished herself with her various achievements, leadership and exemplary conduct over the course of her distinguished career.”

“Deputy Chief Pierce embodies the mission of the NJWLE. She is a tremendous influence and guide for not only the women in law enforcement, but the men as well,” said President Schwenger.

“I am extremely proud of Bridget Pierce, the first female Deputy Chief in the history of the Atlantic City Police Department, receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from the NJWLE,” said Mayor Marty Small, Sr. “It shows the dedication throughout Deputy Chief Pierce’s career is not only recognized by the great City of Atlantic City but statewide.”

THE NJWLE is a non-profit professional organization of active and retired officers whose purpose is to bring the successes and contributions of women in law enforcement to the forefront. In addition, the organization supports community initiative projects to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the community.