New Jersey Department Changes Grooming Standards in Recruiting Effort

The Camden County (NJ) Police Department—in an effort to boost recruiting—has adopted new grooming and appearance standards for its police officers.

According to the Courier Post , the new grooming standards will allow for both male and female officers to sport braids and ponytails, as well as stud earrings and other jewelry that had previously been forbidden while in uniform.

The agency said in a statement, "We want more young men and women thinking about a career as a police officer, and to not turn away … because of overly stringent and dated grooming and appearance rules."

The changes in policy are "designed to be more reflective of modern norms and styles while also helping with recruiting efforts."