JCPOBA Appoints First Woman and African American President

Detective Letia Nalls has made history as the first woman and first African American to serve as president of the Jersey City Police Officers Benevolent Association (JCPOBA), following a leadership succession announced on May 1.

Nalls, a 20-year veteran of the Jersey City Police Department, has long been recognized for her advocacy on behalf of fellow officers and her commitment to community engagement. In her new role, she will lead the union representing rank-and-file officers across the department.

“I am both humbled and honored to serve as the president of the Jersey City Police Officers Benevolent Association,” Nalls said in a press release issued by the JCPOBA. “This is a significant milestone, not only in my career but also for the broader law enforcement community.”

Nalls stated that her leadership will focus on supporting officers through improved working conditions, professional development, and wellness programs, while also strengthening relationships between police and the communities they serve.

“We must continually work toward strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and the community, especially in these times when trust is more important than ever,” said Nalls. “My leadership will focus on fostering open dialogue, ensuring accountability, and advocating for the professional development of our officers.”

Over the course of her career, Nalls has held multiple roles within the Jersey City Police Department and has been involved in initiatives aimed at improving officer training and access to resources. She is also known for mentoring women and minority officers seeking leadership positions within law enforcement.

According to the JCPOBA, Nalls’ presidency signals a continued push toward inclusion and reform in law enforcement practices. The organization described the appointment as “a historic achievement in the organization’s long-standing commitment to serving and advocating for the hardworking men and women of the Jersey City Police Department.”

Correction: A previous version of this article stated that the JCPOBA president was elected. Detective Letia Nalls was appointed to the position by succession.