2005 Winner: DNA Convicted Offender Sampling and Testing Program

A statewide unified approach to classification and upfront verification of information, this program ensures that offenders and their DNA samples are properly identified and entered into the state’s criminal records database through the utilization of handheld biometric computers.

2005 Alternate: Garden State Network Enterprise Intrusion Detection Project

Created by a partnership between the state and the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command Research, Development and Engineering Center (CERDEC), the project is an effort to thwart cyberterrorists by researching and analyzing the state’s networks and developing an intrusion detection system.

2005 Finalist: Focus on the Victim (FOV) Program

A voluntary offender program, FOV employs restorative and reparative justice principles as its main focus and provides offenders the opportunity to examine the impact of their crimes on victims and communities. Through unique role-playing techniques and face-to-face interaction with survivors of victimization, this program has empowered victims by allowing them to help offenders modify negative behaviors, ultimately preventing destructive future behavior.

2005 Finalist: FastID

This system, implemented by the New Jersey Department of Corrections, provides a one-to-one comparison/verification between an individual’s live fingerprint and offender information stored within New Jersey’s database. This accurate and secure identification method allows the NJDOC to increase efficiency and accuracy in intake and release processes at correctional facilities.

2003 Finalist: Intergovernmental Transfer Program

This program allows state and local government employees with permanent civil service status to transfer between state and local employment jurisdictions while maintaining their permanent status.

2003 Finalist: Law Enforcement Intervention Hotline

This statewide initiative aimed at helping law enforcement officers and their families achieve a better quality of life allows law enforcement families to vent anxiety, relieve stress and discuss personal and marital problems via a 24-hour hotline.

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