Trooper Gail Just
The first female applicants were admitted to the New Jersey State Police Academy in 1974. Gail L. Just joined 106 male recruits to start the 91st NJSP Academy Class. Gail Just graduated from the academy on January 30, 1975, with badge #3020, making her the first enlisted woman in New Jersey State Police history. Trooper Just was assigned to Morristown, Netcong, Clinton, and Newton stations and served on specialized units in the Organized Crime Task Force Bureau and the Narcotics Bureau. She retired December 1, 1994, with the rank of Detective I.
History
During the fall of 1979, the New Jersey State Police initiated a program to increase the representation of women within the enlisted ranks of the Division. The initiative was designed to recruit, select, and train an all-female class, marking a significant departure from traditional practices and setting a new example for law enforcement agencies nationwide.
In June 1980, the New Jersey State Police graduated 30 determined and capable women from an all-female class. This milestone event was a moment of immense pride for the graduates and their families and a historic achievement for the nation. It marked the first time in the United States that an entire class of State Police officers was composed exclusively of women.
Contributions of Women in the NJSP
The success of this program demonstrated that women performed at the highest levels in the demanding field of law enforcement, paving the way for future generations of female troopers. This initiative underscored the importance of diversity in policing and highlighted the valuable contributions that women bring to the force.
