School police officers play a vital role in keeping our hallways safe, and for BHS, Officer Edwin Maldonado is exceptional in his role.
Officer Eddie, as he is more commonly known, joined the police force at 14 through the police explorers program, which provides hands-on experience to prospective cops from ages 14-21. Since starting out as a teen, Officer Maldonado has carved out an illustrious career serving in both his hometown of Plainfield, and Union County.
For 11 years, he worked in Plainfield as both a patrol officer for 6 years and an investigator for 5. Throughout his tenure in Plainfield, Officer Eddie worked closely with diverse cultures, especially the Hispanic community. In fact, in 2010, he was elected to the National Latino Peace Officers’ Association (LPOA).
In a conversation with Officer Maldonado, he told us that he joined the police force because, “The local cops I grew up around were incredibly influential on my life. I also found the police at 14 and never looked back.”
After over a decade, Officer Eddie shifted his sights to the Union County Prosecutors’ Office, where he worked until 2023. During his tenure at the Prosecutors office, he conducted criminal investigations against individuals and organized groups. Again, Officer Maldonado was extremely inclusive with diverse groups.
Officer Eddie is extremely qualified for any position he could choose to pursue as he has six certifications including being a Certified Arson Investigator, Celebrity Mobile Examiner, Police Instructor, Forensic Specialist, and a Commissioned Notary in the state of New Jersey. Additionally, he worked as an adjunct professor at the Union College of Union County, NJ.
Outside of his qualifications, Officer Maldonado has also been recognized with numerous awards. Across his 2 decades of experience, he was awarded the Commendation Bar which signifies an officer’s bravery.He also received the Excellent Duty award twice, and the Recognition Award from the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.
Edwin Maldonado officially retired from the police force in 2023 and is serving at the high school as an SLEO III, which is a position for retired cops who have been tasked with monitoring schools. He received the task to protect the school within months of his retirement. In his retirement, Officer Eddie has embarked on a journey in corporate security management where he hopes to mentor the next generation of police officers.
Officer Maldonado told us that his favorite part of working at BHS is, “Being around the students and teachers. The atmosphere coming into work everyday is awesome.”
Police officers are imperative to fostering a safe school environment, and Edwin Maldonado is keeping BHS safe and protected.
