Meet the Frenchtown Police Department

Each of Frenchtown’s police officers is devoted to a community‑centered style of policing, focusing on being approachable, engaged, and connected with the people he serves. They value the close connections that define small-town policing and take pride in being part of a department whose daily work is guided by compassion for our residents.

From left to right: Ptl. Kevin Coletta, Ptl. David Lugo, and Sgt. Erik Eccles

SGT. ERIK ECCLES has served as the officer in charge of the Frenchtown Police Department for the past six years and is nearing a decade of dedicated service to the borough and its visitors.

Erik oversees a wide range of operational and administrative responsibilities, ensuring that daily functions run smoothly while supporting long‑term organizational goals. He earned his bachelor’s degree in National Security Studies from New Jersey City University, graduating summa cum laude.

Off-duty, he enjoys caring for animals and has a genuine passion for their wellbeing. He jokingly refers to himself as a part‑time zookeeper, sharing his home with four cats and one dog.

PTL. KEVIN COLETTA has served with the FPD since 2019. Before that, he was a special law enforcement officer with Hackensack and Guttenberg police departments and the Essex County Sheriff’s Office.

Kevin’s responsibilities include serving as domestic violence liaison, juvenile liaison, Law Enforcement Against Drugs instructor, Megan’s Law designee, Traffic Officers Association representative, Firearms and Background investigator, fleet manager and field training officer. He is also the PBA Local 188 representative and its executive board secretary.

Beyond policing, he has volunteered in the fire service since 2014 and currently serves as assistant chief and president of his local fire department. He is a husband and father of two young children.

PTL. DAVID B. LUGO previously worked in Lambertville, where he developed a strong foundation in community policing and public service. His work there shaped his appreciation for building relationships and supporting the needs of local residents.

Outside of his duties, he enjoys spending time outdoors and has a lifelong love of animals and nature. David is grateful to serve a community he respects and enjoys being part of each day.