Submitted by Linden Police Department
Linden Police Officer Daniel Kuczynski, 45, passed away June 12, 2017. He was born March 19, 1972. His work with kids began as a teenager, and he spent his summers working as a Park Director for the Linden Recreation Summer Park Program. He graduated from Linden High School in 1990, and earned an Associate’s Degree from Middlesex County College. He continued his education at Monmouth University, where he played NCAA Division I baseball until graduating with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice in 1996. He joined the Linden Police Department in January 1997 and graduated in the 76th class of the John H. Stamler Police Academy later that year.
Danny spent eleven years assigned to the Patrol Division, and was commended dozens of times. Most notably, he was among a group of officers named Officer of the Year in 2000 for their actions during the pursuit and arrest of multiple murder suspects. He earned the award again in 2001 after he and other officers arrested multiple armed robbery suspects. Officer Kuczynski was also recognized for his extensive participation in community events. Despite his effectiveness as a Patrol Officer, Officer Kuczynski was well respected by the community, and on several occasions citizens wrote letters to thank Officer Kuczynski and commended his compassion, particularly with youth.
Officer Kuczynski was assigned to the Linden Police Juvenile Bureau in 2008, and served as Director of the Linden Police Athletic League for the next nine years. He was lovingly called “Officer DK” by the kids, and he, in return, was relentless in his efforts to create new opportunities for them. League participation more than doubled during his tenure as director, and he significantly expanded the programs offered. He added new leagues and new sports, expanded programs to include children of more ages, and sponsored clinics and summer programs. In 2009 he started the Wanda Green “Battle of the Badges” football game, which has grown into a yearly tradition that starts the league’s flag football season. This year he expanded the tradition with the inaugural “Battle of the Badges” basketball game.
Danny continued his education, and earned his Master’s Degree in Human Resources and Development from Seton Hall University in 2016. Of all his accomplishments, however, Danny was particularly proud of the “Real Talk” series he began earlier this year. Danny recognized how difficult it was to be a kid today, and the program featured members of the community speaking directly to kids and setting them on the right path.
Danny is survived by his father, John, his mother, Eleanor, and his brothers, John and Adam. A funeral service was held at St. John the Apostle Church on Monday June, 19th.
