Washington, D.C., June 15, 2023 — A decade ago, the number of Albanian-Americans serving in U.S. law enforcement agencies was estimated at around 200.
Today, that figure has surpassed 700, according to the American Albanian Law Enforcement Association (AALEA) — a remarkable increase reflecting both professional achievement and deeper community integration.

The Voice of America spoke with several Albanian-American officers serving in New Jersey and New York who discussed their professional challenges, sense of duty, and the importance of representation within law enforcement.

Officer Vezir Sela, 34, began his career 15 years ago. Today, he serves with the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office in New Jersey, one of the state’s largest and most diverse jurisdictions, comprising 70 municipalities. His work is high-risk but vital to public safety.

“You never know what you’re walking into. It depends on the nature of the crime and the individuals involved. We must make sure all our equipment — from body cameras to patrol vehicles — is fully functional and ready for any situation,” said Officer Sela.

Born in the United States, Sela reflected on his early years in the profession, which began when he was just 19.

“I was the first in my family to join law enforcement. I didn’t know what to expect. At the police academy, I didn’t know how to run properly or handle a firearm. The training was intense and required tremendous effort, but I’m proud I started young,” he said.

Law enforcement has since become a family tradition for the Selas.
Hadis Sela serves as a SWAT officer in Hudson County, and Adem Sela is a detective in the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office.

“There are six of us in the Sela family working in law enforcement across New Jersey. This profession demands dignity, discipline, and hard work — and it’s deeply respected,” said Officer Hadis Sela.
“For us Albanian-Americans, it’s important to show that we are dedicated, hardworking, and ready to serve this country and our communities,” added Detective Adem Sela.

The steady increase in Albanian-American officers is a key goal of the American Albanian Law Enforcement Association, founded in 2019 as a nationwide organization supporting Albanians pursuing law enforcement careers and fostering mentorship, professionalism, and unity.

“Today, things are completely different. Years ago, it was difficult to find mentorship or guidance. Now, it’s much easier,” said Elton Shametaj, AALEA’s founder and president.

According to Shametaj, the number of Albanian-Americans in law enforcement has more than tripled in the past decade — from about 200 to over 700. Nearly one in thirty members is a woman, and the association has received more than 2,000 applications from individuals interested in joining the profession.

“Here in America, the sky’s the limit. Albanians are now fully integrated — you can find them in the White House, the FBI, ATF, the Department of Justice, and across nearly every major law enforcement agency,” he said.

While many Albanian-American officers were born and raised in the United States, they remain deeply connected to their roots through community service and participation in cultural events.

“My father taught me never to forget where we come from — to speak our language and honor our traditions. We must always stay connected to our heritage,” said Officer Azmi Toska, who has served with the Hudson County Police Department for eight years.

Officers say that as their numbers have grown, so too has the perception of Albanians within American society.

“For years, movies portrayed Albanians as criminals, which is false. We’re family-oriented, hardworking people. Serving in law enforcement is a career that demands courage, pride, and dedication,” said Detective Altin Çeloaliaj of the Port Authority Police Department of New York and New Jersey.
“Those old stereotypes were temporary. We’ve proven who we are — professionals committed to service and integrity,” added Officer Besmir Sajdarasi of Staten Island, NYPD.

Beyond advocacy and mentorship, AALEA also serves as a bridge between U.S. law enforcement agencies and police institutions in Albania and Kosovo, fostering professional exchange and strengthening transatlantic cooperation.— By Burim Goxhuli, Voice of America