The Fairfield Police Department and community is mourning the death of Officer James Ciampi, affectionately known as Jimmy, who died on Monday after a battle with cancer.

The 31-year-old officer grew up in Fairfield and joined the Fairfield Police Department as a Class ll Special Officer in October 2016. He was appointed as a full-time officer only a year later.

In 2022, Ciampi was assigned to the Essex County Auto Theft Task Force for six months as he helped arrest many criminals throughout Essex County.

During his brief career Ciampi has been commended for his work on multiple occasions, receiving four lifesaving citations, three unit citations and one meritorious service citation.

In 2018 Ciampi was honored for his work in the area by Mothers Against Drunken Driving.

Finally, in April 2020, Ciampi was one of three Fairfield police officers who helped neutralize a suspect who had pointed a loaded handgun at officers after having been involved in a pursuit. For his actions in that situation, Ciampi received a gallantry star from the Fairfield Police Department as well as valor awards from the 200 Club of Essex County, the New Jersey State PBA and the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.

Additionally, Ciampi was a physical fitness instructor and was an integral part of running the department's junior police academy. He was also a part of the department's Special Olympics Snow Bowl flag football team.

Ciampi's death comes just over a month after Fairfield Police Chief Anthony G. Manna informed the community of his illness posting on Facebook on Aug. 7, "The officers and staff of the Fairfield Police Department have always prided themselves in providing premier law enforcement services to those we have sworn to protect and serve. At the same time, our officers make it a point to remain woven within the fabric of our community. In return, we have always enjoyed the public's unwavering support and respect."

The statement continued, "We now need your support, love, prayers and well wishes more than we have in the past. I am saddened to announce that, recently, one of our young, bright and dedicated officers, James Ciampi, was diagnosed with cancer. His condition is such that he is currently unable to come to work and is concentrating completely on his recovery, a battle we know he will win."

Throughout the last several weeks, the department has held multiple community fundraisers for Ciampi including selling bracelets, T-shirts, balloons and bows, lemonade stands, car washes and more.

Multiple local businesses have contributed to his fight against cancer, donating a portion of their proceeds to Ciampi.

A GoFundMe was created on Aug. 9 on behalf of the Ciampi family. It has since raised over $69,000.

On Aug. 19, the department launched https://www.ciampistrong.com/, a website where community members and supporters of Ciampi could learn more about him, send well wishes, purchase merchandise, donate, and view fundraiser events.

Hundreds of community members have sent their condolences to Ciampi family and the Fairfield Police Department on social media, replying to the department's announcement of his untimely passing.

Service information has yet to be announced but the Fairfield Police Department said on social media that more information will be announced in the upcoming days.

"We thank the entire community for your support during this difficult time," says the department's post.