Trooper went missing. Then, his tattoos related to hate symbols sparked concern in NJ
The disappearance of a New Jersey state trooper drew attention — and concern — over tattoos related to hate symbols on his neck and body.
Jason Dare, 46, of Vineland, went missing and was described as “endangered” after leaving a medical facility in the suburbs of Philadelphia on March 19, the Courier-Post reported. He was found days later on March 24.
When photos were shared online of Dare to help find him, the public noticed the words “Blood Honor” tattooed on his neck, according to the outlet.
“Blood and Honor” is a known hate symbol with origins to Nazi Germany and the Hitler Youth, which popularized the German version of the slogan “Blut und Ehre,” according to the Anti-Defamation League. The British spelling “Blood & Honour” is often associated with international white supremacist groups, including some in the U.S., the organization says.
Now, New Jersey State Police are investigating Detective Dare’s tattoos and have placed him on administrative leave, according to a statement from Col. Patrick Callahan provided to McClatchy News on March 31.
“I am aware of the concerns regarding tattoos identified on Detective I Jason Dare’s body,” Callahan said.
Other photos of Dare shared online showed additional tattoos on his hands and torso that are associated with Nazi Germany, NJ.com reported.
When a person applies to become a New Jersey state trooper, tattoos on the face, head, scalp, neck and hands are not allowed, according to state police hiring policy. If a state trooper’s tattoos are visible when in uniform, or in civilian clothes while working, they need to be removed, per the policy.
Additionally, New Jersey police officers aren’t allowed, under a new state police licensure law, to actively participate in a group advocating for discrimination against protected classes, state Attorney General Matthew Platkin said in a statement on the investigation into Dare.
The law was signed by Gov. Phil Murphy in July 2022.
“There is no place for hate in the New Jersey State Police or within the ranks of the 38,000 sworn law enforcement officers in New Jersey,” Platkin said.
Dare has been a state trooper since 2004, according to Callahan.
Vineland is about 40 miles southeast of Philadelphia.
This story was originally published March 31, 2023 at 2:26 PM with the headline "Trooper went missing. Then, his tattoos related to hate symbols sparked concern in NJ."
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