The New Jersey Office of the Public Defender (NJOPD) has announced the formation of a new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) team. This initiative is led by DEIB Officer John Johnson and includes DEIB Specialist Lyndsey Peck. The team aims to enhance diversity and equity in hiring, development, retention, engagement, and advancement within NJOPD.
"Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are central to not only our workplace culture but also to our agency’s mission," said Public Defender Jennifer Sellitti. "Each person brings a unique experience and perspective to the important work we do, and NJOPD is committed to making our work environment welcoming, equitable, and inclusive for everyone. We are thrilled to support John and Lyndsey in their vital roles as we strive to further embody these principles in every aspect of our work."
John Johnson will collaborate closely with Public Defender Management to ensure that DEIB values are integral to the agency's operations. His responsibilities include developing training plans that promote an inclusive work environment with a focus on cultural competency and racial equity. Johnson will also implement initiatives aimed at recruiting professionals from traditionally underrepresented groups.
Johnson's background includes significant experiences that have shaped his understanding of social and racial injustices. He has been affiliated with the University of California Berkeley's Belonging and Othering Institute, which has provided him access to extensive research on addressing social inequities. Additionally, he is a member of the Middlesex Vicinage’s Minority Concerns Committee and NJOPD's DEI Committee.
With thirty years of legal experience—nearly two decades at NJOPD—Johnson brings substantial expertise to his role. Since 2017, he has served as Deputy Public Defender in the Middlesex Trial Region. A Certified Criminal Trial Attorney recognized by the New Jersey Supreme Court, Johnson has tried over 100 jury trials.
"Prioritizing DEIB values enhances our ability to advocate effectively for individuals we represent," said Johnson. "These efforts are crucial for delivering the compassionate and informed representation every individual is entitled to under the law."
Lyndsey Peck will focus on promoting DEIB initiatives throughout NJOPD as DEIB Specialist. She will work closely with leadership and staff to foster an inclusive workplace culture while identifying systemic barriers within agency policies.
Peck has chaired NJOPD’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee since 2022. She has organized agency-wide DEIB training sessions and panel events featuring industry experts.
"I believe that a diverse workforce is essential for understanding the unique challenges faced by those we serve," said Peck. "Together, we can create meaningful change that resonates throughout the state of New Jersey."
Since 2019, Peck has served as an Assistant Deputy Public Defender with NJOPD’s Office of Parental Representation. Her previous experience includes clerking for Honorable Bruce J. Kaplan in Middlesex County Family Division.
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