By The Keystone Newspaper Mya Ostermiller, investigative analyst with New Jersey State Police, shares career journey
By Katelynn Humbles
On Tuesday, March 25, the KU Criminal Justice Association (CJA) welcomed Mya Ostermiller, an investigative analyst with the New Jersey State Police (NJSP). A KU alumna, Ostermiller shared her career journey and the impactful work being done at NJSP to combat the opioid crisis in New Jersey.
Photo Credit: Katelynn Humbles
Ostermiller, who holds a master’s in criminal justice-intelligence analysis from Monmouth University, emphasized her passion for helping those affected by drug addiction. She detailed her role in the Opioid Detection Mapping Application Program (ODMAP), a tool used for tracking overdose incidents across New Jersey. She explained how this data aids law enforcement agencies in responding to overdose spikes and supports initiatives like Operation Rise, which connects individuals with treatment services after a naloxone administration.
“I wouldn’t necessarily say we’re directly reducing crime, but we’re saving lives,” Ostermiller said, highlighting the importance of providing recovery services to individuals struggling with addiction. She mentioned that NJSP’s use of naloxone has helped reduce overdose deaths by 30% from 2023 to 2024.
Ostermiller also explained her work with law enforcement agencies statewide, where she conducts presentations and drug recognition courses. These programs educate first responders on emerging drug trends, ensuring that agencies are well-equipped to handle the challenges of the ongoing opioid crisis.
“We teach law enforcement, public health agencies like EMS and fire departments about the latest drug trends in New Jersey, from heroin to amphetamines and prescription drugs,” she said.
One of the key tools in Ostermiller’s work is the ODMAP. “It’s essentially an online form that law enforcement fills out when they encounter overdoses, tracking both fatal and nonfatal cases,” she said.
While the primary purpose of ODMAP is data collection, it plays a crucial role in helping agencies identify overdose spikes, which can then trigger targeted responses, such as increasing naloxone deployment in certain areas.
“We work closely with Operation Rise, a recovery initiative that supports individuals who have experienced an overdose,” Ostermiller said. “After someone is revived with naloxone, the Operation Rise team engages them, offering recovery services and treatment options. Some of our team members even go undercover in plain clothes to talk to people on the streets, letting them know that help is available.”
Photo Credit: Katelynn Humbles
The CJA members were highly engaged in the conversation, with many students asking about career opportunities in intelligence analysis and law enforcement. Ostermiller shared that while public speaking was once a challenge, especially after transitioning from virtual to in-person presentations due to COVID-19, it has become an integral part of her role.
“I now conduct drug recognition courses across the state, and it’s something I really enjoy,” she said. She also spoke about her involvement in cell phone analysis and working with Instagram records, adding another layer to her day-to-day responsibilities.
Ostermiller’s visit was not only an opportunity to learn about the intersection of law enforcement, public health, and data analysis, but also a chance for students to see firsthand how data-driven initiatives like ODMAP are making a tangible difference in fighting the opioid epidemic.
Sachiel Rosa, president of CJA and a political science major with a criminal justice minor, explained that the association’s mission is to expose students to various criminal justice professionals and career paths.
“We invite different experts like FBI agents, public defenders, probation officers, and intelligence analysts to talk about their careers and share insights,” Rosa said. “It’s a fantastic networking opportunity for students, regardless of their major, to explore diverse interests and career options”
Rosa also encouraged students to attend these events, highlighting the importance of networking for future job and internship opportunities.
Ostermiller’s visit reinforced the significance of using data to support public health and law enforcement efforts in the fight against addiction. The CJA is excited to continue facilitating these valuable learning opportunities for students interested in criminal justice and related fields, ensuring the next generation of professionals is equipped with the knowledge and network to make a real impact.Information on future CJA meetings can be found on their instagram @kutztowncja.