Some additional step if necessary. Contact the State Assembly Representative and State Senator for your district (you can locate them at http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/. Make an appointment to meet with them in person, if possible. At the very least make sure they receive the following request (in your own words if you like):
“I would like to ask for your help. I have lawfully applied for a Firearm Identification Card/Handgun Purchase Permit (whichever applies). I have already [provide an account of what you have done so far] and then briefly explain the problem “It has been X months since I applied”, “They keep losing my paperwork”, or whatever is the best description of your complaint. “I am asking for your help in convincing the ‘YourTownName’ Police Department to process my application in a timely manner.”
Make it clear that you have complied with all of the requirements in the NJ State Statutes. Also make a statement similar to the following:
“I would also appreciate it if you would contact the Unit Head of the NJ Division of State Police Firearms Investigation Unit about this matter. Perhaps you will be more successful in convincing him and or the Attorney General’s office to help. Many of my friends and associates from other towns are experiencing the same difficulties. I know that you agree that your constituents and the law-abiding residents of New Jersey deserve to be treated fairly by those who are sworn to uphold the laws of the state of New Jersey and I would appreciate it if you would intercede on my behalf”.