More than 700 officers, 30 mounted police and 30 officers with dogs were on duty and arrests were made long before the game.
The first to go behind bars were even known hooligans who were arrested on Sunday in a pre-planned operation for breaking football banning orders.
A further 30 people were arrested during and after the game, for a variety of offences including public order, criminal damage and streaking.
Chief Superintendent Graham Smith, Newcastle Area Commander: "The vast majority of fans were behaved well, 12 arrests at the ground out a crowd that size is low and I would like to thank all the stewards involved for their assistance.
"I would also like to commend the action of police officers who remained professional at all times.
"Finally, I would also like to thank the supporters of both Newcastle and Sunderland. The vast majority were well behaved and cheered on their respective teams in the right manner."
Sadly only about a quarter of the Mackem fans were in the ground for their one "highlight", the late goal from Bent (and I'm sure he is) to make it 5-1.
Apparently they had Halloween parties to go to.