Trenton, NJ (June 14, 2024) — This morning, Mayor Reed Gusciora, alongside Police Director Steve Wilson, First Assistant Prosecutor Jennifer Downing-Mathis, New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan, and numerous members of the Trenton Police Department (TPD) and New Jersey State Police (NJSP), announced the launch of the 2024 Summer Initiative Task Force. This initiative aims to boost law enforcement presence and resources in the city, with support from the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and NJSP.
The task force will introduce new initiatives, such as the Criminal Investigation Crime Suppression Units and the Arrive Together program. The Criminal Investigation Crime Suppression Units will enhance investigations, facilitating real-time arrests. Arrive Together is a program focused on dispatching a certified mental health screener and crisis specialist to respond to 9-1-1 calls involving behavioral health incidents.
“Following a successful 2023, we are excited to bring back the Summer Initiative Task Force,” Mayor Gusciora said. “It is vitally important that our children and residents are able to have a safe and enjoyable summer.”
First Assistant Prosecutor Downing-Mathis emphasized the commitment of the Prosecutor’s Office to the initiative, stating, “The Prosecutor’s Office is dedicated to the Summer Initiative. We will be dedicating resources as well as our investigative staff and other staff. Trenton is one of the many municipalities that the County is entrusted with, but we care deeply about this City and we hope that we can have a terrific summer.”
Building on last year’s success of keeping shootings under 1,000 in the state, this year’s goal is to reduce that number to under 900 with the New Jersey State Police U9C operation. Colonel Callahan highlighted the impact of collaborative efforts, noting, “So far, shooting victims in Trenton are down 9% and in Mercer County down 25% because of those partnerships and meetings we have with federal, state, and local agencies. It is our hope that we keep shootings down.”
In addition to increased law enforcement, there will be an increase in summer events to engage the community in safe activities. Residents can expect over 70 events, multiple summer camps including the Junior Public Safety Program, TPD’s Summer Youth Camp, and the Summer Youth Camps hosted at Sam Naples and the West Ward Recreation Centers. Additionally, the free Summer Food Program will operate at over 30 sites with more than 280 employees.
“It’s not all about arresting people and police work,” Director Wilson said. “It’s about reaching out and being a part of a movement to help make Trenton a safer place.”
The 2024 Summer Initiative Task Force aims to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all Trenton residents through increased law enforcement, community engagement, and collaboration between various agencies.
