New Jersey communities to receive federal funding for increased public safety measures

On Friday, Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. (D-6) announced that new federal funding will strengthen public safety and law enforcement in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties, according to a press release.

The funding, which is from the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services COPS Hiring Program, will be used to hire new police officers and improve security on school campuses.

Specifically, Perth Amboy will receive $1.25 million, which will be used to hire 10 new police officers. New Brunswick will receive $250,000, which will be used to hire two police officers, according to the release.

In addition, Sayreville will be given $175,000 to improve community policing, and Rutgers will receive $100,000 to recruit and maintain officer membership.

The Middletown Board of Education will receive $491,000 from the School Violence Prevention Program, according to the release. These funds will be used to improve campus security.

The funds can be used to purchase equipment that will enhance security, coordinate with local law enforcement and train local law enforcement officers to prevent school violence.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes, workplaces and places of learning,” Pallone said. “This funding will go a long way to make our communities and schools safer.”