Gun Violence Reduced in Trenton

Gun violence is down in Trenton, nearly two months after the New Jersey State Police began patrolling the streets.

Chart showing a reduction in violent crime in Trenton since August 15 (NJ Office of the Attorney General)

Law enforcement officials at Trenton TIDE/TAG press conference (Brian McCarthy, Townsquare Media NJ)

As gun violence spiraled out of control in New Jersey’s capital city a month and a half ago, law enforcement officials announced special teams of New Jersey State Police would begin patrolling the most dangerous sections of town.

Officials also announced that prosecutors would no longer offer plea deals to criminals caught carrying guns.

During a news conference in front of Trenton Police Headquarters today, Acting State Attorney General John Hoffman announced there has been a significant reduction in the number of murders and other shootings since the Targeted Integrated Deployment Effort, and the Targeting Anti-Gun initiative were launched in the middle of August.

(L-R) Acting Attorney General John J. Hoffman and Mercer County Prosecutor Joseph Bocchini Jr. speak at Trenton TIDE/TAG press conference(Brian McCarthy, OnScene News)

“We have seen a 57 percent reduction in the number of murders and a 47 percent reduction in non-fatal shootings,” said Hoffman. “In fact we have not had a single murder in the city of Trenton in the month of September.”

Hoffman stressed “our efforts are preventing shootings and they are saving lives.”

The get-tough gun police and the State Police patrols will continue indefinitely.

Photos courtesy Brian McCarthy, OnScene News