Wednesday marks one year since the state took control of law enforcement functions in the Paterson Police Department. It followed years of police misconduct and evidence of excessive use of force.
“I have seen a stronger connection and communication between the community and the police department. [It’s] far better than it was in the past,” said Corey Teague, community adviser for the police department.
The state has touted a drop in violent crime since the takeover. However, Mayor Andre Sayegh say much of the improvement can be traced to reforms that were already in place.
Sayegh, who is part of a lawsuit challenging the takeover, is highly critical of New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin. “I contend that Matt Platkin’s takeover is unlawful, it’s undemocratic, and quite frankly it’s un-American. The attorney general can’t make the law, fake the law, or break the law.”
“It is regrettable that some public officials can only view bold actions through the lens of ambition. Here, we took bold action simply because it was the right thing to do. My office has a long-term commitment to the people of Paterson and our work in this city is far from complete,” Platkin says.
