Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose announced that in light of recent active shooter incidents, including the shooting that claimed the life of a Jersey City Police detective and five others last year, the Newark Police Division will increase its Emergency Services Unit, which includes SWAT operations.
“The recent uptick in active shooter incidents poses a credible threat to our residents, visitors, corporations and businesses, houses of worship, and to our school children and college students,” Director Ambrose said. “Due to an increase in shootings nationwide, it’s imperative that we increase our security measures to preserve lives.”
Additional personnel are being added to the Emergency Services and the unit will be mobilized throughout the City, responding to all violent incidents.
“The public will begin seeing this unit more regularly,” Director Ambrose said. “Previously, they were seen mainly during hostage situations, or when someone was trapped inside a vehicle or while addressing some other major emergency. In light of recent shooting incidents, ESU’s increased presence will add another dimension of assurance to the public that we are remaining very vigilant.”