Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose reports that police are targeting known violent offenders in response to this weekend’s violence.
“This weekend, we experienced an increase in violence, especially homicides,” Director Ambrose said. “We have been working closely with our federal, state and county partners to combat this violence.
Year-to-date, the Newark Police Division has seized over 450 firearms, mainly .40, .45 and .9mm caliber weapons, and another 100 firearms have been confiscated by our partners.
We are 35 percent higher in gun recoveries this year as compared to the same period last year."
Director Ambrose attributes the violence to targeted disputes, ranging from domestic matters to disputes dealing with drugs and personal disagreements.
“We thank the public for their and partnership in reporting criminal activity,” Director Ambrose said. “The police can't do it alone. We will continue working with the public and with our municipal partners in social services, education, mental health services and employment to address the issues that add to this kind of violence."
Director Ambrose urges anyone with information about criminal activity to call the Department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or 1-877-NWK-GUNS (1-877-695-4867).
All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.