By: Richard L. Smith
In response to a daytime shooting incident that rattled the community, Mayor Ted R. Green, Public Safety Director Maurice Boyd, and Chief of Police Phyllis L. Bindi have taken decisive measures to enhance police patrols in the area of Lincoln Street and Springdale Avenue.
The incident, which unfolded on Monday, November 13, saw an armed assailant opening fire in the vicinity around 12:05 pm.
While the intended victim fortunately escaped unharmed, the alarming nature of the incident prompted East Orange Campus High School, Wahlstrom Academy, and the Hart Middle School Complex to initiate temporary lockdowns.
Law enforcement authorities diligently searched for the suspect, who fired at least four shots during the episode.
In the wake of the incident, the East Orange Police Department (EOPD) has implemented heightened security measures. Specifically, Lincoln Street between Springdale and Park Avenues has been placed under police lockdown.
A dedicated officer is patrolling the area's four-block radius around the clock, reinforcing a commitment to public safety.
Mayor Green expressed, "Although this incident did not directly involve our schools or our students, it does not diminish the severity of the crime. We want our residents to feel safe in all areas of our city no matter what time it is."
He further highlighted the challenges posed by bail reform, which allows illegal gun holders to evade justice repeatedly.
Director Boyd reported that EOPD has seized 18 illegal firearms in the past 28 days, contributing to a year-to-date total of 77 confiscated guns.
"That is unacceptable," Boyd stated, emphasizing the need for stricter measures to prevent convicted felons with illegal firearms from returning to the streets.
Chief Bindi is urging residents to play an active role in safeguarding the community by reporting any suspicious activity. She encourages citizens to utilize the EOPD Tips Hotline at 973.266-5041.
"We need everyone to be our eyes and ears," Bindi emphasized.
"No tip is too small. The more we know, the more we can protect our precious children and the citizens of our community."
East Orange remains committed to fostering a secure environment for its residents, and the heightened police presence serves as a proactive step towards achieving this goal.