Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Celebrates Pride Month with Local Community Participation

Officers Join Asbury Park and Dover Pride Events, Highlighting Inclusion and Safety Initiatives

Morristown, NJ, June 6, 2023 - The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office marked the beginning of LGBTQ+ Pride month with their vibrant presence at Pride events held in Asbury Park and Dover.

On Thursday, June 1, Supervising Assistant Prosecutor Samantha DeNegri, Sergeant Patrick LaGuerre, Detective Supervisor Stephanie Merced, and Detective Nicole Mercuro collaborated with the Dover Police Department to launch the Safe Space Initiative at the Dover Public Library. 

The initiative is a groundbreaking stride towards creating safer, inclusive environments for victims of bias and hate crimes. Dover Public Library, as the first official Safe Space, will now serve as a sanctuary where victims can safely report such incidents.

On Sunday, June 4, the celebrations continued at Jersey Pride in Asbury Park. Detective Supervisor Merced and Detective Mercuro represented the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office as LGBTQ+ liaisons. They participated in a march alongside other members of the LGBTQ+ New Jersey Liaisons Enforcement Program, marking a significant large-scale outreach and community event.

The Liaisons Enforcement Program, which counted only 15 members back in 2020, has witnessed significant growth. Det. Mercuro is the newest member, proudly occupying the 116th spot in 2023. Participation in the march, which saw liaisons interacting with various community members, was a noteworthy experience for the MCPO representatives.

These activities signify the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that respects and protects all community members, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

This commitment to diversity and inclusion is in line with the broader national recognition of Pride Month, which celebrates the LGBTQ+ community, their rights, history, and ongoing fight for equality.

The Prosecutor's Office's participation in these events sends a clear message of solidarity, marking their role in championing LGBTQ+ rights, promoting public safety, and combating hate crimes and discrimination. 

Their engagement serves as a reminder of their dedication to serving all members of the Morris County community, building bridges of trust and understanding in their pursuit of justice.