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New Jersey Achieves Historic Low in Gun Violence, Fewest Shooting Victims Since Tracking Began
New Jersey's Historic Low in Gun Violence with Fewest Shooting Victims Recorded Since Tracking Began in 2009.
TRENTON, NJ - In a notable advancement for public safety, New Jersey has recorded the lowest number of shooting victims since 2009, a significant achievement for the state. Governor Phil Murphy, alongside Lieutenant Governor Tahesha L. Way, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, and Colonel Patrick J. Callahan of the New Jersey State Police (NJSP), announced this milestone, reflecting a 13% decrease in shooting victims compared to the previous year.
The state's comprehensive approach to reducing gun violence has led to 924 individuals being shot in 2023, a stark reduction from the numbers recorded in prior years. This decrease includes a notable 8% drop in fatalities due to gun violence.
Governor Murphy emphasized the collaborative effort behind this success, stating, "Together, we have saved a historic number of lives from gun violence in New Jersey." He also reminded the public of the ongoing commitment to eliminating gun violence entirely.
Lieutenant Governor Way echoed this sentiment, highlighting the administration's priority in ensuring the safety of New Jersey residents and crediting the collective efforts of state leaders and community advocates in achieving this reduction.
Attorney General Platkin pointed to the power of collaboration and innovation in reaching this milestone, while Colonel Callahan of the NJSP acknowledged the continuous work needed despite celebrating this achievement.
In early 2023, the NJSP leveraged data and technology to support a significant reduction in gun violence. This approach included strategic deployment of resources, community engagement, and law enforcement partnerships.
Positive trends in crime reduction were observed in major cities like Trenton, Newark, Atlantic City, and Paterson. Notably, Paterson saw a significant decrease in murders and shooting victims following the Attorney General's takeover of the Police Department.
The Gun Violence Reduction Task Force (GVRTF) played a key role in this success, facilitating collaboration and intelligence sharing across New Jersey's 21 counties. This initiative, supported by the NJSP's Real Time Crime Centers and the NJ Regional Operations & Intelligence Center, strategically targeted the primary drivers of violence in the state.
New Jersey's legislative efforts, including strict liability laws for gun traffickers and the establishment of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement (SAFE) Office, have been crucial in keeping firearms out of the wrong hands. Additionally, the state has implemented stringent laws against ghost guns and large-capacity magazines.
The state has also invested in innovative violence intervention and prevention programs, including community-based initiatives, hospital-based violence intervention, and trauma-informed services for crime victims. Over $100 million in state and federal funds have been allocated for these programs since 2019.
As New Jersey marks this historic low in gun violence, Governor Murphy, Lieutenant Governor Way, Attorney General Platkin, and Colonel Callahan reaffirm their commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all residents, continuing to utilize innovative technologies and strategies to enhance public safety.
