Paterson Police Department announces strategic plan after New Jersey takeover

PATTERSON, New Jersey (WABC) — New Jersey’s attorney general laid out a plan Tuesday for a path forward for the Paterson Police Department after the state takes over control.

Attorney General Matthew Platkin and city officials said they have considered community feedback through dialogue and listening sessions.

Law enforcement will focus on priority areas designed to move the agency toward the next generation of policing.

“We are pushing for the Paterson Police Department to become a more transparent and accountable organization that can serve the people of Paterson with the equity and constitutional focus our residents demand,” said Chief of Staff Isa Abbassi. We also continue to work to reduce fear and chaos on our streets, while using technology, training and supervision to reduce crime while earning trust.”

The plan revolves around four main goals:

-Rebuild public trust and restore order to communities

-The evolution of community policing

-Innovation, technology and strategic assessment

-Recruitment, training and employee benefits

“The transformation of the Paterson Police Department is well underway under Chief Abbasi’s leadership, and we are already seeing the results: a significant reduction in crime, a growing sense of community, and improved officer morale within the department,” Platkin explain. “By releasing this plan, we are clarifying our near- and long-term goals to make Paterson a safer place to live and work while restoring trust between the community and law enforcement officers.”

The attorney general took over the police department in March after crisis intervention worker Najee Seabrooks was shot dead.

Seabrooks was an anti-violence activist who was shot during a confrontation with police and suffered a mental health crisis.

Click here Read the strategic plan.

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