Paterson getting $3.7 million to hire more police officers
By Jonathan Greene
Published: November 22, 2021
President Joe Biden’s administration is giving Paterson $3.77 million to hire more police officers in a city beset by gun violence and crime.
Funds from the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Grants program will allow Paterson to add 20 new police officers.
“Our brave men and women in uniform put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. It is imperative that we support them at every turn, and that includes ensuring they have the resources they need to do their jobs,” said Rep. Bill Pascrell. “For years, COPS grants have enabled local law enforcement to better protect their communities through community policing initiatives that form vital bonds between officers and those they serve.”
Paterson has been struggling to rebuild the ranks of its police force for years. It had more than 500 police officers a decade ago. It presently has fewer than 400 police officers.
“Our goal has always been to exceed 400 officers here in Paterson and this grant helps get significantly closer to that number,” said mayor Andre Sayegh.
Pascrell also said neighboring Prospect Park is getting $500,000 to hire four police officers.