Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that Camden County will receive $201,480 in federal funding from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to fund local community policing initiatives in South Jersey. Camden County’s community policing model has contributed to a dramatic decrease in crime over the past decade. The grant will provide local law enforcement with resources to continue protecting families and building trust in the communities they serve.

“Camden City has become a leader in community policing and seen crime rates plummet as a result,” said Congressman Norcross. “This federal allows Camden County law enforcement to maintain and expand innovative evidence-based strategies to make South Jersey a safer place for families. I’ll continue working in Congress to ensure our first responders have the resources they need to protect and serve.”

“Since we began focusing on community policing back in 2014, we’ve seen a remarkable transformation here in Camden City as far as crime and quality of life goes,” said Camden County Police Chief Gabriel Rodriguez. “It’s crucial for us to have the necessary tools to continue this progress and I commend Congressman Norcross for his tireless efforts in Washington to ultimately benefit our residents and our community.”

The DOJ’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program allows for local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own state and local needs. The grant helps purchase of vital resources, including technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings.

Congressman Norcross has continued to lead efforts to make South Jersey communities and families safer. Earlier this fall, Congressman Norcross voted in favor of a comprehensive public safety package, which included funding for violence prevention programs, de-escalation training resources, and funds to train and dispatch mental health professionals. Congressman Norcross also strongly supported legislation to get guns off the streets by voting for the historic Safer Communities Act, the first piece of gun safety legislation passed by Congress in 30 years.