Scotch Plains Police Work with Residents to Keep the Township Safe

By Police Chief Jeff Briel

Allow me to address the growing concerns regarding recent incidents of crime in our community.

The safety and security of our residents and their property are of paramount concern.  The Scotch Plains Police Department, working closely with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, neighboring police departments and other levels of law enforcement, are doing everything possible to catch criminals so that they are prosecuted to the fullest extent possible under the law.

Moreover, our police department has developed numerous programs to prevent crime before it happens, as part of our proactive efforts to make Scotch Plains as safe as possible. We eagerly work with citizens to develop initiatives that keep crime down.

Residents can help by registering their outdoor security cameras that are run through private alarm systems. Several years ago, the municipal code was modified to include a volunteer Private Outdoor Surveillance Camera Registry.  Through this program, if a crime is committed, our officers can review the surveillance footage of cameras as part of their investigation. Residents are urged to stop by the police department at 430 Park Ave. to complete the necessary paperwork.

Please note this registry does not work for Ring cameras and similar products. But our police will ask to see footage when conducting an investigation in a neighborhood.

Locking doors to cars and homes also goes a very long way.  Scotch Plains is a secure town, but our township is not fenced in.  Too many times, residents have made it too easy to steal a car or break into a home by simply not locking doors.  I implore residents to change that practice immediately.  You could help by discussing this issue with your neighbors, as part of local efforts to fight crime.

At a recent meeting on these matters with the Union County Prosecutor, mayors from Westfield, Summit, Cranford and Scotch Plains were told that criminals are breaking into homes every day of the week, at all times of the day, but almost always when no one is at home.  Sometimes a parent driving their child to school keeps their garage door open, their alarm off and home unlocked.  In just a few minutes, a criminal lets themselves in and steals wallets, purses, car keys, jewelry or more.

Keeping or adding outdoor lights, while adding a security alarm to a home (especially with window sensors), appears to also be a strong deterrent to criminals who almost always want to get in, and quickly get out.

Residents continue to form street or neighborhood watches unaffiliated with the police. They, and others, secure signs to post around their homes stating that the street is being watched by neighbors and cameras.  These steps are excellent ways in which to further deter crime in our neighborhoods.

The police serve as a resource to these local, self-run watches, assisting with signage, attending meetings and assigning a point of contact within the department to answer any questions.

I want to assure you that the police department is equipped with the manpower and tools necessary to protect our town, with a commitment to new crime-fighting technologies.  Over the years, with the strong support of the Township Council, our annual budget has included funds to secure SUV pursuit vehicles, vehicle license plate readers (to regularly monitor vehicle license plates to locate stolen vehicles), vest cameras and more. 

The Township is committed to collaborating with surrounding towns and police departments, implementing community programs and fostering an environment in which everyone feels safe.  Your vigilance, cooperation, and support are essential in maintaining the security of our town.

Let's stand together against crime and continue ensuring that Scotch Plains remains a wonderful and safe community for all.