Mayor Gusciora Condemns Weekend of Violence in City

Trenton Police Make Two Separate Arrests and Pursue Leads on Incidents

61 Curfew Violations Issued

Trenton N.J. – Mayor W. Reed Gusciora condemned an outbreak of violence over the past weekend and pledged further police enforcement to address fears of escalating conflict in neighborhoods across the City.  The mayor noted that of the four separate incidents, police have made arrests in two of them and are following leads in the investigation of two others.

“It is disheartening to see the loss of life because of petty grievances and domestic violence,” said Gusciora.  “Across urban America we see all too often that guns are indiscriminately used to spark neighborhood violence.  Since Trenton is not immune to these events, our police department is working closely with state and county agencies to curb these unlawful incidents.”

The mayor also noted that the 9pm curfew will remain in effect for the time being.  61 citations for curfew violations were issued this past weekend.  Police Director Sheilah Coley also announced stepped up enforcement in areas that have large crowd gatherings or history of sustained violence.

“We are monitoring this pattern of violence on an hourly basis,” said Director Coley.  “We have concentrated our efforts in areas that have caused problems for residents and we will meet the expectation to increase patrols when needed.  We are grateful that through our investigative efforts, we have made two arrests and following leads on the other two incidents.”

Both Gusciora and Director Coley noted that the City cannot solely rely upon “arresting our way out of neighborhood violence.”

“This will take a concerted effort on neighborhood groups, community leaders and residents themselves who need to work together to help stem future acts of violence,” concluded Gusciora.  “In the end, we also need personal responsibility for everyone to stay safe and avoid conflicts.  I get that many have lost hope, but by working together we can clean up the city and bring further economic opportunities for our young residents.”

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