Report: Police layoffs have lead to fewer arrets in 5 New Jersey cities

    A report by the Associated Press has revealed fewer arrests for minor offenses in five New Jersey cities where departments have had layoffs.

    According to the AP, Newark, Trenton, Paterson, Atlantic City and Camden all have been faced with deep cuts to their police departments. The AP analysis of municipal court data indicates that when police are laid off, department priorities shift, leading to fewer arrests and summonses.

    According to the data, the AP says enforcement for minor crimes and traffic violations suffers the most as police are forced to focus their remaining resources on more serious offenses.

    Click here to read a full version of the Associated Press story.

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