Newark’s Police Reform Success Fuels Push for Statewide Civilian Review Boards
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Newark,NJ – As Newark emerges from a decade-long federal consent decree overseeing its police department,a powerful voice in the New Jersey State Senate is calling for a broader implementation of a key component of its success: Civilian Review Boards. Senator Angela V. McKnight (D-Hudson) released a statement today emphasizing the critical role these boards play in fostering openness, accountability, and trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
The end of Newark’s consent decree represents a meaningful milestone, marked by demonstrable improvements in policing practices. These include enhanced officer training, a more diverse police force reflective of the city’s demographics, and a notable decrease in violent crime. Senator McKnight attributes these gains directly to sustained community oversight and engagement.
The Power of Community Oversight
“Our communities are made safer when the public and law enforcement work hand in hand to foster transparency, accountability, and above all, trust,” Senator McKnight stated. “The conclusion of Newark’s consent decree marks a decade of significant progress in achieving these aims.”
Central to Newark’s progress has been its Civilian Review Board, which empowers residents to investigate allegations of police misconduct and hold officers accountable. The Senator highlighted the board’s importance, stating, “Civilian Review Boards provide an vital avenue for community leaders to have a stake in the process, and as Newark has demonstrated, they make a real difference.”
Expanding Oversight statewide
Recognizing that many New Jersey cities face similar policing challenges but lack a comparable mechanism for independent oversight, Senator McKnight is championing legislation to authorize the creation of Civilian Review Boards in municipalities and counties across the state. Her bill, S-2943, aims to empower communities to shape their own law enforcement oversight processes.
“The reality is that many cities across our state face similar challenges in policing, but lack the independent, community-centered forum necessary to strengthen public safety,” McKnight explained. “My bill, S-2943, would authorize municipalities and counties to establish their own Civilian Review Boards, ensuring that communities have a say in law enforcement oversight.”
Senator McKnight concluded with a powerful call to action: “We can prevent violence, rebuild confidence, and ensure public safety truly reflects the needs of every community by giving residents a seat at the table. By expanding these boards statewide, we can create a model of policing that is equitable, responsive, and works to keep everyone safe in the pursuit of justice.”
