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Citizen Convoys Take on Jersey Crime

Volunteers cruise Newark streets to deter thugs

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Oct 29, 2009 4:40 AM CDT
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(Newser) – Volunteer convoys have been cruising Newark's roughest streets over the last month in an effort to cut crime rates and fly the flag for law enforcement. Citizens taking part in the "Crime Caravan" program hit the streets in packs of vehicles that resemble crime response units, led by off-duty officers flashing their emergency lights.

Critics say the program is a political gimmick and could put volunteers in danger. But Mayor Cory Booker, who created the program, says it's all about letting people know the law still holds in Newark. "The caravan gives people a sense of strength and security," he told AP. "They let criminals know we're taking the city back."

Newark Mayor Corey Booker, left, and Public Safety Director Anthony Campos speak to volunteers prior to the start of a citizen anti-crime caravan this week.
Newark Mayor Corey Booker, left, and Public Safety Director Anthony Campos speak to volunteers prior to the start of a citizen anti-crime caravan this week.   (AP Photo/Christopher Barth)
Jabbar Ali, left, and Cass Gonmiah, both of Newark, sign in to participate in the nightly citizen caravans in which packs of eight vehicles drive through Newark neighborhoods.
Jabbar Ali, left, and Cass Gonmiah, both of Newark, sign in to participate in the nightly citizen caravans in which packs of eight vehicles drive through Newark neighborhoods.   (AP Photo/Christopher Barth)
A citizen caravan drives through Newark's South Ward.
A citizen caravan drives through Newark's South Ward.   (AP Photo/Christopher Barth)
Newark Mayor Corey Booker, right, his driver, left, and a police officer, second from right, talk to three men during a citizen anti-crime caravan this week.
Newark Mayor Corey Booker, right, his driver, left, and a police officer, second from right, talk to three men during a citizen anti-crime caravan this week.   (AP Photo/Christopher Barth)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 7 comments
Shannonals
Oct 30, 2009 3:48 AM CDT
Doesn't sound like a bad idea until a law is broken by these convey volunteers or one of them is injured/killed.
passinthru
Oct 30, 2009 1:58 AM CDT
they had the angels sent here to orlando and within three weeks the criminals had pushed them out...if there is anything to be done effectively Vigilantism needs to be curbed.
Netstorm2k10
Oct 29, 2009 12:01 PM CDT
This will last until someone gets shot, and then the lawsuits begin.

 
crime • New Jersey • Newark • Cory Booker

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