Crime-Ridden NJ City Axes Police Department

Camden to replace force with non-union county workers
By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff
Posted Aug 28, 2012 8:19 AM CDT
Crime-Ridden NJ City Axes Police Department
A police officer stands at the doorway of a Camden, NJ, home, Aug. 22, 2012, after a 2-year-old boy was decapitated, apparently by his mother, who then fatally stabbed herself.   (Photo/Mel Evans)

Camden, New Jersey, is often cited as one of the most dangerous cities in America—so of course, it's getting rid of its police department. In a bid to rein in its budget, the city will lay off all 460 of its police officers by the end of the month, Fox News reports. They'll be replaced by a new, non-union "Metro Division" of the county police. "This is definitely a form of union-busting," a union president said.

Only half the current officers will be re-hired for the Metro Division. Nearby towns aren't pleased, fearing that county police resources will all wind up in Camden. "It's a disaster waiting to happen," says one police chief. The city council yesterday hired former state police major Lanuel Ferguson to consult on the new division, on a no-bid $100,000 contract, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. Ferguson was almost appointed acting police director last year, but that time the council said his $100,000 asking price was too high. (Read more Camden, NJ stories.)

We use cookies. By Clicking "OK" or any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. Read more in our privacy policy.
Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X