July 15, 2010 (Newark) - Frustrated and angry about the multiple shootings and other incidents that have taken place in the past three days in Newark’s South Ward, Councilman Ras J. Baraka is calling for immediate action to address the rampant crime that happens throughout the neighborhood. Standing in the shadows of the construction of a new South Ward Police Precinct, Baraka called for Newark’s Police Director to work directly with his office to develop a comprehensive plan for crime reduction and to completely overhaul the 5th district precinct beginning with the removal of current Police Captain Felipe Gonzalez. Councilman Baraka also announced the organization of Citizen Night Patrols, comprised of volunteers to walk the streets, with the goal of discouraging crime in those areas known for criminal activity.
 
“I’m demanding change today, July 15. This needs to be the beginning of the end--the end of rampant drug activity, the end of gang-related activity, and most importantly, the end of the senseless gun crimes and shootings that happen far too often in Newark’s streets, and especially in the South Ward,” said Baraka. “There have been three shootings in the past three days. I think the sheer magnitude of that number tells us that crime stats are too high. It’s unacceptable and the leadership of the city and the police department must be held accountable.”
 
Recent incidents include 30-year-old John Leroy Simmons who was shot and killed near Bergen St. and Clinton Ave., and 33-year-old Rashaan Gilbert, a Hillside resident who brandished a gun and was shot and killed by two plain clothes Newark police officers.
 
Baraka also pointed to the recently announced budget plan that includes laying off approximately 200 police officers. “How can you possibly justify laying off police officers when this kind of crime spree is happening now? If that is the plan, then the administration and the Police Director need to come up with a plan--today--that has a good chance of working to keep our residents safe,” he said.
 
In addition to calling for immediate action by the Mayor and Police Director, Baraka also announced his plans to organize Citizen Night Patrols to discourage ongoing criminal activity. “I’m calling for all the residents of the South Ward to come together to take back our streets,” he added. “Contrary to popular belief, Newark’s citizens--and especially the residents of the South Ward--care about our communities and our neighborhoods. It’s time that we ban together to stop the gangs, drug dealers and anyone else who purports to turn our neighborhood into the Wild, Wild West. Together, we can do this.”
 
The Citizen Night Patrols are scheduled to begin on July 26. Those interested in participating should contact Councilman Baraka’s office at (973) 733-3794.