Edison residents demand increased police presence amid rising neighborhood break-ins

During the Edison Township Council meeting on March 10, 2025, community safety and police presence emerged as pressing concerns among residents. Several speakers voiced their frustrations over a recent uptick in break-ins, highlighting a perceived lack of police visibility and communication regarding crime in their neighborhoods.

Russ Azzarello, a local resident, expressed his dissatisfaction with the council's handling of public speaking decorum, particularly regarding the display of flags during discussions. He emphasized the need for respectful dialogue and urged the council to consider the community's right to question and engage with their representatives. Azzarello also called for improved traffic management and communication about local incidents, suggesting that timely alerts could help residents avoid dangerous situations.

Anil Joshi, a newcomer to Edison, shared his concerns about safety, citing multiple break-ins in his neighborhood within a short period. He expressed disappointment in the police's response, stating that he felt unsafe after moving from a secure area in Long Island. Similarly, Harry Kalakovic, a long-time resident, echoed these sentiments, noting a significant decline in neighborhood safety and a lack of police patrols. He urged the council to increase police presence to restore a sense of security.

In response to these concerns, Captain Reble of the Edison Police Department acknowledged the issues raised by residents. He explained that the department is employing intelligence-led policing strategies to allocate resources effectively in areas experiencing higher crime rates. Reble assured the community that they would see an increase in police presence in response to the recent crime trends.

The meeting also touched on the need for better communication with residents regarding crime alerts. Several attendees suggested implementing a notification system, similar to those used for other emergencies, to keep the community informed about local incidents. This proposal aims to enhance public awareness and encourage residents to be vigilant.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the council and police department face significant challenges in addressing community safety concerns. The discussions highlighted the importance of open communication and proactive measures to ensure residents feel secure in their neighborhoods. The council's next steps will likely involve exploring solutions to enhance police visibility and improve community engagement in crime prevention efforts.