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Resident and chief press township on public‑safety needs: firehouse upgrades, swatting response and fraud warnings
Summary
A board member urged construction of new police and fire facilities citing firefighter exposure risks and equipment needs; Police Chief Hearn gave the December report (2,186 calls) and described a swatting incident and local scams warning to residents.
A board member and the police chief used the Jan. 14 New Town Township Board meeting to press the township on public‑safety needs.
Board member Miss Snder told supervisors the police and fire departments need new facilities. She described police workspaces as cramped and said firefighters deserve a modern station that separates contaminated “hot” zones from clean “cold” zones, provides on‑site showers, and includes specialized washers for turnout gear to limit exposure to carcinogens. "We need a modern firehouse that separates contaminated areas called hot zones with decontaminated areas called cold zones," she said, adding the township has two new engines arriving and paid firefighter sleeping quarters will be needed. She cited national fire safety guidance and said the condition poses a serious long‑term health risk to firefighters.
Police Chief Hearn delivered the December 2025 police report and answered questions about a recent 'swatting' incident. The chief said the department documented 2,186 calls for service in December and logged about 15,000 patrol miles; the month included 10 arrests (including one indecent assault and one fraud case), multiple detective referrals and three crime scenes processed. He said New Town units assisted Bristol with a large emergency incident and that Sergeant Robert Lupinetti retired after 28 years.
Chief Hearn described a swatting episode in which false emergency calls — routed through obfuscated phone numbers and IP addresses — generated a large police response; he said officers took precautions, secured the address and the investigation continues. He also warned residents about impersonation scams and urged caution: "Local law enforcement, the sheriff's department, the township will not contact you via email or text saying we have an arrest warrant and requiring money... Don't believe anything you're hearing over the phone," he said.
The board did not take formal action on facility planning during the meeting; Miss Snder urged supervisors to prioritize new facilities and equipment as the township plans future capital needs.
