Burlington Review

New Jersey Senator Troy Singleton, Burlington County Sheriff James Kostoplis, and the Burlington County Commissioners have announced a new law enforcement initiative aimed at enhancing public safety along the River Line light-rail system. This initiative involves special patrols by Burlington County Sheriff’s officers at and near River Line stations in Burlington County.

These patrols are part of a proactive effort to improve safety, deter crime, and assist local police departments. Officers will also transport suspects arrested in River Line towns to the Burlington County Detention Center in Mount Holly when requested. This transportation service is expected to save municipal officers time, allowing them to return more quickly to their duties.

The initiative began earlier this month and is funded by a $150,000 legislative grant secured by Senator Singleton and Assemblywoman Katz as part of the FY2025 New Jersey State Budget.

“The River Line is one of the only mass transit systems in South Jersey, and we want to make sure those who ride it can do so safely without fear or concern,” said Senator Singleton. “We heard from local police chiefs, business owners, and commuters about how a more visible police presence at River Line stations could help improve safety.”

Assemblywoman Katz expressed her support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of public safety. “As elected leaders, we have no greater responsibility than to look after the safety and well-being of our residents,” she said.

Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson highlighted that the state grant would fully fund the initiative without burdening local taxpayers. Commissioner Allison Eckel noted that these patrols would enhance peace of mind for riders and residents without increasing costs for local police departments.

The patrols will cover 11 River Line stations in various towns including Bordentown City, Florence, Burlington City, Beverly, Delanco, Edgewater Park, Riverside, Riverton, Cinnaminson, and Palmyra. These efforts aim to provide a visible law enforcement presence during peak times determined by statistical analysis.

Sheriff Kostoplis mentioned that similar deployments had been made during the COVID-19 health emergency in 2020 and 2021. “With Senator Singleton’s and Assemblywoman Katz’s assistance, we now have the resources to deploy our officers again to deter crime and improve safety,” he said.

Local police chiefs have expressed appreciation for this support. Bordentown Police Chief Shaun Lafferty stated that these efforts serve as a force multiplier for strained resources. Riverton Police Chief Andrew Beuschel highlighted the importance of collaboration with the Sheriff's Office due to unique challenges posed by the River Line trains.

“This marks the beginning of an important partnership that will grow to meet the needs of our communities,” Chief Lafferty added.

Chief Beuschel acknowledged the strain on small-police forces due to tasks like transporting arrestees but welcomed this partnership as crucial for focusing more on public safety and community engagement.