Atlantic City, NJ – On May 12, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin presented Sergeant Brian Shapiro and the Atlantic City Police Department with the prestigious 2023 Excellence in Policing Award. The recognition ceremony celebrated their exceptional efforts in establishing an Outstanding Community Partnership, which demonstrated a commitment to advancing public safety through collaboration with community stakeholders.
During the event, Attorney General Platkin commended the remarkable work accomplished by Sergeant Shapiro and the entire Atlantic City Police Department. The honorees were acknowledged for their outstanding dedication to serving vulnerable populations within Atlantic City and addressing the critical need for various health services.
Recognizing the lack of coordination among different organizations working to assist vulnerable communities, Sergeant Shapiro took decisive action. He spearheaded the creation of a weekly meeting platform that brought together representatives from the police department, casinos, businesses, courts, and other law enforcement agencies. These collaborative gatherings aimed to foster information sharing and facilitate a more efficient approach to connecting at-risk individuals with the necessary support services.
Sergeant Shapiro’s leadership and the resultant coordinated efforts led to significant improvements in the well-being of at-risk individuals in Atlantic City. Through streamlined access to vital resources, those in need were able to receive the care and assistance crucial to their health and overall quality of life. The initiative also proved beneficial for local businesses and organizations, as the coordinated approach facilitated prompt and effective resolutions of issues affecting the community.
The Atlantic City Police Department’s commitment to forging strong partnerships and enhancing public safety exemplifies the core values of community-oriented policing. Their proactive efforts have set a commendable precedent for law enforcement agencies across the state, fostering trust, and building stronger relationships between the police and the communities they serve.
The Excellence in Policing Award bestowed upon Sergeant Brian Shapiro and the Atlantic City Police Department underscores the importance of collaborative endeavors in creating safer and more inclusive communities. This recognition serves as an inspiration for law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders to continue working together towards the shared goal of public safety and well-being.