ATLANTIC COUNTY, NJ — The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office (ACPO) has significantly ramped up its efforts to expunge criminal records, aiding numerous individuals in overcoming past legal obstacles and reintegrating into society.
In the United States, an estimated 100 million people have criminal records. While records for violent and serious crimes remain essential for public safety, individuals with long-standing records of minor offenses face undue challenges. These records often hinder employment and professional opportunities due to rigorous background checks. The high unemployment rates among formerly incarcerated individuals contribute to a cycle of crime, impacting families, communities, and local economies.
Recognizing these challenges, New Jersey and Atlantic County have implemented laws and policies facilitating the expungement of records for qualifying individuals. Expungement, involving the removal or sealing of records from public access, requires a court-approved application process.
Recent legislative changes in New Jersey have expanded opportunities for expungement, including cases involving non-conviction arrests, Recovery Court graduates, certain marijuana offenses, and comprehensive record expungement after ten years. These measures aim to reduce stigma and prevent negative employment consequences for those who have reformed.
The ACPO has dedicated substantial resources to process expungement applications, addressing a significant backlog due to unfunded state mandates. In 2023, ACPO, alongside Superior and Municipal courts, processed 7,340 expungement orders.
Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds emphasized the balance between prosecuting crimes and supporting reformed individuals. “Prosecution remains our priority,” Reynolds stated, “but we recognize the importance of offering second chances to those who have served their sentences and demonstrated a commitment to law-abiding behavior. Expungement is a crucial step in preventing crime and enhancing the safety and well-being of our county.”