Somerset county launches "safe place" program to combat bias and hate crimes — Crowd raising and holding rainbow gay flags during a Gay Pride. Trans flags can be seen as well in the background. The rainbow flag is one of the symbols of the LGBTQ community

SOMERVILLE, NJ — In a timely announcement coinciding with Pride Month, Somerset County officials have unveiled the new “Safe Place” program aimed at providing refuge for victims of bias and hate crimes. Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald, alongside Chief of County Detectives Francisco Roman Jr., and Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson, introduced the initiative alongside local business representatives.

The “Safe Place” program, which involves businesses and organizations displaying a designated logo on their storefronts, offers a secure environment for victims to seek immediate help. This initiative was originally developed by the Seattle Police Department in 2015 and has been adopted by numerous law enforcement agencies across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Somerset County has become the 351st law enforcement agency to implement this program, thanks to efforts initiated by the now-retired Detective Iris Reyes.

Program Details and Participation:

The program is free for businesses, schools, or organizations wishing to participate.
Participants will receive a “Safe Place” window decal after registering through the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office website.
The decal should be placed prominently at the main public entrance to signal to victims and community members that the location is a safe haven.

Reporting Incidents:

The community is urged to report any incidents of bias crimes directly by calling 9-1-1.
Additional reports can be made to the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Bias Incident Officer at (908) 231-7100 or anonymously via the STOPit app, which can be downloaded for free using the access code: SOMERSETNJ.
The Somerset County Crime Stoppers’ Tip Line is also available at 1-888-577-TIPS (8477) for anonymous tips.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in Somerset County’s commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive community for all residents, especially during a month that celebrates diversity and inclusion.

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