New AG directive mandates statewide law enforcement preparedness for active shooter

School hallway - file photo by dreamstime

New directive mandates statewide law enforcement preparedness for active violent events

Trenton, NJ – A new directive issued by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin requires all law enforcement agencies in New Jersey to establish active violent event policies. The directive aims to promote uniform preparedness across the state in response to active shooter situations.

Effective immediately, the directive mandates agencies create policies that outline training and response procedures. Agencies must submit their policies to county prosecutor’s offices by January 9, 2026.

Each agency’s active shooter policy must outline priorities such as neutralizing threats and rescuing victims. Policies must also define protocols for on-scene coordination in line with the National Incident Management System.

The directive emphasizes family reunification protocols, including the identification of agencies responsible for coordinating reunification and establishing reunification sites.

All agencies are required to maintain a law enforcement training plan with mandatory active shooter incident management and tactical training courses for officers. County prosecutor’s offices must hold an annual active shooter training exercise involving participation from all relevant law enforcement agencies.

Special attention is placed on preparing responses to incidents in critical locations, including schools and government buildings. Agencies must devise access plans for educational institutions, collaborating with them to address specific resource needs.

The full directive is available online for review.

New Jersey man kills mother during Florida visit, leaves body in dumpster

New jersey man kills mother during florida visit, leaves body in dumpster

Son kills mother during visit, leaves body in dumpster

MIAMI BEACH, FL – A man is charged with murder after his mother flew to Florida to check on him, only to be killed and found in a dumpster. Anthony Caruso, 40, is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 67-year-old Elizabeth Caruso. He is currently being held without bond at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when Elizabeth Caruso arrived from New Jersey. Surveillance footage shows her speaking to a hotel clerk across from her son’s residence before she was found dead hours later. An arrest affidavit indicated her neck was “severely injured nearly to the point of decapitation.”

Hours after Elizabeth Caruso’s arrival, law enforcement was contacted after concerns from her son-in-law. He reported he had not heard from her for over six hours. When police arrived at the building, they discovered blood smears leading from the apartment to an open trash chute.

Authorities found Elizabeth Caruso’s body in the dumpster during their investigation. The medical examiner noted her severe neck injuries along with fractures to her arms, hands, face, and head.

When police attempted to engage Anthony Caruso at his apartment, he did not respond. A SWAT team was deployed to the scene. After unsuccessful attempts to get him to surrender, a K9 apprehended him. He sustained injuries to his right arm during this process and was treated before his arrest.

Christopher Bess from the Miami Beach Police Department stated they believed the suspect might be suffering from a mental illness. The motive for the killing remains unclear at this time.

Anthony Caruso was reportedly on probation for previous charges, including aggravated assault and battery. He is expected to appear in court on November 20.

The shocking death has raised serious questions about the tragic events leading to Elizabeth Caruso’s demise.

One year later: memorial honors New Jersey slain police sergeant Monica Mosley

One year later: memorial honors new jersey slain police sergeant monica mosley

One year later: memorial honors Sergeant Monica Mosley

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NJ – The Cumberland County Prosecutor’s Office held a ceremony on the anniversary of Sergeant Detective Monica Mosley’s passing. A memorial stone was unveiled outside the building in her memory.

Former Commissioner Director Joseph Sileo, representing East Coast Steel, presented a steel plaque. The plaque will be displayed at the newly established CCPO Fitness room dedicated to Sergeant Mosley.

The observance included wellness activities, a Workout of the Day challenge, and a Memorial Rocks activity. Therapy dog Ember June also visited during the event.

Prosecutor Webb-McRae commented, “Monica was love and light to the people she touched at the CCPO. She loved serving the community.”

The memorial serves as a reminder of her contributions and commitment to public service. The ceremony underscores the Prosecutor’s Office’s ongoing dedication to remember those who serve their community.

Participants engaged in activities aimed at promoting wellness and camaraderie in honor of Mosley. The events highlight the importance of community and support within law enforcement.

The memorial marks a significant moment in reflecting on the legacy of Sergeant Mosley, ensuring she remains in the hearts of those she impacted.

In remembrance of a beloved officer, the community comes together to keep her legacy alive.

AG Platkin Says He Will Fight as New Jersey Magazine Ban Faces Biggest Challenge Yet

Ag platkin says he will fight as new jersey magazine ban faces biggest challenge yet

Attorney General defends New Jersey’s gun laws as court case looms

PHILADELPHIA — New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin issued a statement as oral arguments began at the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit regarding ANJRPC v. Platkin. The Attorney General emphasized the impact of New Jersey’s gun safety laws, stating that they led to record low numbers of shootings in the state over the last two years.

Platkin said, “This significant achievement is under threat by the gun lobby seeking to bolster their profits at the cost of the lives of New Jerseyans.” He noted the commitment of the Murphy Administration to saving lives in New Jersey through various initiatives, including the establishment of the Statewide Affirmative Firearms Enforcement Office.

Today’s hearing will involve defending longstanding restrictions on assault weapons and large capacity magazines, laws that have been in place for 35 years. These laws continue to be positioned as crucial for protecting residents.

According to Platkin, these weapons are poorly suited for civilian self-defense and are instead designed for military combat. He stated that they are disproportionately used in mass shootings nationwide, referencing events such as the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting and the Las Vegas mass shooting.

All Circuits that have reviewed Second Amendment challenges to similar bans post-Bruen have rejected those challenges. Solicitor General Jeremy Feigenbaum is set to represent the state during today’s arguments before the Third Circuit.

The implications of the ruling could influence gun control measures across the United States as New Jersey maintains its stance on gun safety laws.

As the Third Circuit hears these critical arguments, the future of New Jersey’s stringent gun policies hangs in the balance.

New Jersey AG celebrates as court rules against Glock in landmark case

New jersey ag celebrates as court rules against glock in landmark case

Court rules against Glock in landmark case

TRENTON, NJ – In a recent decision, the New Jersey Superior Court ruled against Glock in a case charging the company with designing and selling firearms that can be converted into illegal machine guns. The court rejected Glock’s motion to dismiss the case, allowing New Jersey to continue its legal efforts to hold the company accountable.

Attorney General Matthew Platkin stated, “Today, we won a major victory in our landmark case against Glock.” He expressed that the court’s ruling reflects their commitment to fighting against the illegal firearm industry and acknowledges the harm their practices inflict on civilians and law enforcement.

The case, initiated in December, highlights concerns over the design of Glock firearms, specifically regarding a plastic component that could facilitate conversion to machine guns. Platkin emphasized, “These lawsuits are a central component of our comprehensive and tireless approach to ending the gun violence epidemic.”

The AG’s office has maintained that the gun company has attempted to evade responsibility for its role in contributing to gun violence. The ongoing lawsuit is part of a broader strategy to address the issue of firearms-related crime in New Jersey. The state has experienced the lowest levels of gun violence in history for three consecutive years.

For further information, the official report can be accessed online. The case continues as New Jersey seeks to hold firearm manufacturers accountable for laws infringed.

This ruling marks a significant milestone in the state’s fight against gun-related issues, aiming for continued legal accountability in the firearms industry.

New Jersey State Police honor tradition at final Yankees playoff game of 2025

New jersey state police honor tradition at final yankees playoff game of 2025

New Jersey State Police honor tradition at Yankees game

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey State Police Ceremonial Unit Color Guard presented the colors at the New York Yankees game held at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday. Although the Yankees did not secure a victory, the unit expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this significant event.

A representative from the New Jersey State Police stated, “We’re grateful to the organization for the invitation and the opportunity to take part in such a proud tradition.” The Color Guard’s presence is viewed as an important aspect of the game-day ceremony.

The Yankees, despite their loss, were commended for their long-standing tradition of honoring public service organizations. This inclusion fosters a connection between the team and local law enforcement.

The participation of the Color Guard reflects the ongoing partnership between the New Jersey State Police and community events. Such collaborations highlight the role of law enforcement in supporting local sports teams and engaging with the public.

As the baseball season concludes, the New Jersey State Police look forward to future collaborations with the Yankees. They expressed anticipation for the team’s return next season and hope for success in the months ahead.

The presentation of colors is a customary practice at sporting events, symbolizing respect and unity among participants and spectators. It reinforces the bond between law enforcement and the community.

The New Jersey State Police Ceremonial Unit has a history of participating in significant events across the state, underlining their commitment to community engagement and public service.

In conclusion, the New Jersey State Police Color Guard’s involvement at the Yankees game exemplifies their dedication to honoring traditions and building community ties.

Deer hazards on New Jersey highways increase during fall mating season

Deer standing in the middle road.

Deer hazards on New Jersey highways increase during fall mating season

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — New Jersey motorists are urged to exercise heightened caution due to increased deer activity during the fall rutting season. As daylight decreases, white-tailed deer mating causes a spike in movement, raising collision risks, especially around morning and evening commutes.

According to New Jersey Fish & Wildlife, “Motorists are reminded to be extra vigilant on roadways as the fall white-tailed deer rut, or mating season, gets underway.” Drivers can expect more deer to enter roadways, particularly as bucks chase does. The likelihood of encountering deer is higher during early morning and sunset when visibility is low.

The peak mating season in New Jersey spans from late October through mid-December. This period coincides with the end of daylight saving time, set for 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 2, when commutes align with peak deer activity.

To ensure safety, New Jersey Fish & Wildlife recommends slowing down when spotting deer, watching for abrupt movements, and never attempting to drive around them. High beams should be used in dark periods, providing better visibility of deer eyes, unless traffic is present.

Motorists are advised not to tailgate, as the vehicle in front may need to stop suddenly to avoid a collision. “Collisions are more likely to become fatal when a driver swerves to avoid a deer and instead collides with oncoming traffic or a fixed structure along the road,” authorities warn.

Safety measures also include wearing seatbelts and adhering to traffic laws, including rules regarding hands-free devices. Any deer-vehicle collision should be reported to local law enforcement.

Drivers on New Jersey roads must brace for increased deer encounters as fall rutting skyrockets.