Perhaps the time has come for Lakewood to establish a true auxiliary police force similar other towns throughout New Jersey and New York City. Our police chief has said numerous times that he does not want any auxiliary officers.
Why the chief of police does not allow an auxiliary force is beyond reason . Perhaps he is afraid that it will take away time from his ribbon cutting responsibilities, or knowing where the next Greenwald catered event is.
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February 3 2013
To: My Dear Members
I, Shrage Pinter, Director of Lakewood Civilian Safety Watch (LCSW), hereby formally resign my position as Director effective February 4, 2013.
In March, 2011, I was asked by The Board of LCSW and many entrusted friends and people in office to become the Director. After much thought I agreed to accept the position and set aside much time to take on this role so that I could give back to the community. I felt that there was a great need for this organization to grow and flourish as the community has doubled in the past few years.
We live in trying times where we have to be on guard and prepared for our enemies and for any eventuality. Furthermore, we have to apprise our educators and children of this threat on a constant basis.
The past two years our organization has put in tens of thousands of free hours to safeguard and unite our community and schools.
In April, 2011 at my first official meeting with Chief Lawson, Meir Lichtenstein, and many other officials the question was asked by Chief Lawson to me “What can I do that was not already tried in Lakewood?” My answer was very short and simple, “I will bring unity to the community. I will educate each and every resident of Lakewood in regard to safety.” It has been almost two years and the education and change of bad habits have been significant. There has been an increase in the sense of security, awareness and community involvement since I took office.
The following programs have been implemented:
- Five marked vehicles doing visual patrol many hours of the day
- Banners and posters throughout the town educating the community “If you see something, say something”
- Setting up available security grants for local schools
- Assisting in safety awareness trainings for Lakewood Police Department and Homeland Security
- Creating a database of private schools listings with addresses and phone numbers
- Educating people to call the police on any suspicious activity or incident that occurs
- Promoting children and parents to register their bicycles with the police department
- The streets of Lakewood are safe to walk at night knowing that there are an extra set of eyes and ears
- LCSW members Assisted PD in many arrests
Do to family and other business obligations the time has come to move on. I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every member for their time and dedication to LCSW .It has been a great pleasure to have served with you with pride and dignity during my tenure.
Sincerely,
Shrage Pinter