Will the Mayor and Police protect us?

Amid the recent rash of rioting and looting that has become common place in various communities across the US, a troubling trend appears to be emerging: Local government and law enforcement are either unable or unwilling to protect citizens and their property. This trend has become so prevalent and pervasive that firearms and ammunition sales to first time gun owners is at all-time highs.

As a lifelong Cranford resident, concerned citizen, husband and father of two, I put a very simple question to our Mayor: Does our local government and law enforcement have the necessary plans and resources in place to ensure that the people and property of Cranford can and will be protected against rioters and looters? Unfortunately, the response I received was less than reassuring. I was simply told that "CPD has been monitoring these situations closely" and that my correspondence would be forwarded to the Police Chief.

Feeling less than satisfied, I asked the same question directly to the Police Chief and to date still have not gotten a reply. I further urged our Mayor saying "...others in my neighborhood feel similarly and are looking for reassurance from our town leaders that this potential issue is being taken seriously and that the appropriate resources and plans are in place to ensure the safety of our citizens." Still, no reply.

It is disconcerting that our town leadership cannot answer in the affirmative that they are prepared and willing and able to protect the citizens and property of our town. Enforcing laws and providing safety and protection for the citizens is the most basic function of government both locally and at the state level. An inability to commit to performing such functions is dereliction of duty that is inexcusable.

I and the rest of the good people of Cranford have always supported our public officials and police department in the execution of their service to the community. I hope that in the coming days our town council, mayor and/or police chief, will make a public statement reassuring us that they have put plans and resources in place to ensure the safety of the people and property of Cranford.