Burlington County Prosecutor Co-Hosting Forum On Use Of Force

BURLINGTON COUNTY, NJ — The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General will co-host a virtual public form on the use of force by police officers next week.

The forum is set for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday night. Residents are invited to join the forum to share their perspectives and concerns about their interactions with police officers.

The purpose of the forum is to give police officers the chance to gain a better understanding of these concerns and to improve their relationship with the community.

Authorities said they are interested in hearing about behavior that might contribute to the fear of a potentially negative encounter with police, even if that behavior doesn’t rise to the level of misconduct.

“The murder of George Floyd was a stark reminder that no matter how far we have come, there is still work to be done to enhance law enforcement’s relationship with the communities we serve,” Coffina said. “His tragic death has created an opportunity for candid conversations about police officers’ use of their authority, including their use of force, and how we might move ever closer to equal justice under the law for all. I am excited for this opportunity to advance this dialogue with our fellow Burlington County residents.”

Rep. Andy Kim (D-3) and State Sen. Troy Singleton (D-7) will deliver opening remarks. Panelists will include Burlington County Prosecutor Scott Coffina, Burlington Township Police Chief Brian Pesce, Burlington City Police Chief John Fine, Willingboro Director of Public Safety Kimano Lomon, Burlington Township Police Officer Jarrod Broadway, Evesham Township Police Officer Josh Weiss and NJ Assistant Attorney General Robert Czepiel Jr.

To register, visit https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4042833195153774094.