Increased Police Presence At Lawrence Schools After Texas Shooting

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ – The Lawrence Township Police Department has enhanced security across township schools in the aftermath of Tuesday’s school shooting in Texas.

On Tuesday, a gunman opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, killing at least 19 students and two teachers.

The police department said they had a "high level of confidence” in local school security efforts, but insisted on providing additional protection.

“Lawrence Township Police Chief Brian Caloiaro has been in contact with school district officials and has coordinated additional safety precautions. An increased police presence at all private and public schools in Lawrence Township has occurred,” Lt. Chris Longo told Patch.

“The safety and security of our schools is paramount and is well coordinated. The strong partnership between the Lawrence Township Police Department and the Lawrence Township School District has provided the means for a collaborative effort in safeguarding our school children.”

Police have asked community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the Lawrence Township Police Department.

Across New Jersey, law enforcement officials have enhanced their presence outside township schools.

Acting Attorney General Matthew Platkin said Tuesday that New Jersey State Police will ramp up their presence at the Garden State schools where troopers are the primary law enforcement.

All 21 New Jersey county prosecutors have also been instructed to increase local police presence at schools in their jurisdictions.

"Our students, their families and caregivers, teachers, and school administrators should feel safe in school, and be assured that New Jersey's law enforcement agencies will do everything in their power to protect them," Platkin said in a statement.

Gov. Phil Murphy tweeted Tuesday night that the measure comes despite "no credible threats" in New Jersey.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.