Paterson PD Reform 'Will Not Happen Overnight," NJ Attorney General Says

PATERSON, NJ — After the state took control of police in New Jersey's third-largest city, officials say that improving the department and its relationship with citizens will be a long process.

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin's office took control of the Paterson Police Department on March 27, and said April 5 that a leadership team has been reviewing the department, training officers, and coordinating training to equip more officers with Tasers.

Two Paterson police officers shot and killed Najee Seabrooks, a well-known crisis intervention worker, on March 3 after the 31-year-old had called for help in a mental health crisis. The interaction began with several officers speaking with him through a bathroom door, and officers in tactical gear arrived after Seabrooks indicated he had knives and a gun. Related article — AG's Office Takes Over Paterson Police Dept. After Najee Seabrooks Death

Six Paterson officers have also pleaded guilty in a long-running federal corruption probe in recent years.

In February, the AG's office said they charged a Paterson officer with aggravated assault charge for shooting an unarmed man in the back.

“Due to a number of events and concerns relating to the Paterson Police Department, there is a crisis of confidence in law enforcement in the City of Paterson,” said Platkin in announcing his office's takeover. “People throughout Paterson deserve a public safety system that protects and serves all members of its community, just as the members of the Paterson Police Department deserve adequate resources, support, and innovation from their leadership."

A former Paterson officer has also been indicted twice on assault charges for his actions while a member of the department, according to the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office.

Major Frederick Fife of the NJ State Police is officer-in-charge of the department for now. A 25-year New York Police Department veteran, Isa Abbassi, will take the lead in May according to Platkin.

"As we move forward, the new Paterson Police Department leadership will continue to make modifications to staffing and procedures," the AG said. "Some of these changes will be visible to the community, while others may not be so apparent for operational purposes. We will continue to communicate changes that impact the community’s interaction and relationship with the department as they develop."

Platkin said his office and the police leadership have begun meeting with community stakeholders, and said additional opportunities for community engagement should be announced soon.

To read AG Platkin's full statement, click here.