317-22 Resolution - Rep Sherrill Auto Theft Prevention Act.pdf

317-22 December 6, 2022 RESOLUTION WHEREAS, nearly 500,000 vehicles worth an estimated $4.5 billion were stolen nationwide in the first half of 2022, representing a 25% increase in thefts compared to the first half of 2019; and WHERAS, the numbers here in New Jersey have increased faster than the national average, with auto thefts in the state on pace to rise by over 30% from 2020 to 2022; and WHERAS, car thieves and their organizations have become more emboldened and dangerous, including burglarizing homes, carrying firearms and using stolen vehicles in the commission of violent crimes; and WHERAS, proposed legislation, the bipartisan Auto Theft Prevention Act, introduced by Representatives Mikie Sherrill and Don Bacon, would provide a dedicated source of funding for state and local law enforcement agencies for resources to combat auto thefts under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services; and WHERAS, the Department of Justice will be permitted to award funds for equipment such as automated license plate readers, hiring additional law enforcement officers and support staff, additional compensation, resources for joint task forces, data collection, and research activities; and WHERAS, these are resources that have been identified by local police departments, sheriffs, prosecutors and the Office of the Attorney General of New Jersey as necessary to addressing the rise in auto thefts. NOW, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Governing Body of the Township of West Orange in the County of Essex, State of New Jersey, that it strongly supports legislation in regard to funding to address the auto theft epidemic in New Jersey and protect the welfare of our community; and it is further RESOLVED, that a certified copy of this resolution be forwarded to Representative Mikie Sherrill and to the New Jersey League of Municipalities. Karen J. Carnevale Susan McCartney Municipal Clerk Council President Adopted: December 6, 2022