Unsatisfied by the Murphy Administration’s meek committment to address a statewide auto theft wave, Monmouth County officials held a press conference this week to highlight the need for action.
No less than 158 vehicles have been stole so far in 2022 in Monmouth County alone; there’s also been a 110% jump in high-end auto thefts according to the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office.
Local officials want stricter penalties for offenders.
“The tiered system, three strikes you’re out, should also apply to vehicle thefts,” said Sheriff Shaun Golden at the Tuesday presser in Middletown. “There are offenders who are arrested multiple times only to be released right back onto the streets. Meanwhile, juveniles are being victimized by adults in these crime rings. These individuals need to be held to a higher standard and sentenced accordingly.”
“This isn’t a Republican or Democrat issue – this is a public safety issue,” added Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn (R-13). “This is not a Monmouth County issue, but a statewide issue.”
Last week, the Murphy Administration’s acting attorney general announced plans to invest $10 million in combatting auto thefts.
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry – who also attended the conference in his hometown – mocked the administration’s announcement.
“Is this a joke?” Perry tweeted. “There are 565 municipalities in NJ. Only 7 of them have populations over 100k residents. Splitting $10 million among 558 towns equals $17,921. A police recruit earns more than $30k while attending the academy. Enough theater – let’s fix bail reform, now!”
.@SheriffGolden joined @TonyPerryNJ @MiddletownNJ, Commissioner Dir @tom_arnone @MonmouthGovNJ, county officials& partners in LE to address the significant rise in auto thefts that are plaguing MonCo. The sheriff is calling on legislators to enact stiffer penalties for offenders. pic.twitter.com/K64pfoxsRE
— Monmouth County Sheriff's Office (@MonmouthSheriff) May 3, 2022
