This week, Congressman Tom Kean Jr. (NJ-07) organized a roundtable at Warren County Community College to address the recent increase in violent crime in Warren County and discuss strategies for prevention and mitigation. The event gathered law enforcement leaders and elected officials from across the county.
Congressman Kean said, “Prioritizing public safety is non-negotiable. In Warren County, we have seen a troubling spike in violent crime that has shaken families’ sense of security and strained local police departments. That is why I brought together law enforcement and public officials at every level of government for this roundtable to collaborate, share ideas, and ensure our officers are properly supported, equipped, and empowered to keep our communities safe. Working together, we can strengthen our neighborhoods and protect the future of our children and grandchildren.”
Local officials shared their perspectives following the discussion.
New Jersey State Senator Doug Steinhardt (NJ-23) stated, “Thank you to Congressman Kean for bringing law enforcement, victims, and community leaders to the same table—because keeping New Jersey families safe isn’t a talking point, it’s a mission. We need tougher penalties for repeat offenders, an end to catch-and-release policies, and a full-court press on the fentanyl pushers and organized car-theft rings driving violence in our towns. I’ll keep working with the Congressman and our police to deliver the resources and laws they need to protect our neighborhoods and put criminals on notice.”
New Jersey Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio (NJ-23) added, “Keeping our communities safe must be our top priority — because if we don’t have safety, we have nothing. From the local level to Trenton and Washington, we need to ensure law enforcement has the clarity, resources, and leadership they deserve to do their jobs effectively. It starts at the top. I want to thank Congressman Kean and Senator Steinhardt for bringing leaders together today to discuss how we can better protect our neighborhoods and support the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep Warren County safe.”
Warren County Commissioner James Kern said: “Thank you, Congressman Kean, for bringing together such a strong group of stakeholders from every level of law enforcement and government. Collaboration like this is exactly what public safety requires. Despite Trenton diverting funds away from first responders, Warren County has stepped up. Through partnerships like this, we can identify new opportunities to strengthen emergency response and keep our communities safe.”
Warren County Acting Prosecutor Jessica Cardone commented: “Trust and collaboration are the foundation of successful law enforcement. Our Warren County Roundtable brought members of government and law enforcement together for a shared vision; the preservation of safety in our communities. This meeting is a testament to the dedication and commitment for the citizens we serve.”
Phillipsburg Mayor Randy S. Piazza Jr., remarked: “Rising crime doesn’t stop at town lines, and neither should our response,” said Phillipsburg Mayor Randy S. Piazza Jr.. “When law enforcement agencies and elected officials work together, we strengthen our shared commitment to public safety. Well-trained and properly equipped police officers are not just valuable—they are essential. Investing in them is how we protect Phillipsburg, protect our county, and protect our future.”
Phillipsburg Police Chief Anthony Goodell stated: “Thank you Congressman Kean and your team for showing up and hearing our voices when it matters most… Our community… stand[s] together united with our mission on making Phillipsburg and Warren County a safer place for everyone… It’s an honor… [and] we are looking forward on working together in the future.”
President of the Police Chiefs Association Christopher Jones noted: “The Washington Township Police Department is committed… [to] ensuring [residents’] betterment… I would like to thank Congressman Kean for taking time in listening… I look forward to working with his office in interest of residents.”
Congressman Kean has supported several legislative efforts aimed at improving public safety:
– He co-sponsored both H.R.1551 (Protect & Serve Act) as well as H.R.378 (Thin Blue Line Act), which would increase criminal penalties against those targeting first responders.
– He voted for H.R 2494 (POLICE Act), which would make assaulting certain first responders grounds for deportation if committed by non-U.S nationals.
– He co-sponsored H.R 27 (Prosecutors Need To Prosecute Act), which calls for more accountability regarding prosecutors’ decisions not charging violent crimes.
– He also co-sponsored H.R 5879 (Drone Research & Innovation For Law Enforcement Act), establishing research into using drones as non-lethal de-escalation tools.
Thomas Kean Jr., who began representing New Jersey’s 7th district in Congress after replacing Tom Malinowski in 2023 [source], previously served both in New Jersey’s General Assembly from 2001–2003 as well as its Senate from 2008–2022 [source]. Born in Livingston in 1968 [source], he currently resides in Westfield [source].
Other participants included state legislators; local mayors; chiefs from multiple police departments; representatives from state parole boards; sheriff’s offices; prosecutors’ offices; council presidents; township officials; as well as commanders within New Jersey State Police.
