A crime legislation proposed by Mayor Sam Joshi successfully passed through the state assembly on Monday and is set to be presented to Governor Phil Murphy within 45 days. This legislation categorizes home invasion as a first-degree crime and residential burglary as a second-degree crime. It also increases the penalties for individuals convicted of home invasion or burglary while armed with a firearm and allows for juveniles to be prosecuted as adults if they are charged with these offenses while in possession of a firearm.Mayor Joshi expressed his concerns regarding the rise in home invasions and burglaries in Edison, emphasizing his commitment to imposing stricter penalties on all offenders, including juveniles. He highlighted his efforts, which included testifying before the New Jersey Senate and Assembly committee, and expressed his satisfaction with the bill’s passage through both legislative bodies. In his statement, he extended his gratitude to various legislators, including Senator Pat Diegnan, Assemblyman Sterley Stanley, Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin, Senator Vin Gopal, and Senator Brian Stack, acknowledging their contributions to the advocacy of this important legislation. He concluded by expressing his anticipation for the bill’s enactment, which he believes will enhance the safety and security of the community.
Since March 2023, Joshi has been actively engaging with members of the state assembly regarding this matter. During this period, he has taken steps to bolster the police force, resulting in the department reaching its largest size in 15 years, as reported by the Mayor’s office. Thomas Bryan, Chief of the Edison Township Police Department, remarked that the new legislation represents a significant advancement in their efforts to address the increasing incidents of burglaries and home invasions. He noted that the police force has expanded to 195 officers, the highest number in over a decade, and highlighted the establishment of a street crimes unit along with the enhancement of their K-9 unit. Additionally, Robert Dudash, the DEP chief, mentioned the installation of more than 100 license plate readers across Edison Township and the opening of two police stations to enhance law enforcement visibility. Mayor Sam Joshi emphasized that ensuring the safety of Edison residents is their foremost concern, pledging to persist in their efforts until the proposed bill is enacted. Furthermore, Mayor Joshi and the Edison Police have been advocating for stricter sentencing for juveniles since March, following an incident where three teenagers attempted to steal a vehicle outside Patel Brothers.
