Bob Martin to Shirley Turner: "Eleventh hour theatrics are not the way to deal with gang violence"

(Ewing – November 3, 2007) With three days until Election Day, 15th District Republican State Senate candidate Bob Martin called Shirley Turner's plan to put state police on the streets of Trenton a desperate attempt to cover up her 14 years of failing to address the issue. Martin reiterated his call for a comprehensive plan to combat gang violence with "zero-tolerance" for all crimes and more local police on the streets.

"Despite spending 14 years in the legislature, Shirley Turner is just now acknowledging the gang problem in Trenton," Martin said. "She talks a lot about legislation she has proposed, but the continued violence in our communities speaks for itself. It's sad and telling that just a few days before an election she tries to address the issue. Where has she been for the last 14 years? It's shameful that she's attempting political gain with such an important issue. Gang violence must be addressed seriously, not glossed over with poorly thought-out sound bites a few days before an election."

Martin continued, "Zero-tolerance for all crimes big and small must be the focus of our police. "I support Mayor Palmer's plan to put 50 more Trenton police on the street. I would also support increasing that number to 100 officers patrolling neighborhoods as a visible commitment to the local community. Inviting state police into the local community is not the answer.

"Eleventh-hour theatrics are not effective solutions to gang violence," Martin stated. "I am further disappointed that Shirley Turner's sound bites only mention enforcement and punishment. There are deep social issues around gang violence as well. Trenton needs redevelopment and real job growth. As State Senator, I look forward to working with Mayor Palmer and community leaders in Trenton to revitalization the city and bring the growth that other cities across our state are experiencing."

In addition to increasing the number of men and women in law enforcement, Martin's plan, which was introduced in July, also includes addressing key social issues. His plan calls for the creation of more after-school programs leveraging a wide range of organizations, including churches, libraries and community centers. Martin's plan would also create more job training and employment opportunities, to providing viable alternatives to gang membership.

"With a stronger local economy in Trenton, and a wider range of options for young people who are at risk, we can begin to end the cycle of violence and crime that has plagued our communities," Martin concluded.

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