Tracey Tully, a New York Times reporter known for her investigative work on New Jersey, discusses a significant drop in traffic stops by state troopers and the alarming rise in accidents that followed. She highlights the connection between these changes and a new union directive aimed at more equitable enforcement. Tully also delves into a tragic truck accident that underscores enforcement disparities and explores emotional experiences tied to traffic encounters, illustrating broader issues of community trust in law enforcement.
The dramatic 81% reduction in traffic stops by New Jersey state troopers has correlated with a 27% increase in motor vehicle accidents.
Concerns over racial profiling and enforcement integrity have led to a criminal investigation into the state's two-tiered justice system for traffic violations.
Deep dives
Significant Drop in Traffic Enforcement
Traffic enforcement in New Jersey experienced a dramatic slowdown starting in July 2023, shortly after a report highlighted racial disparities in the state police's enforcement practices. The number of traffic stops plummeted by approximately 81%, affecting various offenses, including DWI and speeding. This decline was reportedly communicated through the union representing the troopers, advising members to exercise caution in their enforcement actions. The prolonged duration of this slowdown raised serious concerns regarding the impact on public safety and trust in law enforcement.
Correlation Between Enforcement Slowdown and Accidents
During the peak of the enforcement slowdown, there was a notable increase in motor vehicle crashes, with incidents rising by about 27%. This surge in accidents coincided with summer vacation travels, raising questions about the relationship between reduced traffic enforcement and the uptick in road safety issues. A tragic example mentioned involved the death of an immigrant who was killed in a hit-and-run incident, where his family speculated that the delay in reporting due to enforcement issues may have affected the outcome. The discussion highlighted the complexities of enforcing traffic laws amid concerns over racial profiling and its impact on overall public safety.
Allegations of a Two-Tiered Justice System
The podcast also delves into allegations of a two-tiered justice system within the New Jersey State Police, particularly regarding the use of 'courtesy cards' that certain individuals possess to evade traffic tickets. An investigation revealed that during a focused analysis, approximately 25% of stops that resulted in no enforcement involved drivers who presented these cards or claimed connections to law enforcement. Instances included serious offenses where individuals were let off without citations, raising transparency concerns. The New Jersey Attorney General has now initiated an investigation specifically into this practice and its implications for justice in the state.
For several months in 2023, the number of traffic-related tickets issued by New Jersey state troopers dropped dramatically—and crashes almost immediately increased. Tracey Tully, New York Times reporter covering New Jersey, reports on her investigation into why police behavior changed, how it affects traffic safety and the criminal investigation the state AG has launched on the slowdown.
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