Harrison NJ Residents: Connect with Local Police Over Pizza Nov 6, 2023

Building on the success of its community policing efforts, the Harrison Police Department is delighted to invite residents to its upcoming "Pizza with A Cop" event. Scheduled for Monday, November 6, 2023, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., this gathering aims to strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and community members in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

The event will take place outside the Harrison Mini-Police Substation at 355 Somerset Street, Harrison, NJ, and promises to be an engaging opportunity for residents to meet their local officers, enjoy complimentary pizza and drinks, and engage in open dialogue about community issues.

Police Chief David Strumolo, who has been instrumental in organizing a series of community policing events, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event. He has previously expressed his sentiments, "These gatherings are about more than just sharing a meal; they're about opening lines of communication and building trust within the community we serve,"

The "Pizza with A Cop" initiative kicked off its second annual series on October 2, 2023, at the Firehouse Playground, where the community enjoyed not just pizza but also the chance to connect with officers in a casual setting. The success continued with the event on October 16, 2023, at Kingsland Courts, which included a friendly half-court basketball game between officers and residents.

Community policing is not a new concept for Harrison. It has been a part of the department's philosophy since the 1990s and 2000s, under the leadership of then Deputy Chief Patrick Minutillo. The department has a history of engaging in community activities, including Naturalization Drives, which have been supported by local organizations such as the Harrison Fest Committee and the Centro Romeu Cascaes Portuguese American Community Center.

These events have not only helped residents with the naturalization process but have also led to heartwarming stories, such as the romance that blossomed between a Harrison Police officer and a volunteer. Such outcomes highlight the positive and sometimes unexpected benefits of community engagement.

The United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, defines community policing as a partnership between the police and the community to solve local problems, enhance neighborhood safety, and improve the quality of life. The Harrison Police Department's commitment to this approach has transformed interactions on the streets of Harrison, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.

Your Harrison extends a warm thank you to Chief Strumolo and the officers of the Community Policing Unit for their ongoing efforts. The department's dedication to fostering a close-knit community is evident in these events, which continue to bring officers and residents together in meaningful ways.

Don't miss the chance to join your neighbors and the men and women in blue for an evening of conversation, community, and pizza. Let's continue to build a stronger, safer Harrison together.

We welcome your thoughts on our Community Discussion Board. If you haven't signed up to participate, you can sign up now and join the conversation. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our community policing initiatives.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Event Details:

• What: Pizza with A Cop
• When: Monday, November 6, 2023
• Where: Harrison Police Mini-Substation, 355 Somerset Street, Harrison, NJ
• Time: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

 Let Us Know Your Thoughts on our Community Discussion Board.  If you have not signed up yet to participate you can Sign Up now.