Probation office opens and promises not kept.
Unfortunately, this office is now open in our neighborhood. We will monitor any negative effects as closely as possible. It remains our belief that the location of this office is improper. The Freeholders decision to place this office so close to private residences is disappointing to say the least. We feel the concentration of persons convicted of drug violations, sexual offenses and similar crimes poses a threat to persons, businesses and private property.
Statements made by Freeholder Cappelli at WCA Meeting:
There would be an electronic fence or similar device to monitor the perimeter of the building and that it would be monitored 24 hrs a day.
Upon Inspection, there is no such device evident to protect the park or surrounding neighborhood. There is no evidence of monitoring of any kind.
- There would be no common areas where convicted persons would be mixing with Vlasic Foods personnel or clients.
Upon inpsection, common entrances to building 6 are open and connected.
- The Office will have no impact on the area or add expense for security.
On the very first day of operation a probationer pulled a false fire alarm. The fire department was upset. There is a private guard near the Vlasic entrance. Vlasic has also hired Cherry Hill Police officers to guard their entrance in the evenings.
As of November 20, 2009, false fire alarms continue to be pulled in building 6.
- Probationers will be escorted to and from the bus stops.
Upon inspection, there was no security posted anywhere outside the building. These convicted persons are free to go anywhere they wish.
- The influx of convicted persons into the Township will have no effect on area businesses.
We are tracking crime stats on a monthly basis. We publish crime reports on our Police Blotter page.
The Civic Association sees this Probation Office having great potential for the deterioration of safety, security, and quality of life in this part of the community. Private residences and the nearby playground are the most vulnerable to the influx of convicted persons into the area. There are no real safeguards for the residents or others using adjacent facilities and parking lots. The Cherry Hill police must now work harder and longer, eventually causing even greater expenses for security both public and private.
For more about the Probation Department story click here.