Former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara has been appointed to lead a criminal investigation into a significant reduction in traffic enforcement by New Jersey state police. Announced by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, the investigation focuses on an eight-month period where traffic stops for violations such as speeding and drunk driving dropped by 61%. This decline began after a July 2023 report highlighted racial disparities in enforcement practices.
Platkin expressed concern that this slowdown may have contributed to a rise in car crashes and fatalities across the state, while the national average showed a decline. He criticized the impact on the state police’s reputation, emphasizing public safety risks.
The appointment of Bharara, known for his anti-corruption efforts as U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, could strain Platkin’s relationship with Governor Phil Murphy. Bharara, now a partner at WilmerHale law firm, pledged a “fair and rigorous investigation” for the people of New Jersey.
The investigation highlights ongoing challenges in balancing equitable law enforcement with public safety, amid concerns of racial bias and declining enforcement effectiveness.
