Advocates including the NAACP, clergy, and attorneys intensified their call on Friday for new leadership at the New Jersey State Police, arguing that reforms aimed at curbing racism within the agency will prove ineffective unless Governor Phil Murphy replaces its top officials.
At a news conference held in Plainsboro, they specifically called for the removal of Col. Patrick Callahan and Lt. Col. Sean Kilcomons, claiming they have not adequately addressed ongoing discrimination that has been documented for decades. Bishop Jethro C. James Jr., senior pastor at Paradise Baptist Church in Newark, urged the governor to take action, stating that he alone has the authority to make changes at the leadership level.
“If a dog bites you once, it’s the dog’s fault. But if the dog bites you twice, it’s your fault. Because you know this dog bites. For 101 years, sir, this dog has been biting our people,” James remarked, questioning the legacy Murphy wishes to leave behind.
This demand follows two reports released by state Attorney General Matt Platkin, which outlined issues related to racial discrimination within the agency’s internal affairs unit and promotional practices. Richard T. Smith, president of the NAACP’s New Jersey State Conference, called these reports a glimpse into the agency’s ongoing biases.
The New Jersey State Police previously operated under federal oversight for a decade due to a consent decree aimed at resolving racial profiling issues. However, more recent investigations have raised concerns about gender and race bias claims within the agency, with the state comptroller labeling its efforts to combat discriminatory policing as “largely performative.”
Advocates expressed skepticism towards Callahan and Kilcomons’ ability to effect change. Smith likened their long-term leadership to living in a dirty house without taking steps to clean it. He highlighted Murphy’s past involvement with the NAACP, urging him to ensure that his commitment to social justice is reflected in his actions concerning the state police.
Natalie Hamilton, a spokesperson for Murphy, did not specifically address the calls for the ouster of Callahan and Kilcomons, reiterating the governor’s commitment to work with Platkin and Callahan to implement the recommendations from the reports.
The state police did not respond to requests for comment regarding the situation. Callahan, who became the agency’s superintendent in 2017, and Kilcomons, who was appointed deputy superintendent three years ago, have faced scrutiny, including a discrimination lawsuit stemming from Kilcomons’ promotion.
Advocates also urged state officials to resolve ongoing lawsuits by female troopers and troopers of color alleging discrimination, as well as to revoke the pension of retired Lt. Joseph Nitti, who was criticized in a recent memo for his handling of internal affairs.
Moreover, they called for reforms that include public participation and support for legislation aimed at establishing civilian-led police review boards with the authority to investigate misconduct.
Larry Hamm, leader of the People’s Organization for Progress, emphasized the need for significant changes within the police force to address persistent racial issues.