You know, I have to say that I am one of many proud New Jersey-ites; however, there are certain things that are really grinding my gears. Frankly, I am not alone and there's a reason why there's been a recent exodus of corporations and residents leaving the Garden State.
Let me preface this story by saying that I am fully appreciative of New Jersey's law enforcement professionals and I believe they have an incredibly difficult job. In today's day and age, it's getting harder for them and not easier. I hope more good officers keep fighting the good fight.
BUT, there has to be a line drawn somewhere. Not only does this state rank as one of the highest when it comes to property taxes, it also has some of the most strict gun laws and vehicle restrictions — citizens MUST have a front plate and are not allowed to have tints on the front windows due to what's most often cited as "officer safety." With crumbling budgets and many organizations tightening their belts, it's a bit befuddling to see the New Jersey State Police's latest investment.
Dubbed "ghost" cars, these vehicles are essentially unmarked police cruisers — Chevrolet Caprice PPVs, for those interested — except they are equipped with gray and dark gray decals. While local police departments have been equipping their fleets in similar efforts, the state troopers just proudly announced their latest addition(s).
While many commenters are complaining about the window tints, there is an exemption for police vehicles in the state. And no, this isn't a form of entrapment either for you Harvard Law professors out there.
In a story posted to a local news website, the State Police Captain, Stephen Jones, had some rather interesting remarks to share. Please see below.
An excerpt from a NJ.com story:
"The only new thing here is the graphics," State Police Capt. Stephen Jones said. "We've had unmarked cars for years, and it is an effective way to catch that segment of idiot drivers who behave dangerously on the roads until they see a marked car."
Jones said these new cars will blend in, just like unmarked cars.
"So when one of those people drives by at Mach 2, they're going to get pulled over and surprised," he said. "And shame on you. I don't want to hear any whining."
There's no question that there are reckless drivers on the road that need to be dealt with, but I would unscientifically wager that more hardworking middle class earners that deal with the commute to their 9-5 gig are going to get nabbed by a ghost car for doing 10-15 mph over the speed limit, which is typically gamed low on the state's main thoroughfares. Not to mention, I don't think many tax payers are happy to see the NJSP puffing its chest out with barely legible decals as well as what appears to be limo tints.
Personally, I would love to hear a concise and detailed explanation as to why municipal vehicles — as well as officer's personal rides (just walk through a borough hall parking lot and check out the majority of police officer's rides) — are allowed to have tints but regular, law abiding citizens cannot. Sorry, but this "officer's safety" excuse isn't working any more. Remember, you are hired to protect and serve us, right?
Having said all of that, what say YOU, Spies? Is the latest move by the New Jersey State Police AWESOME or AWFUL?
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