New Jersey city sees first homicide-free summer in 50 years

(NewsNation) — Camden, New Jersey, once known as one of the most violent cities in the nation, is celebrating a homicide-free summer — its first in 50 years.

Democratic Mayor Victor Carstarphen told NewsNation he credits the city’s community policing initiative as one reason for the drop in violence.

“Working together. Our community policing and our police department engaging with our community — getting to know our residents over the years. building blocks, trust, confidence and it all comes together and you have when you have organizations and everyone working together for a better community,” said Carstarphen.

In 2014, Camden famously abolished the City of Camden Police Department and embraced a community-driven law enforcement approach with the Camden County Police Department. Homic