New School Safety Initiative Announced in Morris County

Published on May 15, 2019

On May 14, 2019, a press conference was held to announce the Responsible School Violence Prevention Preparation Protection, or RSVP3 initiative. The purpose of this announcement was to educate the public about the efforts being implemented in Morris County to prevent school violence and to discuss legislation aiming to establish these prevention efforts throughout New Jersey. This unique initiative, aimed at keeping our schools safe, was announced jointly by New Jersey State Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco, Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, President of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association Butler Chief Chiro Chimento, and other community leaders.

Prosecutor Knapp provided remarks at the conference and emphasized that as the chief law enforcement agency in Morris County, the Morris County Prosecutor's Office will be working closely with all local law enforcement and community partners invested in this initiative to ensure its success. The goal of this office is to not only be prepared to actively react to any incidents of violence in our schools, but to also contribute to the prevention of incidents through proper training and threat assessments at facilities throughout the county.

During his remarks at the press conference, New Jersey State Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco from District 25, announced that on May 13, 2019, he introduced Assembly Bill A5242 to the Assembly for statewide funding and implementation of RSVP3 throughout New Jersey.

Following the conference, Prosecutor Knapp stated, Sheriff Gannon has taken an important proactive step to prevent school violence. We support his innovation along with our municipal Police chiefs and school districts. As stated we are tactically prepared for the worst scenarios but by initiating RSVP 3 it is sought to avoid the need for a Tactical response.

Any suspicious activity witnessed by the public can and should be reported to the Morris County Communications Center at 973-285-2900 or the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Homeland Security Unit at 973-829-8596. If immediate assistance is required call 911.

Prosecutor Knapp

Local Law Enforcement and Community Leaders

Inquiries concerning this press release should be directed to Public Information Officer Peter DiGennaro at pressinquiry@co.morris.nj.us or 973-829-8159.