Sheriff's Office and Chamber of Commerce Collaborate to Offer Free Community Safety Program

BERNARDSVILLE, NJ - Somerset County Sheriff Darrin J. Russo expressed enthusiasm about the new initiative in collaboration with Al LiCata and the Bernards Township Regional Chamber of Commerce aimed at enhancing community safety. The initiative, known as the VIPS program, is designed to protect children, seniors, and individuals with special needs, and it will be offered at no cost to the community.

"We are excited to partner with the Chamber and The Masons of Somerset Hills to provide this valuable service," Sheriff Russo stated. "Our state-of-the-art system will showcase the specialized law enforcement capabilities that serve Bernardsville and the wider Somerset County area."

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Chamber President Al LiCata echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the program's accessibility and benefits to local residents. "We are pleased to host this event on August 8th from 3pm to 7pm at the Masons Lodge on Morristown Road," LiCata remarked. "The program is entirely free, including lite refreshments."

The Somerset County Sheriff’s Office has recently acquired cutting-edge technology aimed at enhancing their ability to respond swiftly and effectively in critical situations. Sheriff Russo highlighted the system's capabilities, noting its role in streamlining reporting processes for missing persons and enhancing the Project LifeSaver initiative.

"This system is unparalleled in the nation," Sheriff Russo explained. "It includes a comprehensive Secure Child and Medical ID Program that allows parents or guardians to securely store vital information on a USB thumb drive or through an app."

The event aims to address critical statistics regarding missing children and individuals with medical conditions. Sheriff Russo emphasized the program's three main components: serving Somerset County children, Project LifeSaver clients, and citizens with medical conditions.

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"In addition to providing essential data collection services, the program ensures that all sensitive information is securely managed," Sheriff Russo added. "This event is an opportunity for the community to engage with our K-9 Unit and learn more about our ongoing efforts in public safety."

Sheriff Russo, who assumed office in 2020, has expanded the Sheriff’s Office capabilities significantly, including the K-9 Unit, which now comprises six German Shepherds and one Labrador Retriever. The unit, funded through generous donations exceeding $100,000, plays a crucial role in emergency response and community engagement across Somerset County.

The event, scheduled for August 8th, promises to provide a valuable resource to Bernardsville residents and underscores the Chamber’s commitment to community welfare. For more information or inquiries, please contact 908-339-5937.

Event Details:

• What: Child & Senior ID Program
• When: August 8th, 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
• Where: Masons Lodge, 11-15 Morristown Rd. (Rt. 202), Bernardsville, NJ

For further questions or information, please call 908-339-5937. This event offers a crucial opportunity for community members to prepare and safeguard their loved ones, free of charge.

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