South Bergen News

In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan, the Bergen County Sheriff's Office held a pre-Ramadan briefing on Wednesday, March 15th to discuss public safety precautions for the upcoming holiday season. The briefing was attended by local law enforcement officials including as well as faith leaders from Bergen County mosques, and community members at the Fusion Center (Muslim Community Center of Paramus).

The briefing featured an overview of the holy Muslim holiday from Ahmed Al-Shehab (BOD CAIR-NJ & the Fusion Center) and remarks from Dr. Misbah ul Haque (Treas. BOD of Fusion). Representation from the BCSO Bomb Squad Unit also presented information. Remarks were also given by Bergen County Jail Chaplain Imam Mohammed Ibn Ahmed. Lastly, an opportunity was given to ask the Sheriff’s & Prosecutor’s Office questions about resources available to keep faith communities safe. 

While there is no current or specific threat, the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office plans on deploying additional patrols to mosques and other potentially sensitive locations during the religious holiday. In addition, law enforcement will be on heightened alert for acts of bias.

Sheriff Anthony Cureton stated that "the safety and security of all Bergen County residents is of the utmost importance. It is the job of the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office to remain vigilant and dedicate additional resources for religious high holy days such as Ramadan. Bergen County must continue to be a welcoming place for everyone and that starts with making sure residents feel secure practicing their chosen creeds and faiths."

Special thanks to the Fusion Center for hosting the program.

Ramadan begins at sundown on the evening Wednesday, March 22nd and ends Friday April 21st. The Bergen County Sheriff's Office wishes all observing a fruitful and happy Ramadan!

Original source can be found here.