LOCK HAVEN, PA — With the backdrop of the Lock Haven Police Department, Governor Josh Shapiro, Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, and Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Colonel Christopher Paris yesterday joined local leaders to spotlight the administration’s unwavering support for public safety. The occasion highlighted significant investments in law enforcement that are shaping safer communities across Pennsylvania.
“Every Pennsylvanian deserves to be safe and feel safe,” emphasized Governor Shapiro. “From day one, we have been laser-focused on improving public safety – making historic investments in public safety, standing up for law enforcement, and delivering funding to reduce crime violence across the Commonwealth. That work continues every day, and we will keep showing up and delivering for the good people of Pennsylvania to continue building safer, stronger communities.”
Historic Investments in Law Enforcement
Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, the state has made unprecedented strides in strengthening law enforcement. More than 800 new Pennsylvania State Police troopers and nearly 700 municipal law enforcement officers are being hired thanks to targeted funding. This monumental expansion ensures a more robust police presence and brings much-needed resources to cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth.
The Lock Haven Police Department is among the communities benefiting from this initiative. With $14,000 in funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD), the city is hiring two additional officers to bolster its efforts in safeguarding residents.
Chief Matthew Rickard of the Lock Haven Police Department highlighted the tangible impact, stating, “This funding has opened doors for applicants who previously faced barriers, allowing us to build a fully staffed department and better serve the residents of Lock Haven. We are grateful for this support and investment in our community.”
Building Safer Communities Across Pennsylvania
Since taking office, the Shapiro Administration has aggressively pursued initiatives to reduce crime and enhance safety. Investments include more funding for police training, expanded use of body-worn cameras, and targeted programs to combat gun violence. These measures are already yielding measurable results. Major cities across Pennsylvania have reported reductions in homicides and gun violence, a promising sign of progress.
“Across Pennsylvania, we’re seeing real progress from the investments we’ve made,” noted Lieutenant Governor Davis. “But we can’t let up now – we must stay the course and continue making smart investments to ensure our communities are safer for everyone.”
The administration’s efforts go beyond crime prevention. Support for first responders, fire departments, and EMS squads has also significantly increased, ensuring that local heroes have the equipment and resources to operate effectively.
Strengthening State-Local Partnerships
Governor Shapiro’s approach to public safety emphasizes collaboration between state and local agencies. This strategy has amplified community-centric solutions, ensuring that both rural and urban areas benefit equally from state-level resources.
PSP Colonel Christopher Paris underscored this sentiment, saying, “The partnership between state and local law enforcement is at the heart of our efforts to keep communities safe. Lock Haven’s success demonstrates how targeted funding and collaboration can enhance public safety.”
Mayor Joel Long echoed the importance of these partnerships, stating, “Investing in our police department ensures safety for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. These grants are crucial for small cities like ours.”
Tackling Gun Violence and Modernizing Policing
The Shapiro-Davis Administration is taking a multi-faceted approach to address gun violence, viewing it as both a public safety and public health issue. Doubling the funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Fund and re-establishing the Pennsylvania Office of Gun Violence Prevention are key steps in tackling this epidemic. Additionally, investments in programs such as the Building Opportunity through Out of School Time (BOOST) initiative aim to reduce community violence by creating opportunities for young residents.
Simultaneously, the administration is modernizing Pennsylvania’s policing infrastructure. A nearly $400 million project to upgrade the Pennsylvania State Police Academy is underway, ensuring cadets are well-prepared to meet contemporary challenges.
Delivering Results, Building Trust
As Pennsylvania marks two years under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, the impact of his administration’s emphasis on public safety is undeniable. From expanding the ranks of law enforcement to strengthening transparency through body cameras, these actions build trust between communities and those sworn to protect them.
Angela Harding, Clinton County Commissioner, expressed gratitude for the administration’s focus, stating, “Clinton County Government is very appreciative of Governor Shapiro and his administration’s focus on crime and delinquency, as well as their efforts to help Clinton County secure valuable funding to enhance law enforcement and support the men and women whose careers are a chosen sacrifice to the safety of all.”
A Strong Foundation for a Safer Future
The Shapiro-Davis Administration has laid a firm foundation for improving safety and fostering stronger communities. By prioritizing funding, collaboration, and modernization, they have positioned Pennsylvania as a leader in tackling the complex challenges of public safety.
With nearly 1,500 new officers entering service and innovative policies in place, the Commonwealth is on a clear path toward bolstering safety for all residents. From bustling cities to small towns like Lock Haven, this legacy of investment is already transforming lives—and paving the way for a more secure Pennsylvania.
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