Residents urge stronger policing after downtown jewelry-store robbery; police say probe ongoing

A string of residents at the April 13 Perth Amboy City Council meeting urged city leaders to strengthen patrols and visibility after a widely shared video of an armed robbery at a downtown jewelry store.

An unnamed resident who opened public comment described the episode as "an embarrassment to this community," saying the incident and related social-media coverage had shaken business owners and patrons and urging the city to "wake up" and take stronger action. The speaker also questioned whether the city should be more transparent about the municipal budget and timing of proposed tax changes.

Police Chief (addressing the Council President) said the robbery is under active investigation and declined to give details that might compromise ongoing work. "We received a total of three 911 calls on that incident," the chief said, adding that dispatch sent units within about 25 seconds once a specific address was provided. "We are working with our county, state and federal partners on this and we are running down some leads, but I can't get into any more specifics other than what we have already released," the chief said.

Multiple speakers also criticized the condition and apparent underuse of a local Madison Avenue police substation. One resident said the substation "was supposed to be there to respond quicker" but observed that it appeared closed most of the time, and urged a persistent foot‑patrol presence in shopping areas to deter crime and improve business owners' sense of safety.

A former police officer who identified himself during public comment urged caution about publicly judging police action while also acknowledging residents' fears, saying the robbery looked "organized, well planned" and that officers face legal and tactical limits — including guidance on pursuits — that shape response options.

Council members and staff said they were hearing the concerns and that enforcement and community engagement remain priorities. The chief pointed to recent ticketing and confiscations for motor‑vehicle and quality‑of‑life offenses as part of ongoing enforcement, and said the department will continue to work with regional partners while preserving investigative integrity.

The council did not take a formal vote related to policing at the meeting. Officials said they would provide updates as the investigation permits and continue to meet with community stakeholders about patrols, substation use and other public‑safety measures.