The Paterson Police Department has announced the launch of its Real Time Operations Center (RTOC) and an expansion of its drone program, marking a significant step in the department’s modernization efforts under state oversight.
These initiatives are intended to enhance enforcement, officer and public safety, and improve coordination throughout Paterson. The department describes this as part of a broader transformation focused on data-driven strategies, accountability, and updated operational standards.
Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin stated, “The launch of the Real Time Operations Center and expanded drone capabilities represents a turning point for public safety in Paterson. For too long, officers here were asked to do their jobs without the modern tools routinely used by other major cities. That has changed. These systems give officers better information, faster insight, and stronger coordination, all while improving safety and accountability. This is what meaningful investment in public safety looks like, and it reflects the lasting progress made in Paterson.”
The RTOC functions as a centralized command hub that integrates multiple public safety technologies. It provides real-time access to data and video intelligence for officers and supervisors, helping them understand incidents as they develop and supporting quicker responses. The center incorporates citywide camera feeds, gunshot detection systems, automatic license plate readers, and analytics from body-worn cameras.
Office of Policing Strategy and Innovation Executive Director Isa Abbassi said, “The Real Time Operations Center reflects how far this department has come. Under state oversight, Paterson has built systems that emphasize clarity, coordination, and accountability. The RTOC and expanded drone program are not standalone upgrades. They are part of a deliberate effort to modernize policing, strengthen public safety, and ensure that technology is used responsibly and effectively for the benefit of the community.”
Paterson’s expanded drone program builds on five years of deployment by its Emergency Response Team for search-and-rescue operations as well as tactical deployments. The improved fleet will now be available across various units to provide aerial awareness during emergencies or investigations.
Drones will also be used for documenting crash or crime scenes with overhead imagery to create three-dimensional maps more efficiently—an approach expected to improve scene management while reducing roadway closures.
Officer in Charge Patrick Murray commented: “These tools fundamentally change how we operate. The RTOC and drone program give our officers real time insight when seconds matter most. They improve coordination across divisions, enhance safety on every call, and allow us to respond with precision. This is the result of years of focused work, and it positions Paterson as a model for modern policing.”
The implementation comes amid continued state oversight aimed at updating technology infrastructure alongside training initiatives and new communication methods within the department.
Businesses or residents can choose to share surveillance footage with police through the Fusus platform via connectpaterson.org—a voluntary partnership designed to expand investigative capabilities before officers arrive at an incident.
Recent year-end CompStat data from the department shows shooting incidents have dropped by over 40 percent compared with last year; shooting victims declined by more than 50 percent over the same period. Violent crime rates including robberies and aggravated assaults have also decreased so far this year.
Digital communications—including social media—have been increasingly used by the department both for timely updates on public safety matters and engagement with residents.
Attorney General Platkin added: “These are durable systems built to last. They reflect the progress made in Paterson and the foundation that has been established for the future. The work done here shows what is possible when a department is given the tools, leadership, and structure it needs to succeed.”
Residents interested in participating can register cameras or share footage through connectpaterson.org.
As outlined on its official website, the New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin oversees legal support services statewide including law enforcement oversight such as seen in Paterson’s modernization efforts. The agency works across all counties to uphold laws affecting public safety (source).
The Attorney General’s office provides enforcement authority throughout New Jersey’s municipalities (source), supports legal representation for state agencies (source), regulates public safety measures (source), offers consumer protection programs (source), operates crime labs (source), advocates for victims (source), enforces statutory mandates (source), manages digital communication channels (source), maintains an online portal serving as its main contact point (source), handles regulatory functions (source)—all contributing to its role in shaping justice policy across New Jersey.
