What is the Safe Place Initiative?

The City of Perth Amboy Police Department is proud to introduce the Safe Place Initiative, a program designed to assist victims of hate crimes and bullying. This initiative provides a safe haven for those in need, ensuring they receive the care, dignity, and respect they deserve.

What Are Hate Crimes?

Hate crimes are criminal acts committed against individuals or groups based on their race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, mental or physical disabilities, homelessness, marital status, political ideology, age, or parental status. The Safe Place Initiative supports victims of all these protected categories.

Your Responsibilities as a Safe Place Business

Joining the Safe Place Initiative is voluntary, but it comes with essential responsibilities:

1. Immediate Response: If a victim of any crime, particularly a hate crime, enters your premises, call 911 immediately.
2. Provide Shelter: Allow the victim to remain in a public area of your business until the police arrive.

If the victim leaves before the police arrive, call 911 again to provide a description of the victim and any suspects, their direction of travel, and any observed injuries. Always use due care and caution while ensuring the safety of your patrons and staff.

How to Join the Safe Place Initiative

Becoming a Safe Place participant is simple and free. To join, follow these steps:

1. Educate your employees and management about the responsibilities mentioned above.
2. Display the Safe Place decal prominently at the main public entrance of your business, 3-5 feet off the ground, so it is easily visible.

Get Your Safe Place Decal

To request a Safe Place decal, please contact P.O. Raymond Arce at the Perth Amboy Police Department by calling 732.324.3531.

Join us in standing up against hate and making Perth Amboy a safer, more inclusive community.