More Paterson cops under proposed budget, report says

Expanded force would still be far smaller than before 2011 layoffs

PATERSON -- Officials hope to increase the number of police officers to just over 400, a figure still well short of the 519 police on the force prior to layoffs four years ago, NorthJersey.com reported.

The proposed additional spending, about $5 million, would add 21 officers to the force's present 382 as well as provide raises for police. Money would also be set aside to increase the number of unarmed special police from 22 to 50 and the number of crossing guards from 104 to 142.

Officials said auxiliary personnel like crossing guards and special police are especially cost-effective because they lessen the demand for more expensive regular police at events like the Peruvian and Dominican day parades.

Paul Milo may be reached at pmilo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @PaulMilo2. FindNJ.com on Facebook