By Julia Train
Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson is calling for more police officers and a greater police presence in Atlantic City. He says public safety issues could seriously impede the city’s ability to draw visitors, businesses and investment.
Speaking at a regional news conference on Oct. 20, Levinson asked how a city with beaches, a Boardwalk, restaurants, and entertainment could be in such a bad light in terms of public safety.
“Google the most dangerous city in New Jersey. Atlantic City will come up,” Levinson said. “With all of our assets, how can we be the most dangerous city in the state?”
Levinson said hiring more police officers is a straightforward way to address those concerns.
“What do we do about a dangerous city? Hire more cops. Period,” he said.
He said police visibility is especially important for helping residents and visitors feel comfortable throughout the city.
“We don’t have enough police officers,” Levinson said. “They’re not visible. That’s what makes people feel comfortable.”
Levinson also pointed to security measures at his own county office building, saying he employs three armed guards to protect employees. He said the guards also escort employees to their vehicles.
He argued that Atlantic City has the resources and attractions to remain a successful tourism destination but must address public safety concerns to encourage people to visit and return.
The county executive also criticized the state government’s role in Atlantic City’s operations and spending priorities, questioning why funding has been allocated for other projects and employee raises. At the same time, he believes additional police officers are needed.
He called on the region’s state legislators to advocate for Atlantic City and its public safety needs.
Levinson also raised concerns about a proposed $3 billion convention center in the Meadowlands, arguing that the project could create additional competition for Atlantic City as the region works to protect its tourism and casino industries.
Following his remarks, on Oct. 26, on The Don Williams Show on News Talk 1400 and 92.3 WOND, Levinson clarified that his criticism was not directed at Mayor Marty Small or the Atlantic City Police Department, but rather at the state, which he said continues to exercise significant oversight over the city’s finances and municipal operations.
The discussion comes as Atlantic City has reported improvements in several crime indicators. According to 2024 FBI Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data, Atlantic City had the highest violent crime rate per 100,000 residents among New Jersey cities with populations of at least 10,000.
But according to the city’s January 2026 State of the City presentation, overall crime declined 12.25% between 2022 and 2025. The city also reported that the police department solved all homicides and non-fatal shooting investigations in 2025.
The department has also recently welcomed 19 new officers following their graduation from Police Academy Class 32 on Oct. 22.
Atlantic City Police Chief James Sarkos declined to comment on Levinson’s remarks. Mayor Marty Small’s office did not provide a statement in response to a request for comment.
Levinson said he believes improving public safety is essential to the city’s future and urged state lawmakers to act.
“Do something and fail if you have to, but do something,” he said.
Julia graduated from Rider University in 2024 with a BA in multiplatform journalism and minor in social media strategies. In addition to reporting on local news for Shore Local, she is a social media strategist for small businesses. Connect with her: shorelocaljulia@gmail.com or @juliatrain on Instagram.
