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July 1, 2026
 Biweekly Homeland Security Insights for a Safer New Jersey.
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Agency Announcements
Recent News
Happy 4th of July, America! 250 Years of Freedom and Security
 As we reflect on America's Semiquincentennial, we are reminded that our nation's greatness lies not just in our achievements, but in our enduring values: liberty, equality, and justice. It's reflected in the courage of our service members, the dedication of our first responders, and the resilience of our communities coming together during crisis.
Today, that same spirit of vigilance lives on through the work of NJOHSP. While the threats we face have evolved since American Revolution, the mission remains unchanged: safeguarding New Jersey's residents and visitors and preserving the freedoms America's Founders fought to establish.
Everyday NJOHSP works alongside federal, State, and local partners to monitor emerging threats, share critical intelligence, and strengthen the state's resilience. From preventing terrorism to preparing for natural disasters, NJOHSP stands ready to protect the quality of life that defines the Garden State.
As you gather with family, friends, and neighbors this holiday, we remain committed to ensuring you can celebrate safely. We're grateful for our continued partnership with law enforcement agencies, first responders, and community members who help keep New Jersey secure.
Fun Fact: New Jersey played a pivotal role in the birth of American freedom, serving as the "Crossroads of the Revolution" and hosting more battles than any of the other original colonies.
NJOHSP Urges Vigilance During Historic America250 Celebrations
On July 4, New Jersey will play a key role in one of the most significant celebrations in American history. As the nation marks its 250th birthday, an estimated eight to 10 million spectators are expected to line the 15-mile New York/New Jersey shoreline for Sail4th 250—a maritime parade featuring the largest international flotilla of tall ships and naval vessels assembled for a U.S. commemorative event.
With unprecedented crowds expected for Sail4th 250, America250 celebrations across New Jersey communities, and a FIFA World Cup 2026™ match scheduled for July 5 at New Jersey/New York Stadium in East Rutherford, public vigilance is more important than ever. NJOHSP is calling on all residents and visitors to remain alert and serve as partners in keeping everyone safe through its "See Something, Say Something" campaign.
New Jersey residents and visitors are encouraged to report suspicious activity through the following channels:
Individuals can also report suspicious activity to their local police department.
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NJOHSP Brings Together Critical Infrastructure Stakeholders
NJOHSP recently convened its second quarter Infrastructure Advisory Committee (IAC) meeting, bringing together critical stakeholders to discuss essential matters affecting the safety and security of New Jersey's infrastructure. The meeting focused on the vital role of resource providers in serving state residents, the significant contributions of the chemical industry to New Jersey, and the ongoing challenges of ensuring travel safety through robust intelligence gathering and collaborative partnerships.
Approximately 35 representatives from various private-sector industries, government agencies, and law enforcement organizations attended the meeting, which was hosted by New Jersey Resources in Wall Township.
NJOHSP Director Thomas Hauck opened the meeting by thanking committee members for volunteering their time and expertise to strengthen New Jersey's preparedness efforts and emphasized the importance of the partnership between State agencies and the private sector. NJOHSP personnel then briefed on suspicious activity related to critical infrastructure, underscoring the importance of vigilant monitoring and reporting, while additional presentations highlighted New Jersey Resources' energy responsibilities and the chemical industry's role in supporting the state.
The IAC serves as a liaison between private industry and government officials on domestic preparedness issues. The committee supports the Domestic Security Preparedness Task Force and includes representatives from critical infrastructure sectors, including utilities, nuclear facilities, telecommunications, transportation, health care, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries.
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Federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program Application Period Now Open
The application period is now open for the federal fiscal year 2026 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). NJOHSP serves as the State Administrative Agency for the program which is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
This funding opportunity supports eligible nonprofit organizations—including houses of worship, community centers, and other nonprofit entities—in strengthening their security infrastructure against acts of terrorism and targeted violence.
The last day to apply is July 15, 11:59 p.m. Eligible nonprofit organizations in New Jersey are encouraged to review program requirements and submit their application before the deadline.
For additional information about the NSGP and other grant programs, visit NJOHSP's grants web page.
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Interns Gain Hands-On Experience at NJOHSP, NJCCIC
NJOHSP regularly hires college interns through its internship programs, which offers opportunities during the summer, spring, and fall semesters.
Eight college students recently joined NJOHSP as part of its Summer 2026 Internship Program. Six students are interning with NJOHSP in its Intelligence and Analysis, Operations, Fiscal, Risk Management, Infrastructure Security, and Training and Exercise bureaus while three, including a high school student, have joined the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell (NJCCIC) program. The internship began June 8 and concludes July 31 for NJOHSP students and August 28 at the NJCCIC.
Throughout the program, interns contribute to mission-critical work while gaining direct experience in public service and helping support a safe, secure, and resilient New Jersey. The program allows students to develop and apply their educational training in a real-world setting as they explore various career paths. College-approved credits may be available for completed internships.
For more information, visit the NJOHSP careers web page.
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Community Outreach
'Café con Leche with a Cop' Draws Nearly a Thousand as NJ Law Enforcement Works to Strengthen Community Ties
On June 14 more than 1,000 individuals turned out for "Café con Leche with a Cop" at the Church of Saint Anthony of Claret in Lakewood, NJ—the latest installment in a series of outreach events designed to connect with the state's Hispanic community.
State, county, and Lakewood law enforcement and emergency management personnel joined church leadership and attendees at the event, which was co-hosted by NJOHSP and the New Jersey State Police. The strong turnout reflects growing momentum in building bridges between law enforcement and the communities they serve across New Jersey.
Along with "Nosh with a Cop" for Jewish communities and "Chai with a Cop" for South Asian populations, these initiatives create welcoming spaces for all communities to engage with law enforcement, fostering dialogue and building trust around public safety.
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Security Updates
Coordinated Investigation by NJ Agencies Secures Prison Term for ISIS-Linked Teen in Officer Attack
NJOHSP assesses that while the threat to New Jersey from ISIS remains low, homegrown violent extremists may draw inspiration from the foreign terrorist organization and could engage in violence, as developments in the Middle East continue to receive national media attention.
A coordinated investigative effort between the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office (BCPO), the Florence Township Police Department, and NJOHSP resulted in the successful prosecution and sentencing of a Virginia teenager with ties to ISIS. NJOHSP provided critical analysis and investigative support to assist BCPO in identifying the subject's radicalization and actions in support of terrorism.
On June 18, Fasihullah Safar, of Alexandria, Virginia, received an 18-year prison term for attempting to kill a Florence Township (Burlington County) police officer and assaulting two others in early 2025.
Safar, then 16-years old, intentionally struck a Florence Township Police Department patrol vehicle multiple times on March 21, 2025, while the officer was responding to a report of an overturned vehicle. After hitting the police car, Safar's vehicle became inoperable. Safar exited the vehicle and ran directly towards the officers on the scene, charging at them while swinging a knife. As a result, one officer was stabbed multiple times in the chest and suffered facial injuries, and two other officers sustained injuries.
"The successful resolution of this case underscores the critical importance of partnership and coordination among law enforcement agencies," said NJOHSP Director Thomas Hauck. "I want to recognize the dedicated work of our team and our colleagues at the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office, the Florence Township Police Department, and the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General. NJOHSP remains vigilant in detecting and thwarting terrorism-related threats statewide, and this investigation exemplifies our steadfast commitment to safeguarding all New Jersey communities"
Safar admitted following ISIS in the months before the incident and posting on social media his intent to join the group. He acknowledged screaming"Allahu akbar" during the attack and confirmed his intention was to promote terrorism by killing an officer.
A TOADally Legit Subscription Reminder
The NJCCIC has observed phishing attacks impersonating QuickBooks. The campaign uses the telephone-oriented attack delivery (TOAD) method, which is a social engineering tactic that persuades targets to call a specified phone number. The emails claim that a subscription renewal payment has failed and requests a call to update payment information on file. The attackers likely aim to obtain financial information, gain remote access to devices, or install malware.
The NJCCIC recommends that users confirm requests via verified, official sources. Users should also ensure that multi-factor authentication is enabled for all online accounts. If you suspect an account has been compromised, change its password immediately. Users who shared credit card information are advised to contact their banking institutions.
For more information, view the NJCCIC's latest alerts and advisories.
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Current Openings
Apply Now for NJOHSP and NJCCIC Fall Internship Programs
NJOHSP and NJCCIC are currently accepting applications for their paid, 12-week, in-person 2026 Fall Internship Programs for college and graduate students, which run from September 14 through December 4. Interns for both programs must be available Monday through Friday and are limited to no more than 21 hours per week. The last day to apply is July 24 at 4 p.m.
Analyst Trainee
NJOHSP has an opening for a full-time Analyst Trainee position assigned to the Information Technology Bureau within the Administration Division. The last day to apply is July 8 at 4 p.m.
To apply, visit NJOHSP's careers web page.
Administrative Analyst 3
NJOHSP has an opening for a full-time Administrative Analyst 3 (State Training and Exercise Coordinator) position assigned to the Training and Exercise Bureau within the Preparedness Division. The last day to apply is July 14 at 4 p.m.
To apply, visit NJOHSP's careers web page.
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