Robert Reldan: 6 Bergen County Neighborhoods That Banded Together During the Strangler's Reign

Communities Unite Against Terror

Robert Reldan, known as the Bergen County Strangler, terrorized New Jersey in the 1970s with a series of violent crimes. His actions sparked fear and uncertainty throughout the region, particularly in Bergen County where many of his offenses took place.

In response to the threat posed by Reldan, six neighborhoods in Bergen County united to protect their communities and support one another during this challenging time. This collective effort demonstrated the resilience and solidarity of local residents in the face of a dangerous predator, showcasing how communities can come together in times of crisis.

1) Ridgewood Community Patrol

In response to the Bergen County Strangler's crimes, Ridgewood residents took action to protect their community. Neighbors formed a volunteer patrol group to increase vigilance and deter criminal activity.

The Ridgewood Community Patrol consisted of local residents who took shifts monitoring streets and public areas. Volunteers drove marked vehicles and reported suspicious activities to law enforcement.

This grassroots effort helped residents feel more secure during a time of heightened fear. The patrol coordinated closely with the Ridgewood Police Department to enhance neighborhood safety.

Members underwent basic training in observation techniques and proper reporting procedures. Their presence served as extra eyes and ears for law enforcement in the area.

The community patrol exemplified how Ridgewood came together to face the threat posed by Robert Reldan. It demonstrated the power of collective action in fostering a sense of security and solidarity among neighbors.

2) Fort Lee Neighborhood Watch

Fort Lee residents took action in response to the threat posed by Robert Reldan. The community established a neighborhood watch program to increase vigilance and safety.

Volunteers patrolled the streets in shifts, keeping an eye out for suspicious activity. They reported any concerns to local law enforcement promptly.

The watch program organized regular meetings to share information and coordinate efforts. Residents were encouraged to install better lighting and security systems on their properties.

Neighbors looked out for one another, especially checking on those living alone or considered vulnerable. The community also distributed safety tips and held self-defense classes.

Fort Lee's neighborhood watch became a model for other Bergen County communities. It demonstrated how citizens could work together effectively to enhance public safety during a time of fear.

The program fostered a stronger sense of community in Fort Lee. It brought neighbors closer together as they united against a common threat.

3) Teaneck Safe Streets Initiative

The Teaneck Safe Streets Initiative emerged as a community-driven response to the heightened fear during Robert Reldan's crime spree. Residents of Teaneck, where Reldan had committed a rape in 1967, took proactive measures to enhance neighborhood safety.

Local volunteers organized nightly patrols, working in shifts to monitor streets and report suspicious activities. The initiative also focused on improving street lighting, with residents pushing for the installation of additional lamps in poorly lit areas.

Teaneck police supported the effort by increasing their presence and offering safety workshops. These sessions educated residents on personal security and home protection strategies.

The initiative encouraged neighbors to look out for one another, promoting a culture of vigilance and mutual support. Community members established phone trees to quickly disseminate important information and alerts.

Teaneck's Safe Streets Initiative served as a model for other Bergen County neighborhoods. Its success in fostering community engagement and cooperation with law enforcement demonstrated the power of collective action in crisis situations.

4) Hackensack United Front

Hackensack residents rallied together during Robert Reldan's string of crimes in Bergen County. The community formed a united front to protect its members and support law enforcement efforts.

Neighborhood watch programs expanded rapidly across Hackensack. Residents organized regular patrols and established communication networks to report suspicious activities promptly.

Local businesses contributed by extending their hours to provide safe spaces for people walking alone at night. Some shops offered free rides home to customers who felt unsafe traveling after dark.

Churches and community centers hosted self-defense classes and safety seminars. These events educated residents on personal protection strategies and how to identify potential threats.

The Hackensack Police Department worked closely with community leaders to address concerns and share updates. This collaboration fostered trust and encouraged residents to come forward with information.

Schools implemented new security measures and educated students about safety precautions. Parents formed carpools to ensure children were never left alone during commutes.

5) Englewood Block Captains Program

The Englewood Block Captains Program emerged as a community-driven response to the fear generated by Robert Reldan's crimes in Bergen County. Residents of Englewood took proactive steps to enhance neighborhood safety and vigilance.

Block captains were appointed for each street, serving as liaisons between neighbors and local law enforcement. These volunteers coordinated communication and organized neighborhood watch efforts.

The program encouraged residents to report suspicious activities and look out for one another. Block captains received training on recognizing potential threats and proper reporting procedures.

Regular meetings were held to share updates and discuss safety concerns. This fostered a sense of community and collective responsibility among Englewood residents.

The Block Captains Program also facilitated the distribution of safety information and tips to households. This included guidance on securing homes and staying alert while out in the community.

By promoting active citizen involvement, the Englewood Block Captains Program helped strengthen the neighborhood's resilience during a challenging time. It demonstrated the power of community solidarity in the face of danger.

6) Paramus Neighbors in Action

Paramus residents rallied together during Robert Reldan's crime spree in the 1970s. The community formed neighborhood watch groups to enhance safety and vigilance.

Local police worked closely with these citizen-led initiatives, providing guidance and support. Paramus neighbors organized regular meetings to share information and coordinate efforts.

Many households installed additional security measures, such as improved lighting and alarm systems. Residents also looked out for one another, reporting suspicious activities promptly.

The Paramus Mall, a popular shopping destination, became a focal point for community outreach. Safety awareness campaigns were conducted there, reaching a wide audience.

Local schools implemented safety programs, teaching children about personal security and stranger awareness. Parents and teachers collaborated to ensure students' safety during commutes.

The Paramus Neighbors in Action group emerged as a model for other Bergen County communities. Their proactive approach demonstrated the power of united citizens in combating crime.

Historical Context

Robert Reldan's crimes shook Bergen County in the 1970s, leaving a lasting impact on local communities. His actions prompted significant changes in neighborhood safety practices and community vigilance.

Overview Of Robert Reldan's Crimes

Robert Reldan, known as "The Charmer," committed a series of rapes and murders in Bergen County during the 1970s. He was convicted of raping and murdering two women, Susan Reeve and Susan Heynes, in 1975. Reldan's crimes were particularly shocking due to his outwardly friendly demeanor and ability to gain trust.

Prior to these murders, he had a history of sexual assaults and burglaries. His criminal activities spanned from the 1960s until his capture in the late 1970s. Reldan's pattern of targeting young women in suburban areas created widespread fear throughout Bergen County.

Impact On Bergen County

The Reldan case had a profound effect on Bergen County residents. Communities that once felt safe became hyper-vigilant. Neighbors began forming watch groups and implementing new security measures. Local police departments increased patrols and community outreach efforts.

Women in particular altered their daily routines, often avoiding going out alone. The crimes sparked discussions about personal safety and self-defense. Schools and community centers began offering safety awareness programs.

Media coverage of the case was extensive, keeping residents on high alert. The manhunt for Reldan became a top priority for law enforcement. His eventual capture and conviction brought relief but left a lasting legacy of caution in Bergen County.

Community Response

Bergen County residents mobilized swiftly to protect their neighborhoods during Robert Reldan's reign of terror. Their efforts focused on two key areas: organizing neighborhood watch groups and collaborating closely with local law enforcement.

Formation Of Neighborhood Watch Groups

Residents across Bergen County formed neighborhood watch groups to increase vigilance and safety. These groups organized regular patrols, often working in shifts to maintain a constant presence on the streets.

Members received training on how to spot suspicious activity and report it effectively. They distributed flyers with safety tips and emergency contact information to every household.

The watch groups also installed additional lighting in public spaces and encouraged residents to secure their homes properly. Many neighborhoods implemented a "buddy system" for women walking alone, ensuring no one was left vulnerable.

Role Of Local Law Enforcement

Bergen County law enforcement agencies played a crucial role in supporting community efforts. Police departments increased patrols in residential areas and established dedicated hotlines for reporting suspicious activities.

Officers conducted safety seminars in schools, community centers, and local businesses. They taught self-defense classes and provided guidance on home security measures.

Law enforcement also worked closely with neighborhood watch groups, offering training and resources. Regular meetings between police and community leaders fostered trust and improved information sharing.

Police departments implemented a rapid response system for emergency calls related to potential Reldan sightings. This heightened state of readiness reassured residents and deterred criminal activity.

Legacy And Lessons Learned

Robert Reldan's crimes left a lasting impact on Bergen County, prompting changes in community safety and shaping local attitudes for years to come.

Changes In Community Safety Measures

Reldan's reign of terror spurred significant upgrades to neighborhood security. Many communities installed improved street lighting and established neighborhood watch programs. Local police departments increased patrols and implemented new training protocols for handling violent crimes.

Bergen County authorities also enhanced their investigative techniques, incorporating more advanced forensic methods. This included better evidence collection procedures and increased collaboration between law enforcement agencies.

The case highlighted the importance of public awareness. Schools and community centers began offering self-defense classes and safety seminars. These programs taught residents how to recognize potential threats and report suspicious activities.

Ongoing Impact On Local Communities

Decades later, Reldan's crimes continue to influence Bergen County. Many residents still exercise heightened caution, especially when walking alone at night. Some neighborhoods maintain their watch programs, fostering a sense of community vigilance.

The case remains a somber reminder in local history. It's often discussed in schools as part of personal safety education. Some communities hold annual events to honor the victims and promote awareness of violent crime prevention.

Local law enforcement regularly reviews cold cases, applying new technologies to unsolved crimes. This practice, partly inspired by the Reldan case, has led to breakthroughs in other investigations.

The experience united Bergen County in unexpected ways. It sparked ongoing conversations about community safety and support systems for crime victims and their families.