Paterson police have ramped up their patrols in response to a spike in gun violence in the city.

Authorities say that they have seized over 160 illegal guns this year – many coming into the state through Pennsylvania.

Police are also calling on the community to speak up if they see anything suspicious.

"I spoke to a mother last night on the phone in a community meeting that asked me if her son had a gun, what should she do. I gave her my personal cellphone number and told her if it was 3 a.m. call me. Because today's shooter becomes tomorrow's victim, or vice versa,” says public safety director Jerry Speziale.

Police say that specific teams will be created next year to help deal with the violence.