Local law enforcement agencies in Essex County immediately contact the Prosecutor's Office whenever a vehicle incident occurs involving a fatality or serious bodily injury. Whenever possible, the Prosecutor's Office dispatches members of the Vehicular Homicide Unit to the scene, as to cooperate with local law enforcement to secure and preserve the immediate scene to prevent loss of evidence and to facilitate a thorough investigation. The Vehicular Homicide Unit then works closely with local law enforcement to analyze the circumstances, determine potential criminal liability for those involved, and prepare appropriate cases for presentation to the Grand Jury and further prosecution. The Vehicular Homicide Unit generally remains involved with each case through final disposition.

In 2005, there were 63 traffic fatalities in Essex County, the lowest level in nine years. That compares with 81 fatalities in 2004. The Vehicular Homicide Unit investigated each fatal incident, as well as 40 other collisions involving serious consequences. A total of 44 cases were presented to Grand Jury in 2005, with 17 billed or originated indictments returned. A total of 8 indicted cases were disposed of, all involving guilty pleas.