The New Jersey state troopers deployed to Baltimore to help respond to the riots that erupted following Freddie Gray's funeral will be staying even longer, state police say.
Gov. Chris Christie ordered an extension to the deployment of the 150 troopers and personnel to last through Tuesday, May 5. The state of Maryland is covering the costs of the deployment, state police say.
The deployment was made through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a mutual aid agreement.
New Jersey State Police first sent a team of commanding troopers to assess the situation in Baltimore, and they spoke with local authorities there to outline a logistical support plan, state police said.
State police then deployed 150 troopers to Baltimore Tuesday night.
Christie, who is considering a run for president, said Tuesday he spoke with Maryland's Republican Gov. Larry Hogan on Monday night to offer support and solidarity.Governors Association.
Chris Burgos, president of the New Jersey State Police Troopers Fraternal Association, criticized the deployment Tuesday as a "a political favor" by Christie.
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"This is a political play, and the safety of members comes second," he said. "This is a governor who wants to be president."
The governor's office had no comment on Burgos' statement.
-- Brian Thompson contributed to this report
