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ON THE COVER: Though strongly reminiscent of the style of the 17th Century master Velazquez, the painting reproduced on the cover is actually a detail of a larger canvas by an artist named Schuldt and depicts an 1878 New York City street scene - the corner of 4th Avenue and 15th Street to be exact. While the modern viewer may take issue with tile overly idealized image of the police officer presented (note that not only women and children, but horses as well, attentively wait upon the officer'S command), the artist has accurately portrayed the central function of the policeman of his day: the maintenance of a sufficient level of public order and control/a permit citizens to safely go about their daily business. Today, police officers are called upon to do much more. Nevertheless, the essence (if not the sentimentality) of the scene has no/ lost its meaning in the last 100 years - and that is that the police are an integral part of the everyday life of the community they serve. Arguably, one could not meaningfully exist without the other. This year's New York City Police Department Annual Report explores that bond and the various ways in which the department acted to strengthen it in 1985. \2-1 ~91

121491 u.s. Department of Justice National Institute of Justice

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Permission to reproduce this copyrighted material has been granted by New York Cjty- Police Departm~e~n~t~ ______to the National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS).

Further reproduction outside of the NCJRS system requires permis­ sion of the copyright owner. I NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT ANNU~L REPORT l!985

2 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR 3 MESSAGE FROM THE POLICE COMMISSIONER

5 OVERVIEW 7 Recent Trends in Major Crimes, Calls for Service and Personnel Levels

11 POLICING NEW YORK CITY IN 1985 - BACK TO THE FUTURE 14 "ON THE SIDEWALKS OF NEW YORK. .. " RECLAIMING THE STREETS FOR "STICKBALL" AND "RING-A-LEVIO" An Overview of Drug Enforcement Programs 19 "THE COPS PLAY 'RING AROUND THE ROSY' .. ," - AND OTHER STI{EET GAMES Programs to Improve the Quality of Urban Living 30 - AND "COPS AND ROBBERS" TOO Initiatives to Stop Habitual Criminals

37 BUTNOTTOOFARBACK 39 TECHNOLOGY BEYOND "TWO-WAY WRIST RADIOS" 43 PERSONNEL PROGRAMS FOR NOW AND THE FUTURE 48 REACHING OUT TO BUILD GREATER PUBLIC CONFIDENCE Initiatives to Strengthen Ties to the City's Diverse Communities 53 TIMELESS VIRTUES - DUTY, HONOR, SELFLESSNESS 55 ALL IN A DAY'S WORK Examples of the devotion to service during special events, acts of God and throughout the year

65 61 MISCELLANY MESSAGE FROM THE MA YOR

My Fellow New Yorkers: classrooms to teach children about the hazards of drug use. A particular­ This Annual Report of the New ly spectacular achievement during York City Police Department brings 1985 was the Police Department's good news to all New Yorkers. . campaign to close "smoke shops", We can all be proud that our Police legal premises where illegal drugs are Department is continuing to regain sold - the fact that 549 of the 568 its strength. As a result of the City's identified smokeshops were closed or fiscal crisis in the mid 1970s, the rendered inactive during 1985 is a department had fallen to a level of singular accomplishment that makes 21,800 uniformed officers, thirty per­ a real difference to our City's cent below the 1974 peak of 30,600 neighborhoods . .~ officers. Thanks to the City's econom- For the theme of this Annual 5' ic recovery, the department has been Report, the department decided to ~ able to steadily add to its numbers so emphasize the relationship between .~ that by the end of 1985 we h?d its present initiatives and its proud reached the level of 26,000 officers, a i tradition. Indeed, programs such as total increase of four thousand police the Community Patrol Officer Pro­ officers over four years. In addition, gram are reminiscent of earlier days the department has continued to add when the neighborhood cop was a to the ranks of its civilian employees. visible and effective presence. Since 1980 the department has hired Similarly, the commemoration of the "W i th its renewed 1,900 civilians, many of whom have United Nations fortieth anniversary freed police officers to return to strength the Police reminds us that this City has a tradi­ patrol duties. Department has tion as an international crossroads With its renewed strength, the and a meeting place for people of all re-affirmed its sense Police Department has reaffirmed its nations. That the UN celebration pro­ of mission and its sense of mission and its preeminence ceeded without incident in this . as an innovative leader in the Ameri­ modern era of terrorist threats is a tri­ preemlnence as an can law enforcement community. bute to the fine work of the Police Under the leadership of Police Com­ Department. innovative leader in missioner Benjamin Ward, the New Throughout its history, this proud, York City Police Department has em­ vibrant, and indefatigable City has the A1nerican law barked on several successful and im­ always known that when we needed portant initiatives. Operation Pres­ en forcemen t their help, the police were there. This sure Point has dramatically reduced Annual Report for 1985 confirms community. " the drug dealing on the Lower East that our Police Department, with its Side and has contributed to that com­ renewed strength and vigor, con­ munity's resurgence. Through the tinues that tradition of service. On Community Patrol Officer Program, behalf of all New Yorkers and all citi­ New York's neighborhoods have wit­ zens of other cities, states and coun­ nessed the return of the cop on the tries who visit New York, I extend EDWARD 1. KOCH beat. SPECDA, the School Program our thanks for a job well done. Mayor to Educate and Control Drug Abuse, has significantly reduced the drug selling activities near our schools and has brought police officers into the

2 MESSAGE FROM THE POLICE COMMISSIONER

I am proud to introduce this 1985 Two examples of programs that Annual Report of the New York City seek to bridge the gap between the Police Department. The Annual community and the police ~re the Report describes that year's accom­ Community Patrol Officer Program plishments and initiatives. The Police and the School Program to Educate Department is aggressively working and Control Drug Abuse (SPECDA). to restore order and safety to the The Community Patrol Officer Pro­ streets, residences, and businesses in gram returns the foot cop to the com­ New York City. We have gone "back munity to work with citizens and to the future" by remodeling tradi­ community groups in a coordinated tional methods of policing to meet attack on crime. Officers are assigned today's tough law enforcement to a steady post of nine to twelve challenges. square blocks. In addition to making arrests and using traditional methods This report will highlight some of for crime fighting, officers meet with the 1985 programs that demonstrate store owners and residents, organize our commitment to return the streets block associations and youth groups, to the law-abiding public. We have and meet with the elderly to teach continued to crack down on illegal crime prevention techniques and to smoke shops and gambling parlors. understand the community they We expanded a major offensive to serve. "Today, the erradicate the open air drug markets in the 103rd Precinct in Queens, the SPECDA is a joint program with New York City Police 46th and 52nd Precincts in the the Board of Education to eliminate Bronx, and the 13th Precinct in Man­ the sale of drugs in the vicinity of Department stands at hattan. This effort began in 1984 New York City schools while simul­ a crossroads ... we with Operation Pressure Point on the taneously providing school age child­ Lower,East Side and Central Harlem. ren with an awareness of the hazards have an opportunity of drug abuse. Children subject to the In several categories, crime rates pressures to experiment with drugs to re-defi ne the nature fell in 1985. Murder was down 5% are better able to resist that tempta­ from 1984, Burglary down 3%, and tion if police reduce the opportunities of policing ... 1/ Motor Vehicle Theft fell by 10%. available to them by arresting drug pushers. Children are also better able Today, the New York City Police to resist if they are encouraged to say Department stands at a crossroads. "No" when that temptation presents As we rebuild our uniformed itself. The common goal uniting the strength, we now have an opportuni­ two programs, in addition to other ty to redefine the nature of policing police initiatives, is the empower­ 1~~4U in New York City. The future of ment of individuals and organiza­ l BENJAMIN WARD policing becomes clear once we have tions to carry out their intended func­ Police Commissioner understood and learned from the tions without fear of crime. The past. In my opinion, the primary Police Department is not only the lesson of our past is that we have government agency most directly re­ grown too distant from the com­ sponsible for fighting, detecting and munity we serve. This distance be­ deterring crime, we are also a catalyt­ tween police officers and the com­ ic agent, helping communities share munity hampers us in our crime pre­ responsibility for their own security vention mission. and well-being.

3 Message from the Police Commissioner

In order to establIsh a proactive ap­ making arrests is not enough to fight see that they take advantage of ap­ proach to law enforcement and order crime. Accordingly, working with propriate services. maintenance problems, the Police the Victim Services Agency, we have I am pleased to report that we are Department has implemented an ag­ undertaken a three-precinct demon­ building a strong future for New gressive, systematic approach to stration program, providing counsel­ Yorkers. The Department and the crime reduction. At the same time as ing service to families in need. The City made progress in 1985. With the we focus our energies on major police officer member of the NYPD­ ongoing support of New York's citi­ crimes, we are addressing the impor­ VSA team reinforces the depart­ zens, we can continue to fulfill our tant 11 quality of life" offenses that ment's policy that serious family viol­ mission to shape and secure a safe threaten our communities and are ence will result in an arrest. The city for aU of us to enjoy. detrimental to our youth. As we look Victim Services Agency member of back into the Police Department's the team works with the family mem­ past, we have also learned that bers, batterers as well as victims, to

4

Top: Police officers of the 75th Precinct, 1904

Left: Former police headquarters, circa, 1937

Right: Battery pow/'red "Paddy wagon", circa 1901

Bottom: Newly appointed probationary patrolmen, March 1936 o

OVERVIEW

Statistical comparisons can be cold, Murder and Non-Negligent Reported Robbery, N.Y.C. sometimes unreflective of changed Manslaughter, N.Y.C. Thousands realities, occasionally misleading - 2000 ,------, and are invariably the yardstick 1826 against which year-to-year police 1600 166sl--r:'.=22r------l 1450 performance is traditionally mea­ 1200 \384 sured by the general public. Despite the shortcomings of such compari­ 800 sons, they serve a valuable purpose. 400 They are tangible reflections of ac­ complishments or failings and pro­ 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1981 1982 1983 ,984 1985 vide the frame of reference necessary for an understanding of the nature and extent of the police mission. In keeping with this concept, a brief statistical overview of reported crime, calls for service, and Police Reported Motor Vehicle Theft, Reported Burglary, N.Y.C. Department staffing in New York N.Y.C. City during 1985 is presented below. Thousands Thousands 120 250

101.( 1047 96 CRIME TRENDS 200 205 B 927 885 1728 0 As 1985 drew to a close it was evi­ 72 79' 150 1437 !t/: dent that the downward trend in 1287 1248 '8 100 reported crime which began in 1982 24 50 had been interrupted, but just barely. rj" Total Federal Bureau of Investigation Uniformed Crime Reporting Index 1981 1982 1983 1984 '!985 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 crimes recorded for New York City in 1985 rose a scant 0.2% over 1984. Forcible Rape (up 1%), Aggravated Assault (up 6%) and Larceny Theft (up 5%) Were responsible for the marginal overall increase, while Total U.C.R. Index Crimes Per 100,000 Population Homicide (down 5%), Burglary Year End 1985 (down 3%) and Motor Vehicle Theft .Thousands (down 10%) continued to decline. 15 '. Robberies remained at virtually the -13.2 i3.i . 12 ~r,;:- same level in 1985 as was recorded in I-- " 12 1984. But, unsettlingly, the second c\ h_';;O:; r,;' r- half of 1985 (July-December) wit­ 9 t-- t--- t-- . t--' I-- •. 5 t--- •. , ... --- ..' r- r- r- nessed a 4% increase in FBI Index ..• ... M .., crimes in the City. 6 I- r--J' t-- t-- I-- I-- I-- t-- r- r-- I-- f-,- I-- ~

iI Nevertheless, while the long-term .....:.;... 3 l- I-- t-- t-- r- I-- I-- t-- r- r-- I~ f-,- I-- trend developed since 1981 has been . interrupted for some crimes, other o categories continued to record signifi­ Deltoll O.Ua. BoaU11 BoSion DenYlr San POD.nlx Lo,' ClllcaQO Mo."ptll. HOUlton \.. ti." Jacklonvllfa Nlw cant reductions in 1985. Since 1981, Antonio Moelet Orl,,", York

7 Overview

Murder and Non-Negligent Man­ slaughter have fallen 24%, Burglary has declined by 39% and Motor Vehi­ cle Theft is down 24%. Reported Rob­ 911 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATOR,S c beries in 1985 remained 26% below, 1984 1985 % Change 1981 levels. Overall, New York City Average Dispatch Time: improved its ranking in reported FBI Crimes in Progress 2.7.Min. 2.8 Min. +3.7% Index Crime among the nation's 25 Recorded Alarms 17.7 Min. 20.11 Min. +13.6% largest cities by falling from 11th to Others SA Min. 5.7 Min. +5.6% 14th place, according to Department of Justice statistics compiled for 1985. Average Service Time 31.2 Min. 31.1 Min. -0.3% (See charts on page 7). Backlogs 418 453 +8.4%

CALLS FOR SERVICE In 1984, the New York City Police Department received 6,078,704 calls for assistance over the 911 emergency response system which resulted in 3,411,158 actual dispatches of police Calls for Service and Dispatches, units. In 1985, these totals were N.Y.P.D. 6,518,435 (an increase of 7.2%) and 3,626,195 dispatches (an increase of Millions 6.3%), respectively. 7.0 .--- r-- The present 911 emergency system 6.5 6.5 "'6.1 was introduced in the latter part of 5.6 I-- ~----~~ ~------~ 1968. In its first full year of operation (1969), the number of calls for assis­ tance was 6,495,268, virtually the 4.2 r- same number of calls received in ~ r----:- ··~.8. 1985. However, the number of actual 2.8 --- ,3,. 1------1 . ,,<0;'--- dispatches has gone from 2,490,911 .... in 1969 to the aforementioned .'~ 3,626,195, an increase of 45.6%. 1.4 - !'.;,. - f."

•...... " PERSONNEL LEVELS o i.'.'" '.' •••..••. In 1985, total New York Police 1969 1984 1985 Department uniformed personnel staffing increased by 919 officers Calls Dispatches (from 24,776 in 1984 to 25,695 by o December 31,1985). The depart­ ment's immediate goal is a return to its pre-fiscal crisis strength of 30,600 at the earliest possible time consonant with the City's budgetary ability to support this continued rebuilding. As it is, the 1985 uniformed staffing

8 Overview

N.V.P,D. Staffing by Rank level represents an increase of 3,886 officers from the post-fiscal crisis • 12/31/85 low-point of 21,809 police officers reached in January 1982. P.O. 59.8% (18,993) In July of 1985 the department, with the concurrence of the City's managers, instituted an ambitious Middle Management Supervisory Plan to ensure an accountable, rank­ Det. 8.4% (2,659) ing presence beyond the first-line su­ pervisor level at all times in police field commands. Quotas for captain and lieutenant were increased by Sgt. 7.8% (2,463) 19% and 12%, respectively. These in­ creases permitted af)signment of two Lt. 3.5% (1,111) captains to each of the City's 75 pre­ Captain & Above 1.5% (469) cincts (as Commanding and Execu­ tive Officers). They also provided a Civilian 19% (6,042) sufficient number of captains for in­ termediate overhead command levels to ensure the availability of a high ranking member of the service for im­ mediate response to major incidents around the clock. The lieutenant increases provided the department with the requisite number of middle managers to allow it to mandate that every precinct staff the positions of Operations Coor­ dinator, Integrity Control Officer, Desk Officer, and in especially active precincts a Special Conditions Offi­ cer, with supervisors whose rank is appropriate to the demands and ac­ countability of these functions. Simultaneously, and somewhat in­ congruously, the department was ex­ periencing a severe shortage of ser­ geants. Due to litigation involving the promotional list for this rank, the department was unable to promote. At the beginning of the year, a short­ age of 137 sergeants existed; by Federal litigation int'91ving tlte results of tlte promotional test for tlte rank of sergeant caused a severe sltortage of first line supervisors during 1985, So severe, tltat in November tile court permitted tlte August, this number had increased promotioll of 562 police officers to tlte rallk of Provisiollal Sergeant pending tile outcome of the legal to more than 500 vacancies. This proceedings. caused the department to curtail some local programs (such as the

9 .

Overview

Robbery Identification Program and Precinct civilian-clothed Anti-Crime patrols) and temporarily reassign their sergeants to uniformed patrol. Despite these stopgaps, by September the number of sergeant vacancies reached 856 (fully 30% below author­ ized strength), necessitating an over­ time program to backfill precinct ser­ geant vacancies. Fortunately, in November 1985, some relief came to the department in the form of a judi­ cial ruling that provisional (non-civil servke) promotions could be made while the court action continued. That month the department was able to promote 562 police officers to the rank of Provisional Sergeant pur­ suant to this decision of the federal courts. Regarding civilian employees, during 1985 the department in­ creased their number by 194 (from 5,848 to 6,042), as a result of an ag­ gressive civilian hiring program. Since 1980, the department has grown by more than 5,000 police offi­ cers, with the civilian complement in­ creased by about 1,900 employees,

almost 1,800 for 1/ civilianization" re­ placement purposes, i.e., replacing a

police officer doing a so-called 1/ desk job." The department has numerous The department's need for young, energetic recruits is constallf. Here is a graduating class in 1940 at the new positions that require the assign­ old World Fair's site. ment of civilians due to its recent ex­ pansion. These range from semi­ skilled to professional; from horse­ shoer to psychologist and manager. In 1986, the department will aggres­ sively pursue both of these programs {Civilianization and Civilian Critical Needs} in order to maximize the ef­ fectiv~ness of both its uniformed and civilian members.

10

MCNY

Top: June, 1947

Left: "Roundsman ", ci rca 1693

Right: Police captains, 1856

Bottom: Police plainclothesmen, circa 1891 POLICING NEW YORK CITY IN 1985 - BACK TO THE FUTURE

Wistful remembrances of things past, which conveniently minimize or overlook altogether the disagree­ able, are part and parcel of our con­ sciousness. Such selective amnesia fosters an overly romanticized view of earlier times, which often mani­ fests itself as a generalized longing for the "good old days". But, upon closer examination of actual condi­ tions (poor medical care, lack of indoor plumbing, no rural electrifica­ tion, long hours/low pay, etc.) even the most nostalgic person would be loathe to willingly return to those dis­ tant yesterdays. Yet, some fondly recalled practices of old, including law enforcement strategies, have been found to have enduring value. The New York City Police Department, for example, has rediscovered that face-to-face police - citizen interaction achieved through increased foot patrols, pays dividends in the quality of police service not at­ tainable via the response oriented, but anonymous, mobile patrol modes. In recent years the depart­ ment has also come to attach more importance to the "old-fashioned" concept of the police as an integral part of community life, positively in­ teracting with - as opposed to react­ ing to - the community they serve. These reawakenings, and other in­ stances of finding new inspiration in past-proven ideas, constitute the theme and highlights of the 1985 edi­ tion of the New York City Police Department's Annual Report.

The use of the automobile for patrol has resulted in faster police response but at the cost of reduced police - citizen interaction. Above: Police vehicle, circa 1910.

13 Back to the Future

NARCOTICS ENFORCEMENT vision, in particular, met its spear­ head responsibilities in this area in a nOn the Sidewalks of Narcotics enforcement is a top pri­ more than satisfactory fashion, to ority of the NYPD at all levels, from New York ... " which the following statistics bear precinct uniformed patrols and spe­ witness: the Narcotics Division ef­ Reclaiming the Streets cial plain-clothed units up to the fected 8% more drug-related arrests, for nStickball" and Joint Narcotics Enforcement Task 32% more cocaine arrests (seizing Force - comprised of city, state and URing-A-Levio" 47% more cocaine in the process) and federal drug investigators - and at confiscated 90% more cash (over $3 all command echelons in between. In million) than it did in 1984. The easy availability of illegal 1985, the department's Narcotics Di- drugs in our society is neither new nor unique to New York City. The widespread use of morphine as a pain-killer during and following the Civil War in this country, and the Crimean and Franco-Prussian Wars in Europe, created a drug addict population in America and Europe during the last quarter of the 19th Century which would rival the epidemic raging today (even the great, if fictional, Sherlock Holmes was not immune to the drug culture of his day). In 1975, New York City faced a fiscal crisis of such magnitude even municipal bankruptcy was not out of the question. All City services were drastically cut back and a five year A modem drug trafficker's travel kit: neatly wrapped packets of drugs, a scale, lots of nicely sorted cash, a policy of retrenchment through attri­ passport from the tropics, a .45 calibre automatic for dealing with unfriendly natives, and a walkie-talkie tion implemented. By 1982, the to keep in i-ouch with friends. NYPD had lost over 30% of its uni­ formed manpower (9,800 officers). To cope with the situation, the department altered strategies and tac­ tics not only in daily patrol opera­ tions, but also in narcotic enforce­ ment. Emphasis was redirected toward arresting major suppliers at the expense of low-level street corner interdiction. With the return of New York City to fiscal soundness, the department hired additional police officers beginning in 1982 and con­ cerns too long neglected due to en­ forced austerity once more began to The department has long been active ill narcotics enforcement. This 1924 photograph shows Police Commissioner Richard E. Ewright and Special Deputy Commissioner D. Carleton Simon amidst the receive the attention they deserved. results of 2, 732 arrests during that year: 1,516 parcels of narcotics worth $2,500,000.

14 Back to the Future

OPERATION PRESSURE POINT 22nd St. --. , , , , I I , I t::J c::J The specialized and dedicated ui , , 21st St. , '>' I I ~ 7'<\. , ' ~ C t:::l a resources of the Narcotics Division <1: the majority, of NYPD personnel spe­ ! , , , ui ~ \ ~=n~ L::' ~~ r--Iui • ui ui 18th St. cifically engaged in the battle against ~ I • ~ I --, ~,---.., C""1 - ~~ J: J: 17th St. J: illegal drugs. On January 19, 1984, ~ ~ ~, , , I- to I Lt> ~ ~~ the department undertook a major 16th St. UNIONn SQ. campaign to "retake" the streets of lr ~15th St. ~ certain victimized neighborhoods U ==~ ~ from the drug dealers. The Lower 14TH St. East Side of Manhattan, known as L.-...I .~ '&.. '-l . Q-s> 13th St. "Alphabet City" because of the alpha­ , , I I c:::::J C t 'Q~, :J 12th St. betical designation of its avenues, a~'''= I i I I was targeted and the campaign ~ ~01t~~ 11th St. c:::J t::l \ Wt:::I c::::::J a::::=l tll t::::] dubbed Operation Pressure Point. .. ~::?~~ "- ~ I I Operation Pressure Point saturated OperatIon Pressure Poznt III enforcement activities focus on 14th Street and Union Square Park. the area with a centrally coordinated uniformed and undercover police program levels. This single statistic Operation Pressure Point III attests to both the effectiveness of the presence, including foot patrols, On January 10,1985 another loca­ mounted officers, helicopter surveil­ Pressure Point initiative and the per­ vasively destructive influence of tion plagued by flagrant drug selling, lance, and drug-sniffing dogs. Other the 14th Street/Union Square Park agencies, including the Transit drugs upon a community (exposing the lie that drug abuse hurts mainly area, was brought under the Pressure Police, Housing Police and the Drug Point enforcement umbrella. The Enforcement Admini.stration's Joint the abusers themselves and does not injure the larger society to such a drug traffickers in and around Union Narcotics Task Force also partici­ Square Park had grown so bold that pated. During 1984, the department degree to warrant severe penalties or extraordinary efforts to eradicate it). area residents and passers-by were made over 11,000 arrests in the target constantly importuned by hawkers area (80% for drug violations), seized Operation Pressure Point II of drugs of all kinds. Using the same property valued at over $3,000,000, successful tactics previously em­ The success of Operation Pressure and issued 45,000 summonses. By the ployed in Pressure Point I and II, Point spawned, in March 1984, a end of 1985, these numbers had risen cleansing of the area of criminal drug second program in Central Harlem. to some 17,000 arrests (83% for drug activity began on 1/10/85. By year's Similar tactics were applied with violations), over $4,500,000 worth of end, over 1,500 arrests had been equally good results. By the end of property seized, and almost 83,000 made (70% drug - related), almost 1985, this operation had effected ap­ summonses issued. Local support for 7,900 summonses issued, and a great proximately 17,800 arrests (55% drug Pressure Point has been so favorable improvement in public safety in the related), seized property valued at that in 1985 citizens called in over area had been effected. 5,500 telephone tips reporting sus­ over $1,600,000, and issued over pected drug activity in the area. 118,000 summonses. As was the case in Operation Pressure Point I (as it is A positive by-product of Operation now known), the institution of Pres­ Pressure Point's success in suppress­ sure Point II had a salutary effect on ing flagrant drug activity was a serious crime in its target area, e.g., dramatic decrease in serious crime robbery fell by 39% in 1984 and de­ on the Lower East Side. For example, clined an additional 11 % in 1985. 1985 reported robberies are down 37% in the target area from pre-

15 Back to the Future

BRONX ANTI-NARCOTICS DRIVE (B.A.N .D.) In 1985, Manhattan was not the only borough to benefit from Opera­ tion Pressure Point-type attention. In June, the Police Department began a saturation-style drug enforcement program in the Bronx, christened the Bronx Anti-Narcotics Drive (B.A.N.D.). Utilizing the methods so successful in prior operations, B.A.N.D. effected 2,250 arrests (84% drug-related), seized over $1,000,000 in property, and gave out over 18,500 summonses during its 7 months of existence in 1985.

In this view of Union Sqllare Park, site of Operation Pressure Point III, the equestrian statile of George Washington appears to be bestowing its official blessing to the revitalization that has taken place in the The Bronx area in the wake of the targeted anti-drug campaign.

52nd Pet. § ~

In 1985, the Bronx also benefitted from· an Operation Pressllre Point-type program - Operation BAND - which targeted the 46th and Patrolling the perimeterofn park: 1909-traffic enforcementi 1986- drug enforcement. 52nd Precincts.

16 Back to the Future

~ERATlDN kr*t ~lJ.lfqrt

103rd Pet. - , \

Brooklyn -'I, ~:'~'~~~': 1 Mile A member of the Operation BAND program sorts and counts packets of seized suspected narcotics prior to Operation Clean-Up is concentrated within the sending them to the department's Police Laboratory for chemical analysis. 103rd Precinct, Queens OPERA TION CLEAN-UP Meanwhile, in the Borough of Queens in September 1985, the department implemented Operation Clean-Up (Coordinated Law Enforce­ ment Against Narcotics and Urban Prostitution) not only to eradicate the local drug trafficking condition, but with the added mandate to sup­ press a chronic prostitution problem in South Jamaica. Using undercover Narcotics Division and Public Morals teams, in conjunction with highly visible uniformed patrols as well as Mounted and Canine Units, this operation accounted for over 800 arrests (42% drug-related and 30% for prostitution offenses) and 8,000 summonses during the remainder of the year.

Drug dealing is an egalitarian industry. It will serve all socio-economic levels and co-exist with other chronic criminal conditions. III the case of Operation Cleanup, in Queens, the enforcement concentrates on both an entrenched prostitution problem and a growing sidewalk narcotics trade.

17 Back to the Future

SPECIAL NARCOTICS offenses, resulting in criminal convic­ the department implemented similar ABATEMENT PROGRAM tions, have occurred within the programs in Washington Square and (SNAP) twelve month period prior to com­ Bryant Parks in July and October, re­ mencement of the proceeding. In ad­ spectively. These efforts, since incep­ Obviously, the department is dition, in order to indicate that the tion, have resulted in 318 narcotic ar­ aware that not all illicit drug activity illegal activity is continuing, an addi­ rests and 1,470 narcotic summonses occurs outdoors. To address the prob­ tional arrest must be made within in Central Park; 946 narcotic arrests lem of seemingly legitimate storefront thirty (30) days prior to commencing and 1,710 narcotic summonses in enterprises which are actually fronts the proceeding. To put the owner of Washington Square Park; and 264 for illegal drug dealing, and the use the real property on notice that his or narcotic arrests and 155 narcotic of abandoned buildings for the her premises are being used for illegal summonses in Bryant Park. Simply organized sale of narcotics, the purposes, the department mails a put, the parks of New York City are department initiated the highly suc­ Notice of Violation whenever an not sanctuaries for drug selling or cessful Operation Closedown in arrest is effected at a location under drug use and the NYPD is determined 1984. Such police operations demand the owner's control. to ensure that this understanding large initial manpower commitments. continues into the future. But, once control of the area has been To date, the department has mailed re-established, it is possible by the more than 3,400 Notices of Violations judicious application of reduced fo the owners of 655 buildings. Even CANINE DRUG DETECTION resources to maintain order. The more impressive is the fact that in PROGRAM department phased in the Special 1985 over 97% of all identified The New York City Police Depart­ Narcotics Abatement Program "smoke shop" premises (549 out of ment is willing to accept assistance (SNAP) during May 1984 to perform 568), citywide, had been padlocked, from anyone in its fight against this function as the more resource­ inactivated or stabilized in accor­ narcotics, even if that assistant hap­ demanding Closedown operations dance with the provisions of this law. pens to hav,_ a tail, four feet and a wet were gradually withdrawn after nose. As thorough as police officers achieving their purpose. This PARKS PROGRAM may be in searching premises for precinct-based program involves uni­ narcotics, human senses have their formed personnel, along with New York's parks are pastoral limitations. To find well concealed Narcotic Division undercover offi­ oases for citizens and visitors alike, stashes of narcotics, the NYPD in cers, in "buy and bust" operations on who seek respite from the City's 1984 created a canine unit within the a continuing basis. By the end of hustle and bustle and steel and con­ Narcotics Division to uncover such 1985, this program led to a total of crete. Some New Yorkers use the hidden caches. An immediate success, 2,800 arrests. parks as surrogate vacationlands, the Canine Drug Detection Program while others spend their coffee and was doubled in size to four handlet/­ meal breaks there. However, it is a PADLOCK LAW PROGRAM dog teams in 1985. The teams are sad fact of urban life that drug push­ used to assist in executing premises NYPD combats drug-dealing civil­ ers also frequent parks and that not search warrants and for open field ly as well as criminally. On Septem­ all lunch-hour diners confine their searches. To date, this program has ber 10, 1984, the "Police Padlock appetites to food and drink. resulted in seizures of drugs and con­ Law" became effective. This legisla­ Therefore, in June 1985, the NYPD traband with an estimated "street tion authorizes the Police Commis­ initiated a drug abatement program value" exceeding $11 million, not to sioner, after notice and a hearing, to in Central Park, Frederick Law mention the recovery of almost order that a premises be closed for up Olmsted's tranquil legacy to the $500,000 in cash (a sound financial to one year when there has been a people of New York. Highly visible investment considering the $10,000 pattern of criminal activity. A hearing uniformed patrol served to check training costs for each detection may be commenced when two or open drug trafficking. Subsequently, team). more violations for public nuisance

18 Back to the Future

or by hiring a "private detective" SCHOOL PROGRAM TO EDUCATE liThe Cops Play (often ex-criminals themselves), AND CONTROL DRUG ABUSE 'Ring-Around-the- apply to court for a warrant charging (SPECDA) the suspect with the crime, and then R osy ' ... " hire his own lawyer to prosecute the The New York City Police Depart­ case. ment and Board of Education have - And Other Street Games cooperatively mounted a comprehen­ sive program to eliminate the ready­ While this rugged individualistic availability of illegal drugs in the im­ From the earliest days of the form of justice may have suited a mediate vicinity of New York City Republic, the chief function of the frontier society, its day is clearly past. schools, while simultaneously police was envisioned to be that of But even so, the last century's idea of providing school-age children with maintaining a reasonable expectation the police as upholders of community an awareness of the hazards of drug of public orderliness. At that time, norms and informal rules of conduct abuse. Operation SPECDA (School solving crime was viewed as the pri­ (in effect, as guardians of community Program to Educate and Control vate responsibility of the person standards) has continued to today. Drug Abuse) employs a two-track ap­ wronged. In fact, the entire concept And, in 1985 the New York City proach in pursuit of its goal. Track I, of crime as being an offense against Police Department, within the larger enforcement, began September 20, lithe sovereign people of the state" context of our democratic guarantees, 1984, with the reopening of schools did not gain popular acceptance until took a new look at the role of police for the 1984/85 academic year and the mid-19th Century. Prior to that, a as partners with the community in entails: citizen had to identify the criminal identifying and addressing legitimate himself, either by individual inquiry public safety concerns. aggressive, targeted "buy­ and-bust" operations by under­ cover Narcotics Division offi­ cers assigned to the perimeter of designated schools (public, private, parochial). the closure of all so-called "smoke shops" doing business within a 2-block radius of schools in the target area. heightened mobile uniformed presence (scooters and marked "School Car" vehicles) in the wake of undercover arrests to block the reemergence of overt drug activity. In 1985, SPECDA's enforcement effort resulted in 4,832 drug-related arrests in the vicinity of City schools. Since the program's inception, over 7,150 such arrests have been effected near the 335 neighborhood schools targeted, 62% in the vicinity of ele­ In 1985, the Narcotics Division doubled its number of Canine Drug Detection teams from .two to four. As mentary schools. To date, only 4% of shown here, the specially trained dogs assist ill executing premise search warrants illvolvmg drugs; and they do their job very well, being responsible for the seizure of contraband with a "street vallie" of more thrill $11 million in 1985.

19 Back to the Future

those arrested have proven to be stu­ dents; in fact, 78% were over twenty years of age. These statistics underscore the need for a vigorous school-related drug enforcement program. Omi­ nously, they also indicate to whom our modern "merchants of death" are looking for their future victims - hence, the department created SPECDA Track II, the educational component. In 1985, the department, in partnership with the Board of Edu­ cation, committed itself to an inten­ Kids are naturally inquisitive and SPECDA, a joint undertaking of the NYPD and the Board of sive educational campaign, primarily Education, attempts to satisfy their curiosity about drug abuse with factual information before they reach the age of experimentation. aimed at pre-teens, to provide factual information on the dangers of drug abuse to youngsters just beginning to come into conscious contact with the street drug culture. SPECDA also reaches out to the broader school population with an Assembly Pro­ gram geared to older students. The Educational Trac;k of SPECDA began February 4,1985. Specially selected and trained police officers, racially and ethnically reflective of the City's school population, were teamed with school drug counselors to provide 5th and 6th graders with 16 sessions, covering two academic years. Eight consecutive weekly lessons are given in the 5th grade fol­ lowed by eight sessions in the 6th grade of classroom instruction on the physical, social, and economic dan­ gers of substance abuse. The purpose is to permit young people to form accurate perceptions and build the foundation for an open and construc­ tive dialogue between the police and school authorities and adolescents on this subject. ~ The program targeted students in grades 5 and 6 for this effort because Historically, the Police Department has had a close, positive working relationship with the Board of Edllcatioll. Here a Police Officer instructs children in traffic safety; and the Dean of the Police Academy at that age they start to form their addresses a group of teachers ill tile physical alld moral welfare of the child, circa, 1930. attitudes toward drugs and first face

20 Back to the Future

the conflicting pressures regarding pre- and post-test interviews of com­ that elicits appropriate police re­ drug abuse. The "Elementary School parison and control groups, as well sponses. To turn this concept into a Education Program" provides child­ as classroom observations, to deter­ reality meant re-assigning significant ren with scenarios to resist the temp­ mine the effectiveness of the Elemim­ n um bers of police officers to "foot. tation to participate in drug activity tary School Educational Program patrol", an old-fashioned idea emi­ and strategies to say "NO!" and the Assembly Educational Pro­ nently suited to these goals. gram. In a brief statement summing The program encompasses seven up their findings, the evaluators said During the period of fiscal crisis, of New York City's 32 school dis­ "SPECDA appears to be a program the department was forced to make tricts, utilizing a total of 21 teams, delivered at the right time, in the less do more. Reduced manpower comprised of males and females. The right place, to the right people." demand.ed programs that placed an actual instruction is given by the overriding emphasis on providing as police/counselor team, but the stu­ THE TOTAL PATROL CONCEPT much service as possible - as quickly dents' regular teacher is present and (TOPAC) as possible - and resulted in the encouraged to participate. Prior to virtual elimination of foot patrol. The entering the classroom, each team is The Total Patrol Concept is a con­ neighborhood "cop on the beat" provided five weeks of training by scious attempt to bridge the gap be­ passed from the scene. the school system's Division of Curri­ tween police officers and the mem­ culum and Development. In addition, bers of the community they serve. TOPAC became a viable idea when there is an evening workshop pro­ TOPAC fosters the empathy with the department began to rebuild. It gram for parents, led by the same local concerns, fears and problems started with the development of instructors who teach the children. These workshops provide parents with information about drug abuse, inform them about the educational program attended by their children, and seek to solicit parental help in reinforcing the SPECDA message. An additional component of SPECDA is the Assembly Program, to address groups of students on the dangers of drug abuse in the 25 school districts not receiving the 16 week lesson plan. The program is grade-specific, i.e., elementary, junior high, and high school students each receive separate scenarios. The Assembly Teams counsel large groups of students on drug abuse, the difficulties in resisting peer pres­ sure, and positive alternatives, via a multimedia presentation. The Criminal Justice Center at John Jay College recently conducted a qualitative and quantitative evalua­ tion of the SPECDA Program. The evaluation which was funded by a As this turn of the century photograph illustrates, an officer on foot patrol is in a unique position to private foundation, included both provide assistance to Ihe public; TOPAC is based upon this fundamental concept.

21 Back to the Future

computer programs that permitted .the department to approximate its 24-hour 911 emergency response needs. This in turn, allowed it to in­ stitute an adjustable "cap" on the number of Radio Motor Patrol Cars fielded at any particular time, with available officers beyond this need detailed to other patrol functions. This was accomplished via imple­ mentation of procedures such as the Expediter/Response Program, where­ by low priority calls are transferred by computer to the local precinct where an operator at a terminal han­ dles the incident by telephone if no police presence is required, or assigns a local resource (foot patrol, scooter, or a designated Response Car). Similarly, the department introduced an Alarm Program to reduce the workload on the 911 emergency re­ sponse radio cars. In the past, the department responded to all reports of tripped premises security alarms, many of which were caused by faulty devices; and faulty devices do not malfunction just once, they go off again and again and again. To elimi­ Part of the job of the Precillct Quality of Life Ullits, which with the Community Patrol Officer Program comprise TOPAC (the Total Patrol Concept), is to speak to people alld filld out what's all theit millds. III nate this waste of emergency re­ this way many "millOI''' complaillts call be addressed before they become major issues while the police gaill sponse capability, the department es­ valuable feedback on emergillg crime trellds. tablished the Alarm Program so that if a ringing alarm proves to be faulty proaches to non-emergency public drug dealing to derelict vehicles, that the owner is notified and advised safety matters, that is, quality of life contribute to neighborhood destabili­ that if three additional faulty inci­ issues. zation. Through December 31,1985, dents occur within a specified time, personnel assigned to these units the police will no longer respond tf) QUAUTY OF LIFE UNITS have produced: the location. The quality of life units have been Arrests 18,114 expanded since inception of the pro­ With the addition of new resources Youth Reports 1,043 gram, when a cadre of 95 police offi­ and new police officers beginning in Stop and Frisk cers were assigned to 10 zone com­ 1982, the department was able to in­ Reports 1,819 mands throughout the City, to the stitute the precinct Quality of Life Bus Checks 98,063 extent that the 1985 commitment and Community Patrol Officer Pro­ Subway Checks 11,098 totaled 1,300 police officers assigned grams in July 1984. Hence the name, Summonses 445,744 in every precinct and zone command. Total Patrol Concept. With these pro­ Property Seized: grams came changes in precinct level The purpose of the quality of life Radios 841 response to minor incidents and new patrols is to address those nuisance Drugs 3,541 resources for programmatic ap- violations, ranging from street-level Other 6,975

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COMMUNITY PATROL OFFICER to the appropriate departmental in­ custody of school authorities pur­ PROGRAM vestigative units. Through this, and suant to this legal mandate. other lines of neighborhood com­ The Community Patrol Officer Pro­ Some may question the value of munication, the department gathers gram (C-POP), the companion devoting scarce police resources, useful intelligence and identifies pat­ TOP AC initiative to the quality of life however small, to the deterrence of terns of criminal activity to redirect units, is currently operational in 31 truancy. This department does not. accordingly its investigative precincts. This program assigns 10 While it may be psychologically resources. precinct police officers to "steady pleasing in some quarters to quaintly beats" in a targeted area, for which Public response to the Community portray truants as modern-day Huck­ they then become identifiably re­ Patrol Officer Program thus far has leberry Finns, playing "hooky" on a sponsible. It is based on the theory of been extremely enthusiastic. In fact, sunny day to go £ishin', the reality is territoriality and the assumption that judging solely by apparent citizen that they more closely resemble meaningful contact between the satisfaction, it would appear that the Artful Dodgers - spending their police and the community must be es­ idea of the now almost mythic time on the streets, not in the tablished to effectively combat crime. "neighborhood cop" of yore (the guy classroom, learning and honing the The Community Patrol Officer is re­ our parents and grandparents still skills of the streets, not of the larger sponsible for devising strategies for recall with respect) is one whose time society. There can be little doubt that responding to crime conditions, par­ has returned. chronic truancy, and its corollary, ticularly quality of life crimes, and scholastic failure, increase the proba­ The following is a brief recapitula­ also plays an active crime prevention bility of anti-social and criminal tion of Community Patrol Officer role by conducting public education behavior by school-age youths. Program activity through December programs and assessing the ph ysical 31,1985: Moreover, by their unlawful pre­ security of residential and business sence on the daytime streets of the premises. But primarily, the Com­ Arrests 4,071 City these unsupervised children munity Patrol Officer is expected to Summonses 44,622 become potential victims, as well as develop a genuine interest in his or Abandoned Vehicles perpetrators, of crime. For example, her area of patrol and establish a per­ Towed 3,406 the sexual exploitation of children in sonal relationship with the people Intelligence Reports 1,415 Times Square (a magnet for truants) in the neighborhood. Block Watchers has concerned the department to Groups Active 1,396 In those precincts where the pro­ such an extent that in October 1985 it Security Surveys gram has been instituted, residents established a special Times Square Conducted 648 now know their officer by name. Pedophilia Project to act against those Block Organizations Each officer ha~ a phone number in who prey upon this most vulnerable Activated 39 the station house (some with answer­ segment of society. Focusing their at­ Community Meetings ing machines). Every morning the tention on area video arcades, the Attended 2,693 officers begin their day by reading Pedophilia Unit of the Public Morals the crime complaints reported from Division effected 33 arrests in 1985 of TRUANCY ENFORCEMENT their beat over the past 24 hours. pedophiles and the pimps who PROGRAM They then visit the people who pander to them. reported the crimes and seek to devel­ The New York State Education In cooperation with the Board of op information that might lead to an Law requires that all minors between Education, the Police Department arrest. People who were not the ages of 6 and 16, and those 16 to fields Borough Truancy Task Forces forthcoming when they called 911 17 who are not gainfully employed, every school day (a maximum man­ the night before sometimes reveal attend school full time. During the power commitment of 44 police offi­ crucial information when they speak 1984/85 academic year the New York cers, citywide). Each Task Force oper­ the next day with an officer they City Police Department returned ates in a designated area ar:d patrols know, who is then able to impart this over 26,000 suspected truants to the specifically targeted schools and/or

23 Back to the Future

zones identified, in consultation with local school authorities, as high hazard truancy locations, e.g., Times Square, Coney Island, and the Rocka­ ways. The Board of Education's Bureau of Attendance has designated "catchment" schools in each target zone as central processing locations and has assigned attendance teachers full time to accept, record, and pro­ cess truants returned by the department. In December of 1985, the depart­ ment and the Board of Education es­ tablished an Inter-Agency Task Force on Truancy to review our existing mutual anti-truancy program and make recommendations for future coordinated actions. Subsequent meetings were held in 1986. The During the 1984/85 academic year the NYPD's Truancy Task Force, in cooperation with the Board of department anticipates that this Education, returned 26,000 suspected truants to school. The Times Square area - with its video arcades ongoing dialogue will prOVide further and other al/ractions - acts as a magnet to truants, but it is a dangerous place for unsupervised children to be. And the Truancy Task Force regularly patrols the area and inspects the arcades and other locations joint efforts to control the truancy to ensure that no schoolchildren are illegally present. problem.

COLD WEATHER REMOVAL OF THE HOMELESS TO SHEL TERS The Police Department's active in­ V'9lvelhent in the care and shelter of the homeless pre-dates even the actual incorporation of what we now know as the City of Greater New York. In the latter part of the last cen­ tury, so-called "casuals," persons who found themselves in the City without the means to afford even the cheapest lodgings, were given over­ night shelter in precinct station houses. Over a period of years, the police played host to several thou­ sand such indigents, males, females, and families, simply because no other then-existing municipal agency Whenever t/le City's Health Commissioner declares a "Cold Weather Emergency" to be ill effect (defined provided such a service. Eventually, as a temperature reading be/ow 32° Fahrenheit) the NYPD conducts a survey of the streets offering the state legislature was moved to act actually or apparently homeless persons overnight shelter in a City-run facility. Persons deemed to be in a /;, e-fhreatenillg situatioll who refuse police assistance may Ilevertheless be removed, upon the directioll of and in 1886 it authorized the Com­ a supervisor, to a hospital for psychiatric evaluation. missioners of Charities and Correc-

24 Back to the Future

tions to erect and maintain suitable DERELICT VEHICLE REMOVALS equally unsightly affronts to the qual­ lodging houses for this purpose. ity of community life. In August, in "General Order No. 48 August 26, 1914 cooperation with the Department of Happily, the raised social con­ - In order to accomplish the best results, Sanitation, NYPD tow trucks began science of 20th Century America has the Police Department must work closely "relocating" the first of what would resulted in the acceptance of the idea with the Health and Street Cleaning eventually be some 2,500 derelict that all persons have a right to food, Departments. You will therefore give to vehicles by year's end. These eyesores clothing, medical care, and shelter. officials of these two departments all were removed from neighborhood Still, when dealing with people so un­ proper assistance in carrying out their streets to pre-determined isolated fortunate as to require temporary duties ... " "pick-up" points, from whence Sani­ public shelter, it may not be sufficient The problem in 1914, alluded to tation expedited a dignified disposal just to make the service available. It above, concerned sweeping refuse of the remains. Because of the initial maY'also re necessary to bring them from buildings into the street and success of the project, the department to the service. In the case of New horses' poorly-fitting feedbags drop­ will continue to assign these York City's homeless, this "delivery" ping grain onto the sidewalks. resources for the foreseeable future is by the Police Department, in coop­ Today, 2,000 pound shells of to assist Sanitation with the removal eration with the Human Resources of these skeletal hazards. Administration, the actual service deceased automobiles represent providers. Whenever the City's Health Commissioner declares a "Cold Weather Emergency" (defined as a temperature reading below 32· Fahrenheit), the police conduct a survey of the streets during the hours of darkness to determine if any ap­ parently homeless persons desire or require lodging. Police transport con­ senting individuals to the nearest emergency shelter. Persons observed in an immediate life-threatening situ­ ation who refuse police assistance may, upon the concurrence of a su­ pervisor, be removed to the nearest Health and Hospitals Corporation facility for psychiatric evaluation. During the winter of 1985 (through January 10, 1986) 22 Cold Weather Emergencies were declared. A total of 579 persons voluntarily ac­ cepted police assistance and an addi­ tional25 individuals were brought to emergency rooms without their ac­ quiescence for medical evaluation.

In 1985 the Police Department removed approximately 2,500 derelict vehicles from neighborhood str~ets to centr~lized "pick up" points to facilitate the Sanitation Department's disposal Of th~se hulks: (PrevIOus police procedure had been to affix an identifying sticker to the auto and nO~/fY Sa~l~atlOn.) T?'S experiment has succeeded in speeding the removal of these eyesores from hIghly vIsIble locatIOns to out-of-tlte way areas for bulk disposal.

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Traffic Fatalities - N.V.C. TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAMS In 1985, the issue of traffic safety 600 retained its overriding importance in 746 640 l- the department's operational strate­ gy. Concern for motorists and pedes­ 544 460 I- I-- f-- 537 I- trians alike (and for the movement of traffic), resulted in the continuance

320 f- f-- f-- f- of a comprehensive enforcement plan, developed over time, to deter vi­ 160 I- - f-- I- olators and increase the City's overall traffic safety environment. The efforts o in this regard have been so successful 1981 1964 1985 that in 1985 the total Dumber of In 1985, traffic-related fatalities in New York City fell to their lowest level in over 20 years, down 28% traffic-related fatalities fell to their from 1981 (537vs. 746). lowest level in over 20 years. Specifi­ cally, the 1985 fatality total (537) was 1 % lower than the 1984 figure (544) and 28% below the 1981 number, re­ flecting the sustained effectiveness of the department's coordinated safety program.

The department has attempted to control traffic in various ways. A few early attempts were: the first six mounted men of the TraffiC Sqllad, 1903; traffic police officers with "signal-light" vests, date unknown; and a signal light tower at Fifth Avenue alld 57th Street, circa 1920.

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DWI Task Force The Driving While Intoxicated/Im­ paired (DWI) Program of educating the public to the hazards of mixing al­ cohol and driving is now comple­ mented by a proactive enforcement campaign. The DWI Task Force con­ sists of specially trained and equipped Highway Officers who patrol targeted locations and make arrests based upon observation. A related anti-drunk driving effort, Op­ eration Surveillance, utilizes large numbers of police officers tempo­ rarily assigned to high volume traffic screening checkpoints. These officers observe the thousands of motorists passing through these checkpoints to detect, by non-intrusive visual in­ spection, any indication of impaired driving. They also distribute litera­ ture on the dangers of driving while intoxicated. During 1985, over 8,400 Over 8,400 persons were administered this video-taped coordination test in New York City in 1985 after arrests were made for DWI-related being arrested alld charged with Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired. offenses. Pedestrian Safety Program The Pedestrian Safety Program as­ Signal Light Summonses Issued signs 20 uniformed police officers daily to combat signal light violations by the N.V.P.D. (effective January I, 1986, the Thousands number was increased to 30). Estab­ 500 lished in 1982 to increase compliance with intersection signal light con­ 400 I--- trols, surveys conducted by the 407.0 Department of Transportation indi­ 363.1 cate that motorists have become in­ 300 f-- creasingly more willing to comply 283.0 with traffic signal control devices 200 f-- since the implementation bf this t-- targeted enforcement initiative. City­ wide, in 1985, the department in­ 100 t-- f-- creased signal light summonses by 12% compared to 1984 (406,958 vs. 363,120),20% of which were issued o by participants in the Pedestrian 1983 1984 1985 Safety Program. Overall department Thal1ks in good measure to the Pedestrian Safety Program, summonses for signa/light violatiol1s rose by summons activity increased in 1985 12% ill 1985 from the previolls year, al1d are lip 44% since 1983.

27 .. Back to the Future

from the previous year as follows: trian areas. The department estab­ Transit Police Department in pro­ moving violations up 9% (1,562,265 lished the Bicycle Enforcemen t Pro­ viding an "old-fashioned" visible \!'s. 1,429,377), parking violations up gram in an effort to maintain an ap­ police presence in the subways - 8% (4,076,988 vs. 3,766,339). propriate level of enforcement and in reducing the reported inci­ Bicycle Enforcement Program against those bikers who ride in a dence of serious crime upon these reckless manner. The program as­ facilities in the process. In traffic-clogged, geographically signs police officers from the Manhat­ On February 4,1985, as part of a condensed Manhattan, many resi­ tan Traffic Area and the Highway wider inter-agency Subway Protec­ dents moved "back to the future", District to issue summonses one day tion Program, "Operation Transit-85" transportation-wise, a long time ago a week at targeted locations in mid­ was born. To combat subway crime, by rediscovering the non-polluting, Manhattan. During 1985, officers the department developed a plan that inexpensive, and healthful practice issued almost 6,600 summonses to called for a uniformed Transit Police of commuting by bicycle. (It also bikers violating the Vehicle and Traf­ Officer to be assigned on all trains be­ solved their parking problems.) Just fic Law, a 49% increase over the tween 8PM and 6AM. This entailed a as importantly, businesses, especially previous year. in the midtown area, saw the bicycle combination of overtime for existing TPD officers and the dedication of as an efficient and quick means of OPERA TION TRANSIT - 85 delivering letters and small packages. several hundred additional TPD But, as in many situations, for every In 1985, as the Metropolitan Trans­ police officers authorized for hire in gain there is a loss. Bikers pose a real portation Authority longingly 1985. However, because these new threat to safety in high density pedes- looked backward at operational effi­ officers would not be hired, trained, ciency and ridership levels in search and available for patrol until the of its future, the NYPD assisted the latter half of the year, the Mayor

The NYPD's currellt "bicycle squad" doesll't ride cycles, 115 showl! here, bllt ratlter ellforces New York State's Velticle alld Traffic Law I1gaillst those who do ride cycles, bllt ill a dangerous mallller. III As part of the Mayor's illter-agency Subway Protection Program, illstituted ill February 1985, tlte NYPD 1985 the departmellt isslled about 6,600 traffic provided up to 175 police oficers daily to patrol tlte subway system all a temporary basis betweell that time summollses to bikers, all increase of 49% from and the end of tlte year. As a result, felollies occllrring all Transit Autltority properties declilled by over 1984. 8% from 1$18,~ totals.

28 Back to the Future

directed that the New York City TPD, and the NYPD, subway given to domestic violence. And Police Department provide approxi­ ridership and safety in the future will while the extent of violence in the mately 175 officers daily, on over­ advance to levels achieved in the home was once thought to be isolated time, to mEm subway posts until the middle of this century and we'll all among a small segment of the popu­ TPD's hiring program became fully once again sing the praises of lation, today it is acknowledged as a operational. On February 14th, 1985, "Taking the 'A' Train". problem for al! Americans with New York City Housing Police devastating effects on family mem­ Department participation augmented DOMESTIC VIOLENCE bers. Too often domestic violence the program (one sergeant and ten teaches children viewing such inci­ police officers daily). On August Criminal violence does not always dents that violence is an acceptable 18th, the HAPD ceased participation involve strangers and does not way for people to deal with one and the NYPD reduced its daily always occur on the street. Sometimes another. In 1984, the NYPD reshaped subway assignments by half, due to violence is found much closer to its policy to address this disturbing the availability at that time of the ini­ home; in fact, within the home and problem. . tial1985 additional TPD police officer amongstfamily members. It is a sad hires. From August 19th through fact, however, that this kind of vio­ NYPD Domestic Violence Policy December 31st, 1985, the New York lence for a long time was considered Historically, police attitudes and City Police Department continued to to be a "private matter II which policies on domestic violence reflect­ provide 9 supervisors and 85 police government as a whole chose not to ed societal views. The favored ap­ officers each day to augment regular actively concern itself with. The proach in a domestic dispute was me­ and overtime TPD uniformed result was that acts that would cause diation or a separation of the couple a person to be incarcerated if commit­ subway patrols. for a II cooling off period II in all but ted on the street were treated dif­ the most extreme cases (Le., With the help of the inter-agency ferently if committed in the home. demonstrable serious injury). Subway Protection Program (and a large assist from "Operation It was only in the 1970s that The current policy of the New Transit-85"), felonies reported upon society, and law enforcement, began York City Police Department strongly Transit Authority properties declined to question the lack of attention endorses an arrest strategy. The by over 8% in 1985 compared to the previous year. Moreover, the depart­ Arrests of Spouses ment recorded almost 600 fewer rob­ beries (down 10% from 1984) and Victimizing Mates N.V.C. more than 400 fewer grand larcenies (9 Month Comparison: April- December) (down 7% from 1984). 2500 On December 31st, 1985, the 2362 2240 NYPD ended its involvement in "Op­ 2000 f'---- eration Transit-85," returning police patrol responsibility for all Transit Authority facilities to the newly en­ 1500 f'---- larged Transit Police Department. It 1453 is anticipated tnat the TPD, increased 1000 r-- f'---- in strength by almost 50% in the last five years and at an 1i.istorically high headcount (4,270), will now be able 500 !--- f'---- to continue this positive crime reduc­ tion trend with its own resources in 1986 and beyond. Perhaps between o the combined efforts of the MTA, the 1983 1984 1985

29 Back to the Future

criminal law is enforced in the home domestic violence. Therefore, in an just as it is enforced on the street. In effort to develop a strategy to de­ - And"Cops and effect, when an officer determines crease this form of violence, the Robbers" Too that there is probable cause to believe department has joined with the a felony has been committed, the offi­ Victim Services Agency (VSA) in a VIOLENT STREET CRIME cer MUST make an arrest, even if the unique program aimed at detecting REDUCTION INITIATIVES victim refuses to press charges. If such conduct early and offering there is probable cause to believe a counseling to deter recurrence or Fueled by a rebuilding effort, the misdemeanor has been committed in escalation. A pilot project is presently department's counteroffensive the officer's presence, an arrest must operating in three precincts (52nd, against street crime addresses all as­ be made if the victim desires. If proba­ 68th and 103rd) with the commit­ pects ofthe problem - with particu- ble cause exists that an Order of Pro­ ment of a full time Domestic Violence 1ar emphasis upon the incarceration tection was violated, an arrest must Prevention Officer (DVPO) in each. of habitual violent offenders. Recent be effected at the victim's request. The program utilizes a team concept incremental additions to uniformed joining the DVPO with a VSA strength have enabled the NYPD This change in policy was spelled counselor. On a daily basis the units during the last two years to mount out in Interim Order 16 published in screen the precincts' 911 family dis­ several specialized programs to April 1984. That Order noted the pute calls and contact the individu­ achieve this end ... and not without department's expansion of the al(s) involved. During these inter­ success. Between 1981 and 1985 Family Court Act definition of a views, the officers explain the options reported serious crime in New York "Family/Household" to include available to the family through the City dropped by 17%; violent street common-law and same-sex couples. legal system while the VSA counselor crimes were especially impacted (rob­ This policy was broadened in 1985 describes the social services available bery down 26% and murder and non­ with the promulgation of Interim to help the family. negligent manslaughter down 24%). Order 56~ which conferred the "Fami­ The following is a brief description of ly/Household" designation upon This joint venture has reached a the programs which spearheaded the those persons who have a child in great number of families in crisis. In department's efforts in this area common, regardless of whether they a year-end study covering the first during 1985. have ever been married or have ever year of the project, it was noted that lived together. over 9,000 violence-prone house­ Central Robbery Division. In 1981, holds had been identified (the project the department established the Cen­ As a result of these changes, the is now identifying about 650 addi­ tral Robbery Division to deter robber­ department has significantly in­ tional households per month in the ies (which that year for the first - creased its arrests for spousal assault, three demonstration precincts). In and only -time in the City's history both married and common-law. In about 36% of the reviewed cases, the exceeded 100,000) by the coordina­ 1984, the year that the new domestic project team made contact with the tion of uniformed and detective per­ violence arrest policy went into family (resulting in over 1,200 service sonnel in targeted, high robbery effect, arrests increased by 54% over referrals) and conducted interviews areas and through the use of special the like period in 1983 (April at the precincts with 393 families. anti-robbery strategies. The Central through December). In 1985, they The departn'lent and VSA continue to Robbery Division now oversees rose by another 5%, a total increase of monitor thk :project closely to maxi­ several special anti-robbery pro­ 62% over 1983 (1,453 to 2;362). mize our und'~rstanding of the com­ grams, such as: Domestic Violence Prevention plex dynamics involved in domestic Borough Robbery Squads. Career Program violence. criminals seem to be "territorial." They operate in a certain defined Over the years the department has area. Since their range usually does learned that making arrests is not not conform to the department's pre­ enough to fight crime and it is cer­ cinct boundaries, information devel- tainly an insufficient answer to

30 Back to the Future

oped in one precinct did not always find its way in a timely fashion to neighboring commands. In April THE ROGUES' GALLERY 1981, the Borough Robbery Squads By The Editor were instituted to identify, apprehend and assist in the prosecution of per­ "A rogue to catch a rogue," used to be the whole philosophy of police systems. Social intercourse and sympathy with thieves were petrators of multiple "pattern" rob­ once valuable accomplishments for a policeman; a brilliant career beries, particularly those that tran­ of crimes was a fit probation for a thief taker. scended precinct and borough But all this is changed; in New York at least. Thief taking is an art boundaries. Combining computers in which now honest men may engage conscientiously for there has with traditional police investigatory gradually been developed a science of thief taking, science which may be studied and put in practice without any risk of the danger­ methods, the Borough Robbery ous contact and familiarity of virtue with crime. The efficient Squads have accounted for over policeman understands the true philosophy of crime, he observes 3,300 robbery arrests since 1981. In and studies its causes and habits; he is the most skillful calculator 1985, they effected 591 such arrests, a of probabilities. A higher order of talent has been demanded and is 9% increase compared to 1984's total now secured for the police force. (541). The first announcement of the establishment of a Rogue's Gallery. Career Criminal Program. The From the American Journal of Photography, 1859, Vol. 9. Career Criminal Program is designed to identify a discrete portion of the total criminal population believed to commit a disproportionately high prosecution. Inaugurated in Manhat­ The Computer-Assisted Robbery percentage of violent street crime. tan in January 1985, the program System (CARS) is a direct, albeit dis­ When an identified career criminal is was expanded to all boroughs by tant, descendent of the Rogues' Gal­ arrested, a detective from the Career June. In 1985, some 4,000 cases were lery. Instituted in October 1984 as a Criminal Unit may be assigned to enhanced in this manner. repository for informa tion on rob­ help the arresting officer build a Computer-Assisted Robbery bery and sex crimes to assist inves­ strong case by accumulating quan­ System (CARS). In 1859, the New tigators in developing. patterns, titative and qualitative evidence to York City Police Department estab­ modus operandi, and physical descrip­ ensure a successful felony prosecu­ lished the first official Rogues' Gal­ tions of perpetrators ;)f these crimes, tion. In 1985, total augmented cases lery in the country for the systematic it was expanded hL 1985 to include grew by 5% from the previous year pictorial cataloguing of known crimi­ "career criminal" data, parolee and and total defendants investigated ex­ nals. According to a visiting reporter inmate information, criminal com­ ceeded 1984's total by 11 %. The in­ from Humphrey's Journal, it was locat­ plaint reports, and data from the On­ dictment rate for cases processed in ed in " ... a small, grimy room in the Line Booking System and "nickname" this manner in 1985 was 74%. rat-infested Police Headquarters file. At the same time, the department Felony Case Development Program. building at Grand and Crosby increased the number of investigative Like the Career Criminal Program, Street", and consisted of 450 primi­ commands and locations equipped the goal of the Felony Case Develop­ tive photographs (called with a CARS computer in 1985 to ment Program is to build good, daguerreotypes) taken by none other permit maximum utilization of this "solid" cases against apprehended than the celebrated Civil War pho­ increasingly important investigative serious criminal offenders. All such tographer, Mathew Brady. The tool. arrests made by members of the "rogues" were classified according to depnrtment now receive the attention their specialty, one photo proclaim­ PAROLE VIOLATOR PROGRAM of a Precinct Detective Unit detective ing its subject as "the Leading Pick­ At one time precinct detectives and to assist the arresting officer in en­ pocket," another was labelled "The local parole officers shared a close hancing the potential for a successful German Shop Lifter." working relationship. But, as both

31 Back to the Future

the New York State Division of warrants with appropriate Larceny Auto, punishment today is Parole and the NYPD increased in physical descriptions to the not quite so severe. But, in view of size, workload, and complexity, the NYPD Warrant Division to fa­ the fact that over 79,000 vehicles closeness of that relationship dimin­ cilitate the lodging and execution were reported stolen in the City ished and the amount of information of those warrants. during 1985 the punishment is also exchanged declined. But as the probably less certain - a circum~ In 1986 the department will in­ number of violent crimes committed stance which may cause some vic­ stitute procedures to insure that by parolees (some of whom are timized citizens to fleetingly yearn warrants are actually lodged parole absconders) increased, the for "the good old days." against all parole absconders department decided in 1985 that it upon their identification by this was time to take a fresh look at its But the truth of the matter is that department. Additionally, ongoing dialogue with its parole auto thefts in New York City have NYPD arrest information will coun terparts. been declining in recent years. In henceforth be transmitted expe­ 1985, reported motor vehicle larce­ As a result of this review, on ditiously to the Division of nies fell by over 10% compared to the December 9th, the department in­ Parole to assist them in initiat­ previous year and are down more stituted the Parole Violator Program, ing at the earliest possible time than 26% since 1982's total of a joint effort with the New York State applications for parole 107,430 reported thefts. In fact, Division of Parole. Established to revocation. 1985's total of 79,426 stolen autos is reduce violent crime, a three-pronged 3. Parole/NYPD Information Ex­ the lowest number recorded in the program was created by the two change. A Parole/NYPD Infor­ City in over a decade. agencies: mation Exchange Program to facilitate cooperation between Significantly, this trend of im­ 1. Absconder Apprehension Task provement over the last three years Force. An Absconder Apprehen­ the department and the Division of Parole via a formal liaison at has mirrored the rebuilding of the sion Task Force, comprised of 1 department's manpower during this lientenant, 1 sergeant and 12 in­ the precinct level was adopted. Regularly scheduled meetings time. Added police officers provided vestigators from the NYPD War­ not only more uniformed patrol offi­ rant Division and a like number of now occur between local parole officers and precinct investiga­ cers to deter auto-related street members from the NYS Division crimes of opportunity, such as "joy­ of Parole, was created to focus on tive resources (Precinct Detec­ tive, Robbery Identification, riding," but also permitted the aug­ the apprehension of dangerous mentation of the department's spe­ parole absconders. During Decem­ Anti-Crime Units) to discuss new parole releases, emerging cialized Auto Crime Division, whose ber (1st month of operation), the mandate is to pursue sensitive in­ Task Force arrested 17 absconders crime patterns, and possible relationships between the two. vestigations into organized motor and served papers on 22 others ap­ vehicle theft and motor vehicle insur­ prehended by other police units. In 1985, the exchange became operational in all Brooklyn and ance fraud. During 1985, the Auto 2. Arrested Parolee Enhanced Staten Island precincts. The pro­ Crime Division fulfilled its mandate Notification System. The Divi­ gram will be expanded citywide so successfully that the command re­ sion of Parole provides the in 1986. ceived a coveted Departmental Unit Police Department with month­ Citation in recognition of its signifi­ ly computer tapes indicating all AUTO THEFT SUPPRESSION cant contribution to the reduction in active, delinquent, and abscon­ auto larcenies through its indepen­ der cases currently under the In 19th Century America they dent investigations, joint governmen­ jurisdiction of the Division of hanged horse thieves. Fortunately for tal operations, and training programs Parole. The Division also pro­ the 6,624 persons arrested in New for law enforcement agencies vides copies of all absconder York City during 1985 for the 20th throughout the northeast. Century equivalent crime of Grand

32 Back to the Future

Perhaps the highest-profile under­ taking of the Auto Crime Division in 1985 was the culmination of Opera­ tion St. Andrew's, a highly confidential major investigation conducted in cooperation with the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York. This investigation in­ volved ranking members of one of New York's entrenched organized crime combines, the Carlo Gambino Family. During the course of the three year investigation several of the original targets were murdered, ap­ parently in an effort to ensure their silence and thereby protect the high­ est echelon of the crime family (most notable among those murdered were the alleged head of the Gambino Crime Family, Paul "Big Paul" Castellano, and a suspected co­ conspirator, Thomas Bilotti, who were both gunned down exiting a Members of the Aula Crime Division examine a transmission for identifying serial numbers during an midtown Manhattan restaurant on investigation of an alltomotive salvage yard, as participants in the City's Multi-Agency Salvage Yard December 16,1985). Despite this in­ Task Force. In 1985, this Task Force cited 51 yards, citywide, for over 800 violations. ternecine warfare, 24 defendants (popularly know as a "chop shop"). from Criminal Possession of Stolen were ultimately indicted by the This ring allegedly supplied stolen Property to Unlicensed Dismantler. Federal courts. The first trials pur­ auto parts to distributors throughout suant to these indictments began on Also in 1985, the New York State the southeastern United States and September 30,1985 and are expected Board of Regents evaluated the Auto Puerto Rico. to continue for several years. Crime Division's Auto Crime School. In 1985, the Auto Crime Division This program trains New York City While Operation St. Andrew's was also participated, with other con­ Police Department and other law en­ conducted over a long period in con­ cerned New York City and State forcement personnel in the intricacies junction with federal agents, Opera­ agencies, in a Multi-Agency Salvage of car theft suppression, insurance tion Sugannaplewas a wholly New Yard Task Force to address problems fraud, and altered or counterfeit York City law enforcement initiative regarding the regulation of auto sal­ documentation. The Board of Regents carried out by the NYPD's Auto vage yards. Eight "sweeps" were con­ accredited the program for 2 college Crime Division and the Bronx ducted in Staten Island, Brooklyn, credits and the program will appear County District Attorney's Office. Queens and the Bronx, encompassing in the next edition of" A Guide to Following an in-depth investigation, 51 yards. During the course of this Educational Programs in Non-Collegiate 53 members of the ACD executed concert~d inspectional initiative, Organizations" published by the Uni­ search warrants at three locations in operators of these facilities were versity of the State of New York. the Bronx on AprilS, 1985, arresting given citations for over 800 viola­ In short, the department's Auto 21 individuals, including the owner tions. The Auto Crime Division ef­ Crime Division measurably impacted of a firm identified as a major auto fected arrests of persons connected to upon auto larcenies in 1985 by in­ theft/vehicle dismantler operation these yards for infractions ranging vestigation, coordination with other

33 Back to the Future

agencies, and specialized enforce­ ment training and education. And yes, the Auto Crime Division also maintains its own modern-day ver­ sion of the traditional "Most Wanted" list. While these 100 Major Violators do not have their photo­ graphs on Post o.ffice walls or have bounties on their heads, they are well known "chop shop" operators and are singled out for special enforce­ ment efforts by the unit. One result of this focused attention has been a perceptible relocation of their illegal activities to remote areas of the City where their "chopping" operations are more noticeable and exposed to uniformed patrol enforcement.

100 FUGITIVE FELON PROGRAM In 1786, New York employed only a part-time Night Watch to fulfill its public safety needs. These citizens­ at-arms, the forebearers of today's New York City Police Department, received cash incentives (one shilling for serving a warrant or making an arrest) to enhance their attentiveness to duty. In 1985, the City revived the concept of providing financial in­ ducements to citizens to encourage them to become "part-time law enforcers." And another one bites the dust - 2 detectives from the Warrant Division post an "Apprehended" notice On March 5,1985, the Police across the name of one of the fugitives sought IInder the 100 Fugitive Felon Program, which offers cash Department instituted the 100 Fugi­ rewards to citizens providing information leading to the apprehension of certain persons wanted on tive Felon Program to elicit citizen olltstanding warrants. cooperation in locating fugitives taining 10 fugitives is published and dictment or conviction, the depart­ named on serious outstanding war­ distributed to over 200 locations; ment gives this reward solely for rants and thereby reduce crime by $100 is offered to anyone, other than apprehension. removing dangerous, and often a member of the department, who repeat, offenders from the streets. To provide the public with easy provides information leading to the Fugitives are targeted and their access, the department installed a spe­ apprehension of a targeted felon identities, along with photos and cial hotline telephone number: (212) (Wyatt Earp would have recognized other available information appear in W-A-R-R-A-N-T is manned 24 and approved of this "new" ap­ local newspapers and are posted in hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, with all proach). Unlike other incentive pro­ conspicuous locations throughout information received being inves­ grams, which are contingent upon in- the City. Each week a new poster con- tigated by the Warrant Division. Per-

34 Back to the Future

sons providing information via the By the close of 1985, the Committee rant enforcement staff of 1 lieutenant, hotline are assigned an individual had laid the groundwork for a pilot 2 sergeants and 12 police officers code number which allows the caller, Information Exchange Program - from the Warrant Division proper, who so desires, to remain completely "MIDTOWN APPL" - incorporating plus 4 police officers each from the anonymous and receive the award the expertise of police and their pri­ Street Crime Unit and Robbery Iden­ payment directly from a department vate security counterparts to enhance tification Program, synthesizing the Integrity Control Officer. criminal investigations through the expertise of these three distinct inves­ exchange of information on crime tigative units to yield greater inves­ During 1985, the department pub­ trends, patterns, "wanted person" de­ tigative results. SWEEP has also lished 44 weekly posters. In all, 284 scriptions, etc. Crime prevention ef­ funded the purchase of four surveil­ fugitives sought for serious crimes forts will be aided by the depart­ lance vans for the discreet observa­ were publicized, resulting in 565 in­ ment's provision of self-help infor­ tion of wanted persons and the loca­ formational tips to the 24-hour mation for individuals and commer­ tions they are known to frequent. W -A-R-R-A-N-T hotline. Thirty-nine cial enterprises to participating pri­ arrests were made as a result of pro­ During 1985, SWEEP was respon­ vate security organizations. ductive tips, and 30 rewards paid. sible for the arrest of over 900 indi­ Moreover, the department is plan­ viduals, clearing more than 2,000 COORDINATION WITH PRIVATE ning to train private security person­ warrants in the process (including SECURITY nel in various police techniques, such 184 warrants lodged against defen­ It was not until President Abraham as crime reporting, crime scene in­ dants already serving time in various Lincoln placed his confidence in a tegrity preservation, observation, jails). description-taking, etc. If successful, private detective - first as his per­ Beyond personnel augmentation these efforts will lead to future expan­ sonal bodyguard, then as organizer and surveillance vans, in 1985 sion of the program. of intelligence operations for the SWEEP also provided financial assis­ Army of the Potomac (unfortunately, tance for the design and installation a misplaced confidence in both cases) SPECIAL WARRANT of a departmental computerized war­ - that private security was accorded ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT rant investigation file. The "Warrant any credibility in the United States. PROGRAM (SWEEP) - PHASE II On-Line File", WOLF for short, has Allan Pinkerton, and the detective In April 1985, the department im­ become the central storehouse for all agency he founded, changed that sit­ plemented Phase II of the New York data collected on a particular fugitive uation almost overnight. Today, the State-funded Special Warrant En­ during a warrant investigation. private security industry is on the forcement Program (Operation cutting edge of security technology Easily accessed information on SWEEP) with the following goals: in many areas, and in New York, background, relationships, employ­ with its many private security firms, the investigation and arrest of ment, habits, etc., will simplify future the industry constitutes a valuable criminal subjects wanted on investigations of criminal recidivists resource for the department. serious felony warrants. and, as more and more information is gathered on wanted persons, save In the Fall of 1985, the department the expansion of warrant en­ increasing amounts of investigative and recognized leaders in the private forcement through the tempo­ time, e.g., assigned investigators will security field met to fashion strategies rary assignment of additional know of previous unsuccessful inves­ to address common enforcement personnel. tigative avenues pursued and not problems. The result was the birth of the overall reduction of out­ waste time retracing these paths. On the New York Police Department/Pri­ the other hand, information de­ vate Security Committee - and a standing felony warrants in state and local files. veloped during previous unsuccess­ host of ideas whereby local law en­ ful investigations may prove decisive forcement and the indigenous private To achieve these goals, Operation to the apprehension of the subject in security community could join forces SWEEP funds a supplemental war- for the common good.

35 Back to the Future

the instant case. Moreover, this infor­ ments. In New York City today, ar­ and be released; the W.O.L.F. will mation is now available to both the rested habitual criminals with out­ track them down and devour them. officer working on the warrant and standing warrants lodged against to officers who may have arrested the them can no longer rely on an over­ violator on a separate charge. The loaded criminal justice system to electronic "match" takes butmo- allow them to fall through the cracks

36 ------.~ ..

~ UKULELE ARRANGEMENT MAYSING~

,,~ ..... --'~ " -::~ ~ ,; MAOE IN U 5 ,\ ~ NYPDM

Top: Teletype operator, circa 1948

Left: Patrol car, ci rca 1930

Right: Police vehicle, unidentified passengers, circa 1907

Bottom: "Paddy wagoll ", circa 1900 BUT NOT 1'00 FAR BACK

Technology Beyond uTwo-Way Wrist Radios"

If "the good old days" seem to get better in direct proportion to their distance from the present, paradoxi­ cally, when it comes to dreaming of "time-travel" most people want to go forward (see H.G. Wells' The Time Machine). And when it comes to ap­ plying modern means to cope with modern problems, the New York City Police Department also adopts a forward looking approach. In this regard, 1985 witnessed the introduc~ tion by the department of several new and varied technologies to deal with today's world. In 1985, the NYPD and the New York City Transit Police Department continued the step-by-step enhancement of the TPD's ability to interact with the City's 911 emergency radio dispatch system. NYPD/TRANSIT POLICE DEPARTMENT COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS INTEGRATION In 1985, the department continued the step-by-step process of enhancing the Transit Police Department's aGility to interact with the 911 emergency response dispatch system as part of a comprehensive four-part effort to upgrade that department's overall radio communications capabilities. The first phase began in October 1984 and involved the is­ 71zis old pJzotograph of the Manhattan Communications Center reminds us of how tJzings used to be. suance of NYPD portable radios to Today's Police Department has the latest in electronic communications and data processing equipment. Transit police officers whose assign­ patcher when they must leave ments included elevated portions emergency communications redundancy program. subway property to pursue a police (40%) of the subway system. This per­ emergency. Formerly, since TPD's mitted them to talk with the NYPD In November 1985, the second signal is not broadcast but confined dispatcher while above ground, phase of the improvement plan to the immediate vicinity of transit when communication with their became operational. Satellite signal facilities, once they left the system own dispatcher often becomes receiver/repeater stations installed at they lost radio contact. The satellite sporadic. By February 1985, all 193 various "key" locations throughout receivers have corrected that elevated subway stations in New the City now allow TPD officers to deficiency. York City became part of this maintain radio contact with their dis-

39 But Not Too Far Back

Rather, once attached to clothing or skin, a pulsating electrical current causes muscle contractions and a loss of balance on the part of the subject. The Taser discharges only a few watts of power and is not harmful to cardiac patients or implanted pacemakers, nor can it be modified to produce a lethal charge. Introduced in April, the Taser was employed on 48 occasions during 1985, function­ ing successfully 67% of the time. Because the Taser proved to be ef­ fective in only 2 of every 3 instances, in June 1985 the department prudent­ ly provided the Emergency Service The non-lethal electronic Taser (left) and Stun (right) disabling weapons. The Taser shoots two darts up to 14 feet rendering the subject limp via a pulsating electrical current which induces muscle contractions. Unit with back-up non-lethal The Stun device, attached to a pole, is a standby measure used only if the Taser fails to perform effectively. electronic Stun devices of similar design and capabilities, but which Also in 1985, the department devel­ INTRODUCTION OF ELECTRONIC did not rely on darts successfully at­ oped specific plans that will permit NON-LETHAL WEAPONRY taching themselves to the subject (the the implementation in 1986 of phase Taser's major cause of non­ three of the transit communications The department's policy on the use of firearms is unequivocal - the performance). The Stun device, by upgrading. The plans call for the ex­ way of contrast, is activated simply tension of the NYPD 911 network service revolver is to be used strictly as a defensive weapon, not as a tool by contact. Attached to iin extension into 20 high crime subway stations. pole, the Stun device is used by the This enhancement will enable NYPD of apprehension. In support of this policy, several non-lethal alternative ESU as a standby measure should the officers entering these subway sta­ means of restraint are employed by Taser fail and there be insufficient tions to maintain contact with their the department to subdue violent, time to reload. Even so, unless an dispatcher, fellow NYPD officers disturbed, or armed persons (mace, imminent risk to the safety of the offi­ above and below ground, and with tear gas, nets, restraining bars, to cers or any other person(s) exists, TPD officers in the area equipped name but a few). In 1985, two more officers cannot use the Stun device with department portable radios. non-lethal options were approved without approval of an ESU supervi­ The final step will be the installa­ for limited use, the electronic Taser sor on the scene. tion of a direct microwave link be­ and Stun devices. tween the Transit Police dispatch CELLULAR HIGHWAY EMERGENCY Both weapons are for use by the center and the New York City Police TELEPHONES Emergency Service Unit and only Department's 911 system. In 1985, under strictly defined circumstances. To assist motorists experiencing pursuant to an official "request for The Taser (an acronym for "Tom difficulties, the Police Department proposals", a vendor was selected Swift and his Electric Rifle") is the operates a network of emergency tele­ and an estimated completion date for primary weapon. With an effective phone call boxes along all major this project of November, 1986, range of from 2 to 14 feet, this hand­ limited-access highways in the City. established. held device shoots two darts attached But, too frequently, the reliability of by wires to a battery-operated power this equipment has been compro­ source contained in the housing. The mised by harsh weather conditions unit's effectiveness is not dependent and/or vandalism. To remedy this, in upon impact or body penetration. 1985 the department sought out im-

40 But Not Too Far Back

It is IIpsetting to be stranded on a limited access highway late at night in an IInfamiliar neighborhood - it is maddening to then reach an emergency telephone call box and find the receiver cord Cllt or the device otherwise inoperable. To improve the reliability of New York's highway emergency telephones, a celllllar, hands-free, weather-and vandalism-resistant experimental device was field tested by the department in 1985 in the Bronx.

proved technology. As a result, in integrity. Also, because it is free of April the department installed a underground cables, the unit is unaf­ cellular telephone call box on an ex­ fected by road excavations. perimental basis on the Bronx River The original installation proved to Parkway. The cube-shaped, yellow, be resistant to both vandalism and prototype unit is made of shatter­ environmental deterioration. There­ proof plastic and metal and is, for all fore, in November a contract was ap­ intents and purposes, weatherproof. proved for the purchase of 200 addi­ Its power derives from the same utili­ tional cellular highway call boxes, ty source as the highway light pole to with installation scheduled to be which it is attached, with a self­ completed by June 1986. If the system contained battery back-up system continues to perform up to expecta­ capable of providing up to forty tions 600 more units will be sche­ hours of use in the event of a tempo­ duled for purchase in fiscal year 1987. rary power outage. Furthermore, there is no hand-held receiver or out­ Anyone who has ever been strand­ side electrical connections (eliminat­ ed on a lonely highway late at night ing exposed wires and the opportuni­ (or during the daytime for that ty for vandals to sever them), only a matter) can appreciate the sense of small antenna mounted atop the security a reliable system of emergen­ light pole. Users merely open the cy roadside telephones provides. The door, press a button and speak into a department certainly does and has microphone to connect with the high hopes that cellular technology police Highway Unit. Should the box will provide the necessary advance­ be tampered with, an alarm built into ment in design to enable New York's the unit rings in the police station network of call boxes to attain such a Three types of old-fashioned emergency call boxes; and an internal siren is activated to state of weather and vandalism-proof part of yesterday's technology. deter further violation of the unit's reliability.

41 But Not Too Far Back

MOBILE DECONTAMINATION VEHICLE In the course of their day-to-day activities police officers, rescue work­ ers, and segments of the civilian population may be exposed to poten­ tially toxic fumes and chemicals at fires, explosions or spill sites. To deal effectively with the 20th Century problem of toxic material incidents, the NYPD has placed into service a Mobile Decontamination Vehicle. Equipped with 16 showers capable of providing up to 64 decontamination rinsings per hour (15 minutes each), the unit is designed to provide emergency on-site decontamination of individuals exposed to hazardous substances susceptible tr dilution by water. The NYPD's Mobile Decon·· tamination Vehicle is capable of sup­ plying approximately 1,900 gallons Looking like spacemen out of a Hollywood science fiction thriller, two members of the department's of hot water per hour at 100 degrees Hazardous Material Mobile Decontamination Unit pose before their "office on wheels," equipped with 16 showers, dressing rooms, and a 2,400 gallon waste water storage capacity. The vehicle is operated by the Fahrenheit via a fresh water shower Police Department as a cooperative effort with the Fire Department, Department of Environmental system supplied by standard fire Protection, and the Emergency Medical Service, with all four agencies regularly pl!rticipating in hose coupling to the nearest fire simulated disaster exercises. hydrant. In Queens, a fork lift operator inad­ Department built it in 30 days, rather Beyond this, four 600 gallon drums vertently punctured two 55 gallon than the two years estimated by the provide a waste water storage capaci­ drums containing an unknown private builder consulted. ty of 2,400 gallons for the isolation chemical substance. Approximately The vehicle is operated by the New and neutralization of suspect fluids 20-25 people were exposed to the re­ York City Police Department in before they are released into the sulting fumes and were given show­ cooperation with the Fire Depart­ general sewer system after consulta­ ers in the decontamination vehicle. ment, Department of Environmental tion with and concurrence of the En­ In Manhattan, a fire in a garbage con­ Protection, and the Emergency Medi­ vironmental Protection Agency. Col­ tainer exposed a large number of cal Service. Disaster simulation exer­ lapsible tents attached to the sides of people to potentially toxic fumes. All cises are periodically conducted to the Mobile Decontamination trailer persons involved in this incident re­ insure a coordinated response by all serve as separate dressing rooms for ceived or were offered decontamina­ agencies. Only specially qualified the discarding of contaminated cloth­ tion showers by the department to members of the Emergency Service ing prior to showering and for the protect them from possible harm. Unit are permitted to operate the donning of fresh clothing afterward The Mobile Decontamination Vehi­ decontamination vehicle. Although by involved personnel. cle cost the department $99,000 to they may be few in number, they pro­ In 1985, the Mobile Decontamina­ construct. This was 62% less than the vide protection to the citizens of New tion Vehicle responded to five original estimate by an outside con­ York City and its surrounding com­ incidents, citywide, of which the fol­ tractor, projected in excess of munities 24 hours a day 7 days a lowing two examples are $260,000. Moreover, the Police week. representative:

42 But Not Too Far Back

LASER FINGERPRINT Police Department maintained its TRANSMISSION commitment to quality personnel training and pursued a number of Arraigning judges rely heavily Personnel Programs for new paths. upon a defendant's criminal history Now and the Future in making bail or conditional release decisions. A suspect's official POLICE CADET CORPS criminal history report (known in In September 1985, the department the vernacular as the "rap sheet") is Human nature being a constant, announced the establishment of a generated in Albany based upon a arguably the only difference between Police Cadet Corps and invited inter­ computer search of extensive finger­ today's police officer and yesterday's ested qualified persons to apply for print files stored there. When a sus­ is today's better training and disci­ the inaugural recruit class, scheduled pect is arrested in New York City for pline - much better. The world is a for 1986. The program is designed to a fingerprintable offense the depart­ different place today than it was provide police training and appren­ mentmust wait for the prints to be when shootouts between law en­ ticeships to college students during transmitted via telephone lines to forcement agents and bootleggers their junior and senior years before Albany, a reporr generated, and the made news. Gunning down notori­ they embark on a career in the New report returned to the department's ous gangsters in a hail of machine York City Police Department upon booking facility before the person gun fire on crowded street corners graduation. can be arraigned. may have won unalloyed praise for The last NYPD Cadet Program was In 1985, to expedite the return of Elliot Ness in the 1930s, but such a re­ offered more than twenty years ago, the necessary reports, the depart­ sponse would be unlikely today. The and it produced many members who ment's Brooklyn Central Booking public in the 1980s is more educated, are in leadership positions in the Facility installed an experimental more questioning of authority, more department today. In fact, an laser transmitter capable of sending informed, and more sensitive than alumnus of the earlier program, now images to Albany in just 5 seconds their Depression-era forebears; and an Inspector, has been designated as (formerly, this transmission took so are the "new breed" of police offi­ Commanding Officer of the new 15-20 minutes). Antennas installed cers. In 1985, the New York City Police Cadet Corps unit. on top of the World Trade Center and on high terrain between the City and Albany carry the laser signals. Initially put into service on a 50% time-sharing basis, in December the facility increased its laser "on-line capability" to 100%. Although operat­ ing "on-line" only 50% of the time for most of 1985, this system helped the Brooklyn Central Booking facility reduce its average" arrest­ to-arraignment" time by one hour and 15 minutes compa.·.i to 1984.

Mayor Koch alld Police Commissioller Ward pose with two of the 130 cadets sworn ill at Police Headquarters ill JUlie 1986.

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Members of the Police Academy's Candidate Recruitment/Retention Unit began recruiting on college campuses throughout the City during the fall. To be eligible, appli­ cants must be City residents enrolled in their sophomore year at a college or university located within New York City. Candidates must meet all existing department qualifications for appointment as a police officer, including medical, psychological and character standards. Once accepted into the program, cadets must main­ tain an acceptable scholastic record to retain their status. Cadets will also be required to take and pass the next civil service examination for police officer, which for them will be con­ Three women who reshaped the role of female police officers in the department are shown with Con;missioner Ward. From left: OLGA FORD - retired Detective 1st Gradel former President of the sidered a promotional test thereby Policewomen's Endowment Association (PEA); GERTRUDE SCHIMMEL, retired Deputy Chief; giving them appointment priority THERESA MELCHIONNE, former President of the PEA and former Deputy Commissioner of over eligibles on any existing open Community Affairs. competitive lists. during the summer. The program The conference consisted of several Cadets wear a distinctive uniform, will also operate three days each workshops highlighting sensitive sit­ but are not armed. During their month during the school year. Those uations confronted by women in the summer internship, they learn the cadets who successfully complete the department. Six areas were explored: community service aspects of polic­ series of steps toward appointment Gender Differences and Performance ing. As compensation for their ser­ should enter the department as full­ Skills, Sexual Harassment, Gender Con­ vices cadets are paid $7 per hour (ap­ fledged police officers in July 1988. sciousness, Partnership Strategies, The proximately $3,800 per year) and re­ Female Civilian Employee, and The Pre­ ceive interest-free loans of $1,500 per cinct Commander - A Leadership Per­ "WOMEN IN POLICING" spective. Objectives of the workshops academic year for the last two years CONFERENCE of college. If they complete the pro­ were to examine communications gram, accept appointment as police In order to understand many of the skills, the impact of sexual harass­ officers, and remain in the depart­ issues raised by the rapid increase in ment, effective working relationships, ment for two years, the loans will be the employment of women by the and management styles as applied to forgiven. New York City Police Department, a a mixed gender workforce. first-of-its-kind "Women in Policing" At the conclusion of the confer­ The department has received conference was held December 5-6, nearly 1,500 applications from area ence, each of the workshop groups 1985, at the Police Academy. The con­ gave a presentation detailing what college students seeking admission to ference was an attempt to bring the Police Cadet Corps Program. The they had discussed, viewpoints ex­ together not only female police offi­ pressed, and suggestions for improve­ first 130 cadets entered the Police cers, but also male police officers, Academy in June 1986. Following a ment. Participants in the inaugural civilian personnel, and precinct com­ conference were selected and as­ brief period of orientation and train­ manders to discuss the specific needs, ing, they were assigned to work with signed to workshops randomly to problems, and concerns of women in eliminate the possibility of obtaining precinct Community Patrol Officers the department. throughout tl'ie City for eight weeks panel members with a special interest in the subject matter to be discussed.

44 But Not Too Far Back

>- ~ The role of female uniformed members of the department has evolved over the years to one of full equality with their male counterparts. From left: Matron, circa 1900; Police Woman, circa 1935; Police Officers, 1985.

woman to be promoted to a super­ The "Women in Policing" confer­ visory position in the NYPD, retiring ence was an overwhelming success, 20 years later as a Deputy Chief. so much so that plans are already un­ derway for a second session. It is en­ The conference coincided with the couraging to note that virtually all opening at Police Headquarters of an discussions at the conference cen­ exhibition entitled" A Century of tered around problem-solving, and Women in Policing," depicting the not on the debate of ten years ago as various roles of women in policing to whether women were capable of from the 1890's until the 1980's performing as police officers in all sit­ In this manner, attitudes and beliefs through photographs, documents, uations. We have made progress. expressed could reasonably be as­ and artifacts. sumed to be reflective of, and consis­ tent with, those of the rank-and-file. Number of Female Police Officers in the N.V.P.D. A film, "Profiles of Women in Polic­ 2500 ing," was produced and shown in 2339 conjunction with the conference. It 2000 l- portrays actual experiences of six female police officers including such 1500 I- pioneers as Gertrude Schimmel and 1000 l- Olga Ford. Just over 20 years ago Ms. Schimmel, now retired, sued the 500 I- N-2w York City Department of Per­ 314 sonnel for the right of policewomen o I I to take promotional police examina­ C=== ___1~9~75~ ______~1~9~85~ ____~ tions. As a result of her perserver­ The number of women police officers in the New York City Police Department has increased over anee, in 1965 she became the first sevenfold in the last decade.

45 But Not Too Far Back

POLICE DEPARTMENT /HOUSING The major benefit derived from the MINORITY RECRUITMENT AUTHORITY EXCHANGE NYPD/HAPD Exchange Program is The New York City Police Depart­ PROGRAM the expansion of the managerial ment, as an equal opportunity horizons and capabilities of those in­ The Police Department established employer, works within a self­ volved in the program. They are ex­ a management exchange program imposed affirmative action program. posed to new experiences in a dif­ with the New York City Housing This program places emphasis on the ferent police environment and must Police on September 3,1985. Under recruitment and retention of female respond in an effective and decisive this exchange, a captain, lieutenant and minority officers. To accomplish manner; consequently, there is a and sergeant from each department this, the department sends recruit­ cross-fertilization of supervisory are assigned to the other police ment teams to visit schools, talent that can only benefit both agency for a period of two months. churches, community centers and to departments. The participants focus on managerial, personnel and operational proce­ dures in a typical patrol command. In addition, they attend community meetings and become familiar with the specific police response tactics of EQUAL EMPLOYMENT the other agency to local conditions. All officers perform the specified OPPORTUNITY duties of the position they hold. At POUCY STATEMENT the end of their assignment, the par­ ticipants submit written recommen­ JULY 1985 dations for improving inter-agency cooperation and administrative and The Ne.w York City Police Department, which has long been committed to the fundamental principles of fair and equal employment opportunity for men and operational procedures. women of every racial, religious and ethnic background of the City's population, is pleased to rcncw herewith its trapitional pledge to achieve and maintain these policies and practices for the benefit of all citizens who seek or possess employment within the Department.

As Commissioner of the New York City Police Department, it is my privilege to reaffirm this Department's commitment to these principles by appointing Deputy Commissioner George L. Sanchez as Director of the Department's Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, reporting directly to me. As in the past, Commissioner Sanchez is charged with the responsibility of implementing and coordinating the Department's Equal Employment Opportunity Program, to review and monitor all employment practices which affect recruitment, hirin~, promotions, transfers and disciplinary procedures.

The Deputy Commissioner is further empowered to investigate all complaints and allegations of employment discrimination or harassment based on race, creed, color, sex, religion, handicap, sexual orientation or national origin, consistent with City, State and Federal guidelines.

Inquiries or allegations concerned with any aspect of employment discrimina~ lion may be direcled to the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity, New York City Police Department, One Police Plal,Q, Room 1204, New York, N.Y. 10038·1497, (212) 374-5330.

The Police Department*s entire written EEO Program is available for inspec­ tion and study dUring business hours at its Public Inquiry Section, Police Head~ quartcr~, One Police Plaza, Room 152A.

A sergeant from the NYPD patrols a Housing ~R~ A uthority development as part of a supervisory Polle. Commissioner exchange program. Similarly, HAPD ranking officers were assigned to NYPD units. The purpose THE NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT IS AN EaUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. is to broaden the managerial horizons of the participants and expose them to a different police environment.

46 But Not Too Far Back

participate in job fairs and career days. Print and electronic media, es­ pecially minority-oriented radio sta­ tions and newspapers are also used extensively to advertise upcoming police officer examinations. During 1985, personnel from the Recruitment Section responded to 2,237 requests for applications and information. Members of this section also participated in 39 career days at area schools. Of the 3,034 new police officers hired in 1985,1,091 were minorities or females, representing 36% of the total. Since December of 1978, the number of minority officers employed by the department has in­ creased 41 % for blacks, 179% for Hispanics, 38% for females, 143% for American Indians/Alaskans and 1,060% for Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders. The department considers minority recruitment a priority personnel issue. Minority members and females receive assistance at all stages of the recruitment process, up to and including, special tutorial programs at the Police Academy for academic and physical training preparation. In short, great strides have been made, and will continue to be made, in bringing overall Police Department ethnicity more in line with the popu­ lation mix of the community it serves.

THE EXPANDING CIVILIAN ROLE The department's ability to provide quality police service demands pro­ fessional and dedicated civilian em­ ployees to complement the uniformed force by furnishing essential staff support and back-up services. The department has employed Auto Mechanic civilians for over 100 years, but their Civilian employees work in many occupations and nt variolls levels, from entry-level through role until fairly recently was strictly managerial.

47 But Not Too Far Back

confined to custodial or clerical ministrative Associates to precincts. duties. It is true that as far back as They received a three week training 1920 the department experimented course including executive level in­ with the concept of using civilians to struction on the principles of Reaching Out to Build free police officers for patrol but its management and supervision, time Greater Public Confidence implementation was haphazard, re­ management and communication ception mixed, and as a personnel skills. They report to the precinct policy, it soon fell into disuse. But Lieutenant Operations Coordinator good ideas never go away; they are and oversee the functions and per­ The New York City Police Depart­ always there to be rediscovered, sonnel assigned to Crime Analysis, ment, in its long history (dating back updated, and re-introduced to meet Communications, Roll Call, General some 200 years to its earliest Night­ changed circumstances. Clerical, Payroll, Time Records, Watch roots), has never been more Custodial Staff and all precinct In 1968, the department dusted off open to public scrutiny than it is computer applications, Because the the idea of II civiIianizingll a number today, as it should be. The power to number of supervisory positions in of full-time, non-enforcement posi­ deprive an individual of his or her non-line commands is limited, this tions then occupied by police officers freedom of movement is one not pilot extension of civilian managerial by creating the new civilian title of lightly given in a democratic society. level positions to precincts and field Police Administrative Aide (PAA). The NYPD is keenly aware of the units could greatly improve the This title permitted the department burden of public trust it bears and chances for advancement by our to hire civilians for (among other has institutionalized a wide-ranging civilian employees. jobs) around-the-clock positions network of self-examining requiring interface with the public mechanisms (in addition to the exten­ under emergency conditions. Little Today there are 6,214 full time sive local, state, and federal review civilian employees in such diverse by little, the person answering the processes) to ensure that citizen com­ telephone at the station house, receiv­ titles as: Accountant, Attorney, Che­ plaints against police actions are in­ ing and recording the details of mist, Computer Programmer Ana­ vestigated and handled appropriate­ lyst, Fingerprint Technician, Hostler, crimes and accidents, and dispatching ly. In 1985, the department Nurse, and Word Processor. Addi­ radio cars to the scenes of emergen­ demonstrated its deep-seated and tionally, the department employs cies ceased being a uniformed police long-standing concern for public over 1,800 individuals in part-time officer and increasingly became a confidence in its impartiality. positions as School Crossing Guards. civilian P AA. Today, some 2,600 These dedicated public servants pos­ P AAs provide a wide array of clerical ESTABLISHMENT OF SATELLITE sess a wealth of specialized experi­ and administrative support to the CIVILIAN COMPLAINT REVIEW ence and training and have contribut­ department's uniformed service, BOARD OFFICES ed greatly to the department's image including providing expert testimony and efficiency. During 1985, the Civilian Com­ in court in both criminal and civil plaint Review Board (CCRB) estab­ cases. And in the process they have lished satellite offices in each of New freed approximately 1,800 police offi­ York City's five boroughs. One day a cers for enforcement duty who week investigators staff these local would otherwise be performing these borough offices for the receipt and duties. recording of complaints of police mis­ To provide increased promotional conduct by citizens unable, or unwill­ opportunities to our expanded, and ing, to communicate with the depart­ expanding, civilian workforce the ment either in person, by telephone, department recently implemented a or by letter at any of its regular facili­ new career path pilot project with ties. Additionally, these decen­ the assignment of 14 Principal Ad- tralized offices provide greater

48 But Not Too Far Back

convenience to a complainant during the follow-up investigation. Wit­ nesses' statements, new evidence, and other material may be brought to the attention of the investigator at these locations for inclusion in the case file. Relatedly, in April 1985, the responsibility for the initial review of all civilian complaints alleging police misconduct involving the unneces­ sary use of force was shifted to the In­ ternal Affairs Division. Because of the greater experience and investiga­ tive resources of that unit, the trans­ fer of function has effectively upgrad­ ed official inquiries now conducted into such complaints. As a result of the 2,465 civilian complaints alleging the unnecessary use of force received in 1985 after the effective date of this change, the Internal Affairs Division retained 33 for a centrally conducted investigation, referred 309 to Field In­ ternal Affairs Units for disposition, Deputy Commissioner of Community Affairs Wilhelmina E. Holliday interviews New York City Police Commissioner Benjamin Ward on the very first Police Heartbeat cable television program. Twice a month and returned 2,123 to the Civilian Deputy Commissioner Holliday hosts the half hour show which discusses police matters of particular Complaint Review Board for their interest to the black community. investigation. gram for the express purpose of tion WWRL, the second largest black­ broadening the lines of communica­ owned radio station in New York BLACK MEDIA OUTREACH tion between the police and the black City. The department has been able PROGRAM community. to broadcast, on a daily basis, four dif­ New York is the media capital of ferer.t 60 second public service an­ The department's overture to the world and the activities of the nouncements each month, providing broadcasters and pub1;shers who New York City Police Department re­ information and practical advice on target a black audience was well re­ ceive considerable coverage by the police programs and services (e.g., ceived and a close working relation­ City's major journals and radio and how to avoid becoming a victim of ship with this specialized segment of television stations. But, because these pickpockets or car thieves, or how to the local media developed. Television news outlets speak to the entire me­ apply to become a Police Officer or and radio stations, as well as maga­ tropolitan area they usually focus Police Cadet). zines and some 60 city wide and com­ their reporting on police matters of munity newspapers, now cooperate The program also has had success interest to the community as a whole. with the NYPD in reporting police in obtaining airtime on cable televi­ To ensure that the department's ef­ news of particular interest to their sion. "Police Heartbeat", which ap­ forts and viewpoints also receive a viewers or readers. pears on Group W channel 10 and public airing via the local minority­ Manhattan Cable channel L, reaches oriented media, in April 1985, the One of the program's accomplish­ all cable subscribers in Manhattan Community Affairs Division estab­ ments has been the securing of with a one half hour talk show lished the Black Media Outreach Pro- "spot" announcements on radio sta-

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hosted by the Deputy Commissioner of Community Affairs. The first show, aired in December, featured Police Commissioner Benjamin Ward as the initial guest. Two new shows, cooperativ.ely produced by the NYPD and Group W Cable TV, play twice each month on both cable channels. The Black Media Outreach Pro­ gram also has been active in coor­ dinating special events which have received wide minority media atten­ tion, including the Malcolm X Awards honoring community leaders for their accomplishments and ser­ vices and the Hispanic Auxiliary Police Awards ceremony.

EST ABLISHMENT OF THE NEW IMMIGRANTS UNIT The poetic inscription on the base of the Statue of Liberty reads: The faces and cultural traditions may change, but immigrants still flock to New York in search of a better future. And the department's New Immigrants Unit, established in 1985, is there with translators and public safety information in their native languages to ease the transition and reduce frictions. "Give me your tired, your poor Your huddled masses current population is foreign-born, lics and Iran; the black liaison with yearning to breathe free, many from countries where the Carribean countries such as Bar­ The wretched refuse of your teeming police role is primarily enforcement, bados, Guyana, Trinidad, and Haiti; shore, rather than community service. Part and the Hispanic liaison with the Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, of the mission of the New Immigrants peoples of Latin America. During tome: Unit is to inform these newcomers of 1985, unit members participated in I Ii ft my lamp beside the golden door. " that difference and to make sure that well over 100 community meetings they understand that here the police One hundred years later New York As 1985 drew to a close, the unit serve the people, not the other way City is still the 1/ golden door" and for­ was in the process of implementing around. eign immigrants still flock to it in an extension of the Precinct Recep­ search of a better future. The unit has a staff of seven, com­ tionist Program via the placement of In 1985, the Community Affairs prised of Asian, white, black, and Korean, Cambodian, and Russian­ Division created the' department's Hispanic uniformed members. The speaking receptionists in precincts New Immigrants Unit to establish a Asian liaison works primarily with containing large foreign-born com­ working liaison with representatives people from countries of the Far East, munities to serve as interpreters and of new immigrant groups in New including Cambodia, Viet Nam, otherwise assist such residents enter­ York City. This action was prompted Korea, India, Japan, and the Philip­ ing the station house. pines; the European liaison with Eu­ by recent census surveys showing The unit has also joined with other ropean and Middle Eastern countries, that approximately 25% of the City's City agencies, such as the Office of including Israel, Poland, Germany, Immigrant Affairs, the New York the Union of Soviet Socialist Repub- Association for New Americans, the

50 But Not Too Far Back

Victim Services Agency, and private sector foundations concerned with immigrant affairs to engage in pro­ gram development of various kinds. One result of this coordination has been the creation of a college intern­ ship program at Adelphi University. Pursuant to this effort, student­ interns serve as translators and advi­ sors to the staff of the New Immi­ grants Unit, both in the office and on .field trips to immigrant neighbor­ hoods. In addition, the New Immigrant Unit is working with Adelphi Uni­ versity to create a video tape library describing available police services to immigrants in their native language. The unit is also producing a series of video tapes for sensitivity training for police officers, highlighting rela­ Precinct Youth COllncils - a positive outlet for the energies of neighborhood youngsters interested in tions with new immigrants. Both pro­ contributing to their cOllllllunity's betterment. jects should be completed during 1986.

REVITALIZATION OF PRECINCT YOUTH COUNCILS About 30 years ago an increase in the number of street gangs and a cor­ responding rise in juvenile delin­ quency prompted the department to initiate the formation of Precinct Youth Councils throughout the City. These Councils gave young people an opportunity to "get involved" with neighborhood problems affect­ ing their own community's welfare; the Precinct Youth Councils, in fact, were the forerunners of to day's Pre­ cinct Community Councils. Unfortunately, because of other funding priorities, the status of the Precinct Youth Councils diminished over the years and by 1984 only 18

The revitalization of the Precinct Youth Councils demonstrates the department's long held belief in the importance of close police- youth relationships. The photograph shows a neighborhood baseball team along with 102nd precinct personnel, frolll an earlier time.

51 · "But Not Too Far Back

were still active. To revitalize the pro­ attend school within the precinct. athletes whom many youngsters gram, in 1985 the department direct­ They meet regularly, under the aus­ view as role models, makes it more ed all precincts to re-emphasize or re­ pices of concerned precinct staff important than ever that youths have institute, as appropriate, Youth officers, offering youths positive al­ access to a positive social outlet for Councils. Pursuant to this operation­ ternatives to delinquent behavior. their energies and idealism. al directive, by the end of the year Times may change, but young people such Councils were operational in 57 do not. Today's teenagers share the of the NYPD's 75 precincts, with the same hopes and insecurities that al­ remainder in various stages of ternately inspired and frightened organization. preceding generations as well as the same youthful energy. But the Precinct Youth Councils are open scourge of widespread drug abuse to all young people who live, work 0r today, even among entertainers and

52

Top: Mayor La Guardia presenting a medal, 1937

Left: Medal of Valor bestowed in 1877

Right: Bringing a foundling into headquarters, circa 1885

Bottom: Mayor James J. Walker presenting a medal, 1929 TIMELESS VIRTUES - DUTY, HONOR, SELFLESSNESS

All in a Day's Work

The New York City Police Depart­ ment dates back almost 150 years as a duly constituted, permanent police force, as does its traditions. And none of its traditions has been more faith­ fully passed down from one genera­ tion to the next over a century and a half than that of duty, honor, and self-sacrifice (as the walls of the lobby of Police Headquarters - in­ scribed with the names of those who gave their lives in the performance of their duty - silently attest). In 1985, the members of the NYPD once again demonstrated their solidarity with those who have gone before.

UNITED NATIONS 40TH ANNIVERSARY GENERAL The Citizens of New York City presented the Flag of Honor to the department in 1872 to express their ASSEMBL Y SESSION appreciation for "... the fidelity, discipline, and gallantry shown by the police force on many occasions of It was considered just another as­ public disturbance, notably during the riots of July, 1863 and 1871." The flag shows the department's motto, "Faithful unto Death", on one side and the City's seal on the other. signment for the Police Department to provide security for all visiting dignitaries during the 40th anniver­ sary celebration of the United Na­ tions General Assembly. The "business-as usual" manner in which this complex task was given to the department by City, Federal and U.N. officials speaks volumes about the confidence the international security community has in the NYPD to coordinate the policing of such an historic event, one that posed unpre­ cedented security risks. In the first place, it was not to be the typical one-day event. This "birthday party" would continue for six weeks. Secondly, the department had to work against the backdrop of a world-wide increase in terrorism coupled with the assemblage of scores of international leaders, Each year, On June 1st, from 1873 through 1931 a police parade was held to honor the department. Here the crowd looks on at Broadway and 23rd Street, circa 1895.

55 Timeless Virtues

including several high-profile, con­ troversial figures. Thirdly, these diplomats would be on the move and would need protection at every point along their several independent iti­ neraries. Finally, the department . would have to facilitate the diplo­ mats' movements while still taking due regard for the day-to-day mam­ moth traffic problems of midtown Manhattan. Traditional approaches to coor­ dinating coverage simply would not suffice to meet the demands of providing security for the largest con­ vocation of world leaders in modern times. A computerized command center for police operations was therefore developed and implement­ ed. Although use of the computer in police work is not new, its application to organizing a detail to police an event of the scope and magnitude of the United Nations celebration was. The command center consisted of a microcomputer system, a fully equipped mobile office, closed circuit television and video systems, and cel­ lular telephones. Computer applica­ tions were written to deal with specif­ ic elements of policing the occasion: such as arriving dignitaries, motor­ cades, scheduled events and demon­ For six weeks in the fall of 1985, New York City hosted the greatest gathering of world leaders and diplomatic officials in memory - in a security e1lvironment charged by international terrorism. strations, manpower projections, Nevertheless, the 40th Anniversary Session of the United Nations General Assembly was conducted post assignments and overtime. One without incident or mishap, thanks in large measure to the dedication and professionalism of the NYPD additional security task was also security detail assigned to police this historic event. created by this new computer appli­ cation, that of protecting the integrity Computerization helped allocate locations where they were most of the vital information entered into department resources more effective­ needed. By the time the last diplomat the microcomputer system itself. ly so that manpower use was maxi­ left for home, the NYPD had pre­ There was also a critical need for mized and overtime requirements formed almost 20,000 police tours of managing the two million bytes of in­ minimized. Immediate communica­ duty in connection with this event. tion and feedback, so essential to formation eventually stored. Ironical­ The "vital statistics" cited below policing fluid events, assisted on-site ly, security precautions rendered this provide some insight into the unique <2~mmanders with deployment task all the more difficult by dictating workload placed upon the depart­ decision-making. Police officers were that certain information be updated ment during the six-week anniver­ able to be assigned precisely to those only at the last moment. sary celebration.

56 Timeless Virtues

Visitors President Reagan Vice-Pres. Bush (twice) 74 heads of state 36 first ladies 2 special envoys 159 foreign ministers

Locations United Nations site 41 missions & consulates 60 residences 4 additional properties Motorcades 694 diplomatic transfers Events 202 U.N. speeches 53 demonstrations For all the publicity, complex logis­ tics, large numbers of dignitaries and others present, and the potential danger inherent in this type of situa­ tion, the 40th Anniversary Session of the United Nations General Assembly Mayor Koch and Police Commissioner Ward survey Hurricane Gloria's impact on the Sea Gate section of was celebrated without incident. The Brooklyn, where many people had to be evacuated from seafront homes threatened by the storm. department policed an historic event of massive proportions involving un­ As Director of the Mayor's staffed by police recruits and other paralleled dangers and, as they used Emergency Control Board, the Police City personnel, answered telephone to say of the way another New York Commissioner bore the responsibility inquiries and requests for assistance. institution patrolled center field at for developing and coordinating ap­ For the officers in the field, the top Yankee Stadium in the 1940s, "made propriate contingency plans. Many priority was to keep people off the it look routine." distinct governmental agencies and streets and safely indoors, transport­ private groups had to be brought ing them directly if necessary. Police HURRICANE GLORIA together under a unifying direction officers helped evacuate residents of to coordinate essential activities in communities located in low-lying On September 27,1985, Hurricane advance: such as closing schools, areas and increased patrols there to Gloria threatened the New York City preparing shelters, securing high-rise ensure the protection of the evacuees' area. Long before that date, however, construction sites and equipment, property. In addition, injured and iilI the Police Department was actively and evacuating certain a.reas, to people needed assistance and aban­ preparing for the lady's stormy arriv­ name but a few. doned vehicles blocking emergency al. Dealing with emergencies is noth­ routes needed to be towed. Nor did With Hurricane Gloria's arrival, ing new to the police. Still, tropical the department's role end when the the plan was put into action. At head­ storms, pose far-reaching dangers to hurricane did. In its aftermath, the quarters, an emergency command the civilian population not typical of police coordinated the inter-agency c.::nter for police operations was ac­ most other types of emergencies. cleanup process, identifying and tivated. A public information unit,

Ei7 Timeless Virtues

reporting dangerous street condi­ tions, and patrolling distressed areas (power failures, felled trees and power lines, etc.) The police are sworn to protect life and property, even at the risk of their own safety, and the members of the NYPD do that every day of the year. But police officers have families too, and homes that also need protection from the fury of a hurricane. Nevertheless, they responded as they always do for the good of the commu­ nity... they did their duty.

VIETNAM VETERANS PARADE AND MEMORIAL DEDICATION Parades and public events are a regular part of New York City's On May 6th, 1985 the New York City Police Department was proud to be a part of the public tribute to street life during the milder months America's Vietnam Veterans. of the year. They are often among the The memory of other parades may adjacent five story deep construction more pleasant duties to which a blur over time, but for those NYPD site. The first police on the scene, member of the department may be as­ members fortunate enough to be pre­ Officers Edward Flynn, Kevin Tolan, signed. However, the Vietnam Vet­ sent, the Vietnam Veterans Parade and James Essig formed a human erans Parade and Memorial dedica­ and Memorial dedication will remain chain and by linking their belts tion was an assignment of honor for as a vivid, moving, and uplifting together lowered Officer Alfred those New York City police officers memory. Esposito twelve feet to determine privileged to be present, either as whether Mrs. Gerney was alive and if parade marchers, or as part of the UNCOMMON VALOR WA-SA she could be extricated. While com­ world's longest "unofficial" honor COMMON VIRTUE - THE MID­ forting her they placed wooden guard, stretching from Brooklyn to TOWN CRANE ACCIDENT planks across the gap from the side­ Broadway to Ci~y Hall. walk to the building foundation to At a few minutes before noon on give a tenuous access 1:0 the victim. On May 6th and 7th, 1985, veterans an otherwise typical workday in Mid­ and non-veterans alike came from all town Manhattan on May 30, 1985, a Police Officers Paul Ragonese and over to join in paying a long deferred 35-ton crane hoisting steel rods top­ Anthony Mangiaracina of the tribute to those who had served their pled onto its side, crushing Mrs. Emergency Services Unit arrived country with distinction. For the Brigitte Gerney's legs, and so began a soon thereafter and were lowered police on duty, this was a special six hour ordeal during which several beneath the crane to administer first event. For beyond the commonly officers risked death in a massive aid and attempt to calm the woman shared emotion of the occasion, the rescue operation that eventually to prevent her from going into shock. police officers present enjoyed one meant life for the victim. They remained in this perilous posi­ more, that of seeing many fellow offi­ tion for over two and one half hours The crane, when it fell, cracked the cers who were also Vietnam Veterans until ordered to be hospitalized for sidewalk, pinned Mrs. Gerney under finally received the recognition they treatment of leg cramps and one of its wheels, and came to rest deserved, exhaustion. suspended precariously over the

58 Timeless Virtues

Meanwhile, Officer George Toth, ESU, devised a plan to rescue Mrs. Gerney that required stabilizing the crane which, if shifted, would have certainly caused her death. Officers Alexander Terrero and Ronald Her­ reid volunteered to climb beneath the plywood board supporting Mrs. Gerney and used wooden planks to shore up the crane. Officer Toth re­ moved rocks and dirt by hand for five hours until Officers Terrero and Herreid, who had relieved Officers Mangiaracina and Ragonese, pulled the woman to safety. All these officers exhibited coolness of mind and boundless personal courage. During the lengthy rescue effort, Traffic Division personnel had to manage a hugh traffic control prob­ lem. Streets between 63rd Street and 3rd Avenue and Bellevue Hospital at 1st A venue and 29th Street had to be kept clear, so that an ambulance Without regard for his persollal safety, Police Officer Paul Ragollese clambered over the remllallts of a could be rushed through when the woodell cOllstructioll site wall alld crawled ullder all overturned cralle, delicately balallced betweell the street and all excavation pit, to reach the side of a womall whose legs were crushed alld pillned belleath the woman finally was pulled from huge machille. And there he stayed for over two hours, cOllsolillg her, prayillg with her, alld passillg her a under the crane. Motorcycles stood commullion wafer provided by a priest. ready to escort the ambulance. It was understood that seconds counted in this life and death drama, a drama FOR VALOR where life was the victor this time. hat is the greatest single asset of the police? It is the certain knowledge For the heroic and humane role he W on the part of the criminal that the man in blue will keep coming no matter what the odds may be against him. Organization, equipment, physical played in the rescue, without concern condition, training, intelligent direction are all required to make an efficient for his personal safety, Police Officer force, and here we have them all. But fundamental is the quality of the man Ragonese, already the holder of 72 himself, his will to enforce the law at any hazard. Every policeman must department citations, was promoted pledge himself to "live dangerously." to detective. On June 13, 1985, Detec­ Threeuhundred and sixty-one members of the city police have just been tive Ragonese was further honored placed on the honor list by Commissioner Valentine. Twenty-four received by the Association for a Better New "honorable mention," the highest citation. To read of the individual deeds of York. "You epitomize the cop in New these men in the face of imminent death would make the slowest pulse beat faster. Not steel or lead could stop them. In the emergency everyone of them York City", said Mr. Lewis Rudin, kept coming and so mastered the sudden problem that confronted him."" ... Chairman of the association - a fit­ ting tribute to both the officer and . That is the reason we can keep going - all the rest of us - peacefully about our business. The next time you see a "COpl' on the comer do him the courtesy the department. of remembering that he stands ready to risk his life for you, the citizen. Mrs. Gerney displayed extreme -New York Times Editorial, April 6, 1937 bravery, self-composure and concern for others during her ordeal. Detec-

59 Timeless Virtues

~ ~ New York City Auxiliary Police Officers volullteered over aile million hOllrs of their time in Police Officer Ragonese, already the holder of 72 departmental citations, was promoted to detectit'e 1985 for the benefit of their fellow New Yorkers. III followillg the heroic and humalle part he played ill the rescue of Mrs. Brigitte Cerney. While visitillg recognition of this, on October 25th, Mayor Koch Mrs. Cerney at Bellevue Hospital, First Lady Nancy Regan shakes hallds with detective Ragonese as presented the auxiliaries with a Mayor's Mayor Koch looks all. Volullteer Service Award for exceptional service.

tive Ragonese has called her the real This particular award was a formal In recognition of this impressive hero of the whole incident. And, expression of gratitude to the thou­ demonstration of citizen willingness indeed, she was. Bravery is not a sands of New York City Auxiliary to cooperate with the police to im­ virtue confined only to police officers, Police Officers who volunteer ap­ prove their own, their families', and they just call it by a different name - proximately 1.2 million hours of their neighbors' security, the duty. their time annually for the benefit of Mayor'S Award Committee chose to others. Private citizens recruited, honor the Auxiliaries - people from THE AUXILIARY POLICE OF trained and equipped by the Police all walks of life actively participating NEW YORK Department, these unarmed volun­ in crime deterrence and helping im­ teers patrol their neighborhoods in prove the community's quality of At a City Hall ceremony on Octo­ distinct police uniforms, both on foot life. These public-spirited citizens ber 25,1985, Mayor Koch presented a and in police-radio equipped vehi­ also know the meaning of the words, Mayor1s Volunteer Service Award to cles, to deter crime. In addition, there honor, duty, and service. the Police Departmenes Auxiliary are Auxiliary Police Harbor, Mount­ Police Program. These awards are ed, Highway and Emergency Service presented each year to inuividuals or patrols that augment the Police groups for exceptional service to Department's regular aSSignments in their fellow New Yorkers. these specialized areas.

60

.' ..... ,."------lice Marc.li

Top: Sergeant and his men tllrning out, 23rd Precinct, 1908

Left: Sheet music cover illustrating a Police Reserve, circa 1918

Right: Sheet music cover illllstrating a Po/iceman, circa 1894

Bottom: Officers of the 2nd Precinct in slimmer IIniforms, circa 1873 MISCELLANY

OPENING OF THE 49th PRECINCT The establishment of precinct sta­ tion houses, or watch houses as they were originally called, did not occur until 1809. In that year the City's Night-Watch consisted ofthree watch districts and each district had its own watch house, a structure either built or leased by the City. The watch house located in the third dis­ trict was a new building and cost the City $3,000 to construct. That tradition of decentralization, i.e., grouping police service facilities (and resources) by district continues Top: The new 49th Precinct station house. today. In 1980, local municipal ser­ vice districts in the Borough of the Bronx became coterminous with the community planning districts, so as to conform to the New York City Charter mandates approved by the voters in a 1976 referendum. In compliance with the new Charter's requirements, the Police Department embarked upon the construction of a new precinct, the 49th, to be carved out of areas formerly covered by two other precincts, thereby unifying the delivery of all local police service to 49 peT. those neighborhoods in one new Ij 'u,." !IIIIII facility. On January 8, 1985, the 49th L.. I I Precinct was officially opened. Mayor Koch and Police Com­ missioner Ward officiated at the dedi­ cation of the Pelham Parkway/Morris Park areas' new station house. The building, which cost $4.5 million (as compared to the $3,000 for the first Above: Boundaries of the new 49th Precinct. police precinct station in 1809), houses a1149th Precinct personnel, as well as th~ 49th Precinct Detective Unit and the Applicant Investigation Unit. Left, top and bottom: Patrol Borough Bronx before and after addition of 49th Precinct.

63 Miscellany

A WARD-WINNING which reinforces the legal points have utilized the films in their train­ CONSTITUTIONAL LAW highlighted in the scenarios and pro­ ing programs. Moreover, the New TRAINING FILM SERIES vides a ready post-viewing reference York State Division of Criminal Jus­ guide. In addition to internal training tice Services is making these training In 1985, the New York City Police use, several other police departments, aids available for distribution to Department's Legal Bureau oversaw including Nassau County, Suffolk police agencies throughout the State the production of a series of constitu­ County and the City of Rochester of New YOL'k. tionallaw films to be used for recruit and in-service police legal training. Funded by a grant from a private foundation, the films are profession­ ally produced in conjunction with the department's Legal Bureau, which developed the concept, identi­ fied the subject matter to be covered, provided the story lines and were present on the set as consultants during filming. All police roles in the films were portrayed by actual active­ duty police officers, with professional actors employed for most other parts. There will be five films in all when the series is completed. The goal is to provide accurate information about difficult legal issues with which police officers routinely come into contact. The first two films, "Descrip­ tion As Follows" and /I You Have The Right," deal with eyewitness identifi­ cations, confessions and interroga­ tions. Both won critical acclaim at several film festivals, including an award of the Cine Golden Eagles and first and second place at the America Film Festival. The third film, entitled II Street Encounters," was completed in 1985 and concerns stop, question and frisk situations on the street; it has also been entered in several film festi­ vals. The final two films, which will complete the series, regarding search and seizure issues are now in production. These films are an excellent train­ ing tool, bringing hypothetical situa­ In a welcome break with the past, the department's most recent foray into the trailiing film business has tions to a startling reality in the been both an artistic and educational success. The first two installments af the NYPD's five-part Constitutional Law film series, using real life police officers as cops and professional actors in most other classroom. The series has a compan­ roles, have won critical acclaim at several film festivals and high praise from police audiences for their ion Constitutional Law booklet realistic portrayal of legal issues confronted by the police every day on the street.

64 Miscellany

THE POLICE COMMISSIONER'S SOFTBALL LEAGUE Police officers should be physically fit for their own and the department's best interests. Exercise is an essential part of fitness and athletics are a pleasurable form of exercise for most people. Hence, the Police Commissioner's Softball League was inaugurated in the spring of 1985. Sixty-five teams, consisting of 1,000 department members signed up for the first season of play, a sur­ prisingly large turnout to the league's organizers. The championship game was played at Shea Stadium - home of the New York Mets - and the Police Academy team, with a large assist from its complement of physical education instructors carried home the Com­ missioner's Trophy. If the results Commissioner Ward presents the Commissioner's Ttuphy to the Police Academy, champions of the were unremarkable, (as in the words inaugural season of the Police Commissioner's Softball League. of Damon Runyon, "The race is not always to the swift, or the contest to the strong, but that's the way to bet."t the spirit of good sports­ manship prevailed... But this season all the other teams in the league will be I, gunning" for the defending champions and their roster of "ring­ ers." And if last year's winners are again victorious, the cry of "Break up the Police Academy Softball Team" will be heard in the land.

The newly established softball league continues a tradition of competitive Police Department sports. Up to the 1940's, the departmellt fielded a baseball team that competed against other city agencies. This photo shows a team at the Polo Grounds, circa 1938.

65 CREDITS PROJECT COORDlNATION AND TEXT PREPARATION: New York City Police Department, Office of Management Analysis and Planning, Deputy ChiefJames J. Trainor, Commanding Officer. Resource Analysis Section: Mr. Michael Manzolillo, Project Coordinator; Lt. Gerald Lennon, Prin~ipal Writer; Mrs. Dorothy Cutler, Word Processor.

DESIGN, TYPESETTING, AND PROOUCTION: New York City Publishing Center/Graphics Section; Mr. John Yue, Graphic Systems Manager; Ms. Jane Volpe, Design & Production.

PRINTING: New York City Police Department Printing Section; Mr. Charles Callahan, Director.

FRONT COVER ORIGINAL ARTWORK: Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design; MW A Miscellaneous Fund.

PHOTOGRAPHS: Front Cover: American Heritage Magazine. Unmarked Photographs: New York City Police Department Photographic Unit; P.O. Virginia Conde, Principal Photographer. Group W: Group W Cable TV, Mr. James Carney. MACNY: Collection of the Municipal Archives of the City of New York. MCNY: Museum of the City of New York. NYCP&R: New York City Parks and Recreation Photo Collection. NYHS: The New York Historical Society, New York City. NYPDM: New York City Police Departm~nt Museum; Sgt. Thomas Krantz, Curator. NYPDU: New York City Police Department Photographic Unit; Sgt. Michael Flores, Commanding Officer. NYPL: New York Public Library. WWP: Wide Work Photos.

GRAPH PREPARATION: New York City Health & Hospitals Corporation; Administrative Services - Forms Management & Graphics, Ms. Carol Bull, Senior Systems Analyst.

MAP PREPARATION: New York City Police Departmert Communications Division Cartography and Drafting Unit; Mr. William Buckley, Supervi,or.

66 POLICE HEADQUARTERS 1 Police Plaza New York City