NYPD Community Programs

NYPD Community Affairs

   New York City has the largest police force in the world with over 35,000 officers. For all of these officers to properly serve the communities of New York, community oriented policing programs are essential. That is exactly what was created early in the departments history and still continues to evolve today.

   In the 1940s what is now known as Precinct Community Councils were formed for communities  and police in New York City. They are forums where community members serve as councilors and meet regularly with police precinct officials to discuss problems in their respective community.

    There are eighty six council members that represent each of the precincts of New York Police. The meetings are monthly and the public is welcomed and encouraged to attend. This is a great program by the NYPD that utilizes community oriented policing tactics to bring members of individual communities in contact with the police officers who serve them.

Link to NYPD Community Affairs page

NY Community Affairs

   Another program developed by the NYPD to use community policing is known as Civilian Observation Patrol or COP. COP is a new form of a neighborhood watch program. It involves volunteer citizens to act as eyes and ears and to patrol their neighborhoods and report to the police any suspicious or criminal activity. They can assist in emergencies and report and observe incidents, conditions and crimes. The best part of this program is the deterrence of criminals. With having a constant group of people acting along side of police, an even bigger force is present which keeps criminals at bay.

   Yet another program the NYPD offers in a ride along program. Citizens are able to do a two hour ride along with an officer on their tour of duty. I feel very strongly about this program due to the nature that not many people understand what officers must face and endure in this day and age. With constant hate of the police, many people do not understand that the police are not there to cause them harm or trouble. They are their to protect and serve and often times, to do this life and death decisions must be made in split seconds. By having citizens out and observing what officers do first hand, perhaps a better understanding and respect will be given.

Link to ride along program!

Ride along