Mayor, it’s time to increase the police force

Mayor Adams complained on Tuesday about the perception that New York City is out of control following the tragic murder of Police Officer Jonathan Diller and another deadly subway incident.

To address the current reality, the mayor should increase the number of police officers in the NYPD’s patrol force by hiring more cops. While he can continue pressing Albany to address laws that contribute to disorder, he has the authority to increase police presence without legislative approval.

The NYPD is currently understaffed, with numbers down to about 34,000 officers from a high of 40,285 in 2000, resulting in increased overtime spending and officer burnout. Mayor Adams proposed adding 600 recruits in the FY 2024 NYPD academy class, but this may not be enough to keep up with attrition from early retirements.

Mayor Adams highlighted the decline in all law enforcement ranks within the city and emphasized the need to take action to address the shrinking public safety apparatus.

To address these issues, the mayor should consider the following steps:

• Reinstate the four canceled FY 2025 Police Academy classes.

• Allocate funds for increased transit-police presence, possibly seeking assistance from the state to enhance subway safety.

• Enhance street-homeless mental-health-intervention programs to provide better care for those in need.

The mayor should also organize rallies in the districts of legislators who oppose necessary criminal-justice reforms, easier involuntary commitment for the mentally ill, and increased funding for mental-health facilities.

Mayor Adams stated earlier in the year, “More police officers means safer streets, safer subways and a safer New York City.” It is time to turn these words into action and provide New Yorkers with the public safety they deserve.