New York City is certainly known for its diverse culture and vibrant nightlife. Often referred to as the “centre of the world”, any metropolitan area of this size will likewise be forced to face a number of challenges. The good news is that crime rates have been reduced massively when compared to previous decades such as the 1970s and 1980s. However, we also need to remember that we are living in uncertain times. Thanks to a fair amount of civil unrest and due in no small part to the recent health crisis, law enforcement professionals are facing more challenges than ever before. How can police cope with such unprecedented situations and might their tactics need to change? While these are difficult questions to answer, they nonetheless deserve a closer look.
An Issue of Transparency
Terms such as the so-called “blue wall of silence” have existed for decades and on occasion, they actually proved to be an accurate description of the lack of transparency that was attributed to the NYPD. However, we need to highlight the simple fact that modern police officers are more accountable for their actions than ever before. This has imbued the NYPD with a heightened sense of professionalism that was not always present in the past.
More Effective Public Relations
Every police force faces public relations challenges on occasion. When we take into account that New York City is home to more than 8.4 million residents of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, it becomes clear to see why the NYPD is sometimes facing an uphill battle. Another issue is the economic downturn that the city (and the nation) has suffered throughout 2020. While a nationwide fiscal recovery may soon be on the horizon, many New Yorkers will be forced to deal with tough financial situations. In the event that the city and nation face a pronounced recession, it only stands to reason that crime rates may begin to rise.
This is why the NYPD is seeking to develop a more community-centred approach when dealing with residents. Effective communications, the ability to appreciate different cultural perspectives and more proactive policing will all have a massive impact upon how local law enforcement officials are perceived. While there is no doubt that civil unrest can and will occur from time to time, it should be nowhere on the scale of riots witnessed during the 1960s and 1970s.
There are currently more than 38,000 active police officers throughout the New York City metropolitan area. These young and dynamic professionals continue to face challenges on a daily basis and their job has certainly not been made any easier as a result of recent social distancing measures. However, their professionalism and passion will continue to serve as the social “cement” which bonds such as diverse city together. The good news is that the population has likewise learned to appreciate their presence. While challenges still remain throughout 2020, there is no doubt that the NYPD is certainly up to the tasks at hand.
