7:00PM
WHERE: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church
85 South Oxford Street
(between Lafayette Avenue and Fulton Street)
WHAT: Panel discussion and Q & A regarding the future of Stop & Frisk
Showing posts with label NYPD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NYPD. Show all posts
Thursday, October 24, 2013
ATTENTION: The Future of Stop & Frisk Discussion; 11/12; FG
7:00PM
WHERE: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church
85 South Oxford Street
(between Lafayette Avenue and Fulton Street)
WHAT: Panel discussion and Q & A regarding the future of Stop & Frisk
Monday, August 12, 2013
CM Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk”
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
AUGUST 12, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk”
Federal Judge Rules Stop and Frisk Violated Constitutional Rights of Thousands of New Yorkers
(New York, NY)— Today, Manhattan Federal District Court Judge Shira A. Scheindlin ruled in Floyd vs. the City of New York that the New York City Police Department (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy violated the constitutional rights of tens of thousands of New Yorkers.
In the decision, Judge Scheindlin recognized that police officers have systematically stopped people without any objective reason to suspect them of criminal behavior, and thus violation individual’s Fourth Amendment rights.
In January 2013, Judge Scheindlin ruled that the NYPD’s policy of stopping individuals suspected of trespassing outside private buildings in the Bronx was also unconstitutional. This was a practice common in private residences participating in the Trespass Affidavit Program (TAP). Judge Scheindlin ruled in Ligon vs. the City of New York that reasonable suspicion of trespassing was necessary for such arrests, while acknowledging that the department must determine where to draw the line between justified and unjustified stops. The court ruled that the NYPD must create a formal policy ‘specifying the limited circumstances in which it is legally permissible to stop a person outside a TAP building on a suspicion of trespass’.
Similarly, in today’s ruling, Judge Scheindlin called for a federal monitor to oversee departmental reforms, and stated her intention to assign an independent attorney to monitor the NYPD’s compliance with the Constitution moving forward.
“Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk in New York, and preserving the liberties of Black and Latino youth throughout this City,” said Council Member Letitia James. “It is imperative that the administration and the police department move to make transparent the rationale for street stops, as well as define long-used terms such as ‘furtive movements’. I hope that following these federal rulings, the administration moves towards making the necessary changes to facilitate a healthier relationship with minority communities.”
###
AUGUST 12, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James: “Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk”
Federal Judge Rules Stop and Frisk Violated Constitutional Rights of Thousands of New Yorkers
(New York, NY)— Today, Manhattan Federal District Court Judge Shira A. Scheindlin ruled in Floyd vs. the City of New York that the New York City Police Department (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy violated the constitutional rights of tens of thousands of New Yorkers.
In the decision, Judge Scheindlin recognized that police officers have systematically stopped people without any objective reason to suspect them of criminal behavior, and thus violation individual’s Fourth Amendment rights.
In January 2013, Judge Scheindlin ruled that the NYPD’s policy of stopping individuals suspected of trespassing outside private buildings in the Bronx was also unconstitutional. This was a practice common in private residences participating in the Trespass Affidavit Program (TAP). Judge Scheindlin ruled in Ligon vs. the City of New York that reasonable suspicion of trespassing was necessary for such arrests, while acknowledging that the department must determine where to draw the line between justified and unjustified stops. The court ruled that the NYPD must create a formal policy ‘specifying the limited circumstances in which it is legally permissible to stop a person outside a TAP building on a suspicion of trespass’.
Similarly, in today’s ruling, Judge Scheindlin called for a federal monitor to oversee departmental reforms, and stated her intention to assign an independent attorney to monitor the NYPD’s compliance with the Constitution moving forward.
“Today’s ruling reflects the urgency many of us feel about reforming stop and frisk in New York, and preserving the liberties of Black and Latino youth throughout this City,” said Council Member Letitia James. “It is imperative that the administration and the police department move to make transparent the rationale for street stops, as well as define long-used terms such as ‘furtive movements’. I hope that following these federal rulings, the administration moves towards making the necessary changes to facilitate a healthier relationship with minority communities.”
###
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
CM James Discusses NYPD Stop And Frisk Policy On MSNBC
See Council Member Letitia James on MSNBC's "All In W/ Chris Hayes" discussing the administration's stop, question, and frisk policy.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
ATTENTION: AM Walter Mosley and CM Tish James Host Public Safety Town Hall; 3/13; Hope City Empowerment Cntr
Present: a Public Safety Town Hall Meeting
In response to rising community concerns regarding a perceived increase in household burglaries, Assembly Member Walter Mosley and Council Member Letitia James are hosting a meeting with the Commanding Officers of the 77th, 78th, and 88th Precincts. They will report on current conditions, and there will be a question and answer period.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013 6:00 PM — 7:30 PM
Hope City Empowerment Center
650 Washington Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11238
(between Dean and Bergen Streets)
For more information, contact the Office of Council Member Letitia James (718) 260-9191.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
CM James Commends NYPD for Quick Identification of Hit-and-Run Suspect; Accident Claimed the Lives of Young Williamburg Family
UPDATE: Multiple media reports now state that Mr. Julio Acevedo will surrender to police.
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
MARCH 4, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Commends NYPD for Quick Identification of Hit-and-Run Suspect
(New York, NY)— On March 3, 2013, a tragic car crash claimed the lives of a young Williamsburg couple expecting a child. Raizel (Raizy) and Nachman Glauber— who were traveling to the hospital in a Toyota Camry livery cab at the time of the collision— were struck by a BMW Sedan driving northbound along Kent Avenue. While the cab driver was treated for minor injuries, the Glauber’s child (a boy) was born prematurely in an emergency procedure. The baby sustained blunt trauma, and was pronounced deceased on March 4, 2013. The driver of the BMW left the scene of the collision.
By 2PM on Monday, March 04, 2013, police had identified Julio Acevedo as a suspect in the hit-and-run. Mr. Acevedo had a previous DWI arrest in February 2013, and was reportedly traveling at least 60mph when his car struck the cab carrying the Glaubers. The speed limit in the area is 30mph. Additionally, media reports state that Mr. Acevedo previously served an estimated eight years in prison on a manslaughter charge in a shooting death.
“I extend my condolences to the Glauber’s extended family at this tragic time,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I commend the police department for quickly identifying a suspect, and I join the voices calling for the suspect to be charged with a triple homicide.”
Police state that at minimum Mr. Acevedo would be charged with fleeing from the scene of a crime. Community leaders are calling for a charge of triple homicide for the suspect.
###
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
MARCH 4, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Commends NYPD for Quick Identification of Hit-and-Run Suspect
(New York, NY)— On March 3, 2013, a tragic car crash claimed the lives of a young Williamsburg couple expecting a child. Raizel (Raizy) and Nachman Glauber— who were traveling to the hospital in a Toyota Camry livery cab at the time of the collision— were struck by a BMW Sedan driving northbound along Kent Avenue. While the cab driver was treated for minor injuries, the Glauber’s child (a boy) was born prematurely in an emergency procedure. The baby sustained blunt trauma, and was pronounced deceased on March 4, 2013. The driver of the BMW left the scene of the collision.
By 2PM on Monday, March 04, 2013, police had identified Julio Acevedo as a suspect in the hit-and-run. Mr. Acevedo had a previous DWI arrest in February 2013, and was reportedly traveling at least 60mph when his car struck the cab carrying the Glaubers. The speed limit in the area is 30mph. Additionally, media reports state that Mr. Acevedo previously served an estimated eight years in prison on a manslaughter charge in a shooting death.
“I extend my condolences to the Glauber’s extended family at this tragic time,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I commend the police department for quickly identifying a suspect, and I join the voices calling for the suspect to be charged with a triple homicide.”
Police state that at minimum Mr. Acevedo would be charged with fleeing from the scene of a crime. Community leaders are calling for a charge of triple homicide for the suspect.
###
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
CM James Commends NYPD and BK DA for Successful Gun Buy-Back Event
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
FEBRUARY 5, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Commends Police Department and Brooklyn District Attorney for Successful Gun Buy-Back Event
(New York, NY)— On Saturday, February 2, 2013 Council Member Letitia James joined Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes, Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, and Rev. Dr. Mark V.C. Taylor of The Church of the Open Door in sponsoring a Gun Buy-Back event in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.
The gun buy-back event was extremely successful, collecting 113 weapons— including revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, shotguns, assault weapons, and other weapons.
In addition to Council Member Letitia James, Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes, and Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, the gun buy-back event was attended by a list of elected officials and representatives, including:
• NYC Comptroller John Liu
• State Senator Velmanette Montgomery
• Assemblyman Walter Mosley
• NYPD Chief Gerald Nelson
• Retired NYPD Inspector Timothy Pearson
• District Leader Jessie Hamilton
• Lee Church, representing Congressman Hakeem Jeffries
• Ingrid Lewis-Martin, Chief of Staff representing State Senator Eric Adams
“I want to thank District Attorney Hynes and his staff, as well as the NYPD, for their assistance and hard work in making this gun buy-back successful,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I would like to additionally thank those who did the right thing by turning in these weapons: you have made the first step in ridding your community of gun violence.”
###
FEBRUARY 5, 2013
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Commends Police Department and Brooklyn District Attorney for Successful Gun Buy-Back Event
(New York, NY)— On Saturday, February 2, 2013 Council Member Letitia James joined Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes, Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, and Rev. Dr. Mark V.C. Taylor of The Church of the Open Door in sponsoring a Gun Buy-Back event in Fort Greene, Brooklyn.
The gun buy-back event was extremely successful, collecting 113 weapons— including revolvers, semi-automatic pistols, shotguns, assault weapons, and other weapons.
In addition to Council Member Letitia James, Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes, and Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, the gun buy-back event was attended by a list of elected officials and representatives, including:
• NYC Comptroller John Liu
• State Senator Velmanette Montgomery
• Assemblyman Walter Mosley
• NYPD Chief Gerald Nelson
• Retired NYPD Inspector Timothy Pearson
• District Leader Jessie Hamilton
• Lee Church, representing Congressman Hakeem Jeffries
• Ingrid Lewis-Martin, Chief of Staff representing State Senator Eric Adams
“I want to thank District Attorney Hynes and his staff, as well as the NYPD, for their assistance and hard work in making this gun buy-back successful,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I would like to additionally thank those who did the right thing by turning in these weapons: you have made the first step in ridding your community of gun violence.”
###
Thursday, January 24, 2013
ATTENTION: CM James Joins DA Hynes and Commissioner Kelly In Sponsoring Gun Buy Back Event; 2/2; Church of the Open Door
WHEN: Saturday, February 2, 2013
10:00AM- 4:00PM
WHERE: Church of the Open Door
201 Gold Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Operable handguns may be turned in for a $200 bank card-- no questions asked. Operable rifles and shotguns may be turned-in for a $20 bank card.
The Cash for Guns program is sponsored in conjunction with Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes and NYPD Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly. Rev. Mark V.C. Taylor and Church of the Open Door have graciously offered to host the gun buy-back.
Monday, October 22, 2012
BK District Attorney Drops Charges Against Man Beaten By NYPD In Jewish Center
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
OCTOBER 22, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Brooklyn District Attorney Dismisses Charges Against Ehud H. Halevi
Video Shows Homeless Man Was Beaten By Police Officers
(Brooklyn, NY)— On Monday, October 8, 2012, NYPD was contacted about a man who was sleeping in the lounge of the ALIYA Institute, a synagogue and outreach center, on East New York Avenue. The homeless man, Mr. Ehud H. Halevi, had permission to sleep in the center by the Director of ALIYA, Rabbi Moshe Feiglin. Video shows that two officers from the 71st Precinct approached Mr. Halevi and attempted to place him under arrest. In the process, Mr. Halevi appears to have been pepper-sprayed, and was repeatedly punched violently. Other officers later entered the center to subdue Mr. Halevi.
On October 15, 2012, Council Member Letitia James joined other elected officials in denouncing this incident of police brutality. Today, the Office of Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes announced that charges were dropped against Mr. Halevi.
"I applaud District Attorney Hynes for quickly reviewing the evidence of the case, and dismissing the charges against Mr. Halevi," said Council Member Letitia James.
Council Member Letitia James is a co-sponsor of the package of legislative bills known as the Community Safety Act that would address the stop-and-frisk policy, and appoint an independent Inspector General to oversee the NYPD.
###
OCTOBER 22, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
Brooklyn District Attorney Dismisses Charges Against Ehud H. Halevi
Video Shows Homeless Man Was Beaten By Police Officers
(Brooklyn, NY)— On Monday, October 8, 2012, NYPD was contacted about a man who was sleeping in the lounge of the ALIYA Institute, a synagogue and outreach center, on East New York Avenue. The homeless man, Mr. Ehud H. Halevi, had permission to sleep in the center by the Director of ALIYA, Rabbi Moshe Feiglin. Video shows that two officers from the 71st Precinct approached Mr. Halevi and attempted to place him under arrest. In the process, Mr. Halevi appears to have been pepper-sprayed, and was repeatedly punched violently. Other officers later entered the center to subdue Mr. Halevi.
On October 15, 2012, Council Member Letitia James joined other elected officials in denouncing this incident of police brutality. Today, the Office of Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes announced that charges were dropped against Mr. Halevi.
"I applaud District Attorney Hynes for quickly reviewing the evidence of the case, and dismissing the charges against Mr. Halevi," said Council Member Letitia James.
Council Member Letitia James is a co-sponsor of the package of legislative bills known as the Community Safety Act that would address the stop-and-frisk policy, and appoint an independent Inspector General to oversee the NYPD.
###
Thursday, August 23, 2012
CM JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD DISCIPLINE OF OFFICERS USING HATEFUL LANGUAGE ON FACEBOOK
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 23, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD DISCIPLINE OF OFFICERS USING HATEFUL LANGUAGE ON FACEBOOK
New York, NY— In December 2011, Council Member Letitia James and colleagues expressed outrage at the offensive and disrespectful comments made by some individuals affiliated with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) on the social-networking website “Facebook”.
Commenters on the Facebook group entitled “No More West Indian Day Detail” were found referring to parade participants as “animals”, “savages”, and “filth”; and the parade overall as a “scheduled riot”. Today, the New York Daily News reported that 17 officers were disciplined for their remarks— with 4 officers facing departmental trials on misconduct charges, 6 officers facing command disciplines, and 7 officers receiving lower levels of punishment.
“These comments were deeply offensive, specifically to the elected officials who every year work with the NYPD to address safety concerns related to the West Indian Day Parade,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I commend the NYPD for addressing this unacceptable behavior.”
The 2011 West Indian American Day Parade saw a total of nine shooting victims, with four of those victims shot along the parade’s route. Those who lost their life include Denise Gay, 56, who was shot while sitting on a stoop with her daughter.
###
August 23, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD DISCIPLINE OF OFFICERS USING HATEFUL LANGUAGE ON FACEBOOK
New York, NY— In December 2011, Council Member Letitia James and colleagues expressed outrage at the offensive and disrespectful comments made by some individuals affiliated with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) on the social-networking website “Facebook”.
Commenters on the Facebook group entitled “No More West Indian Day Detail” were found referring to parade participants as “animals”, “savages”, and “filth”; and the parade overall as a “scheduled riot”. Today, the New York Daily News reported that 17 officers were disciplined for their remarks— with 4 officers facing departmental trials on misconduct charges, 6 officers facing command disciplines, and 7 officers receiving lower levels of punishment.
“These comments were deeply offensive, specifically to the elected officials who every year work with the NYPD to address safety concerns related to the West Indian Day Parade,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I commend the NYPD for addressing this unacceptable behavior.”
The 2011 West Indian American Day Parade saw a total of nine shooting victims, with four of those victims shot along the parade’s route. Those who lost their life include Denise Gay, 56, who was shot while sitting on a stoop with her daughter.
###
CM JAMES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO RE-IMPLEMENT CITYWIDE ANTI-GRAFFITI TASK FORCE
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
August 21, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO RE-IMPLEMENT CITYWIDE ANTI-GRAFFITI TASK FORCE
Task Force Would Report Data to Mayor and City Council
(New York, NY)— At tomorrow’s Council Stated, Council Member Letitia James will introduce legislation to re-implement the Citywide Anti-Graffiti Task Force in order to assess the scope of illegal graffiti throughout New York City— specifically bias-related graffiti and gang tags. The task force would additionally examine the effectiveness of existing provisions meant to curb illegal graffiti.
The legislation would require the New York Police Department Commissioner to serve as Chairperson of the task force. Annual reports would be sent to the Mayor and City Council.
In June 2012, the Brooklyn Bridge was defaced for the first time since 1998. That same month, synagogues in Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Borough Park, Kensington, and Williamsburg were plastered with swastikas. And recently, a Holocaust Memorial in Sheepshead Bay was defaced with profanity over victim’s names. Throughout many communities, gang graffiti aimed at intimidating others and marking territory remains prevalent.
“An anti-graffiti task force will help create safer neighborhoods by recommending long-term solutions through collaborative work, and assessment of anti-graffiti programs Citywide,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The task force would additionally review the progress of other jurisdictions.”
The Anti-Graffiti Task Force was first implemented in New York City by Mayor Rudy Giuliani in 1995.
###
August 21, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO RE-IMPLEMENT CITYWIDE ANTI-GRAFFITI TASK FORCE
Task Force Would Report Data to Mayor and City Council
(New York, NY)— At tomorrow’s Council Stated, Council Member Letitia James will introduce legislation to re-implement the Citywide Anti-Graffiti Task Force in order to assess the scope of illegal graffiti throughout New York City— specifically bias-related graffiti and gang tags. The task force would additionally examine the effectiveness of existing provisions meant to curb illegal graffiti.
The legislation would require the New York Police Department Commissioner to serve as Chairperson of the task force. Annual reports would be sent to the Mayor and City Council.
In June 2012, the Brooklyn Bridge was defaced for the first time since 1998. That same month, synagogues in Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Borough Park, Kensington, and Williamsburg were plastered with swastikas. And recently, a Holocaust Memorial in Sheepshead Bay was defaced with profanity over victim’s names. Throughout many communities, gang graffiti aimed at intimidating others and marking territory remains prevalent.
“An anti-graffiti task force will help create safer neighborhoods by recommending long-term solutions through collaborative work, and assessment of anti-graffiti programs Citywide,” said Council Member Letitia James. “The task force would additionally review the progress of other jurisdictions.”
The Anti-Graffiti Task Force was first implemented in New York City by Mayor Rudy Giuliani in 1995.
###
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
ATTENTION: Barclays Area Community Safety Meeting; 8/22
With the upcoming opening of Barclay Arena, and various Community Safety Concerns:
Please Join Council Member Letitia James and Captain Michael Ameri (of Brooklyn's 78th Precinct) to discuss and answer questions regarding the safety and quality of life concerns in residential communities after the September arena opening.
• NYPD’s 78th Precinct will be responsible for policing the arena as well as enforcement of traffic and parking rules, protection of pedestrian safety and regulation of public behavior within a one-half mile radius around the arena block.
When: August 22nd, 2012
Time: 6:00PM
Where: 78th Precinct, 65 6th Avenue Corner of Bergen Street (4th Floor Court Room)
Please Join Council Member Letitia James and Captain Michael Ameri (of Brooklyn's 78th Precinct) to discuss and answer questions regarding the safety and quality of life concerns in residential communities after the September arena opening.
• NYPD’s 78th Precinct will be responsible for policing the arena as well as enforcement of traffic and parking rules, protection of pedestrian safety and regulation of public behavior within a one-half mile radius around the arena block.
When: August 22nd, 2012
Time: 6:00PM
Where: 78th Precinct, 65 6th Avenue Corner of Bergen Street (4th Floor Court Room)
Monday, June 25, 2012
Job Opportunity: School Safety Agent
THE NYPD’S SCHOOL SAFETY AGENT EXAMINATION IS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE. STARTING SALARY FOR A SCHOOL SAFETY AGENT IS $30,057.
THERE ARE CURRENTLY SIX-DAY-A-WEEK WALK IN EXAMS, AND THE APPLICATION FEE IS $47. THE EXAM PERIOD WILL CLOSE JUNE 30, 2012.
FOR INFO REGARDING QUALIFICATIONS AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS SEE HERE: http://www.nyc.gov/html/nypd/html/careers/school_safety.shtml
[THE EXAM # IS 2345]
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 311.
Monday, June 11, 2012
ATTENTION: 88th Precinct Night Out Against Crime 2012; 8/7; FG Park
WHEN: Tuesday, August 7, 2012
1:00pm to 8:00pm
WHERE: Fort Greene Park
(corner of DeKalb Avenue and Washington Park)
Free rides, food and information. Meet and greet your neighbors, police officers, precinct council board, local elected officials and more…
Captain Scott Henderson Commanding Officer – 88th Precinct
Delia Hunley-Adossa President – 88th Precinct Community & Youth Council
For more information: 88th Community Affairs at 718-636-6526.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Join Community Leaders for March To End Stop & Frisk; 6/17; Harlem
WHAT: Silent March Against Racial Profiling: END STOP AND FRISK!
WHEN: Sunday, June 17, 2012
1:00 PM
WHERE: 110th Street btwn. 5th Avenue and Lenox
Monday, May 21, 2012
CMs Letitia James and Melissa Mark-Viverito Urge City Not To Appeal Federal Lawsuit Regarding Stop-And-Frisk
*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
May 17, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Members Letitia James and Melissa Mark-Viverito Urge City Not To Appeal Federal Lawsuit Regarding Stop-And-Frisk
(New York, NY)— On May 16, 2012, a federal judge granted class-action status to a lawsuit challenging the New York Police Department’s stop-and-frisk policy, saying she was disturbed by the “deeply troubling apathy towards New Yorkers’ most fundamental constitutional rights.”
In 2011, the statistics showed that 87% of the NYPD’s almost 700,000 stop-and-frisks involved Black and Latino persons; only 12% of those stops resulted in arrests, and less than 1% of those stops resulted in an arrest for weapon possession or an otherwise violent crime. Council Member Letitia James has joined many of her colleagues in criticizing the stop-and-frisk policy as one that forges distrust between the department and minority communities.
The NYPD recently disclosed that there have been more than 200,000 stops from January to March of 2012, a number that would exceed previous records if it were to hold steady. The administration had previously taken the position that a court-ordered injunction banning stop-and-frisk would constitute “judicial intrusion”, a position the federal judge strongly disagreed with (calling the City’s attitude about the policy “cavalier”).
“The fact that the NYPD has made some recent reforms, including more training for cops and closer scrutiny from supervisors, would suggest that they recognize that abusive stop-and-frisk policies have no place in a civil society,” said Council Member Letitia James. “These changes are a step in the right direction, but do not go far enough; although they may negate the need for an appeal.”
“We urge the City not to waste precious taxpayer dollars to defend its out-of-control stop and frisk agenda,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “We are not calling for softer policing, but smarter and more effective policing; and stop and frisk has been shown to be an ineffective, wasteful policy. On top of the social costs of damaged police-community relations, we are now facing the fiscal costs of legal challenges against the NYPD for its practices. This week’s court decision was clear: these suspicionless stops are unconstitutional and those who have suffered the humiliation that comes with being stopped and frisked deserve to seek legal recourse as a class. As we seek to enact measures that will strengthen oversight over the police in our city, the courts stand as an important vehicle to hold the NYPD accountable. The City should not be obstructing efforts by plaintiffs to challenge the NYPD’s stop and frisk practices.”
In April 2012, multiple media sources reported that a “working group” has been formed inside New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office, with the purpose of reviewing the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy. Council Member James has further urged Mayor Bloomberg to appoint an independent commission to investigate corruption within the NYPD, and relocate the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau to the NYC Department of Investigations.
###
May 17, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Members Letitia James and Melissa Mark-Viverito Urge City Not To Appeal Federal Lawsuit Regarding Stop-And-Frisk
(New York, NY)— On May 16, 2012, a federal judge granted class-action status to a lawsuit challenging the New York Police Department’s stop-and-frisk policy, saying she was disturbed by the “deeply troubling apathy towards New Yorkers’ most fundamental constitutional rights.”
In 2011, the statistics showed that 87% of the NYPD’s almost 700,000 stop-and-frisks involved Black and Latino persons; only 12% of those stops resulted in arrests, and less than 1% of those stops resulted in an arrest for weapon possession or an otherwise violent crime. Council Member Letitia James has joined many of her colleagues in criticizing the stop-and-frisk policy as one that forges distrust between the department and minority communities.
The NYPD recently disclosed that there have been more than 200,000 stops from January to March of 2012, a number that would exceed previous records if it were to hold steady. The administration had previously taken the position that a court-ordered injunction banning stop-and-frisk would constitute “judicial intrusion”, a position the federal judge strongly disagreed with (calling the City’s attitude about the policy “cavalier”).
“The fact that the NYPD has made some recent reforms, including more training for cops and closer scrutiny from supervisors, would suggest that they recognize that abusive stop-and-frisk policies have no place in a civil society,” said Council Member Letitia James. “These changes are a step in the right direction, but do not go far enough; although they may negate the need for an appeal.”
“We urge the City not to waste precious taxpayer dollars to defend its out-of-control stop and frisk agenda,” said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. “We are not calling for softer policing, but smarter and more effective policing; and stop and frisk has been shown to be an ineffective, wasteful policy. On top of the social costs of damaged police-community relations, we are now facing the fiscal costs of legal challenges against the NYPD for its practices. This week’s court decision was clear: these suspicionless stops are unconstitutional and those who have suffered the humiliation that comes with being stopped and frisked deserve to seek legal recourse as a class. As we seek to enact measures that will strengthen oversight over the police in our city, the courts stand as an important vehicle to hold the NYPD accountable. The City should not be obstructing efforts by plaintiffs to challenge the NYPD’s stop and frisk practices.”
In April 2012, multiple media sources reported that a “working group” has been formed inside New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office, with the purpose of reviewing the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy. Council Member James has further urged Mayor Bloomberg to appoint an independent commission to investigate corruption within the NYPD, and relocate the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau to the NYC Department of Investigations.
###
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
ATTENTION: NYPD Summer Youth Police Academy
The application is available here: http://historicfortgreene.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/2012ypaapplication.pdf
For additional information, please contact the NYPD-Youth Services at 718 834-8855 or 646 610-5323.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
CM James Commends NYS Attorney General On Analyzing NYPD’s Stop-and-Frisk Policy
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
April 11, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Commends NYS Attorney General On Analyzing NYPD’s Stop-and-Frisk Policy
(New York, NY)— On April 11, 2012, multiple media sources reported that a “working group” has been formed inside New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office, with the purpose of reviewing the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy. Reportedly, the working group was formed to analyze data— including ethnic and racial breakdowns of those searched— to determine whether a more comprehensive analysis of the policy is necessary.
The previous comprehensive report completed on stop-and-frisk was done in 1999 by former Attorney General (AG) Eliot Spitzer. Council Member Letitia James— then the Assistant AG overseeing the Brooklyn Regional Office and one of the attorneys working in the AG’s Civil Rights Bureau— worked on that report, which concluded that at the time African American New Yorkers constituted 50% of NYPD stops, Latinos constituted 33% of stops, and White residents constituted 13% of stops.
In 2011, the statistics show that 87% of the NYPD’s almost 700,000 stop-and-frisks involved Black and Latino persons; only 12% of those stops resulted in arrests, and less than 1% of those stops resulted in an arrest for weapon possession or an otherwise violent crime. Council Member Letitia James has joined many of her colleagues in criticizing the stop-and-frisk policy as one that forges distrust between the department and minority communities.
“I commend Attorney General Schneiderman for looking into the NYPD’s stop-and-frisk policy,” said Council Member Letitia James. “Unfortunately, in the face of widespread criticism and evidence that stop-and-frisk violates the constitutional rights of an overwhelming number of innocent individuals with minimal results, the administration continues to champion this approach. I hope that AG Schneiderman takes action if his investigations mirror the current evidence and data available.”
Council Member James has further urged Mayor Bloomberg to appoint an independent commission to investigate corruption within the NYPD, and relocate the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau to the NYC Department of Investigations.
###
April 11, 2012
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081
Council Member Letitia James Commends NYS Attorney General On Analyzing NYPD’s Stop-and-Frisk Policy
(New York, NY)— On April 11, 2012, multiple media sources reported that a “working group” has been formed inside New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman's office, with the purpose of reviewing the New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) stop-and-frisk policy. Reportedly, the working group was formed to analyze data— including ethnic and racial breakdowns of those searched— to determine whether a more comprehensive analysis of the policy is necessary.
The previous comprehensive report completed on stop-and-frisk was done in 1999 by former Attorney General (AG) Eliot Spitzer. Council Member Letitia James— then the Assistant AG overseeing the Brooklyn Regional Office and one of the attorneys working in the AG’s Civil Rights Bureau— worked on that report, which concluded that at the time African American New Yorkers constituted 50% of NYPD stops, Latinos constituted 33% of stops, and White residents constituted 13% of stops.
In 2011, the statistics show that 87% of the NYPD’s almost 700,000 stop-and-frisks involved Black and Latino persons; only 12% of those stops resulted in arrests, and less than 1% of those stops resulted in an arrest for weapon possession or an otherwise violent crime. Council Member Letitia James has joined many of her colleagues in criticizing the stop-and-frisk policy as one that forges distrust between the department and minority communities.
“I commend Attorney General Schneiderman for looking into the NYPD’s stop-and-frisk policy,” said Council Member Letitia James. “Unfortunately, in the face of widespread criticism and evidence that stop-and-frisk violates the constitutional rights of an overwhelming number of innocent individuals with minimal results, the administration continues to champion this approach. I hope that AG Schneiderman takes action if his investigations mirror the current evidence and data available.”
Council Member James has further urged Mayor Bloomberg to appoint an independent commission to investigate corruption within the NYPD, and relocate the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau to the NYC Department of Investigations.
###
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
CM James Comments On NYPD’S Move To Designate Policing Of Barclay's Arena To 78th Precinct
**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
March 6, 2012
Contact: Barbara Sherman (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD’S MOVE TO DESIGNATE POLICING OF BARCLAY’S ARENA TO 78TH PRECINCT
CITES NEED FOR COMMUNITY INCLUSION, CRITICIZES LACK OF TRANSPARENCY
(Brooklyn, NY)— “Media outlets have recently reported that the NYPD plans to designate policing of the Barclay’s Arena to the 78th Precinct in Brooklyn (which primarily covers Park Slope) when it opens in September 2012. The arena is located in Prospect Heights, which is covered by the 77th Precinct (with the boundaries for the 88th Precinct ending across the street).
Such a move has been justified by citing the 78th Precinct’s close proximity to the upcoming arena. This move would also greatly increase overtime for the precinct’s officers. However, police precinct boundaries are required to be coterminous with local district boundaries, subject to the New York City Charter process outlined in Section 2704(b). The NYPD unilaterally making decisions regarding the alignment of police precinct boundaries might then call into question other local governmental agencies that are similarly subject to coterminality requirements. These decisions have public policy and planning consequences, and should be further discussed with local elected officials and community stakeholders.
It is my position that the NYPD should place new officers in a police annex dedicated to the Barclay’s Arena site. The 77th, 78th, and 88th precincts should be working collaboratively to consult in these matters. Additionally, the cost of these new police officers— and all over time costs— should be underwritten by the developer. There is no reason to cherry-pick from one precinct over another, and no reason to take vital resources from any precinct. The most important factor is ensuring that the officers in these local precincts remain dedicated to community policing.”
--
Earlier this year, Council Member James questioned Jane Marshall— a Forest City Ratner executive— on Barclay’s security issues including overtime costs for arena events, traffic agents, and the overall security plan for the arena. She has also requested a copy of the security plan from NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly. There has been no response.
###
March 6, 2012
Contact: Barbara Sherman (718) 260-9191
COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON NYPD’S MOVE TO DESIGNATE POLICING OF BARCLAY’S ARENA TO 78TH PRECINCT
CITES NEED FOR COMMUNITY INCLUSION, CRITICIZES LACK OF TRANSPARENCY
(Brooklyn, NY)— “Media outlets have recently reported that the NYPD plans to designate policing of the Barclay’s Arena to the 78th Precinct in Brooklyn (which primarily covers Park Slope) when it opens in September 2012. The arena is located in Prospect Heights, which is covered by the 77th Precinct (with the boundaries for the 88th Precinct ending across the street).
Such a move has been justified by citing the 78th Precinct’s close proximity to the upcoming arena. This move would also greatly increase overtime for the precinct’s officers. However, police precinct boundaries are required to be coterminous with local district boundaries, subject to the New York City Charter process outlined in Section 2704(b). The NYPD unilaterally making decisions regarding the alignment of police precinct boundaries might then call into question other local governmental agencies that are similarly subject to coterminality requirements. These decisions have public policy and planning consequences, and should be further discussed with local elected officials and community stakeholders.
It is my position that the NYPD should place new officers in a police annex dedicated to the Barclay’s Arena site. The 77th, 78th, and 88th precincts should be working collaboratively to consult in these matters. Additionally, the cost of these new police officers— and all over time costs— should be underwritten by the developer. There is no reason to cherry-pick from one precinct over another, and no reason to take vital resources from any precinct. The most important factor is ensuring that the officers in these local precincts remain dedicated to community policing.”
--
Earlier this year, Council Member James questioned Jane Marshall— a Forest City Ratner executive— on Barclay’s security issues including overtime costs for arena events, traffic agents, and the overall security plan for the arena. She has also requested a copy of the security plan from NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly. There has been no response.
###
Friday, March 2, 2012
CM James Talks About NYPD's Stop & Frisk Policy And Impact on Minority Communities
Council Member Letitia James talks about NYPD's stop and frisk policy to the Transport Workers Union on February 29, 2012.
Courtesy of Capital NY here.
Courtesy of Capital NY here.
CM James Discussing NYPD's Stop & Frisk Policy On NY1
Council Member Letitia James and Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr. debate NYPD's stop and frisk policy on NY1's Inside City Hall on March 1, 2012.
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