"Vital City’s report makes clear that the hysteria pushed by some media, candidates, and officials is not founded in fact. I agree that filling existing vacancies is important – at the same time, NYPD headcount is not a panacea. More money or more officers does not automatically make New Yorkers safer – the truth is much more challenging and less politically convenient. This reporting is new, but the reality has been consistent.
"Hopefully, this new analysis, coming from a former police executive, will push our leaders to go beyond simple posturing and talking points. Targeted deployment coupled with services has always been more effective in the long term than surges. Public safety is not about simply pushing more police toward a problem – it's about ensuring law enforcement has the targeted resources and support to fill their most effective role alongside sustainable investment in community-driven solutions in additional areas."