Residents like David Stern express frustration over the ineffectiveness of the NYPD in addressing visible issues such as homelessness and public safety, particularly in Morningside Heights. Despite multiple calls to 911 regarding a man camping out near his home, police can do little without direct violations. Recent state budget changes allow for involuntary hospitalization if basic needs aren't met, reflecting a shift prompted by public outcry. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch's new Quality of Life Initiative aims to address similar issues but has encountered criticism in the past for previous sweeps.
"I'm the taxpayer but you're here to check on that guy," Stern fumed to me.
"That was the moment that flipped the switch for me," David recalled. "Yeah, you guys are useless."
"An inability to meet basic living needs justifies involuntary hospitalization," said Gov. Kathy Hochul after public frustration grew.
Earlier efforts at sweeps to clear homeless encampments have faced loud backlash from NYC's progressive squawkers.
Collection
[
|
...
]