Mayor-elect addresses dire NYPD officer shortage
The NYPD's current headcount is 33,745 officers. This is a stark contrast to the year 2000, when the force employed 40,285 officers.
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The Police Benevolent Association, or PBA, has long sounded the alarm about NYPD staffing shortages.
PBA President Patrick Hendry, said the shortage is due to the quality-of-life issues the officers are subjected to.
"Police officers aren't getting their days off, they're forced to work overtime, and they don't want to... and it's hurting police officers' quality of life. That's why many of them are walking out the door, finding other departments," said Hendry.
Data shows, since October 2024, 3,668 officers have left the force, by retiring or quitting.
The NYPD's current headcount is 33,745 officers. This is a stark contrast to the year 2000, when the force employed 40,285 officers.
"Our police officers are out there every day putting their lives on the line protecting the people of this city. We deserve to get paid like the professionals we are," said PBA President Patrick Hendry.
Data also shows 911 response times have been impacted by the shortage, making wait times longer during emergencies.
Hendry said there is currently no contract for officers within the PBA. The union and the city have yet to agree on terms.
With Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani headed for City Hall, he said officers worry about the future of the NYPD.
"They don't know what's going to happen... but this mayor could come in and step up right away. Show us you appreciate what New York City police officers do! Show us you want to back the NYPD," said Hendry.
On Tuesday, News 12 asked Zohran Mamdani about his plans for the future of the NYPD.
"That retention crisis is linked to the fact that we are asking officers to do far more than we used to," said Mamdani. "Our vision for creating a Department of Community Safety is also one that would be tasked with taking on the mental health crisis, homelessness crisis and allowing officers to do police work."
News 12 asked Mamdani if he would work alongside the PBA to work to rectify the gap in staffing.
"I'm willing to work with anyone and everyone to ensure that we are delivering public safety, and I look forward to doing so," answered Mamdani.
"Actions speak louder than words." Hendry said he remains hopeful. "Get the police officers what they deserve and make them feel appreciated... that will be a huge start."
