Emblazoned on nearly every NYPD vehicle in the city are the words "Courtesy, Professionalism, and Respect." Unfortunately, since I moved here in 2007, those three words do not define my experiences with the 71st Precinct. I remember one of my first nights living in this neighborhood, I rode my bike on the sidewalk, a distance of 15 feet, as I coasted up the curb to my building's gate, where I was met by two officers. The first officer said to me "Have you had any gun related charges against you?". "No, of course not!" I replied. After he asked for my ID, he responded with "Ha, we'll see about that!" It took a few minutes before the told me what it was that I had done. I rode my bike on the sidewalk, something that is not permissible in NYC. Okay, got it, I moved here from suburbia, I didn't know. Lesson learned.
However, their attitude towards me was aggressive and unnecessary. Not courteous, not professional, and certainly not respectful under any circumstances. A gun charge? What the hell? I know my bike lock is a thick chain, but really, I'm no thug!
In my most recent run-in with the 71st precinct, I was pulled over for a 1110A. Two officers exited the patrol car and slowly rapped on either side of my car with their fingers or knuckles until they met me at the window. Before the officers got to my door, I already had my documents prepared and very quickly admitted any fault. (I disobeyed a sign that was poorly marked and improperly installed by the DOT.) Unfortunately, you aren't allowed to request a deposition in regards to the legality of the sign because NYC prohibits it! I was extremely polite with the officers, yet I felt them treat me like garbage. Peering into my car, giving me short answers, or tossing the papers into my lap. Listen, I made a mistake, I understand that. Regardless of whether or not the sign was properly installed, I feel that my attitude towards the officers was polite and non threatening. Please, give me the courtesy that you advocate so much.
Listen, I'm not the kind of person who "hates cops," I genuinely respect our law enforcement and I'm not going to generalize the performance of the NYPD based on my experience with the 71st Precinct. I still feel that the majority of NYPD officers do a good job at protecting our city, crime rates have decreased and I have seen a lot of positive change. But based on five years of interacting with the 71st Precinct, my impression of this department isn't particularly favorable. My only wish is for the officers to be friendly, I'll accept the punishment for breaking a law or code, but please, treat me like a neighbor. read more