TAMMANY TIMES
Democrats

Adams and NYPD Pitch New 'Q-Team' For Low Level Crimes, Quality of Life Concerns

Nicholas Hutfilz
Nicholas Hutfilz
April 11, 2025 at 9:42 AM · 2 min read
City Hall
Adams and NYPD Pitch New 'Q-Team' For Low Level Crimes, Quality of Life Concerns
Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office.

Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Police Department Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch announced this week the formation of the NYPD’s new Quality of Life Division. Unveiled at the 13th Precinct in Manhattan, the citywide initiative aims to improve trust between communities and the police while addressing everyday issues that impact New Yorkers' sense of safety and well-being.

Commissioner Tisch outlined plans for the division, often called the "Q-Team," to eventually include 2,000 officers. Its focus will be on tackling common concerns such as panhandling and public drug use, as well as responding frequently to 311 complaints related to homelessness, illegal parking, abandoned vehicles, encampments, noise, and issues with scooters and e-bikes.

The Q-Team will begin operations in the following areas:

  • 40th Precinct (Bronx)
  • 60th Precinct (Brooklyn)
  • 75th Precinct (Brooklyn)
  • Police Service Area 1 (Brooklyn)
  • 101st Precinct (Queens)
  • 13th Precinct (Manhattan)

The announcement has drawn some criticism, with concerns raised that this type of policing might negatively impact lower-income individuals and resemble the controversial "broken windows" policies of the past.

Commissioner Tisch directly addressed these comparisons. She distinguished the new division's approach, stating: "Broken windows was going after lower level crimes in order to stop higher level crimes. Here, we are not doing this to prevent more serious crime. We are doing this to be very responsive to what everyday New Yorkers are telling us and to improve quality of life. Frankly, to correct the condition.”

This initiative aligns with Mayor Adams' consistent focus on addressing crime and public safety. Adams recently established his independent ballot line for the upcoming general election under the name "Safe Streets," highlighting these issues as key priorities for his administration.