Mayor Adams and NYPD Expand Quality of Life Teams in Brooklyn

By Y.M. Lowy

Every police precinct in Brooklyn now has a dedicated NYPD Quality of Life Team focused on non-emergency issues that affect daily life in the neighborhood. These teams handle problems like loud noise, illegal e-bikes, abandoned vehicles, and homeless encampments.

BoroPark24 reported on the launch of this initiative back in April, when the first Q-Teams began. Officers on these teams are specially trained to respond quickly and look for solutions beyond just writing tickets or making arrests. They’re meant to give real attention to the everyday issues people call about, especially through 311.

Since starting, Q-Teams have responded to more than 23,400 calls. They cut down response times by an average of 47 minutes, towed 640 cars, and took 299 illegal scooters and bikes off the street.

After seeing strong results in the first six precincts, the NYPD expanded the program to cover all precincts in Manhattan and the Bronx during July. Last week, the program was expanded to every precinct in Brooklyn, beyond the original pilot areas. Queens, Staten Island, and NYCHA housing areas are set to follow later this month.

Q-Teams also use data to track where problems keep coming up. Each month, the NYPD reviews how teams are doing and holds precincts accountable.

photo: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office