Police officers Adolpho Berrios, left, Vincent Brites, Brendan Storz, Vincent Guerriero, Michael Martinez, and Andrew Rosen are six of the 16 new cops just assigned to the 106th Precinct. Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup
Sixteen new police officers have been assigned to the 106th Precinct in South Queens, thrilling top NYPD brass and area legislators who have long advocated for additional manpower that they said is sorely needed.
“They are a most welcomed addition to the community, and we are very happy to have them join our local team,” 106th Precinct Deputy Inspector Jeffrey Schiff, the commanding officer, said of the officers who hail from various impact units within the NYPD. “During their precinct orientation, various community members will address these 16 new officers. This will be their introduction to the many culture that populate our community, and they will be able to hear firsthand the concerns they may have. We expect that they will quickly absorb the local flavor and perform admirably, making all of us proud.”
While making the rounds to get acquainted with their new patrol zone – including stopping at MS 207 during voting hours on Election Day – the officers said they were very happy with their posts and look forward to working in their new command. Prior to working in various impact units, the newest officers have formerly been assigned to such nearby precincts as the 104th, 113th and 105th.
Area legislators praised the NYPD for increasing the number of police in the 106th, which covers Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, Lindenwood, and Howard Beach.
“The NYPD does a phenomenal job in keeping our community safe,” Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said. “The additional officers we have just gotten from the department will enable the 106 to do an even better job fighting crime.”
Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Park) called the increase “a huge victory” for the communities served by the precinct.
“We’ve asked repeatedly for more police officers and finally our voices have been heard,” Goldfeder said. “I commend Commissioner Ray Kelly for providing the 106th Precinct with the necessary tools and resources they need to keep our streets safe.”
The assemblyman said the extra officers will help the precinct to further combat such issues as car thefts and break-ins. According to police statistics, those two crimes have jumped by more than 65 percent in the most recent 28-day period as compared to last year and are up by about 20 percent overall.
“The officers at the 106th Precinct have always done an outstanding job, but now they will have the resources they need to protect our streets and families,” Goldfeder said.
By Anna Gustafson
