Notoriously violent Brooklyn neighborhood pushes ‘police free zone’

The Brownsville Safety Alliance, a city-funded experiment in a notoriously violent two-block stretch of Brooklyn, is making headlines by implementing a “police free zone” strategy. This initiative, which was started in 2020 under former Mayor Bill de Blasio, aims to reduce crime in the area by having community members handle low-level offenses instead of calling uniformed cops.

During the operation of the Brownsville Safety Alliance, community members are in charge of handling calls that come into 911 for minor issues from noon to 6 p.m. on Mother Gaston Boulevard between Sutter and Pitkin avenues. The community group, led by Dushoun Almond of Brownsville in Violence Out, replaces police officers for non-emergency situations, while the NYPD still responds to serious crimes like stabbings or shootings.

Although the initiative has received praise from mayoral frontrunner Zohran Mamdani, there are concerns about the potential risks of not having uniformed police officers present in the area. A plainclothes “BSA sergeant” from the NYPD is assigned to shadow the community members in case more serious issues arise, and police officers are stationed on the edges of the two blocks.

During the Brownsville Safety Alliance events, community groups also set up tables to provide assistance with healthcare, housing, addiction, and other issues. The initiative aims to create a safe and supportive environment for local residents, and most community members have expressed satisfaction with the program.

While some residents appreciate the community-led approach to handling low-level offenses, others believe that it cannot replace the presence of police officers in the area. Overall, the Brownsville Safety Alliance is an ongoing experiment that aims to address crime and safety concerns in the neighborhood through community involvement and support. The Brownsville Safety Alliance (BSA) program was initiated by former precinct Commander Inspector Terrell Anderson, who faced scrutiny for a scandal involving the police academy. Despite the controversy surrounding Anderson, the need for law enforcement in the neighborhood remains crucial.

The Brownsville community has long been plagued by crime and violence, prompting the establishment of the BSA. The designated safety zone stretches along two blocks of Mother Gaston Boulevard, from Pitkin Avenue to Sutter Avenue, aiming to address the ongoing safety concerns in the area.

Anderson, previously in charge of the NYPD’s Candidate Assessment Division, was transferred to the housing unit amidst an Internal Affairs Bureau investigation. Allegations surfaced that he allowed over 70 candidates to remain at the academy despite failing psychological requirements.

Statistics reveal a concerning rise in major crimes within Brownsville. While murders and shootings have decreased compared to the previous year, robbery, felony assault, burglary, and grand larceny have all seen an increase. These statistics underscore the persistent challenges faced by the community and the necessity of law enforcement presence.

Christopher Hermann, a former NYPD supervisor and current assistant professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, emphasized the historical significance of Brownsville as a high-crime area. He expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of designating the neighborhood as a police-free zone in enhancing safety for residents.

In June 2024, a tragic incident occurred in Hilltop Park, where two young girls were wounded by stray bullets during a crossfire. This incident highlighted the urgent need for effective crime prevention strategies and policing in the area.

Political figures, such as Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, criticized the BSA program as a reckless experiment that jeopardizes the safety of residents and businesses. Sliwa emphasized the importance of collaboration between community groups and law enforcement to address crime effectively.

Amidst calls for police reform and criticism of law enforcement, a veteran Bronx cop warned against the consequences of anti-cop sentiments. The cop expressed concerns that neglecting the presence of police in high-crime areas could lead to further chaos and endanger the community.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding the BSA program underscores the complex dynamics of policing and public safety in communities like Brownsville. While calls for reform and accountability are essential, the role of law enforcement in ensuring the safety and security of residents cannot be undermined. The ongoing efforts to address crime and violence in Brownsville require a comprehensive approach that balances community engagement with effective policing strategies.