A new crime-fighting initiative in northeast Queens has brought dozens more cops to the area, much to the delight of residents. The 109th Precinct, covering neighborhoods such as downtown Flushing, Whitestone, and College Point, has expanded with a 66-officer satellite precinct to improve emergency response in the area. Sheryl Kleven, chair of directors for A Better College Point Civic Association, expressed satisfaction with the long-awaited addition. Residents have voiced concerns about quality-of-life issues due to the rapid growth of downtown Flushing, leading to a need for more police attention. The new satellite precinct will focus on addressing various concerns in neighborhoods like College Point, Whitestone, Beechhurst, and Bay Terrace. City Councilwoman Vickie Paladino emphasized the importance of consistent police presence in these areas to improve quality of life. Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the commitment to safety in every corner of Queens with the addition of 66 officers to the precinct. Despite a decrease in major crimes according to NYPD data, residents like Kleven are hopeful that the new precinct will address ongoing issues such as parking, noise complaints, and illegal activities. Local residents, including Brianna Marrero and retired NYPD officer Maryanne Keiling, have observed significant changes in the area and support the initiative for increased police presence.
Residents of Whitestone and Bay Terrace feel that the police presence is too far away.
With the new police deployment of 54 officers and 12 supervisors operating out of the NYPD Police Academy, there is no need to rent new space at taxpayer expense for the initiative.
A source familiar with the satellite precinct mentioned that the space is considered “temporary” and the future of the initiative is uncertain.
Kleven expressed her hope for a more permanent solution to be implemented soon.
“If we need to get police reports … we still have to go into Flushing,” Kleven said.
“We’re hoping at some point, when the satellite precinct is permanently housed in the area, it will be a more local brick-and-mortar presence in the community.”
