On a two-block stretch of Brownsville in April, the police stepped aside and let residents respond to 911 calls. It was a bold experiment that some believe could redefine law enforcement in New York City.
Responders are local to the area so they have the pulse on the things going on, and their actions would be based on the local situation rather than following city ordinance or policy directive from HQ. This could lead to fewer escalations.
They are in plainclothes and act like people you can trust, rather than someone who is going to turn on you and suddenly assert authority. The aim is to resolve disputes and mischief before things get bad, rather than being laser-focused on “eliminating threats”.
I think it’s beneficial for a couple reasons: