Dear Members of Community Boards 10 and 11 and Presidents of 45th and 49th Precinct Community Councils,
Many residents have spoken to me regarding proposed bills in the New York City Council that may impact our Police Department. One bill that is most concerning is enclosed for your review – Introduction 541-2014. It has 24 out of 51 council members already listed as cosponsors.
In summary, the bill would require:
- The police to gain permission, in audio or in writing, before a suspect or the vehicle of a suspect can be searched. That permission could be rescinded at any time during the search.
- That the police officer, when seeking permission of the suspect, can only do so in a language understood by the suspect.
I truly hope this proposed law does not pass. It will endanger public safety and hurt our police as they try to keep our streets safe. Can you imagine someone who has committed a crime giving permission to a police officer and agreeing to a search?
I will do all I can to oppose this bill, and I welcome your input.
Sincerely,
James Vacca
Council Member, 13th District
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