New York – New Counterterror Team, New Community Strategy At NYPD

New York – New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton says 350 officers will be trained and outfitted to respond to counterterrorism calls.

That’s in addition to the 1,000 officers already dedicated to counterterror efforts.

Previously, precinct officers were assigned to what’s called a “critical response” — a show of force at sensitive locations like the Empire State Building. But now those officers will be a specialized unit.

Bratton said Thursday in a speech that the move will build on the department’s strong counterterror effort.

He also says officers will change how they patrol the streets as part of an effort to build better relationships with the community.

He says officers will be in charge of specific areas rather than responding solely to radio calls.