In the past five years, New York has made significant strides in reforming its police practices. These changes aim to improve transparency, accountability and build trust between the police and the community. Let’s explore some of the key reforms that have shaped the New York Police Department (NYPD) from 2020 to 2025.
Key police reforms from 2020 to 2025
2020: Legislative changes
In June 2020, New York State responded to the tragic murder of George Floyd and widespread protests by passing a series of police reform bills. These reforms included:
- Section 50-a repealed: This law previously kept police disciplinary records secret, but its repeal now allows the public to access them.
- Chokehold ban: The use of chokeholds by police officers is now prohibited.
- Right to record: The public has the right to record police activities.
These changes marked a significant shift towards transparency and accountability in policing.
2021: Collaborative planning
By March 2021, New York City had developed the Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative Plan. This plan focused on:
- Addressing racialized policing.
- Enhancing transparency and accountability within the NYPD.
- Including community input to promote fair policing practices.
The plan’s collaborative nature emphasized the importance of community voices in shaping policing policies.
2022: Training initiatives
In April 2022, the NYPD introduced new training programs. These programs aimed to focus on de-escalation techniques and encourage community engagement.
2023: Body-Worn cameras
The NYPD launched a pilot program for body-worn cameras in July 2023. This initiative expanded camera use across all precincts, aiming to increase transparency and improve accountability during police interactions.
2024: Oversight enhancements
In January 2024, new policies were introduced to improve the oversight of police misconduct investigations. An independent review board was established to ensure impartiality.
2025: Community policing
By February 2025, the NYPD launched a community policing initiative. This approach emphasizes collaboration between officers and local residents to address safety concerns.
If you’ve been affected by police misconduct or have concerns about your interactions with law enforcement, seeking legal help may be advisable. At The Law Office of Jeffrey Chabrowe, our lawyers can guide you through filing a complaint or seeking compensation for any wrongdoing. They can also provide valuable insights into your rights and options, ensuring you’re treated fairly and respectfully. Call 212-235-1510 or contact us by email if you have any questions.