BKLYN CM REPORT FEB 2010
Four cyclists came out to Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn on the second Friday of February. None of the several cyclists passing by could be recruited for the ride. The four riders were a
pproached by the lone NYPD SUV on the scene, containing four officers, which had arrived shortly after 7pm. A cordial conversation ensued with Deputy Inspector John A. Argenziano of the 78th precinct who is typically assigned to be at that location at that time. One rider remarked upon the dramatically-reduced police presence. The inspector proceeded to gesture to his oak leaf pin and explain how his rank meant he could easily summon many more police forces if need be. The four riders agreed that to be a fact. He asked where the ride was going, and the consensus was that the ride would go around the main loop of Prospect Park. Apparently eager to safely escort the ride, the inspector asked if the ride would be proceeding at that moment. A negative reply was given, and the riders waited a few more minutes for nobody else to join them.
After one and a half laps of the park, the ride exited the park at the traffic circle off Prospect Park West. Police SUV followed about half the ice-covered distance from the main loop to the gated exit, but ended pursuit, satisfied that the ride would proceed safely on the city streets. The riders then proceeded to a warm house to enjoy hot coffee and day-old muffins.
I commend the 78th precinct on adjusting to the smaller number of riders, on what is traditionally known as "Brooklyn Critical Mass." Numbers for this allegedly-spontaneous monthly group bike ride have been about 5 riders since November, while police presence has typically been 15 motor vehicles and appoximately 20-25 officers. The savings to the tax-payer are no doubt substantial.
pproached by the lone NYPD SUV on the scene, containing four officers, which had arrived shortly after 7pm. A cordial conversation ensued with Deputy Inspector John A. Argenziano of the 78th precinct who is typically assigned to be at that location at that time. One rider remarked upon the dramatically-reduced police presence. The inspector proceeded to gesture to his oak leaf pin and explain how his rank meant he could easily summon many more police forces if need be. The four riders agreed that to be a fact. He asked where the ride was going, and the consensus was that the ride would go around the main loop of Prospect Park. Apparently eager to safely escort the ride, the inspector asked if the ride would be proceeding at that moment. A negative reply was given, and the riders waited a few more minutes for nobody else to join them.After one and a half laps of the park, the ride exited the park at the traffic circle off Prospect Park West. Police SUV followed about half the ice-covered distance from the main loop to the gated exit, but ended pursuit, satisfied that the ride would proceed safely on the city streets. The riders then proceeded to a warm house to enjoy hot coffee and day-old muffins.
I commend the 78th precinct on adjusting to the smaller number of riders, on what is traditionally known as "Brooklyn Critical Mass." Numbers for this allegedly-spontaneous monthly group bike ride have been about 5 riders since November, while police presence has typically been 15 motor vehicles and appoximately 20-25 officers. The savings to the tax-payer are no doubt substantial.
Next time, you should invite the officer to join you as you enjoy your hot coffee and day-old muffins!
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