The New York City Police Department (NYPD) is operating under a heightened threat environment as they prepare for the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration, which is expected to draw more than a million visitors. The NYPD’s class of over 600 new recruits will be working their first detail on New Year’s Eve. Despite no credible threats to the event at this time, security preparations are underway following mass demonstrations against Israel earlier this year. Commissioner Jessica Tisch assured the public that a significant amount of police resources will be deployed throughout the area and across the city, including elite specialized units, K-9 teams, aviation units, and drones.
In response to the suspected terror attack on a Christmas market in Germany, the NYPD stated that they formulate their security plan based on incidents occurring globally and in the city. Precautions against vehicle ramming incidents, such as the use of NYPD trucks and blocked cars, have been put in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for all attendees. The Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) was also addressed, with no specific threat related to the gang identified for the Times Square event. The NYPD assured the public that they are equipped to handle a variety of crime issues, including newly emergent threats and crime patterns.
Additional security measures for the Times Square event include the sealing or removal of manholes, mailboxes, vending machines, and litter baskets in the frozen zone. Frozen safety lanes will be created around the event using blocker cars and concrete barriers. The NYPD will also utilize pickpocket teams and hotel response teams to monitor for suspicious activity and anomalous events. While the NYPD is confident in their ability to ensure a safe environment, they emphasized the importance of working with city, state, and federal partners through their Joint Operations Center.
Despite a recent string of high-profile subway crimes and killings in New York City, officials are encouraging attendees to use public transportation to get to the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration. Security measures include the prohibition of umbrellas, backpacks, large bags, coolers, chairs, and alcohol in the viewing area. This year, the NYPD plans to increase the number of drone teams operating around Times Square for New Year’s Eve, with teams both inside and on the outer perimeter, as well as mobile drone teams monitoring activity throughout Manhattan and the rest of the city.
As the NYPD remains vigilant in light of potential threats and concerns, they continue to assure the public of their commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration. With a focus on utilizing a variety of resources, specialized units, and partnerships with other agencies, the NYPD is prepared to address any security issues that may arise. By implementing various security measures, such as creating frozen safety lanes, utilizing drone teams, and monitoring for suspicious activity, the NYPD aims to maintain a secure environment during the event.
