Webdesk: After 18 months as NYPD commissioner, Keechant Sewell resigned.
Sewell’s resignation without explanation surprised everyone. She wrote to her colleagues that the NYPD’s dedication and altruism make it the gold standard of law enforcement.
In January 2022, Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain, named Sewell the city’s 45th police commissioner. Sewell, a 23-year Nassau County police veteran, became the first woman and third African American to lead the NYPD, leading a massive force of uniformed and civilian people.
Moreover, Sewell’s resignation and replacement have not been announced. While, Patrick Lynch, head of the Police Benevolent Association union, complimented Sewell’s effect and dedication to improving police officers’ lives and working circumstances.
Bill Bratton, the New York City police commissioner, also resigned. Next month, Boston, Los Angeles, and New York police chief Bratton will leave to pursue private sector opportunities. Bratton’s “broken windows” program, which targeted misdemeanors, was unpopular. This method reduced crime, but critics say it unfairly affected communities of color and led to mass incarceration.
Moreover, Mayor Bill de Blasio, who campaigned on police reform, appointed Bratton. De Blasio opposed stop-and-frisk, which disproportionately targeted black and Hispanic people. Bratton’s dismissal ends an era of falling crime and increasing police oversight.
These resignations reflect NYPD policing strategy and community relations debates.
Sewell and Bratton’s departures will change NYC law enforcement.