Lander Report Looks at NYPD Crime Stats, Pushes for Investigation

A new report released by City Councilmember Brad Lander’s office highlights allegations of crime statistic manipulation in the NYPD, and calls for an NYPD Inspector General to investigate. The report is the second in a series, called “Investigation Needed,” which looks into controversial NYPD practices.

The full report is downloadable here.

In 2010, the Village Voice published tapes that were secretly recorded by NYPD Officer Adrian Schoolcraft showing crimes being intentionally downgraded to make it seem like the precinct was safer than it was. Whistleblowers in two other precincts reported similar policies, and Lander’s report says that the creation of an NYPD Inspector General post could independently investigate these allegations.

Lander and Councilmember Jumaane Williams introduced the NYPD Inspector General Act in June 2012, to give the police department independent oversight for the first time. The post would be appointed by the Mayor, and would and make regular reports to the Police Commissioner, Mayor, City Council, and public about its findings.

In October, Mayor Bloomberg blasted the Inspector General proposal, saying that it would "politicize control of the Police Department."

The 76th Precinct was unresponsive on Monday to inquiries from Patch regarding Lander's report.