PBA Statement on NYPD "Subway Diversion" Program

PBA President Patrick J. Lynch said:

“Once again, New York City police officers are acting as a Band-Aid to cover up another of Mayor de Blasio’s failures. The NYPD’s current Subway Diversion program is not really helping the homeless, because there is not enough long-term investment in the mental health treatment and other assistance they need. People living on the subway are being temporarily cleared away, offered minimal services and returning the next day. And now that the inevitable backlash has arrived, Mayor de Blasio will dump the blame on the cops for following management directives. If you’re upset about homelessness on the subway or the treatment of homeless people by the NYPD, point your anger at City Hall.”