New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani reiterated his call to disband the NYPD Strategic Response Group (SRG) during a press conference Wednesday. The mayor is currently in discussions with the police commissioner to determine how to operationally dissolve the unit.
Mayor Seeks to Separate Counterterrorism and Protest Response
Mamdani stated his belief that the SRG should not be responsible for responding to protests. He explained his reasoning, saying the goal is to “decouple the counterterrorism responsibilities within the department from police response to First Amendment exercise.” He emphasized this is not a matter of budget concerns.
According to the NYPD, the SRG responds to “citywide mobilizations, civil disorders, and major events” utilizing “highly trained personnel and specialized equipment.” The group is also deployed to areas experiencing increased crime.
The SRG has faced criticism for its tactics, particularly during protests, with accusations of excessive force and militarization. The City Council’s Public Safety Committee held a hearing regarding the SRG in 2023, though the group did not attend, citing ongoing litigation. The SRG did submit written testimony, asserting its officers are “highly trained, well-vetted and professional.”
Recent Protest Highlights Ongoing Debate
The NYPD referenced a protest Tuesday night at the Hilton Garden Inn in Tribeca, concerning the Trump administration’s immigration policies, in response to questions about the mayor’s statements. During that protest, 64 individuals received summonses for trespassing and disorderly conduct, and two were issued desk appearance tickets for resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration.
The Mayor’s Office released a statement Tuesday expressing satisfaction with the NYPD’s response to the protest, noting it concluded “without violence.” The SRG was involved in the NYPD’s response to Tuesday’s demonstration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SRG’s stated purpose?
According to the NYPD, the SRG responds to citywide mobilizations, civil disorders, and major events with highly trained personnel and specialized equipment. They are also deployed to areas requiring an increased police presence due to increased crime or other conditions.
What was the outcome of the 2020 protests involving the SRG?
In 2020, the SRG was accused of unlawfully detaining over 100 demonstrators during the George Floyd protests. A legal settlement was announced in 2023 as reparations related to these detainments.
Did the SRG attend the 2023 City Council hearing?
The SRG did not attend the 2023 City Council’s Public Safety Committee hearing, citing ongoing litigation. However, they submitted written testimony stating their officers are “highly trained, well-vetted and professional.”
As discussions continue between the mayor and the police commissioner, it is possible the city could see a restructuring of the NYPD’s response capabilities. Alternatively, the SRG could remain intact, potentially leading to continued debate and scrutiny. It is also likely the NYPD will continue to deploy the SRG to major events and protests while the discussions are ongoing.
