NYPD considers drones to combat crime wave in Central Park

Visitors to Central Park could soon be under the watchful eye of NYPD drones as the famous Manhattan park faces a dramatic rise in crime. Mayor Eric Adams has proposed using drones and other new technologies to counter the alarming rise in sex crimes, assaults and robberies in the area.

During a recent press conference, Adams emphasized the potential benefits of using drones to monitor the vast park. “With such a large area, we could better utilize drones for aerial surveillance,” he explained. The NYPD confirmed that drones will soon be operational in Central Park and that they will be tested in response to ShotSpotter weapon detection alerts.

However, not everyone agrees with this idea. Some park visitors have expressed concerns about the privacy implications of drone surveillance. Taylor Clarke Bennett, a longtime park musician, expressed his skepticism about the New York Postand said: “I think that's so stupid. I don't know what the drones would do… There are so many places to hide and sneak away. I think it's just better for [cops] travel on foot.”

Serena, a 23-year-old Midtown resident, was more keen on the idea, but only at certain times. “I wouldn't mind drones at night, but not during the day,” she said, adding that the idea of ​​drones during daylight hours was “a little dystopian.”

But the rise in crime has actually shaken the sense of safety in Central Park. NYPD data shows that the number of robberies in 2024 increased by 222% compared to the same period last year. Additionally, ten aggravated assaults were reported – a 100% increase.

Mayor Adams, known for his enthusiasm for technology-driven solutions, has had mixed results with similar initiatives before. His efforts include a “SnitchBOT” in the Times Square subway and a $75,000 robot dog that has had its own tech glitches. The city has expanded drone use under Adams, deploying flying robots for events like the West Indian American Day parade, beach patrols, and possibly even 911 calls. In the first half of 2024 alone, the NYPD deployed drones 647 times, up from 564 times in all of 2023.

Adams also hinted that AI could be incorporated into public safety efforts, saying the technology could help detect threats more quickly and improve city operations.

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