Police Deploy Drones in Central Park

In response to a significant increase in crime, the New York Police Department (NYPD) is set to introduce a fleet of autonomous drones to patrol Central Park, a renowned urban oasis spanning over 800 acres. Recent crime statistics reveal a troubling trend, with 33 reported robberies in the park as of August 18, 2024, marking a staggering 154% rise compared to the previous year. Additionally, felony assaults have surged by 57%, with 11 incidents recorded this year. NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell highlighted the urgency of the situation during a recent press conference, emphasizing the park's iconic status and the alarming spike in robberies. Notable incidents include a June 30 attack where two men were robbed of their belongings by a group, and a series of back-to-back robberies on August 13, where victims were violently confronted and robbed of personal items. Assaults have also escalated, with a particularly violent incident on July 6, where a 42-year-old man was slashed multiple times during a dispute. Another case involved an 82-year-old woman who suffered minor injuries after being pushed by a man near the park's tennis courts on August 14. The NYPD has made several arrests related to these crimes, including a shocking case involving an 11-year-old suspect. Among those apprehended is Jermaine Longmire, a 43-year-old man charged with attempted rape and sexual abuse, underscoring the serious nature of the ongoing crime wave in Central Park.