Governor Kathy Hochul visited the Village of Garden City Police Department yesterday to present the allocation of a $21 million investment in updating law enforcement technology and equipment across Long Island. During her visit, she observed a demonstration of the technology funded by a broader $127 million grant aimed at improving safety for both officers and the public. She referenced data indicating a 14% decrease in reported crime on Long Island and a 75% reduction in shooting deaths, according to Nassau County Police.
Speaking to local officials and law enforcement personnel, Hochul emphasized her commitment to public safety and support for strengthening law enforcement resources. Her remarks focused on enhancing the state's law enforcement technology, including tools for tracking officer locations and using cellphone data to aid in crime prevention. She stated, “we can make it safer,” reflecting a goal aligned with many community priorities for local security. According to a transcript provided by the Governor’s office, she outlined investments in law enforcement, courts, and community programs, and highlighted legislative efforts addressing bail and discovery laws, which have been key issues in New York’s efforts to balance law enforcement and justice.
Governor Hochul has allocated $127 million in state grants, with $21 million directed to law enforcement agencies across Long Island. The Garden City Police Department received nearly half a million dollars. The funding is being used to provide departments with advanced camera systems, precise tracking technology, and drones to support emergency response efforts on Long Island streets.
Police Commissioner Kenneth Jackson was invited to explain how the new technology is being used in daily law enforcement activities. Governor Hochul stated in a press release, “Every police department needs to have license plate readers to do their jobs,” highlighting the role of these tools in crime prevention. Referring to Garden City’s decrease in violent crime and burglaries, the governor noted that these law enforcement upgrades, alongside traditional patrol efforts, are part of the overall approach to addressing crime.
As the state works to maintain safety on Long Island and beyond, this technology upgrade reflects an investment in using advanced tools aimed at supporting crime prevention and enforcement. The governor noted that crime rates could have risen significantly without these measures, highlighting the importance of ongoing efforts. These statistics serve as indicators of the state’s efforts to address public safety in New York.
